Behind The Spotlight

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 120

Being tall with long legs and spending years in the gym, Collin was healthy and could run for hours if he wanted to. Years of disciplined exercise had given him stamina, and his long strides allowed him to cover distance quickly.

It didn't take long for him to catch up to the woman. His heart raced slightly, not from exertion, but from the tension of the situation.

"Please, just listen to me."

"Ahhh—!!"

The woman screamed as Collin touched her shoulder. Her sudden reaction drew the attention of passersby, who stared at the scene with suspicion and curiosity. To them, Collin appeared like a potential stalker.

"Wait, wait—! I'm not a bad person. I'm just a talent agent." He raised his hands in a calming gesture, hoping to convey that he meant no harm. As the crowd slowly gathered, Collin quickly explained himself and handed his business card to the woman.

The dark-skinned woman glanced at the card before looking back at Collin. She remained cautious, assessing whether he could be trusted.

"I'm a talent agent at Apex Network Talent. Just give me a few minutes to explain."

"Hey miss, is this guy bothering you?" one passerby asked Chantal Beaumont, coldly staring at Collin. The conversation was in French, and Collin caught a few words, realizing they likely misunderstood the situation.

"I'm not a bad person. I'm a talent agent," he said in French, doing his best to explain. Though his grammar was slightly off, she could at least understand the essence of his words, and it seemed to calm her slightly.

Chantal studied the business card. It looked expensive and professional, with thick paper, a refined logo, and golden lettering. She still had no idea what Apex Network Talent was, but the card gave the impression of legitimacy.

"Is he bothering you?" the concerned citizen asked again.

Chantal stared at Collin for a few seconds, then shook her head. Her eyes flickered between curiosity and wariness as she evaluated whether he was genuine.

"No, he's not bothering me. Thank you for your help," she replied in French.

Collin sighed in relief as the people dispersed, grateful that the misunderstanding hadn't escalated further.

"Thanks. I know you're probably skeptical, but I don't have bad intentions. I'm Collin East from Apex Network Talent. The reason I want to talk to you is that I'm interested in signing you. I'm captivated by your voice, and I want to make you a star." He softened his tone, hoping she would sense his genuine admiration for her talent.

He extended his hand for a handshake.

Chantal frowned and didn't take it. She was still skeptical.

"You're not a human trafficker?" she asked in English, her French accent thick.

"What? Of course not! Do I look like one?" He was stunned.

"Human traffickers often use handsome men to lure young women."

"What?" Collin was speechless. He had expected skepticism, but not such extreme concern.

"Human trafficking is a real problem in Europe," she explained.

Indeed, even countries known for elegance and culture had dark corners few wanted to acknowledge. Sex trafficking was a crime that persisted for decades, and it would remain unsolved in many places.

No wonder Chantal was so defensive. Her caution wasn't paranoia, it was survival instinct.

Collin hadn't anticipated such a reaction. He quickly realized that some countries had unique dangers.

'Well, to be fair, kidnapping is also a problem in the U.S. I've heard cartels are involved in human trafficking,' he thought, deciding that transparency was his best approach to earn her trust.

"First of all, I'm not a human trafficker. Do you know Axel Gunner? He's promoting his movie in Paris today."

Chantal shook her head.

"Erm, have you watched Face: Swap, Week On A Cruise Ship, or The Accidental Wedding Crashers?"

"I watched The Accidental Wedding Crashers."

"That's great," Collin smiled. "Axel, my client, is one of the actors in that movie. He's the tall guy."

"Tall guy? You mean the one who made a wedding speech in the movie? That scene was hilarious."

"Yes, that's him. I'm his agent."

Her guarded expression softened slightly, showing she was intrigued.

"Then, have you heard of Lawrence Terrence?"

"The name rings a bell."

"He plays Jacky in Passionate Island. I'm his agent too."

"What? Really!? You're not lying!? I love Passionate Island! I love it!" The young woman began fangirling, her excitement breaking through her initial caution. She had even cried while watching the movie.

"I swear to God."

"This isn't some Modus Operandi?"

"Modus what?" Collin asked, confused.

"You're not lying and using some trick to kidnap me?"

"You still don't believe I'm a real agent?"

"Well..." She laughed awkwardly.

Collin realized this would require patience. He decided to step back and let her think.

"Look, it's up to you if you believe me or not. I don't have bad intentions. I just saw something in you and believe I can make you famous. I'll be in Paris for a week. You can call me if you're interested. My contact info is on the business card."

He slightly regretted not pressing further but knew pushing too hard might drive her away. Patience was often the best strategy with new talent, especially someone cautious who hadn't even introduced herself.

"Well then, I have something to do. Call me if you want to become a star."

Collin excused himself and walked away.

Chantal Beaumont watched him leave. She studied the business card, uncertain whether to keep it. Her mind raced with skepticism and intrigue, wondering if this stranger could really offer the career she dreamed of.

.........
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...

Collin reached the train just in time. He felt a pang of regret for not signing a deal with her, replaying the encounter in his head and analyzing every word, gesture, and reaction. He hoped Chantal would contact him. Missing a talent of this caliber would sting professionally and personally.

Every instinct in his body screamed that she could become a future star. And, of course, the potential stardom and money were tempting as well. Yes, it was always about money. No one could fault him for that.

After disembarking at his stop, Collin walked a few minutes to the building he had come for: Diore.

Diore was a French luxury fashion house renowned for producing high-end goods. Its flagship store gleamed with polished marble and gold, reflecting decades of elegance and prestige. The brand was famous for its fragrance, makeup, skincare, and men's products.

Collin's goal was to form a deal for his clients with the brand. He had studied their campaigns, analyzed which celebrities had worked with them, and prepared detailed proposals to impress the executives.

He intended to pitch Lawrence, Axel, and Jennifer as ambassadors of this prestigious luxury brand. The thought of pairing his clients with Diore's image excited him.

Collin prepared his voice recorder before entering Diore's headquarters, double-checking the battery and microphone to ensure every word would be captured clearly.

---

[Author's Note: I don't feel well lately. It didn't help that my father's salary was delayed this month, so we've had to eat rice and eggs every day. Anyway, thank you all for your support.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 121

"So, Mr. East. We are indeed interested in working with Lawrence Terrence. We believe that his image and status as a superstar actor make him a perfect fit to be an ambassador of Diore. However, he has already signed partnerships with other brands, which could potentially create conflicts if we are not careful."

At the moment, Collin was facing the executives of Diore. He kept his composure as he listened, maintaining the practiced calm of someone who had negotiated countless times before. This was a huge deal, one that could elevate Lawrence to a new level of stardom and further secure Collin's own reputation as an agent capable of closing high-profile contracts.

"Lawrence still hasn't signed any shoe deals with any brand. He's interested in working with Diore as a shoe ambassador. If Diore plans to launch a new shoe line in the United States, Lawrence can represent it. He's even willing to adjust his schedule for major promotional campaigns to ensure its success." Collin explained smoothly.

"That means Lawrence must wear our shoes whenever he's in public."

"Absolutely. He understands the commitment that comes with being an ambassador. He's ready to uphold it in every public appearance, interview, and even casual outings where cameras might catch him."

That was how the industry worked, and Collin knew it well. Many celebrities struggled with such commitments, but Lawrence had the discipline to follow through.

The executives exchanged glances and nodded. One of them, however, remained silent, watching Collin intently.

"If Lawrence is interested in becoming Diore's U.S. Ambassador, we will gladly work with him. His fame is strong, and his image perfectly embodies the bold yet elegant branding we want in America. We have a new shoe product line we're promoting in the U.S., and we hope Lawrence Terrence will be the face of that campaign."

The product line was essentially a single model available in multiple variations, different colors and designs, similar to how iPhones were released with multiple shades/color of the same base model. Lawrence would endorse the entire line, his influence drawing attention from fashion-conscious youth across America.

"I'm glad to hear that. I'll make sure Lawrence lives up to the expectations you're placing on him," Collin replied, elated.

"Unfortunately, we are not interested in working with Axel Gunner and Jennifer Randon. Axel's recent scandal could harm our brand. As for Jennifer, she's not famous enough and doesn't fit the image we're aiming for."

"I see. Though I will say, both of them have tremendous potential if given the right projects." Collin kept his smile even though he was gritting his teeth inside. He didn't appreciate hearing his clients belittled. At this point, he saw them as his own family, and insults toward them felt personal.

"Now, let's discuss Lawrence's salary. We are interested in signing him for two years. How about $500,000 per year?"

"My team would appreciate it if you increased that to $700,000. Lawrence's fame in the United States is undeniable. Even casual moviegoers who rarely pay attention to actors know his name. His face is instantly recognizable across the globe, on magazine covers, gossip headlines, and countless fan-made posters. You've surely heard of his movie Passionate Island. His performance was praised as one of the finest of his career. Furthermore, his most recent film, Trapping the Parents, grossed over $427 million globally last year while also receiving critical acclaim. That level of success speaks for itself."

The executives listened without interruption, occasionally scribbling notes, as though comparing his statements to their internal research. After about an hour of back-and-forth negotiation, they settled at $600,000 per year for two years. It wasn't quite what Collin asked for, but it was still a strong deal and proof of their confidence in Lawrence.

Satisfied, Collin shook hands with them.

As the executives left one by one, Collin found himself alone with a man wearing a thin, fashionable scarf that probably cost more than what an average worker earned in months.

The man approached him.

"So you're an agent now, huh?"

"Yes, Your Great Ericson."

Your Great Ericson was a famous fashion designer and a major shareholder of Diore. With his creative brilliance and financial influence, he wielded considerable power within the company.

He had legally changed his name to "Your Great Ericson" and demanded people address him that way, as though the title itself were part of his brand and identity.

"I see. What a surprise to find you standing in a position of power rather than on a runway."

Your Great Ericson scanned Collin from head to toe, sighing regretfully. His voice was unique, smooth yet sharp, like silk cutting through glass.

"It's such a waste that I never got the chance to fuck your ass. I still want to take you to my bed. Tell me, I'll raise Lawrence's salary if you agree, and I can make sure his career skyrockets beyond your imagination."

Collin stiffened. He and Your Great Ericson had history. Years ago, when Collin worked as a model, Ericson had taken an immediate interest in him. He had offered Collin a chance to become Diore's ambassador in exchange for a one-night stand.

"Even now, you're still a great specimen. You remain one of my deepest regrets. What I can't understand is how someone so poor had the audacity to reject me. Was it because of your dead friend? Your only saving grace is your face, but you're still a lowlife. Funny, you're a perfect specimen but also a pathetic creature. How did it feel when I kicked you off the runway? Bad, right? That's how I felt when you rejected me."

Your Great Ericson chuckled darkly, his words dripping with twisted triumph.

Collin clenched his jaw but kept his smile steady. Just like before, his answer remained the same.

"I'm sorry, but I'm not interested, and I never will be."

"Well, I shot my shot. If you'd agreed back then, you'd be one of the top male models in the world right now. You'd be living in luxury, commanding respect everywhere. You have what it takes. You're basically perfect. But you're ruined by a lowlife brain that doesn't understand how this industry works."

Ericson sighed, though it sounded more arrogant than regretful.

Collin remained calm. He knew he was blessed with his looks, but he had never regretted choosing dignity over cheap fame. To him, integrity was worth more than any contract.

"Well then, see you later, Collin. We both know our paths will cross again. Heh, perhaps your client Lawrence Terrence will be more… open to a business deal with me." Your Great Ericson grinned and walked away, his smugness making Collin's fists itch.

Collin nearly lost control, his protective instincts toward his clients almost driving him to punch the man, but he held himself back. A single outburst could jeopardize everything. Instead, he patted his chest, where his small voice recorder was hidden in his pocket.

'Just as I expected, that guy still can't control his mouth. And now he's handed me the leverage I needed.'

Collin smirked coldly. He hadn't expected to meet Ericson, but he had prepared a recorder just in case.

"Sorry, but my clients will be ambassadors of Diore, and you're going to help me. You mocked me years ago. Now it's my turn to laugh at you."

Two days later, Diore expressed interest in signing deals with Axel Gunner and Jennifer Randon. The two were shocked but overjoyed.

The entertainment industry thrived on manipulation and blackmail. Everyone knew it, even if no one admitted it openly. Collin was simply playing the same game. And to be honest, it felt good. He had no guilt whatsoever about blackmailing Your Great Ericson.

---

[Author's Note: Today is the first day of the month, a great time to promote my Patreon.]

If you want to read more, you can check out my Patreon. It has:

33 chapters of Reincarnated as a Fisherman and a Dad

51 chapters of Behind The Spotlight

Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 122

"Are you sure you're doing this the right way?" Quincy Jennings frowned at Collin, a mixture of concern and disbelief in his eyes after the two had left the Diore building.

"About what?"

"About blackmailing a rich person. I'm asking if you're doing it right because one wrong move could ruin everything you've worked for, and there's no undo button in this game." The entertainment lawyer emphasized.

"Are you worried about me?"

"Well, if something happens to you, the team might dissolve, everyone's careers could be affected, and I might lose my job. As you can imagine, that would be disastrous."

"That's sweet, Quincy. I like your honesty. Don't worry. Your Great Ericson won't touch me. I know what I'm doing, and I've planned for every possible outcome in this negotiation." Collin reassured him.

Two days ago, Collin had recorded his conversation with Your Great Ericson, capturing every word. Since then, he had devised a calculated plan to leverage the recording, ensuring maximum influence.

"Now I know why you invited me to Paris. You're playing with fire, Collin. Fire can hurt you if it's not handled carefully, it could burn everything you've built." At first, Quincy had thought Collin simply wanted to sign a deal with Diore.

"You don't have to explain it to me."

Collin smirked as he recalled Your Great Ericson's livid expression. No one could deny that the designer had spoken those diabolical words in his unmistakable silky voice and sharp tone.

Being a fashion designer, such a recording could destroy his image and humiliate him in front of his peers and board members. He had no choice but to negotiate with Collin, as his reputation and career depended on it.

Both sides signed an NDA to ensure the recording would remain private, safeguarding Collin's leverage. Your Great Ericson kept the original recorder, but Collin probably had a copy as a precaution. In exchange for signing the deal, Your Great Ericson agreed to help Collin's clients become ambassadors for Diore, guaranteeing high-profile opportunities.

Collin was satisfied. The outcome exceeded his expectations.

"That guy won't hurt me. I know that. Even if he tries, I can counter his moves." Collin explained to Quincy.

"I don't know where your confidence comes from. You can't know exactly how people think or what they might do when cornered."

"I know how people think, and I've studied him well enough to predict his responses."

Collin had a sharp instinct, and he knew Your Great Ericson wouldn't commit crimes or risk everything for personal vendettas. The designer's pride was a vulnerability Collin could exploit.

-- Your Great Ericson.

-- Safe Player (Yellow).

-- Fake Bravado (White).

Based on these talents, Collin concluded that Your Great Ericson wouldn't act outside legal boundaries. Why these behaviors were considered talents was beyond Collin's understanding.

"Quincy, I assume this isn't your first time handling high-stakes NDAs and leveraging sensitive information."

"Well..." Quincy didn't elaborate.

It was true. He had managed countless NDA contracts and negotiations requiring discretion. He had even helped a famous older actress coerce a man into signing an NDA in exchange for money, ensuring he wouldn't reveal her sexual assault, a highly sensitive case with potential legal consequences.

This was one of the milder cases he had handled. Quincy understood how ruthless Hollywood could be and didn't blame Collin for blackmailing a luxury brand executive to secure a deal. The industry often rewarded cunning over morality. However, Quincy still disapproved of Collin's methods, they were dirty, dangerous, and open to future retaliation.

"Just like I said, Your Great Ericson won't do that. I'm a man of my word. Both of us are bound by the contract, and I won't break it." Collin said firmly.

Later that day, Axel Gunner successfully signed a deal with Diore to become the U.S. ambassador for their clothing line. His contract guaranteed that all public appearances, photoshoots, and promotional events aligned with the brand. He would earn $500,000 per year over a two-year term. Axel was both surprised and delighted, impressed at how Collin had secured a product deal despite his precarious situation. He realized once again how competent his talent agent was.

Jennifer Randon received a contract as well, thrilled by the opportunity. She would earn $300,000 per year over two years, officially becoming an ambassador for Diore's luxury bags upon Collin and Quincy's return to Los Angeles. The opportunity elevated her profile significantly, and she felt immense gratitude toward Collin.

Lawrence's contract increased to $1 million per year for three years, ensuring he remained the centerpiece of Diore's promotional campaigns. Diore's U.S. representatives handled legalities, payments, and obligations for Jennifer and Lawrence.

As for how Your Great Ericson convinced the executives to approve deals for all three actors, Collin didn't know and didn't care. He was already satisfied that his clients had secured contracts. These deals solidified Collin's status as a top-tier agent. By standard practice, he would earn a 5% commission, which amounted to $270,000. Modest compared to his clients' earnings, but to Collin, the feeling of closing such a significant deal was exhilarating. The thrill of negotiation, power, and watching dreams materialize was addictive.

Three days into his seven-day stay in Paris, Collin spent most of his time exploring the city, soaking in its culture, architecture, and rhythm. He visited the train station daily, hoping for a call or message from the woman he wanted to meet. Each day, he left disappointed, silently questioning whether he had misjudged her interest.

.........
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...

"You're still staring at that business card. Just like I said, if you want to meet this so-called talent agent, just take me with you. We can set up a meeting in a public place so he won't do anything bad if he's a kidnapper or has hidden intentions."

Isabella said this to Chantal. She was Chantal's friend and often offered advice on important decisions.

"I don't know if I can trust him. He's too handsome, and his polished demeanor makes me even more skeptical. Besides, it's surprising that an agent showed up to sign me on the spot. I'm not sure he's telling the truth." Chantal studied the business card in her hands, unsure if she would keep it or discard it.

"You said you wanted to be a famous singer. That talent agent saw potential in you and believes in your abilities. You might regret it if doubt prevents you from taking this chance."

"..." Chantal bit her lip, torn between caution and ambition.

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