Behind The Spotlight

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 61

Lawrence gazed out the airplane window and saw nothing but clouds and the endless stretch of blue ocean beneath the sky. He had purchased a business class ticket to Bora Bora, not for a vacation, but for work. Still, considering the paradise-worthy location, he hoped to find a little time to enjoy the island between filming days.

Most of the production crew for Passionate Island had already arrived in Bora Bora days earlier to scout locations and set up filming equipment.

Originally, Director Thomas Summerbelt intended to shoot the movie in Hawaii, specifically in Maui, which perfectly matched the scenery he envisioned. However, due to tax complications and local regulations regarding content approval, the production was forced to relocate. They needed a location that could capture the same cinematic essence, and among the few international islands that met the criteria, Bora Bora stood out with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches.

Municipal officials in Maui were uncomfortable with the plot of Passionate Island, concerned about its themes and tone. They feared the movie might bring controversy or bad press to their island. Even though the production promised to highlight Maui's beauty, the authorities ultimately refused permission to film there.

Lawrence had already wrapped up most of his business in the U.S. and flew to Bora Bora with all his luggage, script, and dedication.

Wyatt had initially wanted Lawrence to join Week On A Cruise Ship, believing he possessed a natural charm and impeccable comedic timing perfect for the film.

Unfortunately, the schedules for Passionate Island and Week On A Cruise Ship overlapped. Even if Lawrence wanted to work on both, he wouldn't have the time for at least six months.

Lawrence knew that if he hadn't passed the audition for Passionate Island, he'd likely be working with Wyatt and the others again, they always welcomed him back. That thought brought him relief. It made him realize he had a professional "home" to return to if other opportunities didn't work out.

With that comforting thought, Lawrence closed his eyes, letting the hum of the plane lull him to sleep.

A few hours later, he stepped off the plane into the warm breeze of Bora Bora and was greeted at a private arrival area where a few familiar faces were already waiting.

Having worked on Passionate Island for a month now, Lawrence had built a connection with the cast, who now felt more like colleagues and friends.

Standing under the shade in casual beachwear was the film's female lead, Ellie Bridget. With shoulder-length blonde hair and brown eyes that sparkled under the tropical sun, she was breathtaking.

The two greeted each other with a warm hug. Their roles in the movie had blurred the line between acting and reality, and they couldn't quite explain the strange connection forming between them. Perhaps they were falling for each other because of their roles or maybe something deeper was beginning to take root.

"Ellie, where's my hug at?" Balthazar's loud voice interrupted the moment. He flashed his usual obnoxious grin and opened his arms expectantly.

Balthazar Harper, the film's producer, had been on the same flight as Lawrence, though they barely interacted onboard. They were seated in the same business class cabin but on opposite aisles.

Ellie smiled professionally but didn't hug Balthazar. Instead, she greeted him with a polite nod, keeping her boundaries firm.

"Well, I'm happy we're in Bora Bora. I heard there are a lot of gorgeous ladies in bikinis here, no shame, just vibes."

Balthazar, unfazed by Ellie's cold treatment, grinned and moved on, licking his lips as he imagined his vacation filled with sun, sea, and women.

"Oh, Kayla! You got here before me, huh? Where's my hug at?"

His face lit up at the sight of Kayla Martin, who was wearing a bikini that left little to the imagination. His thoughts immediately turned vulgar.

The model smiled and hugged him without hesitation. Balthazar laughed and slid his hands down her back until they rested on her ass, squeezing shamelessly. Kayla giggled, treating it like an inside joke between them.

The production crew acted as if nothing happened, it was business as usual. They'd long suspected something going on between Balthazar and Kayla, and this only confirmed it.

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Meanwhile, halfway across the world in the cold office of Uni-versus Pictures, Lawrence's friend was hard at work with a very different kind of script.

Wyatt, as both director and screenwriter of Week On A Cruise Ship, was working with a team of writers to polish the script.

Even though the project had already been approved, the script still had to undergo several rounds of revisions, budgeting, and timeline assessments. Executives needed clarity on investment size, production duration, and post-production details before giving the green light.

Wyatt and Henry were frequently called into meetings to address executive concerns and were slowly building relationships with Uni-versus Pictures staff, especially those in the production department who oversaw every development step.

"Okay, so… the names…"

One of the five writers on the team flipped through the draft with a raised brow.

It was true that Wyatt had undeniable comedic talent and a knack for chaotic brilliance, but he was still new to the game. His dialogue, while funny, sometimes lacked polish by industry standards.

Still, the team agreed that the script was hilarious and needed minimal revisions. Of course, they had to justify their presence, after all, they were paid professionals expected to report progress.

Wyatt wanted to preserve his original voice, so the writers' room had a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere. Most of the time, they simply exchanged opinions on small tweaks and cosmetic improvements.

Like now…

"Wyatt, are we sure we can actually use these names? Teto Pear, Miku Beam, and… Skibidi Toilet? These sound like brainrot meme from the 2020s."

One of the writers shook his head while another chuckled.

"Seriously, aren't we asking for a copyright infringement? If this were a novel, the author who used those names would be crucified for having no taste."

"Shh, don't break the fourth wall. Readers hate that."

"I mean, who thought this script was a good idea anyway? It's a walking parody of The Hangover."

"I say we swap 'Skibidi' for Akita Neru. For the Vocaloid fans, you know? Gotta complete that Triple Baka lineup."

"Who the hell is Akita Neru? You mean the yellow-haired Miku with a phone addiction?"

"God, we're so deep in Vocaloid lore, it's dangerous. No one will get the reference unless they've actually listened to the songs."

Wyatt listened to the exchange with a blank, patient expression. He glanced at the names in question. Honestly, they were so ridiculous that if this were a novel, readers expecting serious storytelling would've rage-quit.

"Let's call the legal team before this turns into a disaster."

The in-house lawyer arrived, listened to the conversation, and raised an eyebrow in mild disbelief.

"These names are based on internet memes," the lawyer said. "You're protected under fair use if you're using them for parody or satire. So yes, legally, you can keep them."

"Well, that's… dumb but helpful."

"Stupidest thing I've heard all week, but fine. So whatever."

And with that, the three male leads of Week On A Cruise Ship were officially named Teto Pear, Miku Beam, and Skibidi Toilet.

The team spent the next three weeks "polishing" the script, making minor line edits here and there. In truth, Wyatt's draft was already amazing, and the biggest improvements came in the form of actor-specific dialogue tweaks.

Still, the writers needed to show they were doing something. Studio payroll had to be justified.

Eventually, they resorted to begging Wyatt to pretend he needed them.

"Please," one of them said, "just act like we're helping. We need to make it look like we're worth our checks."

Wyatt didn't mind. He knew the real work had already been done.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 62

"It's nice to meet you, Collin. You didn't make a mistake in choosing me as your financial advisor."

Stan Gavin shook Collin's hand, and the agent gave a slight nod, his eyes instinctively glancing above Stan's head as he always did.

Collin had been referred to this investment firm by his friend Arnold, who spoke highly of the company based on his own experience. Naturally, Collin did his due diligence and thoroughly researched the firm. It had an excellent reputation in Los Angeles, especially among wealthy professionals.

As he reviewed the firm's roster of brokers and financial advisors, one person stood out, Stan Gavin, with a yellow talent glow hovering above him. That was all the confirmation Collin needed.

—Stan Gavin

—Analytical Thinking

Stan matched everything Collin was looking for. Fortunately, he also offered financial advising services, not just stockbroking, making him the ideal choice.

When Stan learned that his new client had millions in liquid assets, he could hardly contain his excitement. The more money a client had, the higher the potential commissions and the greater the prestige for his own track record.

Collin currently had around $7 million in his bank account and was planning to invest $4 million in stocks to diversify his wealth rather than let it sit idly.

"Let's see... The most promising stocks in 1996 are Macrosoft, Cisko, Intelligence, and Database Giant. All of them are showing strong growth trends."

Stan confidently listed companies he had been studying closely through financial forecasts, trend analyses, and quarterly reports. These four, he believed, were poised for significant growth, and he recommended them without hesitation.

"Is it possible to invest $1 million in each company?" Collin asked. He had done his own surface-level research beforehand and, coincidentally, these four were among his top ten picks.

"$1 million in each company?!"

Stan nearly leapt out of his seat in disbelief, barely managing to suppress his excitement. Collin wasn't just wealthy, he was seriously loaded. Stan quickly composed himself, pulling out a notepad and adopting a laser-focused expression. Clients like Collin were rare, and Stan wasn't going to mess this up.

"Absolutely. Within a year, you'll see returns from this strategy. You won't regret trusting me."

"I believe in you, Stan. So don't disappoint me."

Collin smiled, reassured by Stan's confidence and professionalism. Stan possessed the highest stock-related talent in the firm, so Collin trusted his instincts. He didn't want to micromanage and preferred to let his money work for him. With his current schedule as a talent agent, he had no time to run a business himself.

Thanks to his ability, Collin didn't have to waste time hunting for the right advisor. He knew Stan wasn't just skilled, he was also a decent person, based on his trusted instinct. That made all the difference.

Unfortunately, Collin's entire $7 million would be taxed in April, as it was considered taxable income from commissions, bonuses, and profit shares.

Still, his financial situation had improved dramatically, and the looming taxes didn't stress him out as much.

'At least ANT has a 401(k) plan... That should help reduce my tax burden a little. I really need to learn the details soon.'

Collin made a mental note to talk to Stan more about taxes and possibly find a dedicated tax accountant as he glanced at the stack of financial documents in front of him. Though he was now 25 years old, he still had a lot to learn about taxes and wealth management.

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Pre-production typically takes 2 to 6 months, depending on several factors like budget, genre, and staff availability.

For indie films with limited budgets, pre-production can stretch to 6 months just to gather resources and permits.

Mid-budget films might take 8 months, especially if set construction or casting is complex.

Blockbusters, with their massive budgets and international shoots, can require a year or more for pre-production.

Animated films usually take the longest, with pre-production lasting up to 3 years due to storyboarding, casting voice actors, and the complexity of the animation process.

For Week On A Cruise Ship, the estimate was around 3 to 4 months of pre-production, assuming everything stayed on track.

Key aspects of pre-production included:

Script Polishing: Wyatt and his team of writers spent three weeks fine-tuning the script, ensuring the jokes and pacing worked perfectly.

Crew Hiring: Wyatt had a small team from his previous film, but they were incomplete. Henry needed to recruit more professionals, a process that could take months depending on the roles and applicant qualifications.

Scheduling: Wyatt's assistant director, Anthony, also handled the shooting schedule. Anthony had worked with them on The Accidental Wedding Crashers and was known for being brutally honest, which had cost him a job before.

Set, Costume, and Prop Design: Essential to the film's visual identity, these elements required close coordination with production designers.

Legal Permits: As with any major U.S. production, legal permits were a necessity and required careful handling.

But perhaps the most vital part of pre-production was Casting, the heart of any great film.

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March 4, 1996

Today was a crucial day for aspiring actors vying for a lead role.

Collin walked into the Uni-versus Pictures building and headed to the third floor, where auditions were being held for the three male leads of Week On A Cruise Ship.

Today was reserved for male roles. Auditions for female leads were scheduled for the following day by the casting department.

As Wyatt's agent, Collin had access to the full script and had given copies to both Axel and Jennifer in advance so they could prepare thoroughly.

Wyatt and the production team had personally invited Axel to audition after recognizing his potential. A direct invitation like that was significant, it meant he had a strong chance of being cast if he didn't mess it up.

Axel bypassed the usual first and second audition rounds and was fast-tracked to the third and final round, typically reserved for top-tier prospects.

This was it, the moment of truth. Out of thousands who auditioned, only 56 actors had made it to this stage. These finalists had to prove themselves today.

The responsibility of narrowing down those thousands fell on a sharp-eyed casting team led by experienced casting directors, who selected actors based on both appearance and performance.

Collin spotted Axel seated in the waiting area, tapping his fingers nervously. He sat among other actors in spaced-out chairs, allowing each to mentally prepare without feeling crowded.

Most of them had scripts, some full, others partial. Clearly, they had their own connections strong enough to obtain copies, giving them a small edge in preparation.

Collin stood off to the side, watching quietly. He knew this could be a major turning point for Axel and he hoped his friend would rise to the occasion.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 63

For this movie, not only was ANT interested in getting their talents cast, other agencies also participated, each trying to secure roles for their own actors.

Even though Wyatt was the director and a client of ANT, it didn't mean the project wouldn't include actors from different agencies, especially those with strong credentials and representation.

The actors who passed the third round of auditions clearly had deep industry connections and were backed by agents who knew how to work the system. They didn't pass based on looks or raw talent alone, their agents likely pulled strings and made deals behind the scenes to help push them forward, just like how they managed to get copies of the script, despite NDAs.

Sharing scripts was technically prohibited by most studios, especially when an NDA was involved that strictly forbade the disclosure of sensitive material. But loopholes existed. Indirect sharing happened all the time. After all, actors needed something to prepare with, even outdated or partial versions, before auditioning.

In fact, Collin did the same thing for his clients.

He scanned the waiting area and noticed nearly everyone had a copy of the script in their hands, bags, or tucked under their arms. He wasn't sure who originally leaked it or how it slipped past production controls, but the spread was obvious.

Many production crew members had access to scripts due to their clearance levels, especially older, unpolished drafts that had circulated early on.

Obviously, none of the actors in the final round were freelancers or self-represented. All had agencies and legal teams backing them. Studios avoided casting unknowns without representation due to legal, insurance, and accountability concerns.

"They said there will be a break in two hours so the casting panel can rest and regroup. If you want to talk to Wyatt, you can go inside the room or wait here," Axel said quietly, trying not to draw attention.

"I'll just wait until they're free," Collin replied, checking his watch as he leaned back in his chair. He preferred not to interrupt the production team while they were focused. It would be awkward to enter the room while auditions were still ongoing.

Axel nodded and tried to calm his nerves by breathing steadily and reviewing his lines. He had auditioned for big films before but had never passed the final round. Today didn't feel any different, even though he had received an official invitation.

Just like Lawrence, Axel and Jennifer had also started auditioning for various roles after the success of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, hoping to ride the wave of momentum. But they hadn't landed anything substantial. Sometimes they got through the first or second round with promising feedback, only to be rejected in the final round for various reasons.

Collin always ensured his clients had chances to audition for big roles, even if that meant bending a few rules. He secured scripts for them through discreet industry contacts and actively looked for audition opportunities or last-minute casting calls by networking with colleagues.

He treated all his clients with professionalism and fairness. It was true that he had been focusing more on Wyatt and Lawrence lately because of their success. They were his biggest earners, providing consistent commissions.

Still, he had no intention of dropping Axel or Jennifer, no matter how slowly their careers were progressing. As long as they wanted to work with him, Collin would keep fighting for opportunities in Hollywood.

Honestly, he felt a bit guilty. He was blindly trying to find jobs for them without a clear sense of what roles suited them best, mainly because he couldn't rely on his ability when it came to Axel and Jennifer.

Unlike with Wyatt and Lawrence, Collin had never seen any talent words appear above Axel or Jennifer's heads. He couldn't assess their potential clearly.

'Perhaps they were working in the wrong industry?' Collin wasn't sure but he didn't want to give up on them either.

He'd promised to be their agent, and that meant something.

Fortunately, having Wyatt as a successful director gave Collin a valuable lifeline. He could present Axel and Jennifer for auditions in Wyatt's movies. While they'd still need to compete fairly, Collin believed Wyatt would support them if they proved themselves on set.

He trusted his comedy director.

Back in the cold white hallway, actors nervously rehearsed their lines, flipping through scripts and whispering to one another.

Suddenly, the audition room opened. The Chairman and CEO of Uni-versus Pictures, followed by their entourage, stepped out with an air of command. They didn't glance at the actors or agents trying to greet them, they walked forward with unreadable expressions.

One agent even tried to hand over his business card, only to be shoved aside by a bodyguard without hesitation.

Noah and Berry caught sight of Collin sitting quietly beside Axel. Collin nodded politely. The two executives returned the gesture with small nods of acknowledgment. At least this Collin guy didn't look like some desperate fanatic begging for favors like the other agents. His calm professionalism left a good impression.

Unlike others, Collin knew he didn't need to grovel for attention, he had results to show. His clients were sought after because of their talent and performance.

As Noah Nash passed by, Collin recalled his earlier impression of the man during their contract negotiation.

The Chairman had a dangerous aura, the kind that hinted at a past steeped in shady dealings, typical of corporate Hollywood elites. There were likely skeletons in his closet the press had never uncovered. Still, none of it had impacted their business, so Collin didn't concern himself with it. He had no interest in relying on someone like Noah or seeking favors.

The outcome of their negotiation had been solid, a win for both him and Wyatt.

Initially, Collin pushed for a $7 million base salary and 10% worldwide box office share for Wyatt's directing role. It was a bold opening offer meant to set the bar high. As expected, Noah countered with a lower but still reasonable offer.

In the end, they agreed on a $5 million salary and 5% share of the North American box office, a deal both sides were satisfied with. Collin and Wyatt knew that it would be impossible to get $7 million salary plus 10% worldwide box office share from a studio since Wyatt was still a new director.

By the way, The Accidental Wedding Crashers had already completed its North American theatrical run with strong numbers. The film grossed over $171 million after five months in theaters.

Its international run was still ongoing and had already brought in $116 million, with more countries yet to screen it.

That brought the global total to $287 million, exceeding all expectations.

The early forecast had deemed it at around $250 million worldwide, but the film surpassed that, officially becoming a sleeper hit.

It was 1995's dark horse, surprising both critics and audiences. Currently, The Accidental Wedding Crashers ranked #9 among the highest-grossing films of 1995, sandwiched between 101 Dogs and Kasper the Ghost in box office rankings.

That success was a major reason why Wyatt landed a deal with Uni-versus Pictures so easily. His last film had delivered results, and the studio trusted his ability to connect with audiences.

But if Week On A Cruise Ship flopped, Wyatt could lose that trust and possibly his future with the studio. At the very least, getting their support again would become much harder.

That possibility lingered in the back of everyone's minds.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 64

"Hey Collin, you're here at the audition too, huh."

"Earnest. I guess we both have excuses for leaving the office without filing a full-day leave."

The two agents laughed after greeting each other, the familiarity in their eyes hinting a friendship. Earnest's client, Cross Pinger, had also passed the second round of auditions and was now waiting for his final chance.

Cross was fourth to the last in line among the hopeful actors in the hallway. They had greeted each other earlier, having worked together on a project last year. However, this time there was tension between them, obvious tension, because they were now competing for limited roles.

"Man, you really hit the jackpot with Wyatt as your client. I wonder if I should start looking for promising directors before they become successful." The Black agent chuckled, clearly recognizing the benefits of having a successful director on the roster.

Wyatt's success had elevated Collin's entire client list.

"There are some graduates applying to our agency this year. You could check out their short films, maybe you'll find someone worth signing."

"I'll keep that in mind."

Earnest nodded, then walked back to Cross Pinger, who stood a few meters away, quietly reviewing his lines.

They were friends and coworkers, often sharing industry tips and office gossip. But today, they were competitors. With only three major roles up for grabs, and a sea of actors chasing them, there simply wasn't enough space for everyone to succeed.

"Did Collin agree? Will he talk to Wyatt and try to get me a role or at least seriously consider me?" Cross asked in a low voice, making sure no one else could hear. He glanced around anxiously.

Cross was an average actor in almost every sense. He wasn't handsome, but not unattractive. Not tall, not short. At 5'8", he was right on the line. He understood his limits and never overestimated his ability. That's why he knew how unlikely it was for him to land a major studio-funded comedy role.

He also knew that the only reason he landed the groom's role in The Accidental Wedding Crashers was due to a lucky mix of timing and preparation. He had gotten a copy of the script early and made the most of it, outperforming many who came unprepared.

But Week On A Cruise Ship was on a different level entirely. It wasn't an indie movie with a flexible casting process. It was backed by a major studio with high expectations. They wouldn't cast someone average, not unless something truly special happened.

Honestly, he suspected the only reason he passed the first and second rounds was because Wyatt knew him.

Cross felt the only path to success was through that connection. Otherwise, he'd be forgotten.

Earnest placed a firm hand on his client's shoulder. "You can do this. I believe in you."

He didn't say much else, words wouldn't change the odds. He also knew Collin didn't have direct authority over casting. Wyatt might be able to push for Axel, but asking to cast Cross in one of the lead roles was a bigger task.

Earnest was already grateful that Collin helped secure the opportunity in the last movie which was The Accidental Wedding Crashers.

He decided to place his hopes on Cross's performance. "Don't let your anxiety take over. Believe in yourself. If your performance meets their expectations and resonates with the script, they'll call you back."

Cross nodded reluctantly. He understood that if he wanted to survive in this industry, he needed to earn his place. Relying on others would only lead to disappointment.

The production team soon announced an hour-long lunch break to eat and review preliminary impressions before resuming auditions.

Collin took the chance to speak with Wyatt and Henry. He wanted to make sure Axel's chances were solid.

"I'll do my best to cast Axel. So far, we're still finalizing the cast, but he has a strong chance. The Accidental Wedding Crashers gave him recognition in the comedy genre. I'll also try for Jennifer tomorrow, though her role might not be as big as the male leads."

"That's great to hear. A huge relief too. Thanks, Wyatt."

"I should be the one thanking you."

In Hollywood, connections always mattered.

Collin then turned to Henry.

"Don't ask me for biased favors," Henry said bluntly. "You know I always base casting on performance, not friendship. If Axel and Jennifer meet our criteria and prove themselves on set, I'm fine with it. Just remind them not to cause trouble. I won't tolerate that."

Henry had past traumas from dealing with difficult people on set.

"Thanks, Henry. That's reassuring enough."

With that, the auditions continued and wrapped up as scheduled by the end of the day. Every actor had the chance to show what they were made of.

That evening, the casting team gathered for a final review: Wyatt, Henry, Anthony (Wyatt's assistant director), Gerald (the casting director who didn't like freelance actors due to reliability issues), along with other production staff and Uni-versus representatives.

Photos were posted on the whiteboard beside written names. They played back several taped auditions on the mounted TV.

"Let's review Cross Pinger's audition one more time and evaluate his delivery."

Anthony inserted the tape of Cross's performance earlier that day.

After a few minutes of watching, they began reviewing their top choices.

"We've already secured the role of Skibidi Toilet. Axel Gunner got that one without question. That leaves us with two more roles to fill."

Wyatt had written the role of Skibidi Toilet with Axel in mind. It wasn't surprising he nailed it immediately. Similarly, the character of Teto Pear was inspired by Lawrence Terrence and his comedic timing.

Unfortunately, Lawrence was busy filming in Bora Bora and unavailable for this movie, which Wyatt deeply regretted. He believed Lawrence had a natural comedic instinct perfect for the role.

"He's the best choice. Let's cast Cross Pinger as Miku Beam. If he asks for a salary we can't meet, we'll consider someone from our backup list," Henry declared.

No one objected. Cross had done well.

Cross Pinger was cast as Miku Beam, the "average guy" in the trio.

For the role of the handsome Teto Pear, they selected a well-known actor with mainstream appeal to draw audiences. They needed a proven box office name.

Enter Brody Paige, a famous actor with a history of successful films. Among the three, he commanded the highest salary due to his fame and track record. He had starred in Interview with the Bloodsucker and Seven Deadly Sins, both of which performed well.

The production team understood that quality alone couldn't guarantee box office success. A recognizable star helped assure profits, and Brody Paige was that anchor for them.

Coincidentally, Collin also knew Brody Paige's agent.

Overall, the final cast was considered strong. All selected actors had film experience and had proven they could handle major roles.

"I'll contact their agents and start negotiating the contracts before we announce anything," Henry said, standing with paperwork in hand.

It was late, and he wanted to finish the day's tasks before exhaustion caught up with him. He knew the real chaos would begin once production officially started and rest would be a luxury.

That night, Cross Pinger and Axel Gunner received phone calls from their agents.

After years of rejection and failed auditions, they had finally secured roles in a major studio production.

That night, they were beyond happy, more than words could express.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 65

Two weeks before the production approval announcement of Week On A Cruise Ship, Madison Morgan was on the set of My Pure Innocent High School Love.

She glanced around the bustling set filled with noisy crew members and distracted assistants, then quietly sat in a corner to avoid drawing attention. Using a folded tissue, she wiped the sweat from her forehead. Despite the tension rising in her chest, she kept her smile intact as she waited for her chance to fix her makeup before the next scene was shot.

The makeup artist looked at her for a moment, then sighed with visible reluctance... and pretended not to see her. The artist didn't want to risk her job by helping someone the lead actress disliked.

Seeing that cold reaction and the indifference in the makeup artist's eyes, Madison's perfect smile cracked ever so slightly at the edges. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes to regain composure.

"M–Madison, I'm back. I finally got through the checkpoint. Phew. They wouldn't let me in, even though I showed my ID three times to different people. I had to explain that I'm your assistant before they finally allowed me inside."

A middle-aged woman arrived, slightly exasperated.

"Thank you, Delilah. Can you help me fix my makeup? I just need a bit of foundation before they call us back in." Madison gave her a grateful smile.

"They didn't fix your makeup at all?"

"They didn't even acknowledge me."

"God, this production is too much. The way they're treating you is just—"

"Delilah, please lower your voice. Someone might hear you. That'll just make things worse."

"I–I'm sorry, Madison."

Delilah was Madison's personal assistant, assigned to her a year ago by her previous agent. Fortunately, she knew enough makeup to help in a pinch, especially helpful now that Madison couldn't count on the official makeup team.

Everyone on set seemed to act like Madison didn't belong in the place.

Madison Morgan was a stage name, carefully crafted to be catchy and memorable. Her real name was Madison Morgana Gomez, but it sounded too long and too much like a telenovela character. Her first agent, who passed away from a heart attack three years ago, shortened it to Madison Morgan to help her blend in.

She was half-Mexican, half-Italian, but her features leaned more toward her Mexican heritage, olive skin, wavy dark hair, and almond-shaped eyes. A proud Latina with deep cultural roots, she spoke three languages fluently: English, Spanish, and Italian.

When she first stepped into Hollywood, she believed her career would soar. She was discovered by an agent and signed to ANT, a top-tier agency representing major stars. She thought her dreams were finally within reach. But her agent, who was already quite old, died of a heart attack.

After that, she was passed on to a rookie agent who had no experience and barely understood the casting process. That shift was a devastating blow to Madison's career.

She admitted that Collin, her new agent at the time, did his best to support her. But no matter how hard he tried, it wasn't enough to match her dreams of red carpets and lead roles.

Though she had to admit, Collin was handsome and charming in a way. She even considered dating him just for fun, until she realized he was broke as hell and couldn't even afford a proper dinner date.

When her contract with ANT ended, she moved to another agency that promised better connections. This new agency was B-tier, representing a few rising names, but still below ANT in terms of influence.

Still, she had no complaints. They treated her with more respect and helped her land a steady job on a TV show.

My Pure Innocent High School Love was already on its second season, with a loyal audience made up of teen girls and drama fans. It wasn't a record-breaking hit, but it performed well enough to earn another season. Whether or not it would get a third season depended on ratings and feedback.

In Season 1, Madison earned $5,000 per episode. In Season 2, her rate jumped to $15,000, a significant improvement.

But despite the success, it looked like she wouldn't be returning for Season 3, even if the show got renewed.

All because she made the mistake of simply existing.

She hadn't done anything offensive or wrong.

As Delilah carefully applied makeup, Madison sighed, reflecting on her situation.

The show's lead actress was jealous of Madison. She saw her as a threat, more beautiful, better mannered, and beloved by the crew. Madison carried herself with quiet grace and elegance, earning admiration without seeking it. Men often said she had "wife material" energy because of her demeanor. She avoided drama, stayed professional, and tried her best to hold on to the opportunity she had worked so hard to get.

Unfortunately, that wasn't enough.

The lead actress didn't like her and made it known. Her father, a powerful investor, had funded the show as a vanity project. With that kind of power, he could influence casting decisions easily.

Madison didn't stand a chance.

"Madison, we changed the plot for the next episode. Here's the script with the revisions marked in red."

The scriptwriter handed her the new pages with an apologetic look. Madison scanned them, and her heart dropped. She bit her lip so hard it bled, blinking rapidly to hold back the tears.

Her character was going to die.

She was going to be hit by a bus and be gone in the show. Just like that.

A cliché death meant for expendable characters.

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...

"It's not your fault. Don't blame yourself. You didn't do anything to deserve this."

Her agent sat beside her in the dressing room, voice full of sincere empathy. He was gay and flamboyant, and had fought hard to get Madison that role despite the heavy politics. It hurt him too, seeing her thrown away like this after only two seasons.

"Thanks, Dia. You're the best for being here when it counts." Madison wiped her tears with trembling fingers. She was beginning to realize how her beauty could also be a curse. It attracted the wrong kind of attention, even when she tried to stay out of the spotlight.

"I don't have time to cry or mope. I need to find another job as soon as possible."

"Well, about that… You've heard of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, right?"

Madison weakly nodded. She had watched it last month and saw Jennifer in the film playing a comedic supporting role as a bride. She was stunned. Jennifer? In a movie? Madison couldn't help but feel jealous and confused.

She, Jennifer, and Landers were among Collin's first clients when he started out. But she didn't know about Axel, Lawrence, or Wyatt.

"I heard that movie was directed by someone Collin represents."

"You mean Collin signed a director… and he directed The Accidental Wedding Crashers?"

"That's right. And it's already made nearly $300 million worldwide."

"..."

Madison was speechless.

She had known Collin for years. Handsome, sure. But she'd never thought of him as particularly talented when it came to managing clients. Maybe she was wrong. Maybe he'd finally hit his stride… or just got really lucky.

"I heard they're making another movie soon. If you act quickly, you might land a role. Use your past connection with Collin, even if it's awkward. Convince him to cast you in his client's next film while the door is still open."

"I'll definitely try." Determination returned to Madison's eyes, her resolve burning bright.

She knew how tough the industry was. She knew second chances didn't come easy. But she wasn't going to let herself be tossed aside like trash, not without a fight.

She had worked too hard to get to this place, and she wasn't about to let it all end here.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 66

Back to the current situation in the buzzing heart of Uni-versus Pictures' casting department.

Now that the production of Week On A Cruise Ship had finalized its three lead roles, the next task was to find supporting actors who would complete the cast and bring the entire script to life.

On the second day of auditions, which began bright and early, the production was searching for two actresses to portray key supporting characters.

The first role was that of Cross Pinger's nagging wife, who cheated on him multiple times while on the cruise ship.

The second was the stripper with a heart of gold, who would eventually become Cross Pinger's new wife after a chaotic string of events.

The two characters didn't have official names. For convenience, they were simply referred to as Cheating Wife and Stripper Wife.

Collin had two reasons for returning to Uni-versus Pictures' headquarters on the second day of auditions despite his busy schedule:

First, to negotiate Axel's contract and finalize the terms.

Second, to check on Jennifer, who was set to audition for both supporting roles with everything she had.

To cover all her bases, Jennifer prepared for both roles, even though she didn't know which one the casting team would consider her for. She was aware that she wasn't popular with major studios, so her chances of getting cast were slim at best.

Over the past four months, Axel, Jennifer, and Lawrence had all auditioned for several movies as their names slowly gained traction in the industry. But rejection followed rejection, except for Lawrence, who landed a lead role after only two rejections.

Jennifer couldn't help but feel jealous that Lawrence scored a leading role as if it were handed to him. It infuriated her and made her grind her teeth in frustration.

Still, she had to admit Lawrence deserved it. After working with him on multiple scenes, she realized that Lawrence could act with natural charisma and a grounded presence. No wonder he got cast while she was still waiting.

But that didn't erase her jealousy. Not one bit.

Because that's how emotions work. People get jealous. It's part of being human.

Collin spotted Jennifer sitting on a chair by the wall, quietly rehearsing her lines. Based on the queue, her turn would come within the next hour or two.

She had arrived early to avoid missing anything. The hallway was even more crowded than it was on the first day of auditions. Every bench and corner was occupied by hopeful actresses, perhaps because it was still early morning, and the eager ones were always the first to arrive.

Collin approached Jennifer casually. She looked up, saw him, and waved with a small smile.

But before he could reach her, a voice called out from the opposite end of the hallway.

"Collin! Long time no see!"

"Hm?"

Collin turned to his left and saw Madison smiling at him with a confident, slightly flirtatious look. Her expression paused for a moment as she took in Collin's appearance, he looked more polished than before.

There was something different about him. It wasn't just the clothes or his posture. Collin had always carried himself with confidence despite being underpaid and struggling. But now, that confidence was real, backed by results. His entire presence had changed, like someone who had finally figured himself out.

Madison's cheeks flushed as unexpected memories surfaced. She remembered that night when she touched herself thinking about this man… Ahem, definitely not the time to remember that.

"C–Collin, how's your day?" she stammered, making a clumsy mistake. What she meant to ask was, "How's your life these days?"

"My day? I'm doing fine, I guess," Collin replied, slightly widening his eyes at her sudden appearance. He hadn't expected to see Madison here, of all places.

He remembered that she had a regular role on a TV show. Then again, it wasn't unusual for TV actors to audition for film roles if their schedules allowed it.

What he didn't know was that Madison's character had just been killed off in the most dramatic fashion, she got hit by a bus in the latest episode, broadcast just yesterday.

Madison smiled and leaned in a little too close for comfort, her fitted top revealing just enough cleavage to make the move seem intentional.

"We should talk later, maybe grab a coffee or lunch. You know, to catch up like old times."

"I'm sorry, but I'm not free today. I have things to do and people to handle."

"That's great, my treat—wait, what?"

"I'm busy with real responsibilities now. If you'll excuse me, I need to talk to Jennifer about her audition."

Collin's steady gaze made Madison's knees feel weak, as though her legs were about to give out.

"W–wait…"

She stood there, frozen, extending her hand slightly, trying to stop him, but Collin had already turned and walked away without a second glance.

It was now crystal clear to her, the rookie agent she once dismissed was long gone. This Collin was more mature, more capable, and somehow far more attractive… yet far more distant.

Collin, meanwhile, knew exactly why Madison wanted to talk to him now. He saw through it immediately. He had no intention of entertaining the idea. Their professional relationship had ended the moment she left his roster.

He had genuinely been happy for her when she landed that TV role. He wished her well. But that was the end of it. To him, Madison was just a name from the past. A stranger now.

'It's disappointing… Madison used to have the most potential among my early clients. She was younger and had an exotic beauty that casting directors loved. She could've made it big… Jennifer would probably kill me if I said Madison was better than her out loud.'

"Heh, that bitch acts like she didn't ditch you for another agency the moment she saw a chance."

Jennifer said it loud on purpose, making sure Madison could hear her. The two had never gotten along. Jennifer was foul-mouthed and blunt, while Madison, demure and passive-aggressive. It was oil and water from day one.

'But between the two… I'll still pick Jennifer. At least she doesn't hide who she is. With her, you always know where you stand.'

Collin sighed, wondering if he was ready for a full day of drama. It felt like this was going to be a long one.

"Jennifer, lower your voice, will you?"

"I don't want to and I won't. That bitch deserves it. Just because her role in My Pure Innocent High School Love ended doesn't mean she gets to cling to you like a lifeline. Pathetic. She didn't even know you were sad when she left. She didn't give you a chance to prove yourself."

"Her role ended?" Collin blinked in surprise, finally understanding Madison's sudden reappearance. That explained a lot, including her overly friendly attitude.

Madison overheard every word and bit her lip in frustration, her cheeks burning with both shame and anger.

"Okay, Jennifer, hit the brakes before this turns into a spectacle. Let's talk about you, not her. How are you holding up emotionally and mentally?" Collin asked, redirecting the conversation. The crowd of actresses nearby had started paying attention, and the last thing they needed was a public scene.

"I'm nervous as hell."

"…Alright. That's natural."

"That's it?"

"If you're nervous, it means you care about the outcome. It means you're taking this seriously."

"Of course I am. Lawrence got a lead role. Axel got a lead role. How the hell am I supposed to stay calm when I'm the only one not improving? Fuck, I hate this feeling. I hate falling behind."

"You don't have to worry. You've got me in your corner. As long as I'm your agent, I'll make sure you find your place in Hollywood even if it takes time," Collin said firmly, with conviction in his voice.

"Wow, Collin… I didn't think you'd say something so inspiring. Sounding like the main character now, huh? Guess you're falling in love with me. Too bad, I don't like your rough looks. And when you look at me seriously like that… my legs go weak, and I hate it."

"As if. I'm not into old hags who cuss like sailors. I'm not into Hagmaxxing."

"What the fuck did you just say, you little shit? Say that again and I'll beat your ass."

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 67

"I said you are the most gorgeous woman I've ever seen in my entire life, without exaggeration. You're better than any woman I've ever known or even imagined, except for my mom and sister, of course."

"That could be taken out of context real fast, do you know that?"

Jennifer snorted and returned to reading the script, one she had read so many times she could probably recite it backward.

'To be fair, Jennifer is indeed better than any woman I've ever known in terms of loyalty and honesty. At least she's someone I can trust and who doesn't hide her feelings, even when she's being rude. She won't betray me like others might. Unfortunately, I have no intention of getting into a relationship with her... I can't handle her strong attitude and chaotic personality.'

Collin stared at the actress a few seconds too long. He had to admit, Jennifer was gorgeous in a fiery, mature way. She was only four years older than him, not exactly a big gap, honestly.

"Please don't stare at me like that with your intense eyes. I can't concentrate, and you're messing up my focus."

Jennifer blushed slightly and raised her script like a shield to block his gaze.

"My fault for admiring the scenery. Ah, I just remembered, I finally found a personal assistant for you. I also found assistants for Lawrence, Wyatt, and Axel to help lighten their loads."

It was something he should've done last year when their careers started gaining momentum, but Collin had been too busy. More importantly, he needed people he could truly trust with sensitive matters.

Being a personal assistant to a celebrity wasn't a light job. It required complete discretion. Assistants acted as their clients' hands and feet, navigating unpredictable situations, helping in every possible way.

In some cases, an assistant would be the first to witness questionable or even illegal actions, and that meant the person hired had to be trustworthy beyond doubt. So Collin didn't rush. He performed thorough background checks, relied on his instincts, and filtered applicants through multiple rounds of interviews and character assessments.

After months of searching, he found four solid candidates with professional experience, three males and one female.

Naturally, the female would be assigned to Jennifer to avoid any awkwardness or baseless rumors.

"Really? I'll have an assistant from now on? You're not joking, right? This isn't some sick prank? Stop lying or I'll stab your eye with a high heel, you fucking cunt."

"Do I look like I'm joking with this straight face?"

"...Wow. I can't believe I finally reached the moment where I have my own assistant. Like a real celebrity."

"Don't celebrate just yet. Her salary will be covered by you, not the agency. That means you need to work hard consistently, because someone else now depends on your income."

"T-That's kinda scary. Like a huge responsibility dumped in my lap. What if I go broke?"

"You don't need to worry too much. Like I said before, you've got me watching your back."

"Collin... If not for your failed past relationship, I might've dragged you to bed and made you my personal toy."

"Why do you keep bringing that up? I regret ever telling you about that story when I was trying to convince you to sign with me."

They bickered like squabbling siblings.

"Anyway, you'll have to pay her an annual salary of $25,000 at the very least. If you can afford to give a bonus, that's even better, it keeps her loyal."

"So... my assistant is a female, just to be clear. Do I pay her directly, or does it go through the agency?"

"That's up to you and how you want to handle it."

Jennifer frowned. $25,000 felt like a lot, especially for someone who once lived off cup noodles for a week while struggling to pay rent. She knew hardship too well.

Luckily, she received a $50,000 bonus from The Accidental Wedding Crashers, her biggest check to date. That was already a life-changing amount for her.

Her eyes narrowed with suspicion. Collin might dress like a nobody, but deep down, he was probably rich. As producer of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, he likely made at least a million dollars from that movie.

"Honestly, I should've found assistants for you all a month ago before the schedule got packed. But I needed time to be absolutely sure they could be trusted."

"What about Lawrence? Isn't he off in some tropical paradise?"

"I gave his assistant a first-class flight to Bora Bora. The production team is handling accommodations and meals. It was part of the contract I negotiated."

To avoid rumors or misinterpretations, Collin made sure the male clients had male assistants, and the sole female client, Jennifer, had a female assistant.

Wyatt, as a director, already had an Assistant Director helping him on set, but that was different from a personal assistant managing off-camera life.

"I'll introduce her to you in a few days, once she's fully briefed."

"Shit. You're not helping my anxiety, you're making it worse. Now I really have to take this audition seriously because I've got another mouth to feed."

"This is just the start of your journey to stardom. Once you become famous, I'll build a full team for you, one that rivals A-listers."

"Eh, that sounds expensive. Can I just share Wyatt's team or something?"

"...That could work, but you'd still need to pay your share."

"...Damn. Stardom is brutal."

In fact, Collin was already putting together a team for Wyatt to support him as a rising director. It would take at least half a year to complete.

Directors couldn't operate solo if they wanted to succeed. They needed reliable people to organize and manage the chaos. As an agent, Collin had to ensure his clients lived manageable lives so they could focus on delivering results without burning out.

Collin glanced around and saw Madison still watching him with unreadable eyes.

'Sigh. She's not showing any hostility, but I know she just wants to use me.'

He shook his head and dismissed the thought, walking away without a word.

"Where are you going?" Jennifer asked suspiciously as she saw Collin heading for the audition room door with quiet confidence.

"Henry and Wyatt gave me permission to watch the auditions from inside."

"...Tch. What a lucky bastard getting VIP access." Jennifer clicked her tongue and pouted.

"Oh, by the way, did you eat anything heavy today? You might need to wear a swimsuit for the stripper scene."

"I didn't eat a damn thing. Not even a bite of bread. You said I should go for the stripper role since I've got the curvy, mature body that fits the character. So I skipped breakfast to keep my stomach flat. I even took a shit... I'm hungry and miserable." She looked like she wanted to cry and scream at the same time.

The nearby actresses who overheard the conversation nodded silently in agreement. It seemed everyone had resorted to drinking only water to keep their stomachs flat.

'I can relate. I used to be a model surviving on crackers and cucumber slices.'

Collin knew the pain well. Back in his modeling days, appearance was everything. There were days he'd force down a salad or fruit and pretend it was satisfying. He was never allowed to eat until full, or risk losing a gig.

'God, I hated that part with every fiber of my being.'

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 68

Well, appearance was an important part of the modeling and film industry, a superficial but undeniable truth that shaped casting decisions. It was understandable why actresses had to maintain their figure. Ugly people had no place in this industry, unless you're looking for ugly roles.

When an actress came out of the audition room, Collin took the chance to enter quietly, blending into the background as much as possible.

He saw Wyatt and Henry deep in conversation, reviewing the last actress's performance and notes.

"She doesn't have an ass at all, so she can't be the stripper. But her acting as an irritating wife is spot on. It's borderline annoying in the best way possible. We can put her on the list for now."

"I agree completely."

When Wyatt and Henry saw Collin, they gave a nod of acknowledgment but didn't get up. They remained focused on their discussion, not skipping a beat.

Collin had his reasons for coming to Uni-versus Pictures that day. The most important was to negotiate with Henry about Axel's contract, a matter that needed to be handled in person.

He found a seat in the corner and kept his presence low so he wouldn't disrupt the audition flow. Still, several female crew members kept glancing his way as if he were a celebrity himself. Some were part of the old team that worked on The Accidental Wedding Crashers and recognized him, while others were new and simply curious about the guy sitting quietly at the back.

The audition continued, and just as Collin expected, the ten actresses auditioning for the stripper role had to wear skimpy outfits, usually bikinis or lingerie.

For clarification, the production wasn't forcing anyone to wear anything against their will. It was up to each actress to decide based on their comfort level. However, if they chose not to wear the outfit, they were essentially disqualifying themselves from the role, since visual appeal was a required element.

The stripper character in this movie served as eye candy, the visual treat meant to attract viewers and spice up the scenes. That was the point of the wardrobe requirement: to determine if an actress could be seductive on screen.

Fan service had always been part of many films, regardless of genre. Some people criticized it for objectifying women, while others embraced it as part of the entertainment. As long as there was an audience for sex appeal, it wasn't going anywhere.

Let's be honest, there are millions of horny bastards in the world, regardless of gender, who'll happily watch fan service in a movie no matter what the plot is.

The production team behind Week On A Cruise Ship understood this well and planned to use it. They needed to draw attention and fill seats. Of course, no one was naked or doing anything indecent. The actress had a private changing room to preserve professionalism.

The next actress walked in and Collin recognized her.

'If I'm not mistaken, that's the woman Wyatt met at the celebration party...'

It clicked instantly. This woman and Wyatt had some sort of relationship. How deep it went, Collin didn't know.

Wyatt noticed Collin's stare and likely picked up on the disappointment in it, but he kept his composure like a pro. He didn't react to the actress, even though she kept throwing flirty glances his way from the moment she entered.

'I might be in trouble...' Wyatt thought, keeping his expression neutral.

The actress performed both roles: first, the nagging wife with exaggerated frustration, then the sexy stripper with practiced sensuality.

Wyatt avoided eye contact as much as possible. He was still new to the industry and hadn't yet mastered how to separate personal matters from professional ones. The actress left the room disappointed, her attempts at seduction had clearly failed.

After a few more auditions, it was Jennifer's turn.

Collin watched his client without lust or inappropriate thoughts. Jennifer was too savage to turn him on, no matter how stunning she looked.

Jennifer entered confidently, wearing lingerie as if it were her regular outfit. She walked with a hypnotic sway that was hard to ignore... Unfortunately, her mouth was the kind of red flag that could clear a room in seconds.

She danced with provocative precision, nailing the sensuality written into the audition script.

Some men who didn't know Jennifer's true personality couldn't help but squirm in their seats. Even Henry had to swallow hard while trying to maintain his professionalism.

The production team admitted she exceeded expectations. Wearing two tiny pieces of fabric, she delivered a performance with unapologetic confidence. She danced like she owned the scene and easily passed the sensuality test.

At last, they had found an actress who could serve as the movie's eye candy and potentially steal the scene.

When Jennifer exited the room, she saw Collin and Wyatt give her subtle grins and a thumbs-up. She smirked. That meant her performance stood out. She figured they were probably talking about her nagging wife act, right? After all, she was a natural nagger...

More actresses followed Jennifer until Madison's name was called.

The 20-year-old Latina entered with radiant confidence. She had to. This was her only shot at joining the cast, and she knew it.

Madison smiled sweetly at Wyatt and Henry, then gave Collin a hopeful look from across the room.

Just like everyone else, she performed both roles with as much passion as she could manage. But unfortunately, she lacked the sex appeal to pull off the stripper role even with perfect makeup. And she didn't have the bitterness or venom needed to portray a convincing nagging wife.

Madison gave it her all... but it wasn't enough to stand out. She simply didn't have the experience to be seductive on command, and her frustrated-wife persona didn't feel real.

'In my opinion, Madison should look for younger roles that suit her natural image. High school students or fresh-faced characters. Her part in My Pure Innocent High School Love worked because it matched her age, look, and aura of innocence.'

The only reason she auditioned for this movie, despite the roles not matching her at all, was because of Collin. She hoped he might help her or convince his client to give her a shot.

But based on their earlier conversation, that hope was already dead.

Madison left the room with no idea that her chance was zero and her performance left no impression.

The auditions continued as the hours passed. Wyatt and Henry crossed off names to narrow down the shortlist.

Collin thought the day was winding down. No more surprises. But he was wrong, badly wrong.

He didn't expect the final actress to be someone he knew all too well.

"Hello, I'm Dee Ceitful, and I'm here to audition for the role of the female stripper."

"...What the fuck?" Collin muttered weakly under his breath, thankfully from the farthest corner of the room where no one could hear him.

Dee spotted him and blew a dramatic flying kiss in his direction. Collin didn't react visibly, but Wyatt and Henry noticed the interaction and exchanged curious glances.

+++++

[Author's Note: If you want to read more, this novel currently has 33 advanced chapters on my Patreon.]

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

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 69

The fact that Dee's intention was to audition for the role of the stripper meant she was confident in her sex appeal, not just confident, but bold enough to flaunt it. And she had every right to.

Her bright red lips, the ample size of her cleavage, and her fat ass… They all worked together like a deadly combination of temptation. Fuck, she was a living sex bomb.

Even Wyatt was momentarily stunned into silence. He didn't expect someone could actually rival Jennifer in terms of sex appeal and stage presence. At the very least, Wyatt knew that tapping Dee's ass would be unforgettable, like a memory etched in pure physical pleasure. Just imagine how her ass would bounce on him-- Ahem.

Never mind.

Wyatt gritted his teeth and crossed Dee's name off the list. Even though he was tempted to get to know the actress, in bed, particularly, he had already promised two women that they would get the roles, and he intended to honor that promise.

Besides, judging from Collin's serious expression from across the room, this Dee Ceitful was not someone he should get involved with without risking complications.

Wyatt knew Hollywood wasn't simple or forgiving. The only person he truly trusted here was Collin, who had believed in him from the very beginning. That's why he felt guilty for keeping his past encounter with the actress in the party a secret, it felt like betraying a friend. Honestly, he couldn't even remember her name right, was it Cassandra or Clare?

"Well then, since the audition is over and we've seen everyone, let's take a 30-minute break to clear our heads and discuss the actresses we want to cast."

The production team nodded in agreement, chatting quietly as they stood up. At last, they had time to eat and recharge after sitting through hours of performances. One by one, they exited the audition room, heading toward the cafeteria.

"Collin, about the…" Wyatt began, unsure how to explain himself without sounding like a total idiot.

"Wyatt, you don't have to worry too much. I'm not mad or holding it against you," Collin said as he gave his client a reassuring pat on the shoulder.

He had known this kind of situation would eventually happen now that Wyatt was a bona fide director with authority and influence. But he didn't expect it to happen so fast or so carelessly.

"However, you still need to tell me about these things so I can prepare for any fallout. Some actresses might try to blackmail you, so you have to stay alert and understand the risks involved. I'm not blaming you, but next time, at least let me know before things get complicated."

Yes, talking about your private sex life with someone else is uncomfortable, especially if that person is your agent. But in Collin's case, his top priority was Wyatt's career. Casting an actress as part of a sex transaction could easily lead to a scandal, or worse, legal issues. Normally, Collin wouldn't meddle in his clients' romantic lives, but this situation was different because it had professional implications tied to it.

"So, what's your plan? Are you going to cast her despite everything?"

"Well… I promised her, and I don't want to break my word."

"Then you better come up with a convincing reason. Make sure Henry and the others agree to cast her based on her performance, not personal reasons. Also, protect yourself with a solid contract and airtight clauses. Even if you have to pay her more, make sure she signs something that confirms she won't leak anything about you or the deal."

If that still wasn't enough to ensure silence and security, Collin would have to step in and negotiate personally, using every bit of experience he had.

Wyatt realized he had to handle this carefully before it spiraled out of control. Now that he'd tasted the deliciousness of money and stardom, he couldn't afford to lose it all over a careless mistake.

The two men exited the room with a shared sense of urgency.

However, a young woman was waiting for Collin just outside the hallway.

"Collin, I've been waiting for you. Can we talk privately for a few minutes?"

"Madison… sigh…" Collin felt like the day was just piling up with more complications. It seemed like he wouldn't get to eat or even rest his feet. He signaled Wyatt to go ahead without him to avoid delay. The director nodded and walked away, though he glanced curiously at the two. He didn't know the full context of their relationship, but he sensed something awkward.

"Madison, I think we need to clear this up once and for all. I'm just an agent doing my job. I'm not in the position to help you get cast."

"But your client is. And you know that. Don't you remember what you promised me three years ago?"

"…"

Collin didn't answer right away.

He remembered the moment vividly when he promised Madison and Landers that he would make them the most famous celebrities in Hollywood. Maybe he was out of touch with reality at the time, or maybe he just wanted to motivate his promising new clients to stick with him.

'In my defense, I didn't want them to leave. They had the most potential… Jennifer would probably kill me if she heard this monologue right now.'

Jennifer, Madison, and Landers were his first clients when he started out. Then came Axel, Wyatt, and Lawrence, after Madison and Landers ended their contracts and sought out other agencies.

"You promised you'd make me a superstar no matter what. This is your chance to prove that to both of us… If you do, I'll sign with you again once my current contract ends. I'll come back to your management."

Madison could see that the boat she abandoned was sailing smoothly without her, and now she wanted to climb back on board as if nothing had happened. She felt a little guilty about her current agent, who had worked hard for her, but she believed her gay agent would understand and wish her well.

And honestly, she still had a crush on Collin. She had no problem rekindling those feelings now that he looked better and more capable, especially now that Collin had clearly improved in wealth, appearance, and presence.

Collin had a complex opinion about her motives, but it didn't change his stance. It was too late.

He wasn't a toy she could drop when she got bored and pick up again later. That didn't sit well with him, either emotionally or professionally.

"Madison, it's too late to undo what's already been done. I did promise you a long time ago, but you're the one who broke it first without hesitation. I can't help you anymore. What you need to do is believe in yourself and your ability. If your performance meets the criteria, the production team will cast you on their own judgment."

"But—"

Before Madison could finish, a sharp and assertive voice cut her off.

"Excuse me, but I think you're done talking to Collin. May I have my moment? I also have something to discuss with him, and I'd appreciate some privacy."

Madison turned around and saw a red-haired woman with red lips and an aura that screamed confidence.

"Aren't you the waitress from that run-down café next to the ANT building?"

Madison squinted, finally recognizing the woman from memory.

"For your information, our café is famous in L.A. It's one of the best cafés in Hollywood. Hmph, I'll talk to my boss and tell him to blacklist you from being served."

"… I actually don't care what your boss thinks," Madison muttered awkwardly.

Dee scoffed and strutted toward Collin like she owned the floor.

"Anyway, Collin. We need to talk seriously. I think this bitch is done clinging to you like a leech. It's obvious she's just acting to get your favor. She's a hypocrite through and through."

"What!?"

Madison blushed, fists clenched in frustration. But Dee just shrugged and walked past her like she was nothing.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 70


"…"

Collin sighed long and deep.

'Dear God, why are you doing this to me? Today's drama is too much for my poor sanity.'

The fact that today's audition alone could fill more than four chapters was insane and borderline ridiculous.

Collin decided to follow Dee, leaving Madison behind with tears in her eyes. The situation felt so awkward, like some kind of love triangle straight out of a bad soap opera. He swore never to experience anything like this again as long as he lived.

In the first place, he'd been purposely avoiding romance because he wanted to focus on rebuilding his life without distractions. He knew he was still too fragile mentally and emotionally to handle love.

Once he and Dee found a place to talk away from prying eyes, she turned around and smiled at him, mischief sparkling in her red lips.

"Collin, I've been thinking about this for a while. And I want to say yes, finally."

"Yes?" Collin tilted his head, confused. He had no idea what she was talking about or why she suddenly looked so happy.

"Yes!"

"What do you mean 'yes' all of a sudden?"

"I'm saying yes to your confession. I want to be your girlfriend." Dee spread her arms, attempting to hug him with wide, open sincerity.

Collin stepped back, dodging her embrace like it was the plague.

"Collin?"

"Dee, that confession was almost two years ago, in a completely different time and place. Why are you bringing it up now, of all moments?"

"Because I've been thinking about it every now and then. I know I hurt you, and I feel bad for what I did. I have feelings for you… but back then, the circumstances just didn't allow us to be together."

"This isn't because you want to use me to convince Wyatt to cast you, right? Because I won't play along with that."

"Don't think so lowly of me, like I'm some manipulative whore. I'm not that kind of person."

Collin stared at the top of Dee's head, focusing… and to his surprise, no words floated above her like they usually did.

'Does this mean she's being honest right now? Not being deceitful like usual?'

Dee's expression seemed sincere, so sincere it bordered on vulnerable. It was true. After all this time, she had real feelings for Collin. After thinking things through, she realized he was the best man she'd met in her chaotic life. He checked all her boxes, status, charm, income, and now he was successful and respected.

So the idea of dating him wasn't a problem anymore. In fact, it was appealing. She had no reason to lie to Collin now. This time, her feelings were real.

Unfortunately, Collin didn't feel the same.

In fact, just hearing those words again made him furious.

'So she wants me now that I'm "valuable"?'

This was the second time today that someone tried to return to his life only after seeing how far he'd come. And his patience was wearing thin.

"Dee, listen carefully and don't interrupt. I don't love you. Not even a little. I also have no intention of dating you, not anymore, not even in your dreams. And I won't recommend you to Wyatt. Please, don't talk to me again for your own dignity. You had your chance, and you rejected me. We are done forever. Now, I'm rejecting you with no hesitation."

"Get the fuck away from me, you skank who only has big tits and a fat ass, like that's all it takes to be loved. You have the most disgusting behavior I've ever seen, wrapped in fake smiles and lip gloss. You treat every man like an object to use and throw away."

"For the love of Christ, look at yourself in the mirror, really look, and understand how big of a hypocrite you are. You're even worse than Madison, and that's saying a lot."

Collin didn't hold back. His voice echoed like a final verdict. He had no reason to sugarcoat the truth. To him, Dee was nothing more than a bitter memory, a woman from two years ago who had left a scar.

As for her feelings now, Collin didn't care.

Just like how she didn't care when he confessed to her back then.

"Huh?" Dee was stunned, visibly shaken. This wasn't anything like the reunion fantasy she had imagined. Her mind struggled to process it. She truly believed that Collin would accept her, after all, he was in love with her before, right? And now he was even more her type. She never thought two years would change him this much.

Collin could see something crack in her like a mirror under pressure, but he turned and walked away without even a backward glance.

Even if Dee's feelings were real, he still wouldn't date her.

Because Collin saw her as a huge liability.

The 30-minute break came to an end, and the hallway buzzed with noise again as the production crew returned to the audition room. This time, Collin wasn't allowed to join due to potential bias that might influence casting decisions.

There were only two key female roles being cast that day: the nagging, cheating wife and the stripper. Two pivotal characters for the film's conflict and fan service.

Wyatt knew the odds were against him, but he decided to fight for his picks with all the persuasion he had. Fortunately, he managed to convince Henry and the Uni-versus Pictures representatives to cast Jennifer and the woman he had slept with without raising too many eyebrows. He wiped his forehead and let out a silent sigh of relief.

At least he kept his promise… and avoided unnecessary drama.

Out of all the actresses, only Jennifer had enough credentials to be cast without question. She'd been in the industry for over a decade, built a solid resume, and worked on multiple projects.

Not to mention, she starred in The Accidental Wedding Crashers, which made her far from a nobody.

The production team had also considered casting the sexy red-haired woman, but she lacked the resume for a supporting role. She was still a gamble.

As for the nagging wife, they just went along with Wyatt's recommendation. The actress he pushed forward had done well enough, barely passed their standards. She wasn't their first or second choice, but they decided to cast her anyway… just to avoid conflict.

And with that, the audition finally came to an end.

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

"I want to say we should end this negotiation quickly and painlessly because I just want to go home and take a damn nap but I guess that's just a dream," Henry Greyson said, rubbing his forehead in exhaustion.

The audition had ended an hour ago, yet Henry was still working like the break had never happened. Producers and directors rarely got real rest once a project started and it was beginning to show in his face.

"Just a reminder before we start, since you already know the project budget, you know how much we can offer. Don't ask for anything huge or unreasonable. Otherwise, this meeting ends here."

Henry didn't need to explain further. Collin nodded in understanding.

If his numbers were right, at least $9 million of the budget had been used just to hire Henry and Wyatt, which already stretched things thin. That meant only $11 million remained for everything else.

The production team could technically ask for a bigger budget, but that would betray the deal they'd made with Uni-versus Pictures and risk losing the trust they'd just earned. Overspending could disappoint the studio, especially since this was their first collaboration on a major project.

As the producer, Henry would take the blame. And worse, his chance of working with that studio again might vanish.

"Don't worry, Henry. I won't ask for anything big or unreasonable. You know me, I keep things fair."

"I know you too well. That's exactly why I'm afraid of what you'll try to pull. I can trust you when it comes to picking people, you've got an eye for talent, but money? That's another story."

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 71

"I want to talk about Axel's salary first, before Jennifer."

"Go on and state your terms."

"Axel deserves $1 million flat."

Collin smiled innocently, like a sinless man who wasn't asking for a ridiculous sum in a negotiation that was obviously about money.

"Collin… I think I'm losing my trust in you with every word you say. You really are an agent to your bones."

"Henry, don't be like that. Come on, we're friends and comrades in this wild industry."

"Friends don't sabotage each other over inflated salaries."

"That's right. But that depends on how you define sabotage."

Now that the drama with Madison and Dee was behind him, Collin could finally focus on the negotiation with clarity. And money, sweet money, had the power to turn this terrible day into a good one, as long as the right amount landed in the right account.

They were sitting in the cafeteria on the ground floor of the Uni-versus Pictures main building. Neither of them had eaten earlier due to the exhausting audition marathon, so they took the opportunity to fill their stomachs, reset their moods, and enjoy a hot coffee before diving into the business talk.

"I can't offer Axel $1 million. He doesn't deserve it, not yet anyway. He's just an actor who starred in one comedy film. That doesn't make him a superstar. I'll offer him $100,000 instead, and that's generous enough."

"Don't be like that. That's too low."

Collin shook his head slowly, dramatically. He had contacted Axel yesterday to ask what kind of salary he'd be happy with. The actor said $100,000 would be amazing, showing his humility and self-awareness. He knew he was still a newcomer in the eyes of major studios, and he would've been thrilled to get even that.

"$700,000."

"Collin, don't play games with me. $120,000, and that's me being generous."

"What? A $20,000 increase? That's too small. $500,000! Axel is not a nobody anymore. He was the star of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, last year's biggest comedy hit."

"Yes, but we could find a better actor who'll do the job for less money and fewer demands."

"Henry, you motherfucker. I trusted you. I thought we were friends and allies in this wild industry!"

"You should be asking yourself that question right now. I can't believe you'd damage the friendship we built over a pathetic argument about numbers."

"Hah! I bet you'll agree to Arnold's proposal of giving Brody $3 million, won't you? You're betraying your friend without even blinking!"

"Brody Paige is a different matter entirely, and you know it. Don't change the subject."

Henry had heard Arnold Johnson's name more than a few times lately. Arnold was the agent of Jolyne Robs and Brody Paige, who was quickly becoming Hollywood's next big thing.

"Besides, I heard you're the one who recommended Brody to audition for this movie because you're friends with Arnold. So if anyone betrayed our friendship first, it's you."

"The matter of Brody Paige is separate. You know it. Don't change the subject," Collin said, repeating Henry's own words back to him.

"$600,000. Let's cut the drama."

"$200,000 and that's me stretching it."

"$500,000."

"Collin, don't do this. Or I'll have to find another actor and recast this whole damn role. $250,000."

"Tch, fine. It doesn't sit well with me that you threatened me, your friend, like I'm just some stranger. But I guess $250,000 isn't bad for a rising star."

"Not bad, my ass. Do you hear yourself? Do you know what $250,000 means? You could buy a house with that in Los Angeles."

The two continued bickering like old war buddies. They each had something they needed to protect: Henry, his budget, and Collin, his client. So the clash was inevitable.

"Then let's talk about Jennifer. Her salary shouldn't be more than $100,000, given the limited screen time," Henry reasoned.

"Then how about $99,999?" Collin replied with a smug smile.

"...Collin, you're a fucking bastard with no shame. Do you know that? I've been having nightmares about negotiating with Arnold later, and you're just adding to my headaches."

"So… $99,999? Or should I say, deal?"

"Fuck off. Jennifer gets $70,000. Take it or leave it. That's my appreciation for helping me land a project with Uni-versus Pictures. Wyatt's promising, sure, but this film is still a gamble."

"$70,000, huh? Alright then. Deal."

They shook hands firmly, sealing the numbers.

Unlike the negotiation with Lawrence, who earned $1.5 million, Axel didn't yet have strong market appeal. Lawrence captivated the production team with undeniable charisma, while Axel was the type of actor Henry could replace without losing sleep. Hence, the tougher negotiation and smaller pay.

The same went for Jennifer. But if Wyatt's current project became a box office hit, both Axel and Jennifer's talent fees would naturally go up.

"Jennifer and Axel will return tomorrow to finalize the deal and sign the paperwork. Keep your promise, like a good producer," Collin said.

"I should be the one telling you that, you slick bastard."

"Well then, good luck handling Arnold. He's twice as shameless as me and ten times more annoying."

"Collin, has anyone ever told you that you've got a punchable face? That smug grin of yours is begging for it. Now that your clients are gaining momentum, you're becoming even more obnoxious. I hate that."

"Nope, but I've heard a lot of women say they want to fuck me. So maybe my face isn't that bad."

"Get the fuck out of my face before I throw my coffee at you."

Their negotiation ended with Collin getting $250,000 for Axel and $70,000 for Jennifer, not bad at all.

Both men were satisfied with the outcome, despite the harsh words exchanged in the heat of negotiation. They knew this wouldn't be the last time they'd clash like this.

Henry felt his status as a producer would level up now that he was collaborating with Wyatt, a rising star. And he also believed Collin's clients would continue to grow in popularity and command higher pay. This kind of negotiation was bound to happen again.

Still, they were professionals. At the end of the day, it was just business, not personal. The fact that they could still drink together and talk shit afterward proved their friendship was intact. They owed each other too much to let a few zeroes ruin it.

Collin left the building feeling accomplished and immediately called Axel with the good news.

"Thank you, Collin. I didn't expect to get $250,000, that's amazing."

"Come on, you don't have to thank me. I'm just doing my job. And don't sell yourself short. You're going to be a star. Trust in yourself and keep working hard."

"I guess it's true what they say… you're the hidden ace of ANT."

"Huh? I have no idea what you're talking about, but I'll take that as a compliment."

Axel promised to arrive early the next day to finalize and sign the contract. He also said he'd pay Collin's commission, $25,000 before the agency's cut, a solid payday.

As Collin stepped outside the building, he saw Jennifer waiting for him on the sidewalk looking absolutely radiant.

She had already received the news that she got the role and had nearly screamed with excitement. She also knew Collin had negotiated her pay today and trusted him completely.

With her bubbly blonde hair and a mole under her left eye, she looked like a goddess under the golden afternoon sun. Her heels glinted slightly as she waved with poise and elegance.

"How was it?"

"$70,000."

"Collin, I think you get more handsome every time you talk about money," she teased.

"Please don't. I'm begging you. I've had enough drama for one day."

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 72

The woman laughed softly, her shoulders shaking in amusement. Teasing Collin was fun once in a while, especially when he gave such dramatic reactions.

Of course, she had no romantic feelings for Collin beyond light-hearted fondness. She had no intention of fixing a broken man like him. That kind of emotional labor was far too much work.

"$70,000 is enough for now. If this movie succeeds at the box office, the studio will pay me a bonus, right?"

Jennifer wasn't some naïve newcomer anymore. She understood the reality of the industry. She knew it was difficult to get a huge salary, and the fact that she landed $70,000 was already a win worth celebrating. She was genuinely impressed with Collin's negotiation skills and how calmly he handled business.

"I'll make sure that happens even if I have to knock on studio doors myself."

"Thanks, Collin. You're a great person."

Jennifer slapped Collin's back playfully but hard enough to make him wince and squint in pain. She didn't hold back at all.

"So, want to eat something? My treat, as thanks for fighting for me." She grinned, already imagining a big, juicy burger. She hadn't eaten anything all day just to maintain her figure.

"Nah, I'm waiting for someone."

"Well then, see you tomorrow, handsome agent." She waved and walked off with a carefree bounce in her steps.

She was genuinely happy about getting the role and the paycheck that came with it. She couldn't help but smile to herself, knowing that Madison probably didn't get a role despite her confidence. After all, her age and appearance didn't align with the characters the production was looking for, according to the casting sheet. It was still a mystery how she had even passed the first and second rounds of auditions when there were more suitable options.

Meanwhile, Collin made his way to the underground parking lot of Uni-versus Pictures, where he had parked his car. But he didn't leave right away, he was waiting for someone.

Leaning against his car door, Collin waited a few minutes before a car he recognized pulled up a few meters away with a soft hum of the engine. The vehicle parked smoothly, and Arnold stepped out.

"Yow, Collin. I didn't expect you to keep your promise so soon."

The agent, who was a year older than Collin, approached with a friendly grin.

"You said if Wyatt had a new project, I should tell you in case your client needed work azand here we are. Honestly, though, I think Brody's already famous enough to find a better project than this one."

"Brody personally chose this project. When I showed him the script, he picked it out of dozens of others. He said his past roles were all heavy-themed, and he needed something different to show his range. He doesn't want to be typecast as the serious male lead forever."

"He's lucky that the production is looking for a lower-cost actor with box office appeal."

"Lower cost? Don't underestimate my client just because he's young. He's more than that and he'll prove it." Arnold's expression turned defensive.

"Alright, whatever you say, super agent."

"So, how did your negotiation go? I want to know how this Henry guy handles real talks."

Since Henry usually worked on low-budget films that flew under the radar, agents like Arnold didn't know much about him.

"We're friends, so he wasn't too hard on me. But I'm not sure he'll agree to your terms."

"You think he'll give Brody Paige $3 million?"

Brody's salary for Seven Deadly Sins was $2.5 million, plus backend bonuses. At this point in his career, $3 million was a realistic expectation.

"That'll be tough to pull off with this film's budget," Collin replied. Henry and Arnold would have to hash that out themselves, man to man, suit to suit.

Brody Paige was one of Arnold's top clients, whom he signed six years ago. Their partnership had been consistently successful. Arnold was also known for managing the infamous Jolyne Robs and turning her into a star, despite the challenges. It was no wonder so many actors wanted to sign with him, hoping for the same kind of breakthrough.

Collin hadn't yet seen Brody perform live on set, so he couldn't judge his talent firsthand.

He gave Arnold a brief summary of his negotiation with Henry, omitting key details like salaries and contract terms out of professional courtesy.

"See you next time then."

"Yeah, take care."

They parted ways with a simple nod. Collin had waited for Arnold just so his friend would have a better idea of Henry's negotiation style and prepare accordingly.

While Collin's negotiation wrapped up in a single day, Henry's meeting with Arnold dragged on for three full days of back-and-forth haggling.

Collin's clients weren't essential to the project, they were still relatively unknown in Hollywood, with only one film to their names. But Brody was a proven box office draw with studio credibility. That gave Arnold far more leverage and patience in the negotiation.

In the end, Brody Paige secured a salary of $3.2 million.

As for Axel and Jennifer, they had already signed their contracts once everything was finalized, officially joining the cast with their names proudly listed on the board.

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

Two months passed in the blink of an eye.

Now that Collin's clients were fully immersed in their respective projects, he suddenly found himself with a lot more free time.

Last year, his job as a producer had taken over his life, draining his energy and eating up every spare second. But now, it felt like a peaceful summer after a long, exhausting storm.

This year, his clients were working independently and didn't need him hovering over every little detail. They were professionals with growing careers. Collin's role was primarily to find them opportunities, once the contract was signed, the rest fell to them and their support teams. Of course, Collin stayed updated and checked in regularly.

He called Lawrence once a week just to get in touch. Lawrence was doing well in Bora Bora, especially with his personal assistant providing hands-on support and management.

Collin also made visits to the studio to see how Axel, Jennifer, and Wyatt were doing on set. Each of them had a personal assistant to help with day-to-day needs and relay concerns to Collin if necessary.

Thanks to his superpower that let him see people's talents as clearly as labels, Collin had ensured that every assistant was fit for the job. Most of them had white talents like Organizer, Attentive, or Communicator, practical and underrated skills that got the job done.

He wasn't expecting golden talents from assistants. In fact, if someone did have a golden-level talent in Organizer, they should be aiming for a higher career path than following around a celebrity like a loyal dog.

Though things were easier lately in terms of workload, Collin wasn't idle. He had started building a proper team for Wyatt Bray as part of his long-term strategy.

Now that Wyatt was evolving into a real director with studio credibility, he needed a reliable team to support and sustain his momentum.

Besides, the agency wouldn't allow Collin to monopolize Wyatt completely. When an agent tried to hoard a client for themselves, it usually raised red flags. It could suggest that they were planning to steal the client from the agency and become their full-time personal agent, a violation of company rules and a serious breach of trust.