Chapter 543: Blackmail!

In the frenetic world of Hollywood, the revelation of a star fathering an illegitimate child often fades into the background, a commonplace scandal amidst the glittering chaos. Jack Nicholson's own brush with such a scandal, cautiously settled out of court without a DNA test, is a testament to this.

Yet Martin wasn't just any Hollywood star; he was an American icon, revered for more than his on-screen charisma.

On this day, the buzz of media reporters swarmed the event, their voices a constant hum along the sides of the red velvet carpet. The organizer's security staff stood alert, their eyes sharp and ready for any sign of trouble.

Bruce, Martin's agent, was acutely aware of the delicate situation. "You'll get your chance to speak with Martin directly," he said firmly to Toni, who cradled her child with a mix of hope and determination in her eyes.

As they moved towards the hotel's grand entrance, Toni couldn't help but glance back.

Big Ben, a seasoned screenwriter and Oscar-winning director, acknowledged her with a knowing nod. He'd spent days mulling over Toni's story, Martin Davis's formidable reputation, and the intricacies of the industry, crafting various strategies.

Toni's claim was explosive - that her brief encounter with Martin had led to the birth of her child.

Big Ben, upon reflecting on this, couldn't suppress a chuckle. Martin's inevitable denial would only add fuel to the fire.

As expected, Martin was cornered by the situation. The sudden appearance of a so-called illegitimate child was something he couldn't simply acknowledge.

Inside the hotel, the wise Jack Nicholson offered his unsolicited advice to Martin. "If you're responsible, or even if you're not sure, settle it with money and do it quickly. Any delay only breeds more trouble."

Leonardo, overhearing this, couldn't hide his amusement. "And don't forget to figure out what you'll tell your girlfriend," he added with a smirk.

"It has nothing to do with me," Martin asserted firmly, before offering an apologetic pat on Leonardo's shoulder. "Sorry for the disturbance."

Leonardo waved off his concern. "No need for formalities between us. Just handle it, and call Jack or me if you need to."

Nicholson, ever the mentor, offered his presence. "Want me to come with you? I've got a fair bit of experience in this area."

Martin declined, suggesting Nicholson stay with Leonardo. "I'll call if I need backup."

Meanwhile, Martin arranged for a private lounge to deal with the situation. Soon enough, Bruce and Thomas escorted Toni and her baby into the secluded space.

Martin's gaze fell on the child in Toni's arms, a baby now silent and observing the world with curious eyes.

"John, look, this is your father," Toni said, stepping forward.

Martin recoiled, his mind racing. This woman must be delusional.

But he composed himself. When Bruce gave a subtle nod, Martin responded, "I remember you. You came to my book signing in Times Square, wearing a wedding dress."

"Yes, I'm Toni. I got your autograph," she replied, a rehearsed certainty in her voice. "You left me your contact details, and soon after, we met, leading to John's birth."

Martin's expression was a mix of disbelief and concern, pondering how to navigate this unexpected turn in his life's narrative.

Toni's eyes sparkled with a mix of hope and defiance as she held the child closer to her. "Look at John," she implored Martin earnestly. "He has your blood in his veins. Just look at him, he resembles you."

Thomas, Martin's lawyer, interjected with a stern expression. "Ms., please be careful with your accusations. You're bordering on defamation, and there could be legal consequences."

Toni, undeterred, stood her ground. "Everything I've said is the truth. If there's any doubt, I'm ready to have a DNA test with John."

Thomas glanced anxiously at Martin, his mind racing with the implications. Martin's notorious playboy reputation was well-known, but this seemed far-fetched.

Martin, deep in thought, was certain of his innocence. Their only encounter had been a brief moment during a book signing in New York; nothing more.

Trying to defuse the situation with empathy, Martin said softly, "Toni, you seem like a genuine person. I'm not sure what your issue with Ben Affleck is, but please, don't use your child as a pawn in whatever dispute you have."

Toni clutched her child closer, her voice laced with disappointment. "Just as Ben said, you're finding excuses. You won't admit the truth."

Martin sighed, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "Toni, you and I have no connection, and this child is not mine."

Toni's resolve hardened. She had seen enough of Hollywood's duplicity. "Martin, I've struggled so much for this child. If you won't acknowledge him, we'll have to settle this in court."

Martin raised an eyebrow. "And what if I refuse to go to court?"

With a protective hand on her child, Toni responded firmly, "Then admit he's your son."

Martin, attempting to steer the conversation, suggested, "What if I request you to leave instead?"

Toni, aware of the usual Hollywood tactics, was prepared. Big Ben had advised her not to mention money first.

But Toni's goal was clear. "For $10 million, I'll sign an agreement to leave Los Angeles with John and never return."

Martin stood his ground. "I won't succumb to your threats."

Frustration crept into Toni's voice. "Martin, is $10 million too much to ask for your own son and his mother, considering your wealth?"

She was adamant. "I'll take legal action if necessary!"

Martin, unmoved, asked, "How much did you say?"

"$10 million!" Toni reiterated. "With that, John and I will vanish from your life."

Martin knew he couldn't negotiate with someone driven solely by money. Standing up, he declared, "Do as you wish. I won't pay a dime."

Toni's hope turned to despair, clutching her child. "Then I'll seek a paternity test through the courts."

Martin left the lounge without another word.

Thomas, concerned, hurried after him. "Are you certain about this?"

Martin replied confidently, "Who knows better than me, having seen my brother handle similar situations?"

In a private room, Martin revealed his suspicion. "I saw Ben Affleck near Toni, and Casey Affleck was around too. They're likely involved in this."

Thomas was puzzled. "But she's just a fan from your past..."

Bruce, leaning against the plush sofa in the dimly lit room, recounted the bizarre events. "They first caused a scene in the Coty community in Sherman Oaks. Media swarmed the area as a dozen women danced topless outside. Then, there was that book signing in New York where Toni wore a wedding dress, claiming she was Martin's wife. She was the ringleader, if I recall correctly."

Martin, visibly perplexed, rubbed his temple. "She's pushing for a DNA test. Is this a bluff, or does she genuinely believe in her claim?"

Bruce, with a hint of sarcasm, suggested, "Maybe someone secretly obtained your genetic material and passed it to her?"

Martin immediately dismissed the notion. "Impossible. I've been careful. Besides, I haven't used condoms since last year..." He paused, a realization dawning on him. "Wait, those women rummaged through our trash!"

He turned to Bruce. "It couldn't be yours, right?"

Bruce scoffed. "Nonsense, it's definitely not mine. My resources are tied up with Kim and Khloe."

Thomas, overhearing this, glanced at Bruce with a mix of surprise and disbelief.

Martin, deep in thought, made a quick decision. "We need a top-notch private investigator to track Toni's movements and connections, especially with Big Ben."

Bruce nodded. "I have contacts at Pinkerton. With the right fee, they can uncover anything."

Martin inquired, "Did you record everything?"

Bruce produced a recorder and played back the conversation, pausing when Toni mentioned the $10 million demand.

Martin, though troubled by paranoia, remained confident. "That child is not mine. I've been cautious. It's impossible for anyone from the past two years to have any leverage over me."

He listed several names. "If Kate, Jolie, Aniston, Daddario, Elizabeth claimed paternity, perhaps, but Toni? Impossible."

Determined, Martin added, "We've always conducted ourselves with integrity. Since Toni's demanding $10 million, let's involve the police. This is extortion."

Thomas double-checked, "It's not yours?" Upon Martin's firm nod, he agreed, "Okay, let's call the cops."

Martin pulled out his phone. "Find Leo. He's hosting tonight. Inform him about this. I'll use his venue for an impromptu press conference."

Thomas left to find Leonardo as Martin dialed 911. "This is Martin Davis, honorary citizen of Los Angeles. I'm at the Beverly Hills Hilton Hotel facing extortion..."

In Los Angeles, 911 operators have a special list, and Martin was on it. He quickly relayed the situation.

Meanwhile, Martin also contacted McClain. "I'm facing blackmail, to the tune of $10 million..."

McClain responded promptly, promising to arrive soon.

Simultaneously, Leonardo, on stage at the event, announced an unexpected press conference. The air was thick with anticipation and whispers of scandal.