Chapter 445: Top Notch Cleanser

Half an hour before my arrival, the community committee had been inundated with over twenty complaint calls.

In the elegantly furnished living room, Harold, perched on the plush single sofa, addressed Martin with a hint of despair in his voice, "Ever since last Saturday, we've been swarmed by reporters and movie enthusiasts. It's turned our peaceful community life upside down."

Martin, understanding the nuisance as a byproduct of excessive publicity, responded with a tone of frustration, "It's become unbearable. Just now, people were scrambling to snatch the trash I disposed of."

"Could you possibly speak to them, calm things down a bit?" Harold implored, knowing he couldn't demand this of Martin, yet desperate for a solution. "The Cotis community is open to all, and we have no means to bar their entry."

Martin pondered Harold's words, then decided, "I think I'll leave Cotis for a while, stay somewhere else."

"Will you return once this blows over?" Harold asked quickly, torn between easing his own concerns and recognizing the allure of having a celebrity like Martin in the Koti community.

Martin offered a noncommittal smile, "We'll see."

As Harold stood to leave, he bid Martin farewell, "Then I'll not impose further."

Martin escorted him to the door of his villa. Just as Harold stepped outside, a sleek red Porsche pulled into the driveway.

Elizabeth emerged, bustling with energy, holding large bags in each hand. She raised them triumphantly to Martin, "Brought dinner!" Martin swiftly relieved her of the bags, inviting Bruce to join them.

Elizabeth popped open a can of beer, handing it to Martin, and another for Bruce. She poured herself some lemon tea, remarking, "The frenzy of the reporters and fans is insane." Bruce agreed, "They're even clawing through our garbage."

"It's madness indeed," Elizabeth concurred, stunned.

Martin, taking a sip of beer, reflected, "This house is too cramped, and the open community only adds to the chaos. I'm considering an early move to the Villa in the gated northern area of Sunset Boulevard."

Unlike the more modest, open communities to the south, the northern district boasted opulent mansions against a mountainous backdrop, secured by gated access. This would offer a haven free from the paparazzi, unlike the current situation.

Elizabeth, accustomed to more spacious and luxurious surroundings, brightened up, "I've been longing for a move." For most, moving is a daunting task, but Martin had professionals to handle it. "I'll get Lily to start packing. We'll only need our essentials; the rest can stay."

Turning to Bruce, Martin added, "You'll oversee the storage and warehouse." These spaces housed not just weapons and ammo, but also sensitive items like private tapes.

Elizabeth, eager to contribute, offered, "There are still some household and decorative items we need over there. It's not safe for you to go out, Martin. May I handle the shopping?" This involvement gave her a sense of belonging, making her feel more like the mistress of the new house.

...

At the Cartier Watch Division, a crucial meeting was underway to decide the new North American spokesperson for Cartier men's watches.

The announcement, made late last year, had yet to see a decision by mid-year, reflective of the French's typical pace of business.

After six months, they had narrowed it down to three candidates, an impressively quick decision for them.

The final choice was slated for the year's end.

Butters, the business unit president, instructed his assistant to display images of the candidates on the screen.

Vice President Blanco, adjusting his glasses, recognized the familiar faces: Tom Cruise, George Clooney, and Martin Davis.

Thuram, the president's assistant, noted, "Initially, Brad Pitt and Johnny Depp were considered. But Pitt's mired in scandals and legal battles, while Depp's eccentricity doesn't align with Cartier's image."

Market Director Lizarazu chimed in, "Tom Cruise also seems unsuitable. His recent scandals and cult affiliations pose a risk, much like Pitt's situation."

Blanco nodded in agreement, "True. Our spokesperson's image is paramount. We must choose wisely."

Thuram interjected, "Consider George Clooney and Martin Davis. Even amidst scandals, they've demonstrated undeniable charisma, inadvertently showcasing the allure of the watches. But we must avoid the pitfalls that Breitling encountered."

The choice between George Clooney and Martin Davis was contentious, each having their staunch advocates.

Davis was on the cusp of becoming Hollywood's leading new force.

Clooney, however, had an impeccable aura and epitomized the quintessential gentleman.

Lizarazu, typing deftly on his laptop, switched the projection screen's display, cycling through photos taken in various iconic locations, Times Square in New York, Century City in Los Angeles, Peachtree Center in Atlanta. Each image showcased individuals with faces painted like clowns, not the circus variety, but reminiscent of "The Dark Knight."

"This is the impact of Martin Davis!" Lizarazu exclaimed, "The Dark Knight's North American box office is about to cross $250 million. Martin, in a supporting role, has eclipsed lead actor Christian Bale in popularity!"

Blanco added, "George Clooney's appeal doesn't quite match Martin's. Martin has maintained a stellar image and consistent visibility since his debut. His associations with supermodels and actresses only add to his allure!"

"In our search for a Cartier men's watch spokesperson, these factors actually work in our favor."

Lizarazu stated firmly, "In terms of fame, charm, cinematic success, and social impact, Martin surpasses Clooney. Let's not forget his influence over a widespread following. He's a national hero in the States."

Butters, typically reserved, made his stance clear: "Six months ago, Clooney might have been the better choice, but the landscape has shifted with The Dark Knight propelling Martin to national prominence."

He clapped decisively, "Let's proceed swiftly and reach out to Martin Davis."

...

Strolling through the newly landscaped front yard of a Beverly Hills mansion, Thomas approached Martin with news. "I have both good and bad news for you."

Martin, heading towards the garage, replied, "Hit me with the bad news first. I prefer the bitter before the sweet."

Under the bright California sun, Thomas's forehead glistened as he shared, "Negotiations with Nokia are tough. They're insisting on a minimum three-year contract."

Martin, sensing the post-2010 risks, shrugged, "If we can't agree, let it be."

Thomas quickly followed up, "The good news is Cartier's interest. They've approached us for you to endorse their men's watches."

He elaborated, "I've had a preliminary discussion. It's a three-year deal, $10 million a year, plus bonuses tied to prestigious awards like the Oscars and major European film festivals."

Martin nodded, "Continue talks with Cartier."

As they conversed, they reached the garage, its door open, revealing a fleet of brand-new Cadillacs, from Escalades to flagship sedans.

Though Martin hadn't moved in yet, Cadillac had already delivered these new vehicles. In addition, Martin had purchased various Chevrolets and Volkswagens for more private use.

Pointing to the garage, Martin offered, "Need a car? Take your pick."

Thomas, known for his shiny bald head and affable money-making skills, had recently been courting a 20-year-old. Without hesitation, he chose a Cadillac sedan.

Martin found the keys, tossed them to Thomas, and advised, "Head to the Cadillac Center in Los Angeles for the registration transfer." As they spoke, the sound of the front gate opening echoed. The secure iron gate automatically swung open, and Elizabeth O'Ersson drove her Porsche in, followed by a van.

She parked, greeted Thomas, and rushed over to Martin, linking arms with him. To the van driver, she instructed, "Drive to Fountain Square and park in front of the villa." Martin knew she had been out shopping for their new home and asked with curiosity, "What did you buy?"

Elizabeth guided Martin through their new home, her voice brimming with excitement, "I've picked up various ornaments, accessories, and some personal items for us both. While the big pieces are in place, it's these small touches that truly make a house a home."

The van came to a halt outside the villa. The driver and helpers disembarked, meticulously unloading and transporting the packages into the villa, as per Elizabeth's detailed instructions. They carefully arranged everything in the spacious lobby on the first floor.

Elizabeth then personally took a selection of clothes to the second-floor cloakroom.

After settling the delivery fees, Bruce watched as the van departed. Elizabeth, descending the staircase, called out to Martin, "Could you help me with the boxes?"

Martin, finding a utility knife, began the task of unpacking.

Bruce exchanged a knowing glance with Thomas.

Thomas gestured towards the boxes, his expression asking, 'Aren't we going to help?'

Bruce, understanding the unspoken message and chuckling at Thomas's still-single status, draped an arm around his shoulder, and they both exited the villa together.

Thomas cast a backward glance, noticing Elizabeth arranging the living room decor with the ease of a true hostess. He wondered silently if she might be Martin's true love but chose to keep his thoughts to himself. For the past two years, as Martin's agent, he had wisely refrained from commenting on Martin's personal life.

Meanwhile, Bruce headed towards the villa's annex to organize his own living space. Thomas joined him, realizing there was still work to be done.

Back in the villa, Martin and Elizabeth, foreheads glistening with sweat, completed the task of organizing their purchases.

Martin, seizing the moment, suggested, "Let's test out the new bathtub in the large bathroom downstairs."

As Elizabeth gently wiped Martin's face, she left a smear of dust on her hand. Laughing, she said, "Martin, your face is a mess. You need a proper wash."

Martin halted, feigning concern, "But I didn't bring any facial cleanser."

Her smile, sweet as honey, she reassured, "Don't worry, I've brought some top-notch facial cleanser. Consider me your personal beautician for today."

Soon, Martin enjoyed the luxury of the high-quality cleanser. His skin felt not only clean but rejuvenated.

In the midst of their domestic bliss, Martin found a moment of contentment, grateful for Elizabeth's thoughtful gestures.