Chapter 767: M Knight Shyamalan!

After getting the precise details from Thomas, Martin exclaimed, "We've got our lead! Let's head to the bookstore and snag a copy of '24 Billys'."

Bruce chimed in with a reminder, "Better keep this under wraps. We don't want anyone catching wind of our plans."

Martin mulled over their previous mishaps and nodded in agreement, suggesting, "If you're making the purchase, opt for direct delivery to avoid any prying eyes."

Bruce made the call while Martin waited patiently, the anticipation palpable in the air.

Moments later, Bruce received a call, briefly conversed, then covered the receiver, updating Martin, "Got it. The bookstore clerk mentioned '24 Billys' and another in the series, 'Billy's War'."

Martin wasted no time, deciding, "Let's grab both."

Soon enough, a delivery arrived at their door, and Bruce retrieved the package.

Martin eagerly examined the cover, noting it was a documentary biography by Daniel Case, published in 1981 and 1983 respectively, with the latter facing years of delay.

Though intrigued, Martin shelved the books for later, realizing it was time for dinner.

Before departing the set, Martin treated everyone to a lavish feast, celebrating their progress.

During the soirée, Martin received a call from Linda Henry, signaling a collaboration between Fenway Group and the crew, leading to a special invitation to a private gathering.

Agreeing to the partnership, Martin made his way back to his room, where he delved into '24 Billys'.

The book chronicled Billy Milligan's tumultuous life, from his birth in 1955 to his legal battles in the late '70s, particularly his landmark case of being acquitted of felony charges due to his multiple personality disorder.

As Martin absorbed the narrative, his Hollywood instincts kicked in, envisioning two potential adaptation routes: one focusing on Billy's individual journey, akin to a character study, with M knight's potential involvement sparking further creative ideas.

The alternate plan involved elevating the incident, with Billy serving as the prototype for the male lead, focusing on the legal ramifications of his case.

"Billy's case set a precedent, leaving a significant impact on the judicial system," Martin mused, contemplating the potential adaptations.

Bruce, closing 'Billy's War', concurred, "Both approaches align with mainstream Hollywood standards."

Putting down the book, Martin turned to Bruce, inquiring, "What are your thoughts after diving into this?"

Bruce, shaking the book lightly, replied, "It's a stark reminder that everyone has multiple facets. If what's written holds true, this guy's darker than both of us combined."

Martin's expression darkened, retorting, "Billy may have been a criminal, but I draw the line at robbery and rape."

Bruce chuckled, "Of course, though some might argue you have your own complexities, just not to his extreme."

Martin responded with a playful gesture before dialing Thomas's number.

...

In a suite at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Los Angeles, a stunning woman with flowing brown hair emerged from the bedroom, addressing Thomas in the living area, "Hey, darling, are you done with your work yet?"

Thomas glanced over, instructing, "Give me a moment, don't come out unless I call."

The woman, statuesque and elegant, lingered by the door, "You called me here, only to leave me alone in the bedroom…"

Thomas, feeling impatient with the transactional nature of their arrangement, handed her $3,000, stating, "If you wish to stay, wait patiently inside. If not, feel free to leave."

Taking the money, the woman reconsidered, ultimately returning to the bedroom, recognizing the potential for more lucrative encounters with Thomas in the future.

Thomas nodded to himself, acknowledging the convenience of fleeting liaisons compared to the complexities of long-term relationships.

Glancing at his reflection on the TV screen, he chuckled, confident that with wealth and status, any desire could be fulfilled.

The room fell silent as Thomas clutched his phone, anticipating Martin's call, a testament to their years of collaboration and Martin's unpredictable nature.

As expected, the phone soon rang, and Thomas answered, "Martin, what's next?"

Martin wasted no time, instructing, "Find out who holds the copyright for '24 Billys' and 'Billy's War', and gather information on Billy Milligan's current status."

Thomas nodded, affirming, "Got it. I'll arrange for it first thing tomorrow morning."

Martin emphasized, "And remember, keep this under wraps."

After hanging up, Thomas mentally rehearsed Martin's instructions, ensuring he wouldn't overlook them. Satisfied, he pocketed his phone and retreated to the bedroom.

Inside the luxurious seafront villa in Boston's Bay Area, lights illuminated the bustling private party.

Martin engaged in conversation with Linda Henry, who explained, "John wanted to host you himself, but an urgent matter arose with Liverpool. He had to rush there early this morning."

Dressed in a striking red evening gown, Linda continued, "Liverpool FC, in the Premier League," anticipating any potential concerns Martin might have about their collaboration.

Elaborating on the situation, Linda described the turmoil in Liverpool's summer transfer, with John Henry needing to address the fallout in person.

Raising her wine glass, Linda apologized on behalf of her husband, to which Martin graciously responded, "Here's to a successful season for Liverpool."

As they mingled, Linda showcased her adeptness in both sports and entertainment, hinting at future collaborations.

In the intertwining worlds of sports and entertainment, Linda navigated with finesse, leveraging her beauty, intellect, and charm to forge connections.

Though Martin appreciated Linda's charisma, he remained reserved, mindful of his professional boundaries.

Spotting a familiar face in the crowd, Martin greeted Gisele Bündchen and her husband, Tom Brady, exchanging pleasantries about their respective endeavors in Boston.

Tom Brady excused himself with a few brief words, slipping away to the other side of the room.

Gisele Bündchen scanned the banquet hall, inquiring, "Did Leo not make it?"

Martin shook his head, replying, "No sign of Leo lately. I heard he's gearing up for a new film."

Gisele sighed, "All Leo cares about is movies, money, and women."

"Actually, Leo's always cared about you," Martin interjected mischievously, nudging at his friend's feelings. "After a few drinks with Jack, he'd always end up in tears, saying he felt most sorry for you."

Gisele's expression shifted, a flicker of reminiscence crossing her face before she regained her composure.

She was the only woman to have captured Leonardo's engagement, yet she was no ordinary woman.

"Leo should reach out more when he can," Martin continued, weaving his narrative. "He's not one to shy away from drama, even if it's from a distance."

As they conversed, Martin made his way to the bar, settling onto a high stool just as Scarlett approached, exuding elegance and vitality.

Scarlett, with her tousled blond hair, observed Martin and quipped, "Seems your lady friend's a no-show?"

Martin smiled wistfully, "Everyone's gone. Just me left, navigating these mundane social waters alone, feeling like I'm sinking."

Scarlett extended her hand towards Martin, offering, "Consider me your lifeline then."

Martin took her hand, allowing her to pull him up, jesting, "You're my guardian angel, then?"

Scarlett chuckled, leading him away, "Call me your savior."

As they moved through the crowd, Martin waved to Linda Henry before turning his attention back to Scarlett, reminiscing, "We met eight years ago. I've been waiting for you to rescue me ever since."

Scarlett quipped, "Well, eight years ago, you weren't quite charming enough."

Eight years prior, she was already a household name, while Martin was just a budding actor with no claim to fame.