Chapter 154: Front Page Column

"Universal Pictures confirms the independent film production of The Scorpion King with a $40 million investment, Stephen Sommers returns as both writer and producer, along with the return of the young actor Matthew Horner, whose portrayal of the Scorpion King in The Mummy Returns was notably remarkable..."

The day after the press conference, many newspapers and magazines featured news related to The Scorpion King.

"Famous director Chuck Russell joins The Scorpion King movie, collaborating with Matthew Horner to start a new chapter in The Mummy series."

A newspaper in partnership with Universal Pictures also briefly introduced Matthew.

"Coming from Texas, the 21-year-old actor Matthew Horner is recognized as one of Hollywood's most outstanding young actors. To date, he has worked with numerous famous stars and top directors. His debut was in the Oscar-winning film The Soul Transfer, followed by the Oscar Best Picture Gladiator directed by Ridley Scott. He then played the lead in pop princess Britney Spears' music video and further progressed to portray Captain Ronald Speirs in the epic war drama Band of Brothers, astonishing everyone with his role as the Scorpion King in The Mummy Returns. Now, he takes on the lead role in the standalone film The Scorpion King..."

In a modest apartment in downtown Los Angeles, Lester sat at the dining table, pondering over the newspaper he had just read.

His son, in his early teens, picked up the newspaper and began reading.

A middle-aged woman brought breakfast over to Lester and his son.

"Dad..." after reading the article, the son looked puzzled, "do you like The Scorpion King too?"

Lester glanced at his son, "I don't, but I've met the actor."

His son appeared even more confused, "You're into celebrities?"

"No," Lester shook his head, thinking back to their former chauffeur.

The woman, taking the newspaper from their son, noticed and asked, "Didn't you have a subordinate named Matthew Horner?"

"That's him," Lester pointed to the newspaper, "I'm sure it's him in the photo."

The son was shocked, "Dad, the little clerk under you became a Hollywood star?"

Lester hesitated but nodded, "That's not wrong to say."

Even after more than a year, he vividly remembered the young driver from Texas, who often took leaves for shooting. His office mates mocked the driver, and Lester enjoyed the spectacle, never imagining the young man would become the lead in a $40 million production.

In just two years, the young driver had climbed to a leading role, making a mockery of those who had laughed at him.

The son seemed excited about something, but Lester was focused on his own thoughts. Now that Matthew Horner had become a leading actor, hence affluent, could he be turned into a client for the company?

Securing a Hollywood star as a client would mean a significant commission.

Lester thought it was worth a try and decided to look for Matthew Horner's contact information.

In North Burbank, Matthew closed the script, planning to walk around the yard when Helen Herman called.

"I've arranged for someone to deliver Elena Boyar's payment," Helen started with work-related matters, "It's in cash, don't worry."

Matthew, walking into the yard with his phone, asked, "When will the first payment for The Scorpion King arrive?"

According to their agreement, his salary would be paid in three installments: the first $200,000 within ten days of signing the contract, the second $200,000 at the start of shooting, and the final $100,000 after completing all his scenes. There were clauses, such as deductions for any scandal involving drug use, a common Hollywood stipulation.

"It'll be within the next few days, no more than ten," Helen continued, "Elena Boyar is coming to you. She has a column in Yahoo Entertainment next Monday. We've paid her a generous amount, and she's decided to give that spot to you. She should be there soon. I'm tied up with auditions for other roles, so discuss with Elena first. We'll talk more at noon."

"Alright," Matthew curiously asked, "Have you decided on the leading lady?"

Helen's response was unexpected, "An agent got through to Stephen Sommers, and Sean Daniel had no objections. The leading lady is almost set. I couldn't secure that role, but as compensation, the production will use clients from Angel's Agency for several other important supporting roles."

"Decided already?" Matthew pressed, "Who is it?"

"I'm not sure of the specifics," Helen seemed preoccupied, "You'll know in a few days. I have to go."

After hanging up, Matthew prepared tea and cleaned the newly bought wooden furniture in the yard, ready to welcome Elena Boyar.

Ten minutes later, the doorbell rang, and Elena Boyar, tall and imposing, stood at the door.

"Long time no see, Elena."

He invited Elena Boyar in, asking, "Inside or outside?"

"Outside, the air is nice here," Elena chose, appreciating the greenery of their San Fernando Valley hilltop community.

Matthew served tea, mentioning, "This is imported green tea from Chinatown, a different flavor from the usual black tea."

Elena, uninterested in tea, took a sip and asked, "Did Helen call you?"

"Yes," Matthew replied, "It's rare for you to think of me for such a good opportunity."

Elena shrugged, "I've made a fair amount from you recently, consider it a discounted favor. It's a front-page column on Yahoo Entertainment, but I only have the power to keep it up for one day."

"One day is still good," Matthew seemed content.

"You're somewhat of a celebrity now," Elena noticed paparazzi lurking as she arrived.

Matthew joked about the paparazzi mistaking her for his girlfriend.

Elena was unfazed, suggesting they discuss the column's content.

Matthew proposed showcasing his fitness and combat training preparation for The Scorpion King, including photos at the gym and intense training sessions.

Elena agreed, noting Matthew's lack of other newsworthy material.

They planned a photo shoot for the following day, after Matthew discussed it with his gym's owner for permission, emphasizing the importance of privacy rights.

Elena, ready to leave for the editorial office, agreed to mention Matthew's blog in the column despite its current lack of attention.

After sending Elena off, Matthew checked his blog, still unnoticed, and called Helen to update her. She had no objections.

Later, Matthew continued his regular gym training, where his notoriety had grown, both as an actor and for his prowess in sparring matches.

After the day's training, Matthew discussed using the gym for the photo shoot with his coach and gym investor, Niebo, who readily agreed but requested the gym's signage be visible in the photos.

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