Chapter 195: Love And Family

Last year, Martin participated in the filming of three movies. "House of Wax" and "The Hills Have Eyes" have already been released, while "The Sisterhood of Traveling Pants" is set for a summer release.

In the first trailer for this film, Martin's role is prominently featured, almost as if he's the lead actor.

The production team specifically sought out Martin for this project.

Producer Brad went on to explain the situation to Martin and Thomas: "After the release of 'The Hills Have Eyes,' we made post-production adjustments to emphasize Martin's role. Martin is currently the most popular actor among the entire crew."

"The Hills Have Eyes" had already grossed $88.5 million at the North American box office, and the widely known scandal between Martin and Anne Hathaway made the crew want to capitalize on their success.

Given these circumstances, there wasn't much room for Martin to negotiate additional terms with Warner Bros. Brad stated, "The promotional plan will be handed over directly to Thomas. He's reviewed it, and there are no issues. I trust Martin will cooperate with the crew."

This essentially meant that the agent would have to shoulder any conflicts or negotiations. Thomas inquired, "Do we have a concrete plan?"

Brad initially suggested, "Originally, the crew wanted to focus on Martin and Blake..."

However, Thomas quickly pointed out, "If I recall correctly, Blake won't turn 18 until August. That's the legal age in California."

Brad adjusted his approach, saying, "Can't good friends still be a part of it?"

Thomas glanced at Martin and consented, "Alright."

Brad continued, "In a few days, the crew plans to organize a party, followed by a campus event at Burbank Middle School, where Blake attends. The crew will sponsor a friendly competition between them and North Hollywood Middle School."

Martin readily agreed, saying, "I have no issues on my end."

Brad added a final note, "During the promotional campaign, some articles mentioning your past relationship with Anne Hathaway may come up."

Thomas, ever the diligent manager, requested, "We'd like to review any promotional articles involving Martin before they're published."

After a moment of contemplation, Brad agreed.

Just as Martin's phone vibrated with an incoming message, he excused himself, saying, "Sorry, I've got an urgent call."

Left alone, Thomas and Brad began to delve into the finer details of their discussions—typical negotiations that were often best conducted without the actor present. If things got heated, the agent could take the heat.

Outside the room, Martin checked his phone and saw a message from Louise, informing him that Kelly had purchased a new phone with long-lasting battery life. The message's meaning was clear, and Martin understood that he would have to attend the meeting alone.

As he contemplated this situation, Martin couldn't help but think that he often found himself surrounded by unsavory characters and circumstances. It wasn't that he was a bad person; rather, it seemed that the upper echelons of the entertainment industry were fraught with moral ambiguity.

Hollywood's top tier was a chaotic mess, and as a young actor, he couldn't help but feel caught up in the turmoil.

In another corridor, the door to the post-production dubbing studio swung open, and Blake Lively emerged, having just completed her dubbing work for the day. Wearing a black backpack over her orange sweater, she headed down the corridor towards the front hall.

As she turned a corner, she spotted Martin sitting in the lounge area of the front hall. He wore a simple casual shirt, jeans, and sneakers, which, combined with his perfect physique and handsome face, gave off a relaxed vibe.

Seeing Martin, Blake was reminded of her idol, and she quickened her pace. She wished that Martin would stand up, open his arms, and greet her with a hug.

Martin turned to look at Blake, offering a friendly smile. "Long time no see," he said.

Blake approached with excitement. "Martin, you look even more handsome and refined than before."

"Thank you," Martin replied. "You look more beautiful too." He gestured to the chair opposite him. "Take a seat. Let's catch up."

Blake glanced at Martin, silently hoping he would rise to help her with the chair. However, when it became clear he wouldn't, she turned the chair herself and took a seat.

Martin made casual conversation. "It's been a while since we last met. What have you been up to lately?"

Blake explained, "I've been busy with post-dubbing for 'The Sisterhood of Traving Pants.' After finishing shoots, I've been focused on my studies. I'm currently preparing for college applications. It's a crucial time for me, and my family suggested that, depending on how well 'The Sisterhood of traving Pants' does, I could pursue acting directly. You know our family's situation, and my father thinks that while he still has connections and influence, I can skip many hurdles in the business." She looked at Martin and asked, "What do you think?"

Martin recognized the weight of such decisions regarding one's life. He replied, "I'm a bit of a scoundrel, and I lack knowledge and experience in this area."

Blake continued, "Martin!," as a woman approached them with Thomas.

Thomas introduced Martin, saying, "This is Millie from the company's agent."

Blake immediately chimed in, saying, "My agent."

Martin shook hands with Millie, recalling that Blake hadn't been represented by this agent the last time they met.

Millie spoke politely, saying, "During upcoming activities, please assist Mr. Davis with his cooperation."

Martin responded courteously, "I'm easy to work with."

Blake inquired, "Milly, which promotional event will Martin be participating in?"

Millie replied, "The campus game day promotion."

Blake turned to Martin, saying, "Welcome to visit my school."

After a brief exchange, the three of them departed.

As they walked along the studio area's sidewalk, Thomas reminded Martin specifically, "Remember, she's not yet 18."

Martin pointed to his head, saying, "I won't forget."

Having experienced the storms of Hollywood in his previous life, he understood the gravity of this matter.

Outside the studio, Martin joined Bruce.

Instead of driving right away, Bruce handed Martin a magazine and said, "Take a look."

It was "Vanity Fair," featuring Brad Pitt on the cover. Martin opened it to read an interview with Pitt, centered around his desire for children and a warm family atmosphere. However, Pitt currently didn't have children.

Bruce handed over another magazine, "American Rumor."

Martin glanced at it and saw a photo of Jennifer Aniston along with a headline claiming she had suffered multiple miscarriages and even induced abortions. The most recent one had occurred last year, reportedly against Pitt's wishes, leading to a period of tension between the couple.

Bruce asked, "Is this setting the stage for a campaign?"

Martin replied, "The enemy is ruthless, but our side is just playing the game." He picked up another newspaper, showing Brad Pitt visiting an institution, interacting with several children. He was holding one child in each hand, radiating happiness in the photos.

It was evident that a narrative emphasizing children and family was being cultivated.

Martin had heard about Aniston's miscarriage last year. Whether it was voluntary or involuntary, once such a label was attached, it was difficult to shake off.

Pitt had made his move, and Martin wondered when Jolie would follow suit.

Martin set aside the magazines, saying, "Reading too much of this stuff, you'll lose faith not only in love but also in family."

Bruce, from a professional standpoint, added, "Family and children can overshadow love."

The two of them exchanged thoughts and then left the studio. Martin met up with Bruce, and the two headed to an underground parking lot in North Hollywood. Martin intended to change cars there before heading to Louise's place for the night.

Bruce pulled down the visor and checked his appearance in the mirror.

As Martin drove over and parked nearby, he teased, "Are you going on a date?"

Bruce, mischievous as ever, didn't mention his dinner plans with Kim or her sister Khloe.

Martin, curious, asked, "Aren't you two planning to shoot a video together? I'm eagerly waiting to buy the DVD or watch the video!"

Bruce casually replied, "Kim's been getting more attention lately and has appeared on several shows. I suggested she wait until her popularity is at its peak before doing it. Thanks to you and Annie's selfie video hype, I've decided to let her build up more momentum. First, Paris, then you and Annie, all in a short span. Kim Kardashian's impact will not be that significant."

Martin gave Bruce a thumbs-up, saying, "Bruce, you're getting more professional by the day."

Bruce, with a wry smile, commented, "With your knack for stirring up trouble, I need to become professional quickly to handle the aftermath." Restarting the car, he added, "Don't call me tonight unless you've got something important."

Martin, inquired, "Did you bring a gift?"

Bruce simply said, "I've got two pieces of emerald."

Martin, amused, retorted, "Two pieces? Bruce, you're really something!"

Despite the playful banter, Bruce drove to Venice, where they arrived at a designated hotel. They met up with Kim Kardashian and Khloe Kardashian at an Italian restaurant.

Khloe, in her early twenties, was significantly taller than Kim, curvy, and well-built. However, her facial features weren't as attractive.

Bruce, as always, wasn't too concerned with a woman's looks.

The waiter handed out menus, and Bruce turned to the sisters, saying, "Feel free to order whatever you'd like."

Kim and Khloe didn't hold back and proceeded to order their desired dishes.

The three of them enjoyed a pleasant dinner together, fostering a familial atmosphere, like a family gathering.