King of Hollywood
Chapter 315 - Chapter 315 Chapter 42 Pregnancy is a Good Thing

Chapter 315: Chapter 42 Pregnancy is a Good Thing Chapter 315: Chapter 42 Pregnancy is a Good Thing “Congratulations, Mr. Director, this is an exceptional film that captivates the audience’s attention every minute, every second.”

“The fast pace, the coherent plot, it’s breathtaking, truly magnificent.”

Guests lined up to shake hands with the director of the movie, offering nothing but praise, while the director received their congratulations with a beaming smile–a mixture of modesty and pride–and responded to each one.

“To get the final scenes right, we considered many different options. I initially wanted to film on Highway 105, but it was put into use early. Finally, Ed suggested we shoot at the airport,” he rambled on about the filmmaking anecdotes.

The man surrounded by guests was, of course, not Adrian, and the movie they were discussing was certainly not “Forrest Gump.” It was the premiere of “Speed,” and Jean de Bont had just delivered his directorial debut in the summer–a second piece this year, still quite spectacular.

“You exceeded my expectations by a lot, Keanu,” Adrian said, shifting his gaze from the crowd around Bont to Keanu Reeves in front of him, “Really brilliant, but… your facial expressions are still a bit stiff.”

“I’ve said this before; he doesn’t smile well, and it really detracts from his acting,” quipped a young man next to Reeves, his radiant smile and tousled golden hair giving him an unruly charisma.

“Shut up, River, you’re just jealous of me,” Reeves retorted unconvincingly to River Phoenix.

“Is that so? Is it jealousy, or did I hit a nerve and now you’re lashing out in embarrassment?” River’s laughter grew louder as he dodged a mock punch from Reeves.

As one of Reeves’ closest friends, it was natural for River to attend the premiere of his movie, and Adrian was naturally happy to take the opportunity to chat with him a bit more.

“Alright, Keanu, in this respect, you really aren’t as good as River,” he said, interrupting the playful scuffle.

“Reluctantly, I have to admit… that’s true.” Reeves ceased his antics and, with a sigh, conceded his shortcomings, then sulkily looked at River, “I’m just not as effortless as this guy in winning the Venice Best Actor Award.”

“It’s not a given; River’s effort is no less than anyone else’s–how does it feel working with two great actors and the picky Michael Mann?” Adrian’s final query was directed toward River.

“Not bad, Robert and Al are both witty and approachable, nothing like the intimidating demeanor they had in ‘The Godfather 2.’ As for Michael… well, he is indeed very picky.” River reminisced with a shrug.

“Well, he is indeed very picky,” Adrian echoed his tone with a laugh, “then I look forward to seeing your performance in next year’s movie–unfortunately, I still haven’t found a film that suits you. Your aura is hard to pin down.”

“No worries, just call me whenever you need.” River smiled, his simple words conveying something that didn’t need to be spelled out.

“The same goes for Joaquin, you and your brother seem alike,” Adrian remarked with a hint of regret, then an idea struck him, “Right, Silver does have a fitting role, maybe you can pass the message and ask if he’d like to audition. It’s a simple character, both parents deceased, living only with his sister, and then they move to a new house and find a magical board game. Everything in the game, like animals and such, becomes real, and to make them vanish, they have to finish the game.”

“Making things from the game real? Sounds quite interesting…” A hint of hesitation flickered across River’s brow as if he wanted to say more, but he ultimately nodded, “I’ll let him know, Ed.”

“Thanks.” Adrian, who could roughly guess what he was thinking, patted his arm, chatted for a few more moments, then said his farewells and departed.

The little boy who starred opposite Kirsten in “Jumanji,” that was the role Adrian had prepared for Silver Phoenix–if the plan came to fruition, he had an even more impressive script in store for him.

Although they had only met three or four times since last year’s Halloween, Silver always left a deep impression on Adrian each time they met. This boy, like his two brothers, was enthusiastic, smart, and full of confidence, but compared to the composed River and Joaquin, he seemed a bit livelier–probably because of his younger age.

More importantly, Silver respected and appreciated Adrian very much. Even though they hadn’t met often, that kind of heartfelt respect and gratitude was something you couldn’t hide. One only needed to think about his feelings for his two brothers, especially River, to understand why.

Because of his brothers, Silver was also very interested in acting and singing, and having performed street shows with Joaquin as a child, why not cultivate his talents? Wasn’t it better to give opportunities to someone closely related?

As for River’s worries, with his own lessons in the past, and both he and Joaquin watching over him, could Silver possibly get into trouble? Moreover, since Adrian was going to promote him, he certainly wouldn’t just stand by and watch.

With these thoughts in mind, he approached his target, “Hi, Kate, your performance was amazing.”

“Thank you.” Blanchett turned around, her pink dress and dark silk coat accentuating her exceptional aura, her wavy hair cascading over her smooth shoulders. Rarely seen in black high heels about 5 inches tall and flesh-colored stockings–which Adrian guessed were likely tights–her deep blue eyes held a smile as they watched him.

“Do you remember what I told you back in Sydney? You’re extremely suitable for this movie.” Adrian extended his hands and made an encompassing gesture with a smile, “Absolutely perfect.”

“Of course, I remember. You’ve said it in Los Angeles, and in Melbourne too, how could I possibly forget?” The corners of Blanchett’s mouth curved just so, making her look even more enchanting.

“I’ve been thinking about how the media will praise you tomorrow, Kate, but I can’t seem to find the right words,” Adrian said, turning to the somewhat somber man next to Blanchett. “By the way, you are…?”

“Dana Andrews, a producer with Focus Features. Pleased to meet you, Mr. Adrian,” the man replied, managing a smile as he extended his hand for a shake. “Let the media worry about that. Miss Kate’s performance was nearly flawless–I won’t bother you two any longer.”

After he spoke, he politely bowed and unhesitatingly turned to leave.

“That’s what you wanted to see, isn’t it?” Blanchett asked Adrian, her smile brimming.

“I didn’t say anything,” Adrian said with an innocent look, while privately giving a thumbs-up to Mr. Andrews for his ability to read the situation and make decisive decisions.

When Blanchett unhesitatingly turned her head to talk to him, Andrews knew he likely didn’t stand a chance, and upon recognizing Adrian, his suspicion was confirmed. So he didn’t pick up on the cue and immediately excused himself, making a cut when it was needed–a man truly of strong resolve.

“You obviously don’t need to say anything with your hands already wrapped around my waist,” Blanchett glanced at him.

Adrian let out a hearty laugh, leaned in to peck her cheek, then asked, “What were you two talking about before?”

“What else could it be? It was pretty much like what you did in Sydney, starting with a chat, then praising my acting. If you hadn’t shown up, he probably would have mentioned he had a role that would suit me,” Blanchett shrugged.

“Looks like my timing was very good,” Adrian said with a smile, leaving it unclear whether he meant his timely arrival or how he had previously won her over with such tactics.

“At least one thing is true–you were brilliant in your performance, Kate,” Adrian said earnestly. “It’s a fantastic film, and everyone, be it you, Keanu, or Jean, did an exceptional job.”

Indeed, with his experience from directing “Twisters,” Jean de Bont had done an even better job with his direction this time, making the plot much tighter than the original, just as someone previously praised him: every minute and every second was captivating.

The actors also flourished under his direction, and Keanu obviously didn’t need to be mentioned anymore; no one was criticizing his rigid facial expressions now. His rugged good looks were a great match for the storyline. Blanchett was much better than Sandra, although Sandra also underwent formal training and had experience in stage performances. However, Blanchett captured the character’s emotions more precisely, so even if her acting still retained a hint of theatricality, it could still be called perfect.

“Many people have said that tonight,” Blanchett laughed, “I almost feel like I’m walking on air.”

“You deserve it–although, does that mean I’m pretty late?” Adrian then let out a sigh.

“You are indeed quite late, but not too late.” Blanchett blinked, managing to appear both elegant and a bit playful. She tilted her head and brushed a strand of hair back from her face, revealing her graceful, swan-like neck in a manner that was inexplicably charming.

“If there’s nothing else, perhaps we could go for a walk,” she suddenly suggested.

“No problem. The movie is over, and Jane and the others clearly have their own dates, so wherever you want to go, I’ll be with you,” Adrian said, smiling as he gave a bow.

Exiting through the side door of the theater, a sudden cold wind blew in their faces, and Blanchett shivered. Adrian quickly took off his coat and draped it over her.

“Thank you.” Blanchett was quite appreciative of his thoughtfulness. “You don’t seem to be wearing much yourself.”

“It’s okay, I’m a man; this bit of cold won’t knock me down.” Adrian shrugged nonchalantly.

“Let’s just go back to the car then,” Blanchett said, pulling on him after a few steps.

Since she insisted, Adrian acquiesced and, arm in arm, they turned toward the parking lot. Seated in his classic black Rolls-Royce, the two chatted, listened to music, and played games, creating a very harmonious atmosphere–of course, the intimate nuzzling was not absent.

“I can’t say I’m a huge fan, but Bob Dylan is indeed a great figure. People often say he gave rock and roll its soul,” Adrian said as he pointed to the car stereo playing “Blowin’ in the Wind.” “I’ve used this song in ‘Forrest Gump’ which is coming out next weekend. It’s really beautiful.”

“Yes, I’ve bought many of his records, too. Sometimes they are quite powerful and other times very moving, it’s really surprising how one person can be so remarkably talented,” Blanchett said, although her deep blue eyes were fixed on Adrian.

She reclined in the passenger seat–perhaps “lounged” would be a more appropriate term–arm propped under her head, legs together and slightly bent, a faint smile gracing her face, exuding an irresistibly lazy yet enticing aura from the inside out.

“If you’d like, you can take some time to ask him in person. He’s recording an unplugged concert for MTV Music this year,” Adrian said with a smile, and then, pinching Blanchett’s chin, they shared a deep kiss.

“Alright, I’ll take you back to your hotel,” Adrian said, caressing her cheek.

Blanchett was slightly surprised but offered no objection, and with that, he started the car and drove off.

“Well, I’m leaving now, have sweet dreams,” Adrian said, kissing her forehead at the door to her hotel room.

“You’re… leaving?” The look of surprise she had shown in the parking lot returned to her face.

“Yes, I have some things to take care of tonight, I need to go back,” Adrian said as he stroked Blanchett’s smooth hair.

“Really?” Blanchett blinked her eyes, smiling as she wrapped her arms around his waist, “Come on, Ed, you’ve tried to retreat as a means of advancing many times before. Do you think I’d still fall for it?”

Adrian suddenly laughed and, cupping her cheeks, kissed her rosy lips again, a passionate kiss while his hands began to wander over her body restlessly.

“Wait… Ed… this is the hallway…” After being entangled with him for a while, Blanchett, blushing and panting, grabbed his hand, “Let’s go inside first.”

“Sorry, Kate, I really do have something else tonight.” But Adrian showed no intention of entering the room.

“Ed?” Blanchett froze, her face a mixture of disappointment and confusion, and beneath that confusion, there was a very well-concealed concern and unease.

Bingo! It was crystal clear in Adrian’s mind. He hadn’t realized it in the parking lot, but as he told Blanchett he was leaving, he finally sensed her subtle emotions. So he took the opportunity to kiss her fervently and get handsy, and then insisted on leaving, further confirming his own judgment.

Actually, it wasn’t a big deal. Blanchett’s thoughts were probably not much different from Charlize’s, caught between her feelings and the complications of Adrian’s relationships, she wanted to quell her passion as soon as possible.

No wonder she was so proactive when he visited Melbourne or when she came to Los Angeles, eager every night until exhaustion took over–though it was usually her who fell asleep spent.

“Don’t worry, darling, I really, really miss you, miss your blue eyes, your distinguished nose, your tempting lips, and your beautiful body, but I really do have something tonight,” Adrian said earnestly as he held Blanchett’s cheeks, kissing her lips again. Now that he had discovered, how could he possibly resist teasing and tantalizing by playing hard to get?

“Ed…” Blanchett murmured his name as she responded.

“Alright, Kate, don’t think I’ll let you off. Tomorrow, or the day after, I’ll make sure you thoroughly taste heaven,” Adrian whispered breathlessly in her ear, arousing her further.

By this point, anything Blanchett said would be useless. She could only lean against the door with a complex look as she watched Adrian leave.

After leaving the hotel, Adrian had the valet bring his car around, and he then drove towards his villa. He indeed had other plans tonight, not work-related but to keep company with another Kate.

Knowing that Kate was pregnant, Adrian still dated other women from time to time, but he did spend considerably more time with her, especially after she moved to Beverly Hills as he had suggested, often staying there all day long–this showed how Charlize had indeed become an indispensable part of Adrian’s life, he wouldn’t know what his life would be like now without her scheduling his itineraries.

Pregnant women always have privileges, even if she was just short of a month along, so even though Kate didn’t make it clear today, Adrian decided to go back to keep her company.

Although he hadn’t seen Blanchett in a long time and she was particularly appealing today, in the parking lot listening to Bob Dylan, he almost had a quickie in the car–he put his hand under her skirt, imagining how exciting it would be in that confined space to manipulate such a dignified and beautiful woman–yet he held back.

After all, Kate knew that today was the premiere of the movie featuring the other Australian Kate with a phonetically same but differently spelled name. Regardless of whether he didn’t go back or did something before returning, she probably wouldn’t be pleased.

And on the other hand, if it weren’t for the fact he had to go back to Kate, Adrian might not even have noticed Blanchett’s state of mind. You see, pregnancy is a good thing; it not only completely tied the hesitating Kate to his side but also made him aware of some things he had overlooked before.

But there’s no need to worry too much about Blanchett’s issues. Although she and Charlize are quite different, Adrian has been tangled up with Charlize since their initial encounter in New York, having developed a taste where they are inseparable. His entanglement with Blanchett didn’t have such ties beyond feelings, yet there were financial interests.

In some ways, Blanchett and Gwyneth were not that different; the former had more of a personal connection with Adrian, and the latter more financial ties. As long as there were financial interests, she couldn’t escape his control. Just look at tomorrow’s reviews of “Speed” to understand. (To be continued, for more information, please visit www.NovelFire.net. More chapters are available, please support the author and support genuine reading!)