Chapter 134: A Ruined Career

In a hospital ward, Vogel awoke to a distressing sight: his right leg, which had been bitten by a rattlesnake, was both swollen and discolored. The skin surrounding the wound had developed ulcers, taking on a disconcerting light brown hue below the knee.

The leg seemed strangely foreign, and moving it proved to be a challenging ordeal. Discomfort coursed through his entire body, leaving him feeling worse than he could express.

His heavy breathing drew the attention of those nearby, especially Pinto, the agent who had arrived overnight. Recognizing the severity of the situation, Pinto promptly summoned the doctor.

The doctor's examination revealed a glimmer of hope: "His life is not in immediate danger," he assured.

Relief washed over Vogel as he lay in his hospital bed, contemplating the incident that had led him here. "Thank goodness I didn't intend to kill Martin Davis," he silently muttered. "Thank goodness someone had emptied the rattlesnake's venom sac beforehand." The doctor gestured for Pinto to follow him outside, recognizing that certain conversations were best held away from the patient's ears.

Once outside the ward, Pinto inquired, "How long until he fully recovers and can resume work?"

"Two months at the earliest, maybe three or four. It's hard to predict with certainty; everyone's body responds differently," replied the doctor, adjusting his glasses. "The snake that bit him was a tiger rattlesnake, common in the United States and western Mexico. It's also the most venomous rattlesnake in North America. He was fortunate; the venom sac had very little venom. Otherwise..."

The doctor gestured dramatically, leaving Pinto anxious for more details.

Pinto, a man of efficiency, pressed further: "Doctor, please provide specifics."

The doctor, consulting Vogel's medical record, continued, "When he arrived at the hospital, there was some skin and muscle ulceration near the wound. Nerve fibers were damaged, and while the injury will heal, it will leave significant scars, affecting his ability to walk normally."

Pinto honed in on a critical question, "Will he be left with a limp?"

"Most likely," the doctor affirmed, adding a disconcerting note, "Toxins can also harm kidney function. Our tests indicate he is at risk of future erectile dysfunction."

Pinto asked, concerned, "Is there no way to prevent it?"

The doctor sighed, "If luck isn't on his side..." He gestured somberly, leaving the rest unspoken.

Acknowledging the situation, Pinto inquired about transferring Vogel back to the United States for treatment.

The doctor advised caution: "Observation for a couple of days is advisable. If the wound worsens and leads to sepsis, it could complicate matters."

"Thank you, doctor," Pinto expressed his gratitude. He retrieved his phone, located Vogel's family's contact information, and relayed the situation.

Rather than entering the ward, he opted to sit on a bench by the door, his agent's mind already at work, contemplating the aftermath. Negotiating with the production crew regarding the incident and, if necessary, involving the Screen Actors Guild for investigation were on his agenda—typical agent responsibilities.

Yet, the uncertainty remained—Vogel's mobility was compromised, potentially limiting his future prospects. Specialized roles might be his only avenue in the industry.

Footsteps approached in the corridor. Pinto recognized Brad, the film's producer, and reached out to shake his hand. "How can such a thing happen?"

Brad gestured for Pinto to sit on a nearby bench. "It happened, and we deeply regret it."

Pinto was resolute: "Regret won't resolve this."

Brad assured him, "Vogel's injury is complex, and recovery will be a long process. We've initiated the withdrawal process from the project and will provide a full refund of his fee—$80,000."

Pinto wasn't satisfied but knew better than to jeopardize his relationship with a prominent producer. He maintained a composed tone, "The doctor's prognosis isn't promising, suggesting potential lifelong consequences."

Brad remained practical, "This was Vogel's reckless behavior while under the influence. Two young men, acting foolishly while intoxicated, confronted a venomous snake. One backed out in fear, while Vogel chose to challenge it and paid the price."

He emphasized, "Moreover, everyone present can attest to Vogel's initiation of the challenge and his insistence that the crew vehicle be used."

Pinto voiced his concerns, "The production brought Vogel to Mexico, and now he's suffered an accident..."

Brad interjected, "The production had comprehensive insurance coverage for Vogel, and we've notified the insurance company. They'll conduct their investigation, and we'll await their findings."

Pinto relented, "I understand. As is customary, I will notify the union of an actor's accident, and they may choose to send a representative."

Brad nodded, recognizing the protocol: "I understand."

As the two men concluded their discussion, Pinto understood the intricacies of the situation. Vogel's future in the industry hung in the balance, and while Brad and the production were cooperating, uncertainty loomed over his career.

The Screen Actors Guild members had not yet embarked on their journey, but representatives from the Firefighters Fund Insurance Company had already arrived in Cabo San Lucas.

After leading his assistant through multiple investigations and inquiries, Bol convened a private discussion with Brad and Pinto.

His findings were submitted, and the decision regarding compensation rested with higher authorities.

Following protocol, Bol needed to notify relevant parties, particularly the actors.

"The incident's origins are quite clear and stem from Mr. Vogel," Bol conveyed directly to Pinto. "The Firefighter Fund will henceforth decline to provide insurance for Mr. Vogel on any film set." Pinto questioned, "Is this decision not hasty?"

Bol clarified, "The company's decision aligns with the investigation's results. I am merely executing routine notification procedures."

Pinto grasped the grim reality: Vogel's future prospects are bleak.

With over 80% market share in various Hollywood studios, the Fireman's Fund's refusal to insure an actor spelled the end of Vogel's career. Film crews typically won't hire actors without insurance, and while alternative arrangements exist, few productions are willing to allocate additional resources to actors lacking substantial market appeal.

After assisting Vogel in reuniting with his family, Pinto left Cabo San Lucas for Los Angeles, where his business obligations awaited.

...

On the set of "The Hills Has Eyes," Martin offered a comprehensive account of the incident to the crew.

Numerous witnesses were present, and Blake Lively willingly testified. From challenging Martin to a drinking duel to proposing a showdown with a viper, Vogel had initiated every risky step.

Thomas, who had arrived from Los Angeles to visit the team, found his interests aligned with Martin's at this stage.

In a hotel bar, Thomas ordered two paper airplanes and remarked to Martin, "This is Louise Meyer's masterpiece. Who knew she was a skilled mixologist?" Martin, sipping slowly, appreciated the nuanced differences in each bartender's creations.

Bruce observed Martin. Both he and Kelly Gray had been the first to encounter the paper airplanes. In pursuit of opportunities, Martin had traded away unpatented innovations for financial gain.

Setting down his glass, Martin commented, "You arrived too late; it's all over now."

Thomas, feeling a tinge of guilt for his absence during the crucial moment, acknowledged, "I have other clients and a heavy workload."

Martin, direct as ever, inquired, "Do any of them have the same potential as me?"

Thomas offered reassurance, "You require space, and you certainly don't appreciate me shadowing you all day. I won't sign anyone else like you."

The two clinked glasses, reaffirming their partnership. "Don't forget, we're a formidable team," Martin noted.

Thomas, taking another sip, expressed relief, "Fortunately, you're alright."

Martin acknowledged, "Everyone in both crews knows I'm a soft touch, and many privately comment on it."

Thomas, recognizing Martin's age, offered guidance, "Don't engage in unnecessary actions for those around you who serve as stepping stones, because no matter what you do, some will wish you ill."

He bluntly added, "This incident wasn't an accident. Vogel had a higher priority initially. However, once you surpassed him, he challenged you to a duel with a venomous snake—a clear problem."

Martin hinted with a wry smile, "So, there were no accidents on my part."

Thomas grasped the implication, "I said, when obstacles obstruct our path, we must firmly eliminate them."

Martin chuckled but revealed nothing more.

That night, Thomas took a over night flight back to Los Angeles.

En route to his room, Bruce handed Martin a newspaper, saying, "Take a look; it's quite interesting."

Martin noticed prominent pictures of Paris and Kardashian in the newspaper.

Bruce explained, "Lately, Kim has been frequently giving media interviews as Paris' agent, and gossip magazines have begun comparing her to Paris."

Martin questioned, "Is she plotting something again?"

Bruce clarified, "I contacted her."

Martin teased, "You're the troublemaker."

Bruce countered, "It's not my doing. The one truly stirring up trouble is Kim. I'm just utilizing her for practice."

...

In Los Angeles, within a Santa Monica residence, Paris and Kardashian engaged in a heated argument.

A few months earlier, Paris had her driver's license revoked due to reckless driving. Despite her financial means, her 45-day sentence was served under house arrest.

Paris's patience finally snapped when she observed her former handbag carrier gaining media prominence under her banner.

With little effort, Kim had once again managed to infuriate Paris.

Paris seized her car keys and, in a fit of anger, left her designated residence during house arrest and took to the road.

Kim refrained from notifying the police but instead had two LAPD patrol cars intercept Paris' vehicle.

Paris collided head-on with one of the patrol cars.

Four LAPD officers surrounded her car.

Paparazzi and freelance reporters, who had been awaiting such an opportunity, swarmed the scene, snapping pictures incessantly.

They had finally obtained a substantial news story.

The Hilton family's princess had violated her house arrest, driven without a valid license, and appeared destined for jail this time.

The famous bag-carrier's vehicle was parked not far behind. She dialed the editor-in-chief of Vanity Fair magazine on her cell phone, stating, "Paris is in trouble once more. This time, it's a major incident. Interested in the details? Perhaps an interview with her? I can make it happen."

In the past few months, Kim had garnered considerable attention by capitalizing on her association with Paris. "How much are you willing to offer for exclusive material? I have plenty of it. I've also contacted American tabloids..."

Paris's notoriety had surged, while the name Kardashian gradually spread throughout the United States.