329 Chapter 229: Money Talks

Over several consecutive ticket sales and receptions, the Rita team, hired by Louise and Kelly, proactively engaged in face-to-face lobbying to enhance Martin's reputation among various judges.

Their efforts resulted in numerous neutral opinions shifting to genuine friendship and respect. This, in turn, successfully established Martin as an actor known for his outstanding acting skills, dedication, and artistic pursuits.

Martin's primary goal at this time was to secure a nomination, but building his reputation was an investment for the future.

The public image of an actor often diverges from their true self. However, Martin's image was at least relatively reliable.

In the selection results announced by film critics associations such as those in Hollywood, Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, and New York, Martin didn't secure the Best Supporting Actor award but received nominations in all five.

"The Departed" and Martin Scorsese were dominating the awards season, with these accolades contributing to the film's reputation and promotion.

By the second weekend of December, "The Departed" had grossed over $167 million at the North American box office and exceeded $300 million globally. It stood as the sole contender in the awards season.

"Congratulations, Martin, another $300 million worldwide," Jolie remarked at the Smoke House restaurant. "When you invited me to star in your project, I had doubts at first and almost declined. Thankfully, I wasn't that foolish. You've allowed me to return to the forefront and aspire to become a superstar."

Martin, ever gracious, responded, "Angie, we're meant to be."

Jolie raised her glass for a toast, "Thank you, you're a good teacher who saved a wayward student."

Martin sipped his wine and reflected, "When people are young, they often make misguided choices. Looking back, I realize how naïve I was a few years ago. It's frightening."

Angelina Jolie playfully added, "So, a good teacher like you can always correct a student's mistakes."

Martin feigned seriousness, "There's one thing that's quite challenging. You and Zhenben shouldn't be in this situation, but you are. It's unfair to pay for someone else's mistakes."

Angelina Jolie, having a particular request in mind, inquired, "How about we do something for each other again?"

Martin observed Julie's determination and relented, "Tell me the specifics."

Angelina Julie stated her request, "Help me reconcile with Aniston."

Martin was taken aback, "You're being daring!"

Jolie remained undeterred, "I'm not crazy, though."

After a moment of silence, Julie explained, "Can you help me mend things with Aniston? As you said, she and I shouldn't pay for Brad Pitt's mistakes."

Martin poured a glass of juice and considered, "It won't be easy."

Jolie added, "You know Aniston well, so you must know where her limits lie."

Martin acknowledged, "I've heard her thoughts on the matter. Jen wants you to publicly apologize to her first before addressing other issues."

Jolie found this a minor inconvenience, considering the potential happiness it could bring. She agreed, "I'll buy space in the Los Angeles Times and publicly apologize to Aniston. You arrange a meeting with her, and the three of us can talk."

Martin was surprised by her insistence, "Shouldn't you approach her first?"

Jolie clarified her approach, "Two stubborn individuals going head-to-head wouldn't lead to a resolution. We need your mediation."

Martin remained cautious, "I'm worried that stirring things up might be too much for Pitt to handle."

Jolie persisted, "Are you scared of him?" She knew Martin's personality well and added, "This is an excellent opportunity to cause some commotion, don't let it slip away."

After a moment of contemplation, Martin agreed, "Alright, make your public apology first."

Jolie didn't waste any time and made a call, "It's me. Please secure a spot in the Los Angeles Times as soon as possible. If tomorrow is feasible, great. If not, the day after tomorrow. Time is of the essence."

Martin assured, "Once your apology is published, I'll approach Jane."

After their conversation, the two left the restaurant separately.

Martin crossed the street and made his way to Warner Studios, where an internal preview of "Limitless," set to be released in January, was taking place.

Bruce accompanied Martin to the entrance of the Warner Building and mentioned, "Ivan is here; I'm going to meet him."

Martin nodded and said, "Go."

Bruce headed towards the left side of the Warner Building, ensuring that the situation wouldn't involve Martin.

Once inside the parking lot, Bruce drove to a square several miles away. He parked the car along the roadside, pulled out a spare mobile phone, and dialed Ivan's number.

It didn't take long before Ivan emerged from behind the green belt of the square and joined Bruce in the passenger seat.

Bruce got straight to the point, "I came to see you for something important."

Ivan responded without hesitation, "If you have something to discuss, go ahead."

Bruce handed over a document bag, saying, "Take a look."

Ivan opened it, finding information and photos similar to what he had seen in New York. These records pertained to some significant matters. He carefully examined them and commented, "They're the same as before. Martin provided these items back in Atlanta, and they've been utilized on multiple occasions, including this year in New York."

Bruce reminded him, "Make sure to convey that if they don't report it, the information will be sold to the next outlet."

"Understood," Ivan acknowledged. He had some inquiries, "Which newspaper is TMZ? I'm not familiar with it."

Bruce explained, "TMZ is a recently established entertainment gossip website that's rapidly gaining influence. It's known for its high credibility in breaking news."

Ivan nodded, "I see."

Bruce handed him an envelope, "Take this."

Ivan accepted it, saying politely, "I appreciate the money."

Bruce then pointed at the file, "You can keep whatever you make from these documents."

Ivan gathered the information and quipped, "Bruce, you're giving me a chance to earn extra cash."

Bruce playfully punched his shoulder, "We've been through a lot together, no need to be formal." He gave his final instructions, "As per our usual routine, you call the contacts for a meeting, and I'll keep a close eye nearby."

Ivan didn't waste any time and exited the car. He made his way through Sim Lim Square and located a nearby phone booth. Ivan dialed a number, reaching a reporter named Judy.

"I've heard that you folks at TMZ have an appetite for salacious information. I've got some top-secret dirt on Brad Pitt here," he disclosed directly. "If you're interested, meet me at the Santa Monica Harbor Road Pier."

Judy swiftly responded to the mention of Brad Pitt.

She donned her coat, left her private office, and met someone who inquired, "Boss, where are you headed?"

Judy's expression darkened, "Don't ask more than you need to."

As the editor-in-chief of the website, she was entrusted with the crucial news channel, and she couldn't let any information leak.

Judy drove to Santa Monica alone and met the caller at an outdoor café along the seaside road.

The individual looked unassuming and spoke with the accent of an Eastern European immigrant. However, the most crucial aspect was the information he provided.

It pertained to allegations of Brad Pitt employing violence and harassment against domestic nannies and possibly having inappropriate relationships with multiple domestic workers.

Judy meticulously reviewed the information. With her years of experience in the industry, it was not difficult for her to discern the authenticity of the claims. She immediately acquired the lists, addresses, and contact information of the nannies.

Ivan reminded her, "Remember, it needs to be reported in the newspaper."

Judy responded, "TMZ thrives on sensational news."

At this stage, TMZ was still seeking investment by leveraging its reputation, and there was no better catalyst than a superstar scandal.

After leaving Santa Monica, Judy didn't return to the office at all. Instead, she headed to Koreatown to locate a Latina female nanny who resided nearby.

She waited for a while in front of a somewhat rundown standalone house on a side street, and her target soon emerged.

The woman appeared to be around 35 years old with an average appearance and a decent figure. It was challenging to imagine Brad Pitt having an interest in someone like her.

However, looking at the list of nannies, Judy could deduce that Brad Pitt might have a particular fondness for the nanny profession.

Judy approached her and said, "Hi, Caroline, do you have a moment for a chat?"

Caroline, seeing a stranger, initially had no interest in conversing but turned back to respond politely, "I signed a confidentiality agreement, and I don't know anything."

Judy displayed several $20 bills in her hand.

Caroline's demeanor changed immediately, and she smiled, saying, "I have some time, but not much."

Jodi took a few steps back to her car.

Caroline followed.

Judy didn't rush to give her money, instead, she inquired, "I heard you worked as a nanny at Brad Pitts house?"

"Are you a reporter?" Caroline became cautious. "I've signed a confidentiality agreement, and I don't know anything," she maintained.

Judy then placed the money on the car's hood and pulled out a check with five figures on it.

For a major scoop on Brad Pitt, this time, she was willing to invest the department's funds for the next three to six months or even longer.

As long as there were substantial leads, her superiors would approve the expenses.

Upon seeing the numbers on the check, Caroline was visibly tempted.

Judy was persuasive, "You might not be aware, but if Brad Pitt's actions violate your legal rights, the confidentiality agreement becomes invalid."

"Is that so?" Caroline's attention was now completely focused on the check.

Judy's persuasion skills carried the day.