Chapter 43: Hollywood Producer

In the headquarters of the Atlanta Women Association, Julia, the director, along with five other directors, convened an urgent meeting to discuss the prevailing public opinion.

Several representatives from the liberal wing of politics also attended the meeting.

Julia, seated at the head of the conference table, expressed her concern: "Milton's statements, though mixed, are not the real issue. What's alarming is that public attention is entirely focused on conservatives. With the upcoming Atlanta congressional election, we need more visibility. What's the purpose of the Women Association?"

Kelly Gray knew the financial backers wouldn't agree.

Julia turned to a middle-aged man named Jamie and inquired, "What suggestions does Congressman Erica have?"

Jamie replied, "The Congressman is deeply troubled by the lack of public attention. We need to respond decisively. Georgia is predominantly conservative, and this is our opportunity to make an impact."

A middle-aged director chimed in, "We should organize a march, but we lack a hot-button issue."

Julia looked at her team, urging, "If anyone has ideas, please share them."

After the meeting, Kelly Gray followed Julia to the chairman's office and presented a sample Martin had given her.

This item addressed the crux of Milton's remarks, making it a powerful tool for the Free Association's upcoming rally.

Impressed, Julia praised Kelly: "You've done a commendable job, Kelly. I've always had high hopes for you, and you've exceeded my expectations."

She immediately contacted political and social forces, prepared for a large rally, and instructed Kelly, "Keep your phone on. Tonight or tomorrow morning, I need you to accompany me to meet Congressman Erica."

Kelly Gray was elated and, upon leaving the office, called Martin to inquire about the delivery.

Martin responded, "I'm on my way to pick up the goods."

Kelly updated him on the meeting and their plans and then informed him of their rendezvous: "Pick up the goods and deliver them directly to Gray Film and Television Company. We'll meet there."

Martin, seizing the opportunity, hinted, "Remember the friend I mentioned earlier? She's a Hollywood producer, and she's here today. Perhaps you'd like to meet her. Aren't you interested in pursuing acting?"

Meanwhile, Martin checked the delivered goods and found them to be of superior quality compared to what the prop master could create.

Rosad confirmed, "These materials meet all specifications and use the best quality."

Martin arranged for the goods to be loaded, settled the payment, and drove with the shipment, leading two vans, straight to Gray Films, where Andrew awaited them.

As soon as Martin arrived, the goods were unloaded and stored in the warehouse.

Andrew, deeply honored by this entrusted task, felt a sense of trust from his boss.

Martin handed him a bottle and explained, "This water bottle is suitable for on-location use by the crew."

Andrew, excited by the goods, couldn't help but admire their ingenuity and suitability, especially for action scenes featuring male and female protagonists.

Martin revealed, "This water bottle is a crucial element for our upcoming major rally."

Three cars, including one with Kelly Gray and Louise Meyer, headed for Gray Film and Television Company.

Louise Meyer, a Hollywood producer, joined Kelly on the journey. Louise had a charismatic presence with blonde hair and black-rimmed glasses.

En route, they encountered small gatherings supporting various church groups, a reflection of the intense atmosphere surrounding the upcoming Atlanta parliamentary election.

Kelly commented, "The second half of this year's Atlanta parliamentary election has become quite intense."

Louise waved a newspaper and remarked, "I see that you're losing to those stubborn conservatives in the public opinion battle, my dear."

Kelly responded, "Remember, this is Georgia, not California."

Louise chuckled, "Conservatives have a point. We need that item, and no imitation can compare. But they're mistaken about one thing: when and where we need it, and who uses it, we decide."

She continued playfully, "We can find a charming man to use it in Hollywood. When we're done, we can toss it aside and use it as many times as we like."

Kelly teased, "Shall I arrange a red sofa for you? Atlanta has plenty of aspiring male stars."

Louise inquired about their response plans.

Kelly confidently stated, "We have a unique plan."

Upon arriving at the company, Kelly led Louise upstairs to her president's office. In the reception room, they met Martin, who had been waiting.

Kelly asked Martin if the goods had arrived, and he pointed to the box containing the 10,000 pieces.

Louise admired the craftsmanship of the water bottle, and her curiosity got the better of her. She even playfully examined its functionality.

Martin and Kelly revealed that Martin was the genius behind this innovative item.

Louise was intrigued and asked Martin how he had conceived the idea.

Martin, playing the part of a serious inventor, explained, "Liberals have faced repeated attacks and violence. I believed we needed a self-defense tool that could seamlessly integrate into daily life."

He demonstrated the kettle's utility, emphasizing its versatility and ease of concealment.

Louise couldn't help but be captivated by the invention.

Kelly mentioned, "Martin came up with this brilliant idea. He's not only a skilled actor but also a creative thinker."

Louise appreciated the innovation and inquired if she could authorize its use for the LA Women Association.

Martin readily agreed, promising unrestricted use by all freedom groups.

Louise expressed her gratitude on behalf of the LA Freedom Association.

Kelly playfully suggested, "If you find a role for Martin in your crew, it would be the perfect thank you."

Louise seemed to consider the idea, recognizing the potential benefits of working with Martin in Georgia.

The conversation shifted to recruiting actors in Atlanta for Louise's crew, a prospect that promised substantial earnings. Louise was interested in the arrangement.

With a final remark about Martin's acting skills, the atmosphere in the room remained charged with intrigue and possibilities.

There was silence, broken only by the sound of heavy breathing and the gentle sway of the bottle, much like a villain.

Kelly had never seen Martin appear so formidable.

Suddenly, Louise interjected, "That settles it."

Martin exhaled and carefully placed the water bottle down.

Louise continued, "The crew will be posting a recruitment notice next week. You can visit the filming location to find me then."

Martin agreed with a simple "No problem."

Kelly then hinted at another surprise but insisted it would have to wait until after the parade.

Curious, Louise inquired, "What's the surprise?"

With a mischievous smile, Kelly teased, "It's a secret."

Louise departed swiftly, heading to her hotel to rest.

After settling the payment with Kelly Gray at a rate of $13 per unit, Martin received $130,000 on that day.

Regarding Kelly Gray's connection to the Liberty Association, Martin chose not to delve into it further. Sometimes, it was necessary to feign ignorance even when understanding things clearly.

Upon receiving the payment, Martin maintained his composure but couldn't help feeling a rush of excitement. He had achieved both of his primary goals this time: establishing a connection with a Hollywood producer and securing a sum of money that would provide for a modest life.