Chapter 575: Too Much of a Trap.

"Your presence here is the strongest show of support for the cause of protecting women's rights!"

At the entrance of the opulent banquet hall, Jolie and Aniston warmly greeted the guests.

This lavish affair was hosted by the two women under the banner of Me Too, and it had drawn many survivors of the Harvey Weinstein case, such as Léa Seydoux, Asia Argento, and Anna Frank.

In addition to the survivors, numerous members of the media were in attendance, including the whistleblower Judy and Helen, who had been the first to break the story on a talk show.

However, the most conspicuous figures in the room were Gavin Newsom and Jennifer Siebel.

Gavin sought out Martin, shook his hand, and expressed his gratitude, saying, "You and Me Too have been pillars of support for Jennifer during her most trying times. As her husband, I'm truly thankful."

Martin, accustomed to dealing with politicians, responded gracefully, "Gavin, you're very welcome. This is a cause we're deeply committed to, one that we've tirelessly championed over the past few years. The legal rights of women must be safeguarded." He knew that Gavin had a connection to one of the victims and adjusted his stance accordingly. "Many of my friends, like Jolie, Léa Seydoux, and Charlize Theron, are survivors of Harvey's actions. I understand the hardships they've faced, and they're all formidable fighters!"

These words appeared to bridge the gap somewhat, prompting Gavin to commend, "Your friends are indeed exceptional."

After making these lofty statements, Martin knew how to connect on a more personal level, saying, "Outstanding men like us naturally have many outstanding female friends."

Gavin chuckled and confided, "I have a few exceptional female friends myself."

In San Francisco, where gossip often laid bare the city's secrets, there was little need for pretense.

"I'll be visiting Los Angeles frequently from now on," Martin remarked casually. "You should come to the Coca-Cola Cult gatherings."

Gavin inquired, "When will you host a Coca-Cola Cult gathering in San Francisco?"

The two men delved into discussing their respective parties and the company of their female friends until Julie approached with Jennifer Siebel.

Siebel inquired with a playful tone, "What are you gentlemen so engrossed in? You seem to be having quite the animated conversation."

Gavin sported a sly smile and teased, "It's a men's secret, my dear. I can't divulge it."

Siebel turned her gaze to Martin, who simply shrugged, feigning helplessness.

Jolie intervened, saying, "Men will always have their clandestine discussions. But let's leave them to it; it's our turn now."

This gathering wasn't shrouded in sorrow or solemnity. The atmosphere was one of genuine happiness, palpable to all in attendance. It was clear that everyone present was joyous at the prospect of reaping the rewards of the victory against Weinstein.

Later on, Jolie and Aniston approached the stage together to pin Me Too's fist logo onto Jennifer Siebel, Léa Seydoux, and the others.

This symbolic gesture signified their official induction into the Me Too organization.

As they stepped off the stage, Jennifer Siebel returned to Martin and Gavin.

She shared, "Being back in familiar Los Angeles brings back a mix of nightmares and fond memories. I once aspired to be a star like Jolia Roberts, but fate..."

Gavin, the supportive husband, chimed in, "My love, the environment has improved, and it's never too late to pursue your dreams."

The couple spoke in harmonious unity, leaving Martin a bit stunned. He smiled and mentioned, "Director David Fincher and I are on the brink of collaborating on a film titled..."

"Jennifer, if you're interested, you're welcome to visit the set of 'Gone Girl' production," Martin extended the invitation.

Sibel gladly accepted, affirming, "I'll definitely take you up on that offer. In addition to acting, I also work as a producer."

Martin recognized that Sibel was open to discussing her past and passionately asserted, "Weinstein stripped Hollywood of an exceptional producer. He should spend the rest of his life behind bars as a remorseful criminal. His actions were truly heinous."

Gavin understood the sentiment behind these words and recognized the need to portray himself as a loving husband and family man. He concurred, saying, "Every individual must be held accountable for their actions, and Harvey is certainly no exception."

The influence of this prominent figure in the California Democratic Party was impossible to overlook. Gavin left to discuss women's rights advocacy in San Francisco with Jolie and Aniston.

Sibel waited until her husband had moved away and then revealed, "Actually, I have a film project in the works. An old friend approached me last year to collaborate on a feature film. I had intended to proceed, but this scandal erupted and caused delays."

"If you find the project viable, consider coming to Burbank and partnering with Davis Studios," Martin suggested, thinking of the Korean investment funds and how he might secure a portion of it. "We have the most skilled professionals."

He discreetly omitted the fact that Davis Studios was essentially a front company.

Sibel accepted the offer, saying, "I'll plan a trip to Burbank to meet with you soon."

Martin agreed, "You're welcome anytime."

The party that evening was relatively short-lived. As they dispersed, Martin quietly arranged for Jolie and Aniston to return to their respective homes.

Aniston drove directly to her residence without delving into questions.

Jolie, however, cast a sidelong glance at Martin and inquired with a playful smile, "Teacher, did you and Sibel have a lively conversation?"

Martin blocked her inquiry in advance, asserting, "We just discussed some film-related matters. She hasn't given up on Hollywood yet; perhaps she wants to experience the thrill of being a leading lady."

"Fantastic!" Jolie exclaimed, clapping her hands enthusiastically. "Red sofas, hidden agendas – make use of them all! Remember to call me; I'll audition to be her co-star. And then..."

Martin raised his hand and gently covered Jolie's lips, teasing, "Are you out of your mind?"

Aniston chimed in, saying, "She's is indeed crazy, but it it's you it could happen!"

Jolie playfully swatted Martin's hand away, retorting, "Aren't these kinds of things your specialty?"

Martin denied, "Don't talk nonsense; I didn't!"

Aniston couldn't resist adding, "Remember Harvey's wife, Georgina Chapman!"

Jolie followed up, "And Stuart Townsend's fiancée, Charlize Theron!"

"These were just exceptions," Martin countered, halting their teasing and returning to the topic at hand. "Sibel and I were simply discussing potential collaboration."

He emphasized, "I haven't lost my sense of priorities."

Jolie ceased jesting and stated earnestly, "I'm not crazy either. I'm merely offering a reminder – don't let your head overpower your better judgment below."

Martin affirmed, "Am I the kind of person who can't distinguish between priorities?"

Aniston chimed in with a solution, "Angie and I will take good care of him tonight, and Martin will be steady in the future."

Jolie suggested with a smirk, "How about this – we take a more proactive approach this time. I'll be on top, and you can help me give this rascal a piece of your mind!"

Aniston protested in jest, "Oh, what a brilliant idea! Why don't you lift me up instead?!"

Jolie chimed in, "Because I came up with the solution."

Aniston pulled into the driveway of her home and declared, "Well, since you're in my house, guests must abide by the host's rules!"

Martin took charge, stating firmly, "Enough bickering. Tonight, all of you will follow my lead!"

The surreal events of that night were short-lived, as Martin had a meeting scheduled for the following day at Warner Bros. to discuss a collaborative project with the studio's new CEO.

Kevin Tsujihara was scheduled to have an official discussion with Warner's future partners. Meanwhile, Martin had an appointment with Louise, so he arrived at Davis Studio ahead of time.

Upon entering the lobby of the small office building, Martin noticed several Asians sitting in the waiting area. A middle-aged man approached him and greeted, "Mr. Davis, it's been a while."

Martin recognized him as Wu Maoting, a jewelry and jade investor from Myanmar. He extended his hand for a handshake and replied with a smile, "Indeed, it has been some time."

Wu Maoting gestured towards the stairs and said, "Please, let's go upstairs."

The group ascended the stairs and entered a reception room. Martin ordered tea, and Wu Maoting glanced at his associates.

One of his men promptly presented a gift box to Wu Maoting, who placed it on the adjacent table. He explained, "It wouldn't be right to visit without a small gift as a token of respect."

The gift box had a transparent lid, revealing several cut rubies. While not particularly large, they appeared to be in excellent condition.

Martin had heard of Burmese rubies but wasn't well-versed in them. He glanced at the rubies briefly before turning his attention back to Wu Maoting. He said, "In the East, there's a saying that politeness comes with a request. What can I do for you, Mr. Wu?"

Wu Maoting didn't beat around the bush. He stated, "I wish to continue investing in Davis Studio's films."

Martin recalled, "I believe you previously had a direct partnership with Warner Pictures, correct?"

Wu Maoting admitted, "I apologize for my impulsive and shortsighted decision. Two years ago, I invested in the production of 'Terminator 2018,' a film with a budget of $200 million. However, it only managed to earn back less than $5 million of my $30 million investment. Warner Pictures claimed the film suffered significant losses."

He continued with frustration, "I hired a professional accounting firm to scrutinize Warner Pictures' financial records, and they found no irregularities. According to their assessment, the entire film indeed incurred substantial losses."

Martin wasn't overly concerned with the financial details of this particular film. Hollywood studios often employed intricate accounting practices when dealing with external investors.

As expected, Wu Maoting added, "Warner Pictures had to borrow money from New Line Cinema to secure funds, incurring interest costs of up to $20 million. Both New Line and Warner Pictures are subsidiaries of Warner Bros."

Martin nodded, remarking, "Not every Hollywood company operates like Davis Studio and Pacific Pictures."

Wu Maoting agreed, "Yes, indeed. I deeply regret my decision. I even filed a lawsuit against Warner Pictures, which cost me a significant amount in legal fees, but I lost the case."

Martin didn't dwell on the matter. The outcome wasn't surprising.

At this point, Wu Maoting expressed his sincerity, saying, "Mr. Davis, please pardon my past ignorance and grant me another opportunity to invest in Hollywood."

He explained that he had encountered some issues in Myanmar and wanted to establish a foothold in the industry. The film industry seemed like a suitable avenue.

Of course, he had no intention of participating in a project like "Terminator 2018," which had proven to be excessively risky.

Hearing this, Martin thought of Sibel. After a moment of consideration, he replied, "Since 2008, Hollywood has faced numerous challenges. Mr. Wu, while I welcome your investment, I cannot guarantee profitability or even the recovery of your investment."

His tone shifted, and he added, "However, there is one thing I can assure you of: Davis Studio and Pacific Pictures will never engage in practices akin to those of Warner Pictures."