Chapter 524: Ridley Scott

After completing his invigorating morning run, Martin returned to the sun-drenched villa, its white walls gleaming in the early light. He gratefully accepted a towel from the housekeeper, using it to dab the perspiration from his forehead and neck. "Is Liz up yet?" he asked, his voice carrying a hint of concern.

The housekeeper, folding the towel with practiced hands, replied, "She's making breakfast in the kitchen."

Martin, his steps echoing lightly, strode into the elegantly appointed dining room, where the aroma of fresh coffee mingled with the scent of blooming jasmine from the garden.

At that moment, Elizabeth, radiant in the soft morning glow, emerged from the kitchen. She carried a tray laden with a sumptuous breakfast, her deliberate complaint laced with a playful tone, "I woke up so early because I couldn't sleep."

"I'm used to rising with the sun," Martin replied, his voice steady and assured, betraying no sign of his advancing years. "You can catch up on sleep after breakfast. You stayed up quite late last night."

Elizabeth, setting down the tray and taking her seat opposite Martin, said with a generous smile, "I was too excited to sleep, and now my back's paying the price."

As they began their breakfast, the clink of cutlery against china filled the room. Elizabeth spoke of her plans, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "I won't be napping today. I've arranged to meet Malia and Sophia Stallone at the art exhibition at Lily College."

Martin's expression shifted as he remembered Guan Hai's daughter was still in Los Angeles. "Is she easy to get along with?" he inquired.

Elizabeth's smile grew sweeter. "Teenage girls are not so hard to coax."

Martin nodded thoughtfully, his mind shifting to professional matters. "Tell Malia that the crew will be regrouping soon, and she'll be joining us."

"She's been looking forward to it," Elizabeth responded, her tone indicating pride and assurance.

After their meal, Martin changed into crisp, professional attire and departed for WMA. Elizabeth, her spirits high, slid into her Porsche and set off to join Malia, Sofia, and the others.

Upon reaching Century City and entering the bustling headquarters of WMA, Martin was greeted warmly, despite his prolonged absence. The employees, recognizing him instantly, offered greetings and compliments.

"Good morning, Martin," one said.

"Martin, you look more dashing than ever," chimed another.

A colleague, half-joking, suggested, "I have some female clients who'd be perfect for you. Interested in meeting them?"

Martin, ever the gentleman, simply smiled and nodded, making his way through the lively throng towards the exclusive elevator for senior clients. Here, finally, he found a moment of tranquility.

Meanwhile, Ari, having just arrived at the office, was informed by an observant new recruit from the mailroom, "President, Martin's here. He just headed to the senior clients' elevator."

Ali hurried through the bustling office, managing to catch up with Martin just in time. "I heard about your engagement. Set a date yet? I need to pick out a gift," Martin said, extending a handshake.

"The date's still up in the air," Ari replied, his tone light and teasing. "But I definitely won't invite you to my fiancée's bachelorette party."

Martin laughed heartily. "I'll be at your bachelor party, Ari. I trust your judgment and ability."

As they entered the elevator, Ali shared some lighthearted rumors from the modeling world, "Don't expect a crowd of Victoria's Secret Angels, though."

Martin, amused, responded, "Just let me know when, and I'll be there." The elevator doors closed on their friendly banter, ascending towards the day's opportunities and challenges.

"No problem at all," Ari assured, his voice echoing slightly in the polished interior of the elevator. As the doors slid open, he stepped out alongside Martin, their footsteps muted on the plush carpet of the WMA headquarters. The air was abuzz with the subtle energy of high-powered deals and artistic endeavors. "Thomas has lined up several film projects for you, including some major company initiatives. Make sure to review them closely," Ari advised, his tone both respectful and earnest.

Pausing, he added thoughtfully, "Over the years, your knack for selecting films has been impeccable, each success reinforcing your exceptional vision. While the company respects your autonomy in choice, remember, given your caliber, focusing solely on either commercial or artistic ventures would be a disservice to your talents."

Martin nodded, understanding the underlying message. "I won't stray from the path to the Oscars," he affirmed confidently.

Ali extended his hand, the gesture signaling both a farewell and an invitation. "Let's find time for a round of golf soon."

Martin proceeded to Thomas' office, reflecting on his partner's remarkable journey from a junior agent to a senior position in the company. Thomas, a figure of resilience and ambition, awaited him.

Upon Martin's entry, Thomas swiftly summoned the finance department. The deputy director arrived promptly, documents in hand, requesting Martin's signature to finalize a significant transaction. It was the long-awaited payout from "The Dark Knight's" post-production share, amounting to an impressive $34.66 million after deductions.

Thomas, leaning back in his chair, eyed Martin curiously. "With such a substantial sum, any big spending plans? Count me in."

Martin, signing the receipt, responded half-jokingly, "Some in stocks, some in real estate, and the rest? Likely on life's pleasures." He added, "Before tax season, it's wise to invest and spend more, rather than simply enrich the tax bureau."

Thomas, ever the pragmatic advisor, reminded him, "Don't forget to set aside a savings fund."

"I always allocate one-fifth for emergencies," Martin assured, his financial prudence evident.

As Martin contemplated his investment options, his thoughts drifted to enjoying the fruits of his labor. "Bruce, does Elizabeth have a preference for Porsches?" he inquired, recalling her taste in cars.

Bruce pondered briefly. "She never drives the Cadillac. Clearly not a fan."

Martin's memory sparked. "In New York, I saw an ad... Porsche has a four-door sedan now?"

Thomas, knowledgeable in such matters, clarified, "The Panamera, a four-door coupe."

"Order a top-tier Panamera, Bruce. Complete the process today and have it delivered home," Martin instructed, his decision made.

After Bruce departed to fulfill the request, Thomas presented a stack of invitations to Martin. "You've been sought after for various events and initiatives. The more significant ones are on top."

Martin scanned the invitations, noting several from charities and environmental groups, alongside personal invites. One from Hefner stood out for a slumber party.

A particular invitation caught his eye, adorned with two equilateral triangles and an 'S'. Thomas emphasized, "This is from Tom Cruise. His leader Hubbard invites you to visit Scientology headquarters."

He voiced a concern, "Cruise might have ulterior motives, despite their help in Cannes."

Martin dismissed the notion with a wave. "If I meet Hubbard, it'll be a dialogue between two sect leaders."

Thomas recalled then that Martin's following in his Coca-Cola Cult far outnumbered Hubbard's Scientology adherents. The moment reflected Martin's unique influence, blending the worlds of cinema, finance, and personal ideology in the intricate tapestry of his life.

In the world of influence and power, Martin had indeed amassed more capital than Hubbard, a fact that Thomas reflected upon with a hint of admiration in his voice.

"The copyright for 'The Martian' is secured, and Andy Weir, the author, is keen to meet you," Thomas informed Martin, his tone carrying a mix of excitement and business acumen.

Martin pondered for a moment, then decided, "Okay. See if he's available this afternoon."

Thomas promptly dialed Andy Weir, and they arranged a meeting at the WMA headquarters for later that day. Weir, having received the initial adaptation fee, had left his position at Blizzard Entertainment to focus entirely on "The Martian." His commitment was evident in his eagerness to meet.

Martin and Random House had a contract with Weir, stipulating the novel's completion by year's end. This project held great promise, and Martin's involvement was crucial.

After finalizing the meeting details, Thomas broached the subject of directing. "Ridley Scott, a client of the company, has been discussed for 'The Martian.' His agent, Ari, has been in talks. Ridley himself hasn't commented yet, but he's extended an invitation to you for a different project."

A sense of foreboding crept into Martin's mind. "An invitation for a role?"

Thomas nodded, a touch of hesitation in his voice. "Yes. Ridley wants you for the lead in his new film, an epic adaptation of Robin Hood. I know you've decided against epics, so I haven't committed to anything on your behalf."

Thomas continued, "Ridley is convinced you're perfect for Robin Hood. He even mentioned replacing Cate Blanchett as the female lead if you join."

Martin, aware of the pitfalls in epic films of that era, especially Ridley Scott's, decided, "Give him a polite refusal. Find a diplomatic reason."

"I'll handle it," Thomas assured him, adding, "We might consider Ridley for 'The Martian', but that's for later."

Martin, concerned about maintaining his reputation, agreed to wait until the novel's completion.

Thomas then presented several other audition invitations. The only one that caught Martin's attention was "Cloud Atlas" by the Wachowski siblings. The invitation was sincere, complete with a full script.

Martin briefly reviewed the script, finding it more complex and enigmatic than "Inception." Thomas mentioned, "I spoke with Lana Wachowski. She's willing to wait for your availability."

After considering, Martin closed the script. "It's not for me. Our creative visions are too different."

Thomas accepted the script back, remarking on its ambitious nature and the impressive exploration of time, space, and humanity. He mentioned Natalie Portman's recommendation of the script to Lana during "V for Vendetta."

Martin remained unmoved, shaking his head. To him, Ridley Scott's epic was a pitfall, and the Wachowskis' post-"Matrix" project was even more so.

Understanding Martin's resolve, Thomas dropped the subject. In his eyes, Martin's priorities and choices outweighed the company's.

Thomas declined the remaining film offers. None resonated with Martin, who was not in need of more projects.

That afternoon, Martin met with Andy Weir. They delved into "The Martian," discussing its progress and ensuring its completion within the year. Martin also called Louise to advance the project, demonstrating his commitment to bringing Weir's vision to cinematic life.