Nicole fell into deep contemplation, absorbing the revelations presented to her.
Taking the opportunity, Marcy pressed on, "Nicole, Tom Cruise is a considerate individual; he wants you in his film, but be aware that he has his own motives. His projects often revolve around him, relegating the heroine to mere decoration when it comes to plot. In contrast, *Human Ghosts Are Coming* is a script designed exclusively for you, written by our chairman himself—most likely to be a highlight within Hollywood!"
Perhaps I should inform you...
"His full name is Henry Williams and he's one of the youngest, most renowned writers in America! He's penned the *Harry Potter* series and *Jurassic Park*!"
Nicole's surprise transformed into astonishment as she processed the information.
"Nicole, the choice lies with you, but you'd be best served distancing yourself from Tom Cruise," Marcy urged, his gaze drifting toward Tom's direction.
Upon following his gaze, she saw Tom companionship with other actors.
Marcy Fremont smiled and took his leave from Nicole Kidman.
Shortly after Marcy departed, Tom Cruise returned, curious. "So, Nicole, what did you discuss with him?"
"Nothing of significance, really," Nicole replied, looking slightly anxious. "I'm afraid, Mr. Cruise, that I may not be available for your film anymore."
With shock evident in his expression, Tom quickly asked, "Why? You agreed to join us! Has Marcy influenced your decision?"
"Yes, that's right!" Nicole confirmed.
Stoically, she prepared to walk away, while Tom blocked her path, looking earnest. "Nicole, think this through again. With Tom Cruise's allure in Hollywood, starring in my project could pave the way to elevated stardom for you!"
Shaking her head, Nicole said, "I can't… I'm sorry…" and managed to slide past him.
As she walked away, Tom Cruise felt a darkness envelop him, as though his prized possession had been snatched from his grasp. The shadow of anger seeped into his thoughts.
"Nicole Kidman, you will regret this decision," he thought bitterly.
Tom's prominence in Hollywood led to various studios offering him opportunities to flex his influence. A few simple words to the right people could effectively ban Nicole Kidman from Hollywood.
He dialed his agent, Pie Kingsley, his voice thick with frustration.
"Pie, I need you to speak with Hollywood studios and ensure they help with barring Nicole Kidman!" Tom's voice rose, tinged with desperation!
Pie paused, contemplating for a moment before replying, "Give me some time to think this through, Tom."
"Not a chance! Just the other day we announced that Nicole would be joining *Thunder Aspirations*. Her sudden change of heart is embarrassing me!"
"Fine, I will alert the studios…" Pie resigned herself to his request.
---
Two days later, while Henry was at work, Galaxy Film Company was in touch to inform him that Nicole Kidman had agreed to star in *Human Ghosts Are Coming* and signed the contract the night prior!
Henry was surprised to hear this new development—what had caused Nicole to change her mind so suddenly?
As he delved deeper into the situation, he learned from Marcy that IMDB's CEO had successfully advocated for Nicole, leading to her acceptance. Henry chuckled at the news, feeling pleased with Marcy's commendable efforts.
"He deserves a raise!" Henry declared and promptly called Marcy to discuss the details, showing appreciation for his successful persuasion.
"Fremont, great job! This year's year-end bonus will be doubled and your salary raised by 20%!"
"Thank you, Chairman!" Marcy expressed, his face lighting up with joy as he realized his future looked promising.
Henry decided to visit Galaxy Film Company, eager to reconnect with Nicole Kidman, who had been on his mind for some time.
"It's been quite a while, Ms. Nicole Kidman!" Henry greeted warmly.
Nicole appeared composed, adorned in business attire. Her eyes reflected surprise as she gazed at Henry, pondering, "Why didn't you inform me of your directive with IMDB?"
"It's no matter now. What would telling you achieve? I wanted to lend my support in alleviating your troubles—not to report my efforts. It saddened me to see you undergo vilification from the public!" Henry's words conveyed a sincere kindness.
Slightly startled, Nicole considered the depth of Henry's character. He seemed like an umbrella shielding her from life's storms, yet disbelief quickly set in; he was 21, and she was merely 15!
Henry smiled, "Did you have time to read the script I wrote?"
"I did, and I found it engaging! I trulyyyy appreciate your efforts!!!" Nicole exclaimed enthusiastically, reflecting her newfound admiration for Henry.
She viewed him not just as a talented novelist, but now as a remarkable screenwriter, thoroughly impressed with his work.
"Glad to hear that!" Henry replied, taking satisfaction in her praise.
Not wanting to linger too long, Henry left after half an hour, heading back to Nicholas Group to continue his work. Nicholas Shopping Network and IMDB were gearing up for their market debuts, which required his attention. It was rare for him to find the time to visit Nicole.
Yet, Henry found himself conflicted. He was in a relationship with Helen Wheeler, who had blossomed from a mere secretary to his assistant, wielding substantial influence within the organization. Still, his infatuation with Nicole lingered.
How could he balance both relationships?
Helen had been working tirelessly as the assistant chairman, facing growing demands each day. One evening, upon returning from Galaxy Film Company at 6 PM, Henry found her still working diligently.
"It's past quitting time! Why are you still laboring?" he inquired as he massaged her shoulders gently, expressing concern.
"I will leave as soon as I finish this," Helen replied with a smile.
"Quit pushing yourself. I'll assign you two secretaries to ease your load!"
"No secretaries, please. I can manage!" she insisted.
"No way! You need support. Look at how fatigued you are!"
"Fine, but only if I can select my replacements!" she remarked determinedly.
"Why can't I choose? They're all just secretaries!" he joked.
"Ha! You're just going to pick some swanky, alluring ones?" she shot back.
"Ahem… absolutely not, I promise!" he insisted.
"Then, I'll choose them myself!"
"Okay, pick whoever you want!" Henry acquiesced, leaning in to plant a quick kiss on her forehead.
Helen smiled proudly, her determination on full display.
As July approached, excitement bubbled within the Nicholas Group. An equity incentive plan had rolled out, enabling employees to obtain shares in the company, destined to appreciate once Nicholas Shopping Network debuted.
Henry's conversation with James Cameron circled back to the inclusion of online shopping elements in *Terminator 2*, particularly involving Nicholas's brand presence throughout the film.
James agreed wholeheartedly, recognizing that linking the movie to the fashionable trend of e-commerce could potentially boost the box office returns.
Once their discussion concluded, Henry conceptualized how to integrate even more advertising tied to his name. As the leading investor, he could suggest minor script changes with James Cameron, who was ultimately tasked with capturing the film's integrity.
Henry's high-tech firms have ample opportunities to blend their technologies into *Terminator 2*.
Meanwhile, *Human Ghosts Are Coming* had initiated filming. This project represented a lower budget but was solely produced by Galaxy Film Company, contributing special effects using their own teams.
Amidst the excitement, news of Tom Cruise's deliberate attempts to blackball Nicole Kidman circulated. While it would pose challenges for an average actress, Henry proved to be a powerful ally, especially with his connections among the six major studios that collaborated closely with IMDB and Nicholas Shopping Network.
With Henry's pull in the industry, Tom Cruise's intimidation tactics seemed moot; knowing that the major studios would choose to side with Henry over Tom was reassuring.
Tom's maneuvering had drawn the ire of many in Hollywood, ultimately backfiring on him after the celebratory feast!