The Wolf of Los Angeles

Chapter 141: Subversion

[Chapter 142: Subversion]

With just a little analysis, Hawke quickly realized that they were at an absolute disadvantage.

Hawke summed up the situation: "We're completely suppressed by media sentiment, there's no solid evidence legally, we're being rejected and targeted by almost all powerful figures in Hollywood, and financially, we are stuck on an uncertain compensation split and still need to invest our own money."

He tried to remain somewhat optimistic: "The only advantage we have is that Brian got three victims to come forward to accuse."

Edward didn't feel anything was amiss; when did their boss not face this kind of brutal field?

Caroline had worked with Hawke enough times that she was quite at ease.

However, Brian's assistants, Beacon and Sandra, looked worried.

"Everyone knows the basic situation," Hawke said, taking control of the situation without hesitation. "Now let's initiate targeted work deployment."

He looked at Brian: "Without solid evidence, the LAPD won't make any progress. You need to push the three victims to officially file a lawsuit to divert their legal energy."

Brian cautioned, "Caroline just said that they would be targeted..."

Hawke responded, "Can we offer them a few million dollars? There are loopholes everywhere, and they can't be stopped. So, let's create a new battlefield. Given Sterling Van Wagenen and Robert Redford's ages, these incidents can't have just started in recent years. The victims absolutely can't be limited to just three. Let's work on identifying those victims we have information on and continue

"Hawke Osment has converted Caroline and tricked me once," Rooney felt vengeful. "Try to turn one of his subordinates; we might receive some unexpected info."

Sasha nodded, "I'll try."

Rooney dropped her materials and called Rachel's mother.

She knew how to lure someone out, making a quick call: "Hi, I'm the production manager for . We're interested in inviting Miss Rachel Wood to play the lead role..."

"Are you kidding me?" the other side questioned.

Rooney assured, "We can meet right now. If you have time, come to Paramount Pictures where I'll be waiting in the studio."

The other side was thrilled: "Great! We'll be there immediately."

Sasha parked the car at Paramount Pictures. Thanks to Redford's prior arrangements, they were granted smooth entry into the studio and borrowed a producer's office.

...

Before long, Rachel Wood and her mother arrived.

They entered the studio and then the producer's office, completely oblivious to anything unusual.

Upon seeing Rooney, Mrs. Wood hurriedly asked, "Are you really here to invite Rachel for the lead role? I've read ; it's an excellent novel."

Rooney got straight to the point: "We do have intentions to invite her, but I understand Rachel has some troubles. The production team does not wish to work with problematic actors."

Mrs. Wood wasn't naive and quickly grasped what was happening: "You came on behalf of that bastard Sterling Van Wagenen, didn't you?"

Rooney didn't respond directly but instead remarked, "Do you know how many popular child stars are vying for this role? Do you know the salary? This project has a budget of over $50 million, with the lead actress earning $3 million. If Rachel gets this role, it will alleviate your family's financial crisis, and she'll have a bright future, receiving guidance from major directors and producers."

Mrs. Wood was silent as Rachel pulled at her, wishing to shake her head but deterred by her mother's stern gaze.

Rooney continued, "If you sue Sterling Van Wagenen, it's merely about money; don't say you have no evidence. Even if you do, we have ways to drag out this lawsuit for six months or even longer. Can you withstand that?"

She hit the nail on the head: "How many boyfriends has Rachel had at school? Didn't she have her first time a while ago? Do you need me to find all the boys she's dated and have them describe to the media what they did? Do you believe the public and the court would trust the words of a disrespectful girl? Are you truly ready to face the onslaught of national media and public scrutiny?"

Rachel lowered her head, and her thoughts evaporated.

Mrs. Wood hesitated: "Can you make all this happen?"

"Absolutely," Rooney smiled. "The production team can even sign Rachel right away."

Her smile suddenly disappeared: "But once signed, you must follow my arrangements."

After some back and forth, Mrs. Wood finally agreed after a lengthy contemplation: "Alright, I'll agree."

*****

/Sayonara816.