Chapter 224: Housewarming Party

In the chaotic textile Mill, Martin dual-wielded guns, engaging in a fierce battle against the assassins of the Assassin's League. Each time his M9 pistol discharged, an adversary on the opposite side crumpled to the ground.

Director Leterrier comfortably sat on a mobile platform, while the director of photography skillfully operated the camera to capture both panoramic and close-up shots. This sequence had been meticulously planned as a continuous take.

The relentless firefight wreaked havoc on the props and looms, and one assailant fell, bleeding profusely. The film, by design, embraced its R rating, resulting in an epic scale.

Even the French director, Leterrier, had whimsically suggested letting Martin showcase his daredevilry, but Martin sternly declined.

As the long shot wrapped, the studio lay in disarray. Most props and sets were bound for the scrap heap, with no intention of tallying the expenses. Martin, though, remained untroubled, knowing his share was secure.

"Cut! That's a wrap on the final shot!" Director Leterrier declared from his chair atop the rails, and the crew erupted in jubilation, showered with bouquets and vibrant blossoms that soon burst into confetti.

Spoils were distributed next, with most crew members receiving a keepsake. Martin, for instance, obtained the two prop M9 pistols he wielded on screen.

Producers Louise Meyer and Kelly Gray arrived at the studio with a large suitcase, their assistants in tow. Louise enthusiastically clapped her hands, expressing gratitude for the crew's hard work over the past two months. She then unveiled small gift boxes from the suitcase.

Martin's reaction was a private sigh, and Bruce quietly queried, "Thinking of calling Australia again?"

Martin replied in hushed tones, "We'll discuss it later."

Louise personally presented the gift boxes to each crew member. Eager hands opened them to reveal fang pendants, each engraved with Martin's name.

Morgan Freeman inquired, "This doesn't look like a coyote's tooth."

Louise explained, "During Martin's filming of 'House of Wax' in Australia, he hunted more than a dozen crocodiles, some exceeding six meters in length."

She added with a smile to Martin, "Rest assured, it was all legal, and I'm delivering this on your behalf." No one questioned the legality, having witnessed Martin's ferocity firsthand, whether against crocodiles or machine gun-wielding thugs.

As crocodile-tooth pendants were distributed, most regarded them favorably. This gift, thanks to Martin, would become a treasured memento and potentially elevate him to superstar status.

Louise and Kelly departed, the former catching a flight back to Los Angeles. Martin extended an invitation to director Leterrier, action director Chad, and others for Elena's housewarming celebration.

Upon returning to the hotel, Kelly joined Martin in his room. He asked her, "Did you see her off?"

Kelly poured a drink for both of them, remarking, "That nosy woman who only knows how to pry finally left."

Martin sighed in relief, free from further battles, and possibly able to enjoy a vacation.

Kelly shared some news, "Coca-Cola wants to advertise on the 'Wanted' poster, and I've given them the green light on behalf of the production."

Martin harbored no ill feelings, acknowledging, "Joining later on, you hold the producer's sway." He didn't dwell on the fact that Congressman Erica had played a role in this decision.

Kelly leaned closer and said, "I'll continue to support you. If you have promising projects in the future, don't hesitate to reach out. With my backing, you can seize opportunities in Hollywood."

Moved, Martin asked, "How can I thank you?"

Kelly raised an eyebrow, replying, "Now that nosy one is gone, you'll figure it out."

With a female benefactor in his midst, Martin displayed his sincerity in more ways than one, earning her approval.

Meanwhile, "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" celebrated a grand world premiere in Los Angeles, propelled by the notoriety generated by recent gossip. The film raked in nearly $55 million during its opening weekend in North America, a significant feat for an original, non-adaptation or sequel.

Under Martin's guidance, Jolie successfully rebounded from a slump, gaining newfound popularity. Her portrayal of the prodigal daughter won acclaim from mainstream audiences.

Box office figures spoke volumes, and with support from 20th Century Fox, Jolie united with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, holding her children in each arm. She embarked on a mission to Africa and the Middle East, visiting and aiding war-orphaned children, all in front of a multitude of media.

Why take her children to such perilous places? Jolie had a ready explanation. On one hand, she couldn't bear to be separated from her kids, and on the other, she wished to instill in them the values of freedom and democracy from a young age.

These actions resonated with the prevailing sentiments in the United States, securing public approval.

A divine aura now radiated from the Holy Mother figure that had emerged.

In parallel, Jolie remained acutely aware of Hollywood's significance as her home base, with her film career holding steadfast importance. In a series of interviews, she consistently referenced her latest movie, "Wanted."

She heaped praise upon Martin, stating, "Martin's acting prowess is nothing short of astonishing. It's hard to believe he's only 24; he performs like a seasoned actor in his fifties with three decades of experience. Beyond that, he embodies the ideal male companion—gentle, humble, and possessing a robust physique. If I had met him at 20, I would have fallen hopelessly in love."

Following the publication of this interview, reporters sought Martin's perspective.

Martin offered a personal reflection: "The Jolie I've come to know is a genuinely exceptional mother. I've been motherless since childhood, and the concept of a mother was somewhat nebulous for me. But Jolie has breathed life into that concept. A good mother, I believe, is like her."

When it came to promotional bravado, unapologetic exaggeration was par for the course: "Jolie possesses a truly compassionate heart. While on set, she'd often engage me in discussions about the ongoing wars, displaying deep concern for those in distress—particularly war-torn children. She worries if they have enough to eat, access to clean water, and the chance for basic education. She's genuinely courageous, and she's translating her concerns into action."

In the world of stars, shedding inhibitions and shamelessly self-promoting were part of the game.

Before departing Atlanta, Martin attended an essential event, rallying his friends to attend Elena's sibling's housewarming party.

...

Northville Community.

The sun had yet to set when Elena greeted guests at her doorstep.

Harris and Lily were busy welcoming people inside.

Neighbors from the vicinity had accepted Elena's invitation, bearing gifts.

Robert had invited several members of the community committee, including the prominent figure Ms. Gianna.

"Elena is quite the talented bartender," Robert, no longer the person he once was, declared. He was now a partner and the art director of Atlanta's most extensive entertainment agency, a role he proudly emphasized. He introduced Gianna, saying, "She clinched the title of Georgia Bartender Champion last year. Her cocktail creation, the paper airplane, garnered widespread acclaim. She's even been hailed as North America's female bartending maestro after Louise Meyer."

Gianna was suitably impressed by this newcomer's achievements. Robert then pointed to Harris, saying, "The second son of the Carter family launched his business while still in college. He's the brains behind the Atlantic Astronomical Association and rakes in more money than I do."

Gianna hadn't paid much attention to Harris before but couldn't help admiring his entrepreneurial spirit. She remarked, "Young people with the courage to venture forth and achieve success through hard work."

However, Gianna's admiration was tinged with skepticism, sensing that a newly affluent family lacked a substantial pedigree.

Just as she mulled over this thought, several individuals arrived at the door. Among them, Gianna recognized Justin, a high-ranking executive from Coca-Cola. Another person seemed familiar, and after a moment, she identified him as an Atlanta celebrity and American hero—Martin Davis!

These individuals were engrossed in welcoming others, temporarily delaying their approach.

Gianna couldn't help but inquire, "Who are they?"

Robert, choosing honesty over boasting, explained, "Martin and Elena are neighbors who grew up together. To be precise, Martin has been part of the Carter family since childhood." He added, "The shorter gentleman is Justin, Coca-Cola's deputy marketing director. Coca-Cola is exploring a collaboration with Elena on a new bottled cocktail beverage. The composed figure is my boss, Jerome, the head of Atlanta's largest entertainment agency."

Gianna smiled and said, "Could you please introduce me?"

Robert signaled to Martin, and Martin, along with Justin and Jerome, joined them.

As the two parties got acquainted, they exchanged polite conversation. Morgan Freeman eventually arrived to extend his congratulations to hostess Elena, a sight that no longer fazed Gianna.

Indeed, this was a rising middle-class establishment, a nouveau riche venture with a strong network and solid foundations.

As the party continued, Gianna extended a formal invitation on behalf of the community committee, inviting Elena to attend the community foundation's fundraising dinner the following week—an acknowledgment and integration into the community.

Elena's housewarming party had already solidified her place within the Northville community.

After the party, Martin lingered a while longer. Elena tasked her younger siblings with tidying up the house and accompanied Martin to the small garden at the back.

She disclosed, "I've publicly announced my separation from Emma in the newspapers. Your people also helped me secure custody of Lily and Hall. They can't use them to threaten me anymore. As for Clayton's house, it belongs to them."

After enduring too many disappointments, she was now driven by despair. She made a firm decision, "Change all four of our mobile phone numbers—immediately."

Martin nodded in agreement. "If you encounter any trouble, just call me. If I'm not around contact Robert and Jerome they can usually handle it, and if they can't, there are others."

Elena didn't decline the offer. "I will do that."

Martin remained in Atlanta for three more days before returning to Los Angeles.