Chapter 145: The Scene of the Shootout

[Chapter 146: The Scene of the Shootout]

In Beverly Hills, at the Four Seasons Hotel.

Inside a private room, Robert Redford wore a grim expression as he faced Rooney Chasen. "My people found out that your assistant Sasha has been mixing with Hawke Osment's crew."

"That's impossible!" Rooney was skeptical of outsiders' claims.

As tensions rose between them, attorney Cheryl interjected, "You both, our main focus now is to find Sterling Van Wagenen. Where the hell is he?"

Redford grabbed his phone to call.

On the other end, the person answered, "I was just about to call you! You need to check Fox 11. Ace News is airing footage of you and Sterling Van Wagenen right now."

Redford hastily walked over to the TV, switching to Channel 11 while asking, "Is Sterling with you?"

"He's not here..."

Redford suddenly hung up, cutting off the call as he caught sight of Ace News broadcasting.

First appeared a girl whose face and key parts were pixelated but seemed quite young.

Then three men showed up comprising Sterling Van Wagenen, himself, and Lawrence Pope.

Cheryl and Rooney's gazes snapped to the TV screen.

Both initially planned to make calls but soon abandoned their phones -- it was no longer necessary.

The TV shifted, displaying another video featuring Sterling Van Wagenen himself, across from someone equally young.

After a while, the video showcased two girls, and three men remained unchanged: Wagenen, Redford, and Pope.

At this moment, Redford was briefly stunned.

That bastard Sterling Van Wagenen had not only filmed himself inappropriately but also caught him and Pope on tape!

...

Beside him, Rooney grappled with the reality of her defeat, having not faced such a significant loss in a long time.

Everything had seemed to go smoothly; she had relentlessly attacked Hawke and the West Coast studio, obliterating them without leaving room for retaliation -- the advantage covering the entire spectrum from public opinion to the victims, with overwhelming superiority on the legal front.

The victory was within reach, yet everything collapsed.

Rooney suddenly recalled Redford's prior words, suspecting that Sasha had aligned with Hawke's team...

If it was all true, from the day she took over Sterling Van Wagenen's business, she had indeed been played by Hawke Osment and Caroline Jones!

What about Rachel Wood's information? Had she willingly exposed weaknesses to be targeted, diverting attention, and discreetly paving another path?

Instead of guarding the weakest points, they had flanked her, aiming straight for their vulnerabilities.

...

Cheryl, being a lawyer, was quick to react, grabbing Redford. "You're in danger! Think about how to deal with the LAPD or the FBI's investigation!"

Redford was aware of the political atmosphere, understanding that aligning with Pope brought certain risks.

Before, the LAPD and FBI's Los Angeles branch hesitated to intervene, not wanting to involve themselves in a conflict between parties, void of evidence or pressure.

But that was no longer the case; this kind of news couldn't be delegated by a simple news team at Ace News, as it hinted at widespread media exposure, and the ensuing public pressure would be immense.

The videos served as solid evidence; once a report reached the LAPD, they would have to act.

Redford recognized the gravity of the situation, and the crucial factor -- his old friend Sterling Van Wagenen was missing.

This unavoidably pushed thoughts of possible implications into his mind.

"You're the legal expert here; figure something out," Redford urged, grabbing his bag. "I'm off to make arrangements."

Cheryl responded, "Don't panic; we still have options."

Redford nodded slightly, turning to Rooney. "You've caused us all a lot of trouble!"

Rooney found herself momentarily speechless.

...

As Redford left, heading to the elevator, he called his assistant. "Book me a flight immediately, preferably to a country without an extradition agreement with America -- no... make it the fastest exit from America! The sooner, the better!"

He believed his friend was in danger, and he himself was not safe either; he hung up but dialed again, "Get over here; come with me to Los Angeles International Airport."

At this moment, Redford was reminded of Roman Polanski; his scenarios bore a chilling similarity.

Time to flee and dive into the European film scene.

...

As Redford exited and Ace News continued its broadcast, Cheryl and Rooney dispersed in different directions.

The former remained determined to continue the fight, while Rooney moved heavily, dialing Sasha's number as soon as she got in the car.

Yet she was met with a busy signal.

Rooney came to the realization that Sasha was indeed the inside mole!

After a moment, she called Caroline instead and was relieved when it connected.

In the Fox Television Center's lounge, Caroline asked, "What's the matter?"

Rooney stayed silent, ultimately saying nothing as she hung up.

A loss was a loss; nothing more to be said.

Rooney instructed the driver to take her back to the office.

...

Caroline had stowed her phone away, feeling particularly pleased with herself, almost eager to rejoice.

But with Sasha around, she had to retain her authority.

Edwards walked in shortly after and, upon seeing Sasha with Caroline, expressed mild surprise.

But after reflecting on his extended time with Hawke, he rushed over and asked Sasha, "You're also an undercover?"

Sasha nodded at Edward. "Hi there, Mr. Undercover."

Edward admired, "The boss is incredible -- this whole deal brought out two undercover agents."

"You all are making it too simple," Caroline interjected, maintaining a serious expression, "This isn't merely some petty squabble within the entertainment industry; it's party politics!"

Just then, Hawke and Brian entered.

Sasha stood to greet Hawke.

Hawke nodded at her. "Good job."

Sasha plainly said, "Thank you for the bonus." After thanking Hawke, she picked up a bag. "I'm off for a trip to unwind."

Hawke instructed Brian, "Send two personnel and a car to escort Sasha."

Using up her utility didn't warrant just a bonus, but also an escort; Sasha sincerely said, "Thanks."

Brian made the call, and soon a man and woman arrived to drive Sasha back to her apartment to pack for her journey to East Asia.

With the others gone, Hawke turned back to Brian. "Let your two subordinates start reaching out to others; they should agree."

...

Meanwhile, in Sacramento, Lawrence Pope was resting at home when he received a call.

"Quick, flip over to Fox 11's Ace News."

Pope sensed this was important and emerged from his bedroom, glancing at his wife and fourteen-year-old daughter. "Linda, take Catherine to bed."

Catherine protested, "I'm not tired yet! I want to watch TV..."

Pope asserted, "Be good and listen."

Catherine pouted but reluctantly retreated to her room.

Pope grabbed the remote, tuned into Channel 11, and saw himself onscreen.

Alongside him was a young girl.

"Fuck!" Pope exploded in anger, pulling out his phone, ready to call.

From behind, a gasp echoed, followed by a thud against the wall.

Pope turned and saw his wife, Linda, stunned, slumped against the wall, gaping at the screen, pointing at him, seemingly unable to speak.

His phone rang -- a name flashed, and with no regard for Linda, he hurriedly answered.

"I take it this is your guarantee?"

Pope tried to argue, but upon peering at the scandalous TV coverage, he found himself at a loss for words.

The other side's fury had lessened slightly, speaking through grit, "Everything ends with you; make sure those who should be quiet stay that way."

Pope understood the statement's implication and replied, "I'll take full responsibility."

Once the call ended, Linda was already before the TV, glaring at the pixelated image of her husband. "Why? Why this?"

Pope seemed to tune her out, sitting silently on the couch.

"You've cheated, and I've pretended it wasn't happening." Linda accused, gesturing towards the screen "But how could you do this? You have a daughter; you're also a father!"

She thundered, "You're a monster! No, you're less than a monster!"

Not replying, Pope turned his attention to where his daughter was sleeping, viciously shutting his eyes. "I'll face the consequences! Linda, Linda -- hear me out..."

He raised his voice. "Everything moving forward is crucial -- your futures depend on it, you and Catherine."

Linda gritted her teeth. "You've ruined everything."

Pope remained collected, continuing, "You need to reach out to lawyer Donnie immediately; we'll finalize the divorce tonight. All assets will be yours and Catherine's. After the paperwork, leave Sacramento for New York; your brother will look after you."

Linda inspected this almost beastly man, her feelings conflicted, unsure of what his true self was.

"Be swift with your actions," Pope said, donning his coat and grabbing the car keys. "I need to step out. When I return, I better see a finalized divorce agreement."

For the sake of the future, Linda forced herself not to show the smile hidden deep in her heart and nodded: "Go ahead."

...

Once Pope left, driving out of the garage, he pulled out a second phone, dialing, "Hammerson, you need to meet with me, ASAP."

Half an hour later, Pope retrieved a hefty sum of cash from a house and came to the coffee shop where he was to meet a burly white man.

No words needed; he simply handed over the cash. "This is for your men -- start the operation tonight; head directly to Los Angeles."

Hammerson opened his bag, counted the money, and inquired, "Who's the target?"

Pope replied, "Robert Redford and Sterling Van Wagenen -- find photos yourself; make sure they remain quiet."

"Two Hollywood celebrities," Hammerson recognized. Especially Redford. Closing the bag, he added, "You'll hear from me soon."

Nodding, Pope stayed silent as Hammerson departed, reaching for a cigarette to light.

...

In Pasadena, inside a detached house.

Brian's assistant, Sandra, accompanied a family of three in watching Ace News.

Penny wrung her hands, her eyes huge with anger.

While her parents were still processing things, Sandra recalled supplies from Hawke and said, "Previously, we approached three victims, but they all backed down under PR pressure. Do you know what tactics? One main actress got a $3 million contract! Are you going to keep silent? Just sweep it all under the rug?"

Talk of justice and rectifying wrongs sounded absurd at this moment.

Hawke entirely understood what could sway these people.

Penny's father suggested, "Can we discuss this?"

Sandra smiled and nodded, exiting the room.

Penny's mother stood anxiously. "It's so unfair! We followed the rules and got nothing! Look at those who broke the rules -- when they sue, they get hefty checks, and even if they back down later, they still receive money and resources."

Her husband queried, "You agree with this?"

The woman retorted, "Why wouldn't I? Fox has exposed everything, so what's there to fear?"

The man nodded. "Okay, we're going to report this."

Penny dashed to the door, hollering to those waiting outside, "My parents want to let you in."

...

Meanwhile on the coast in Santa Monica, another of Brian's assistants had convinced a different victim's parents under similar circumstances.

Rooney's PR and damage control efforts successfully held firm, but this all hinged on the absence of any video exposure; with the surfacing of news from Fox, these became tools for Hawke to rally support.

Her offers to Rachel Wood were too enticing to resist.

Thirty minutes later, the group reunited at Brian's law office, where after brief negotiations, they signed an agency contract with him.

Subsequently, under Brian's supervision, two victims and their guardians headed to the West Division to report.

Before reaching the West Division, Brian received calls from the guardians of Rachel, Judy, and Amanda, wishing to re-engage him for representation against Sterling Van Wagenen.

Brian instructed them to head directly to the precinct.

...

Downtown Los Angeles, in the Los Angeles Times editorial office adjacent to the City Hall.

Deputy Editor Marielle had just received a direct call from Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Chair Franco Pearson.

He stated directly, "Fox has already aired this story. Beyond what Ace News is doing, Fox News is now rolling out updates. Just now, at ten o'clock, they showed new content; this cannot be suppressed. As one of North America's three major newspapers, we can't pretend this isn't happening."

On the other end, Pearson's voice sounded as if aged a few years. "I didn't mean to obstruct your report. Covering hot topics is your news freedom. But this incident is merely an isolated case in Hollywood, and I hope it doesn't influence this year's Oscars."

Marielle understood what he meant; this industry was not about merely reporting the news. She was courteous, "Of course, the focus would be on Sterling Van Wagenen and Robert Redford."

Pearson replied solemnly, "Their actions deserve punishment."

Marielle exchanged polite words before hanging up, looking at the drafts on her desk, one of which hinted at investigating whether Hollywood had such incidents.

She promptly picked up the phone to call.

Soon, the head editor entered her office.

Marielle instructed, "Update the article. Focus the spotlight on Sterling Van Wagenen and Robert Redford; let's not delve too far into details on the rest."

"Understood," the editor agreed, taking the draft back for revision.

Seconds before major newspaper editions were finalized, offices began receiving calls requesting to downplay the story -- not a total blackout but rather to center the reporting on individuals, emphasizing accountability.

Particularly among California-based media, there seemed to be a quiet consensus.

It was, after all, a stronghold of the blue party.

Overall, Hollywood leaned deeply liberal.

Even LAPD faced some repercussions; due to Brian's late report, on-duty personnel were absent, and the request for a subpoena couldn't be processed.

Yet Brian maintained his composure, as the aim was effectively achieving targeted outcomes related to Pope.

Hawke blended into the background, hiding inside the fortified villa, meticulously monitoring developments; nothing was more critical than personal safety.

The time following the news's exposure would be the most dangerous.

During this period, he needed to hunker down, avoiding unnecessary risks.

Even Campos and his crew were instructed to exit Los Angeles for an evening outing.

...

The following morning, in the parking lot on 20th Street in Santa Monica.

Sterling Van Wagenen awoke from his slumber, turning to see the passenger seat empty, and the package had been removed.

Memories flooded back, and he slapped his forehead, "Damn it!"

The flash drives and videos were snatched!

Recalling the robber's words, Sterling Van Wagenen suspected that the culprits were likely sent by Pope.

He hurried to find his phone, only to discover the battery and SIM card had been discarded onto the passenger seat.

Reassembling his phone, he realized he needed to contact Redford, remembering their long-standing friendship.

However, when he dialed Redford's number, it wouldn't go through.

He tried again, but the situation remained unchanged.

Could it be? Panic set in; he started the car, exiting the parking lot and heading toward the Pacific Coast Highway.

He owned a secret property in Malibu that contained cash and passports.

Sterling Van Wagenen considered making a run for it.

But with the signal on his phone active, he attempted another call, which led him to be pinpointed not long after.

Before reaching Malibu, two FBI SUVs began to tail him.

The leading car cut him off while the rear vehicle blocked his escape route, leaving no escape route available.

With a screeching halt, all three vehicles came to a stop.

Sterling Van Wagenen, seeing the FBI emblems front and back, raised his hands and exited the vehicle, shouting, "I'm unarmed! I'm unarmed!"

Several agents wearing FBI vests exited the cars, taking cover behind them, shouting, "FBI! Show your hands!"

Another voice barked, "Get down! Get on the ground!"

Sterling Van Wagenen dropped to his knees with his hands on his head, crouched beside the car.

Suddenly, gunfire erupted.

Bang! Bang! Bang!--

The four FBI agents fired multiple rounds; bullets struck Sterling Van Wagenen, but even more pummeled his red Ford, transforming the scene into a chaotic gunfight.

The Ford was riddled with bullet holes from the barrage.

Wounded multiple times, Sterling Van Wagenen fell to the ground but was not dead yet.

An FBI officer retrieved a Beretta from an evidence bag and approached Sterling Van Wagenen, standing alongside him. "Be careful."

Others ducked aside, selecting their positions, ready to pull the trigger; the FBI vehicle took multiple hits.

Once the gunplay concluded, agents positioned themselves securely, pointing guns at the SUVs.

Sterling Van Wagenen, now weaker, let out a strange noise from his throat as bullets rained around him.

One FBI agent concealed bullet markings on the firearm before placing it in Sterling Van Wagenen's hands.

"Is the gun safe?" one inquired.

The other confirmed, "That was recovered from his home; it's his."

The lead officer urged, "Hurry."

Creating a semblance of a real gunfight was no challenge to such professional agents.

*****

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