Behind The Spotlight Chapter 45
The three entered the building through its glass doors. Aida and Evelyn were immediately amazed and slightly overwhelmed by the unexpectedly luxurious and welcoming vibe.
Unlike the apartment complex they were used to, this place had a stylish reception area decorated with elegant indoor plants and soft jazz music playing from hidden speakers. Two receptionists stood near the entrance, dressed sharply in uniform suits.
This presentation alone made it clear that this building was neither simple nor average. They could tell that Collin probably spent a considerable amount of money securing a four-bedroom apartment in such a high-end residence.
"Son, tell me, how much did you spend? This place doesn't look simple at all, and I'm starting to get nervous."
Evelyn glanced around and noticed people walking by in luxurious dresses and tailored suits, looking like they'd stepped out of a fashion magazine. She suddenly felt self-conscious and out of place.
Even Aida looked at Collin with a slightly raised brow, waiting for his response. After all, her brother had already spent over $25,000 to pay her college tuition in advance. He had promised her she wouldn't need to take a part-time job or stress about money anymore, he'd take care of all her expenses.
Though both siblings were adults and Aida could stand on her own, Collin still took on the responsibility of providing for her as her older brother. He had always been the kind of person who gave without expecting anything in return, even when he himself was struggling.
But after Tony East's death, Collin changed drastically. He didn't just give anymore, he sacrificed. He gave up his own comfort and time for Aida and Evelyn without hesitation.
Aida felt grateful, but also guilty. She wanted to make sure her brother's sacrifices weren't in vain. She poured her energy into her studies, determined to show him that his efforts were worth it.
Aida was taking up a degree in Computer Science and ranked at the top of her class. She had no intention of letting him down.
"Collin, how much is this place really?"
"Well, I got it at a discount, a really good one. It's a $50,000-per-year contract with some utilities included," Collin shrugged.
Both Aida and Evelyn were shocked, their eyes widened in disbelief. That was still a lot of money. The apartment they had been living in only cost $700 a month. Sure, it only had one bedroom and wasn't ideal for three people, but still.
Seeing their borderline panicked expressions, Collin felt relieved he had lied. The actual cost was $70,000 for a twelve-month lease, and that was already a discounted deal in this neighborhood. He had been lucky to secure it through a contact at ANT.
"Come on, it's not that bad when you understand what we're getting. This isn't just any apartment complex. It has rooftop pools, gyms, and round-the-clock security with surveillance systems."
"..."
Mother and daughter remained speechless, still trying to process what they'd just heard. It was hard to believe Collin had spent that much money so casually.
"Like I said, and before you scold me, the last project I worked on is doing really well. It's paying off. You don't need to worry anymore. Life is going to get better for all of us."
He assured them with a calm, confident tone.
There were other reasons Collin chose this place beyond comfort and luxury.
First, it was much closer to ANT than their current apartment, cutting his daily commute in half. The shorter distance meant more rest and greater efficiency.
Second, many celebrities lived in the complex, making it a potential goldmine for networking. Living here could help him expand his influence and connections in the industry.
Third, he wanted to use his ability to gauge people's talents on the celebrities living in the building. He had already documented the potential of a dozen residents just through casual encounters.
Example:
-- Dianne Janet
-- Charming Leading Lady (Yellow Talent)
Collin had written those exact words in the small notebook he always carried in his pocket. If anyone else happened to read it, they'd probably assume he was jotting down character notes or impressions, not realizing the true significance.
"Let's go check out our new home before it gets dark. If I earn more, I promise I'll buy a house in Beverly Hills with a garden and a pool."
"I think living here is already amazing and honestly unbelievable," Aida replied as they stepped into the elevator with golden buttons and mirrored walls.
The apartment complex consisted of three major buildings, Buildings 1, 2, and 3. Their unit was in Building 2, which was known for housing several high-profile actors.
Building 2 had 15 floors, and their apartment was on the 12th floor, offering a stunning view of the Hollywood skyline.
When the three of them entered their apartment, Aida and Evelyn were surprised and instantly fell in love with the place. It was spacious and beautifully designed. A wide living room greeted them as soon as they walked in, with sunlight pouring through tall windows. On the left side were the kitchen and two bedrooms, while the right side had another two rooms and a balcony with sliding glass doors. From the balcony, they could see all of Hollywood. They stood in silence, stunned.
They never imagined they'd reach a point in life where they could live in a place like this.
"I'll call a moving company to bring our stuff over first thing in the morning," Collin said, while the two women explored the space like excited tourists.
"Wow, I finally have my own room with a closet and a desk! Collin, thank you!" Aida beamed and hugged her brother with genuine joy in her eyes.
Just like Collin, Evelyn examined every corner of the apartment with a practical eye. She had no complaints, it was perfect. Worth every penny.
That night, the family of three decided to eat at a nice restaurant downtown, not far from their new home. They celebrated the milestone with warm food and heartfelt laughter.
Now that Collin had a golden vision and a clear direction, he vowed to give his family the best in everything.
He had sacrificed his time, sleep, and personal happiness but he had no regrets. He loved his family more than anything, and as the only man in the household, he saw it as his duty to protect and provide.
...
...
...
"This time... this time is different."
Lawrence stared into the mirror in the restroom, speaking to his reflection. His blonde hair was neatly styled with a hair product.
Collin had hired a professional hairstylist with a White Talent, someone who was trained in visual presentation and camera angles. Lawrence looked sharp and polished, like someone meant to be on a magazine cover. His brown eyes were serious and determined.
Unlike last month, when he was rejected twice, this time felt different in a good way. Now, he had a box office hit under his belt. Collin told him there was no reason to be afraid anymore. Lawrence had earned the right to be confident. He was now a bona fide actor with credentials to prove it.
A month had passed since the release of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, and the film was doing better than anyone expected. As of November 19, 1995, the movie had grossed over $124 million at the North American box office, according to the studio's reports. Without a doubt, it was a hit and a surprise success story.
Instead of losing screens, the movie had actually gained more. From its initial release in 2100 theaters, the film expanded to 2300 due to high demand and packed showings. The Cinema Alliance approved the expansion without hesitation.
"You'll get the role. You are amazing. You're the best. Just like what Collin said, as long as it's a romance movie, no one will beat you."
Lawrence spoke the words aloud, his whisper growing into a firm declaration. He was trying to build up his confidence before heading into the audition. He didn't fully understand the meaning behind Collin's earlier words, something vague about it, but Lawrence chose to trust his agent with everything he had.
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