Chapter 520: Saving Leonardo

The Moroccan set had just wrapped up its final scenes under a scorching sun, its bustling markets and vivid colors fading into the background as Martin and Bruce left early. They seized this opportunity, deviating from their return to Los Angeles, and ventured eastward, aiming for a brief escapade on the East Coast.

In the midst of New York's ceaseless rhythm, where the towering skyscrapers met the azure sky, Leonardo was deeply immersed in the intense filming of "Shutter Island." The news of his uncharacteristic fright had reached Nicholson, stirring a blend of concern and curiosity.

Being an integral part of their close-knit trio, Martin felt compelled to visit Leonardo. His main goal was to uncover the root of Leonardo's fear, secretly planning to concoct a playful yet supportive response to it.

"Good brothers,we have to stay loyal," he reminded himself with a smile.

At New York's bustling JFK Airport, the air was thick with the anticipation of reunions and farewells. Martin disembarked, his footsteps echoing in the vastness of the terminal, and soon found Jack Nicholson lounging in the exclusivity of a VIP room. The room, adorned with plush sofas and soft lighting, offered a stark contrast to the airport's general hustle.

Jennifer Lawrence, her presence adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to the room, graciously stood, offering the seat beside her to Martin. He accepted with a warm smile, settling into the comfortable cushions.

"Jack, is Leo still in one piece?" Martin asked, his tone light yet laced with genuine concern.

Nicholson, his face etched with a mix of amusement and worry, replied, "he was traumatized just hearing about it. Scorsese himself rang me up. Seems we're the only duo who can snap him out of this."

Martin's curiosity piqued. "What scared him? Didn't tell me he stumbled upon a transvestite while scouting for a model, like Ronaldo last year, did he?"

Nicholson shook his head, a chuckle escaping his lips. "Rats. Who knew Leo had a phobia of mice? During a scene, a mouse scurried over his foot. Poor Leo screamed right there on set. They couldn't film another scene after that. Seth was at his wit's end and called me for help."

Martin's reaction was a mix of disbelief and brotherly concern. "He's a grown man, not a damsel in distress! This is a serious issue; we've got to help him through it."

Nicholson nodded in agreement, "Absolutely, it's a grave matter. As brothers, it's our duty to help him overcome this."

Martin pondered for a moment before saying, "This calls for special therapy. Regular psychological counseling might not cut it."

Nicholson, at a loss, asked, "Got any bright ideas?"

Martin, already a step ahead, took out his phone and dialed Alexandra Daddario. "Are you in New York? I need to find a place to buy some safe, clean rats. Know where I can get some?"

After a brief conversation, Alexandra assured him she'd make some inquiries.

Nicholson, overhearing, teased, "So, Leo finally got his 100 meters down to 15 seconds. Planning to push him back to 11?"

Martin grinned, "I'm aiming to have him break the world record. Make champs like Bolt blush with envy."

He added thoughtfully, "If it gets too serious, I know a top-notch psychiatrist for Leo."

Nicholson, impressed, said, "You really do look out for your brothers."

Soon, Alexandra called back with a location. "Head over to the Long Island side of Brooklyn Bridge Park. I'll wait for you there."

Martin pocketed his phone and beckoned to Nicholson, "Let's go."

They left the terminal, a sense of camaraderie and adventure in the air. Outside, a sleek car arranged by Bruce awaited them in the parking lot. The driver respectfully handed the keys to Boo and stepped aside.

Bruce, after a quick inspection, confirmed that the four of them would leave Queens in the same vehicle.

En route, Jennifer Lawrence turned to Martin, a spark of excitement in her eyes. "Last weekend, Elizabeth invited me to your place."

"Oh? For Malia Obama party?" Martin inquired, his interest piqued.

"Yes," Lawrence replied, her voice tinged with enthusiasm. "Elizabeth threw a grand welcome party at your house for her first daughter in Los Angeles. Lily and Lorraine were there, as well as Elizabeth's two sisters, Kristen Stewart from next door, and a bunch of her friends."

The car sped through the city, its streets alive with the never-ending pulse of New York, setting the stage for their unexpected mission to help a friend and brother.

Martin listened intently as Elizabeth recounted her recent phone conversation, mentioning how the cast of "Twilight," including Stallone's eldest and second daughters, as well as Dakota and Elle Fanning, had graced her event.

Nicholson, overhearing this, couldn't help but comment with a hint of amusement, "All these young ladies stirring up excitement."

Lawrence, her arm linked with his, chimed in with a bright smile, "It was such a blast. Elizabeth's really got a knack for this. Organizing such a grand party all by herself? That's impressive."

Turning to Martin, Nicholson said with a knowing look, "Your girlfriend's quite the force, isn't she?"

Martin, with a knowing grin, simply replied, "I'm well aware."

Nicholson, understanding Martin's pride, offered no further comment.

Their car smoothly navigated through the bustling streets, eventually arriving at the picturesque park on the Long Island side of the Brooklyn Bridge. The area buzzed with the energy of New York, the iconic bridge creating a majestic backdrop.

There, they were greeted by Alexandra, who was casually dressed in a short-sleeved T-shirt and denim shorts, her appearance the embodiment of effortless beauty.

As Jennifer Lawrence caught sight of Alexandra, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of comparison, despite knowing it was unnecessary.

Nicholson, noticing Lawrence's glances, remarked, "Back in my day, I've met women even more striking."

Lawrence playfully retorted, batting her eyelashes, "Are you saying I don't measure up in looks and appeal?"

Nicholson laughed heartily, "No, no, you're absolutely top-tier in my eyes."

Earlier, Alexandra had inquired Martin, "How long are you staying in New York?"

Martin considered for a moment, "Around three days."

Alexandra gently held his arm, "I recently bought a small apartment here, but you haven't seen it yet."

Considering his plans to check on Leonardo's treatment that night, Martin responded, "I'll give you a call tomorrow."

Alexandra, having been introduced to the industry by Martin last year, had landed her first lead role in a Wes Craven production, "The House." She was now eyeing a potential project with New Line Cinema and Craven, hoping to reunite with Martin in New York soon.

Reaching a scenic spot near the seaside, they paused as Alexandra approached a man waiting by the guardrail. She discreetly inquired, "Gordon, did you bring what I asked for?"

Gordon pointed to a cage covered with a black cloth. "Over thirty of them, all here. Sourced from a school lab, so they're safe."

After a brief exchange, where Alexandra insisted Gordon accept payment, they concluded their deal. Gordon, clearly enamored, unsuccessfully tried to extend an invitation for dinner, which Alexandra gracefully declined, promising a future call.

As Alexandra returned to the group, her steps quickening with excitement, she held up the cage to Martin, "Got what you needed."

Martin, curious, asked, "How much did it set you back?"

"No cost," she replied, linking her arm with his. "In New York, I have my ways."

Taking the cage, Martin announced they were headed to Brooklyn Studios.

Alexandra, eager to stay involved, her eyes gleaming with anticipation, asked, "Where to next? Can I join you?"

Their group, now equipped with their unusual cargo, continued their journey through the vibrant streets of New York, each with their own thoughts and expectations for the unfolding day.

Martin, after politely declining Alexandra's offer to join them further, reassured her with a nod, "I'll call you tomorrow."

"Okay, then," Alexandra responded, slightly crestfallen yet hopeful. She leaned in, planting a gentle kiss on Martin's cheek, her voice soft, "I'll be waiting for your call. Don't forget."

Martin, carrying the cage, rejoined Nicholson and they both headed back to Bruce's car, which swiftly navigated through the bustling streets towards Brooklyn Studios.

Left alone, Alexandra slipped her hands into her pockets, a hint of melancholy in her stride. Martin's lack of attention had not gone unnoticed, but she resolved to focus on something else. Driving past a Sacred Valley art film store, a spark of interest lit up her eyes. Parking her car, she entered the store, her steps echoing lightly in the quiet space. She meticulously selected several films, planning to study them closely, hoping to further impress Martin with her knowledge and passion.

As she browsed, Alexandra pondered on the idea of diversifying her approach, much like how one might change facial cleansers after prolonged use. The San Francisco Valley artists, renowned for their expertise, seemed like perfect mentors to aid her in this new learning journey.

Meanwhile, Martin and Nicholson arrived at Brooklyn Studio in the sleek black business car expertly navigated by Bruce. As they disembarked, the palpable energy of the studio enveloped them. They were soon greeted by Graham, who was waiting outside the studio where "Shutter Island" was being filmed.

"Director Scorsese is on set, but he'll join us shortly," Graham informed them, shaking their hands. "Leonardo's recent state has been troubling; it's affected the filming significantly, which is why he called you."

The studio doors were firmly closed, signaling that filming was underway. Martin, Nicholson, and Graham engaged in a conversation, delving into the details of Leonardo's situation. Nicholson, who had initially exaggerated Leonardo's state, admitted that while not severely traumatized, Leonardo's encounter with the mouse had significantly affected his performance, resulting in a noticeable increase in filming errors and delays.

About half an hour later, Scorsese emerged, a look of relief crossing his face as he saw Martin and Nicholson. "Glad you're here," he said, his tone conveying both welcome and worry.

Martin wasted no time in getting to the point. "Director, where's Leo?"

Scorsese gestured towards a building within the studio complex. "He's in a separate lounge over there. He's been isolating himself quite a bit lately, especially since the incident."

Martin, sensing something amiss, questioned, "Is it just because of the mouse? Isn't Gisele Bundchen engaged to Tom Brady?"

Nicholson's reaction was immediate, his eyes widening in surprise. "Gisele's engaged? And we didn't even get an invite to her pre-wedding bash?"

At this, Scorsese felt a pang of apprehension, wondering if involving Martin and Nicholson might not have been the best decision. The trio, known for their mischief and strong bond, could be a dynamic yet unpredictable addition to his crew.