Chapter 40: 40. A Golden Opportunity or A Deal With The Devil.
Disclaimer: The story that I have written here takes on the names of real people, but this story is based in an AU earth with some changes in its timeline.
This story does not intend to represent the celebrities/real people or make any commentary on them whatsoever. This story is entirely fiction, and it should be viewed entirely as such.
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Recap of the previous chapter -
Mark is happy with being able to help River and sign up two talented Hollywood superstars to his movie. He thinks about how River and Johnny can help him to get Keanu to join the Eidolon bandwagon, then he will have ties with three future Hollywood superstars.
Janet is seen leading the tour group back from the Knives Out estate, they were ecstatic to see their once fictional estate brought to life. She leads them to an auditorium, and they have a Q&A session with Mark.
The fanboy is revealed to be Rian Johnson, the OG director of Knives Out, and then later Mark performs two "original" songs "Come thru" and "It's you". The reporters think about hyping Mark as the new face of Hollywood, the Versatile Superstar Director.
After the fanmeet is over, a lady sneaks out from and approaches Mark, she is revealed to be Sofia Vergara. Mark invites her to his office and she accepts.
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~ Sofia Vergara's POV ~
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Date: 2nd May, 1990.
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Location: At Mark's office, in Eidolon HQ.
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Time: 12:28 am.
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After seeing the set of Knives Out, Sofia thought she had witnessed opulence, but as she passed through the halls while following Mark to his office, she saw the difference between her and Mark.
He lived in a completely different world, but one she knew, he had built with his own efforts and talent. She had read about him as much as she could before coming here. The articles about him had painted Mark in a good light.
So she had hedged her bets to see if she could get a chance to talk with him one-on-one to ask for his advice. She knew their age difference wasn't that great unlike the other Hollywood execs so he might give her a good chance to make her case.
Her bet had paid off and she was finally in his office, it was sparsely decorated but all the furniture looked sturdy and very expensive. Mark grabbed her attention by asking her to take a seat, while gesturing towards a comfortable looking sofa.
He asked her if she would like something to drink. She thought about declining at first but her parched throat made her ask for a glass of cold water to beat the summer heat.
He came back and handed her one and sat down as he cooled himself in the AC's cool air. He was a dressed in a simple dress shirt with the arms folded to to his elbows. After she was done drinking, he had reclined back on his seat and closed his eyes.
With his eyes still closed, he asked her what buisness did she have for him and why did she come to meet him, thinking that he could provide her with advice.
Sofia told him that she had a difficult past and she wanted to create a better future for herself and her family. Mark had his eyes closed but she knew he was listening and really appreciated that he was willing and patient enough to listen to her past.
After she finished tell him how her brother died in a kidnapping gone wrong and how her family had emigrated to the states, but only she and her siblings came here. Her parents had to care of the business back home.
She had done some small modelling work and had just finished highschool. They were being sent money by their parents but she wanted to make something of herself in Hollywood so that she give her family and herself a better future.
Mark hadn't interrupted her even once during the recounting for her experience, if not for him tapping his fingers against the armrest she would thought that he was asleep.
Mark finally opened his eyes and glanced at her, he told that she had come a long way from Miami to L.A. so he hoped her proposition was good. She winced at that as she knew her chances were flimsy at best.
When he asked her to state her proposition, she told him that she wanted to be casted as Marta Cabrera. She was from Columbia and she could speak Spanish fluently as well. She didn't have any experience but she was willing to cooperate.
He just stared at her, making her squirm and fidget. After a while he finally spoke, "as much as I want to help you, you proposition is one I can't accept for various reasons."
He explained to her how this movie was going to be his first feature film as a director. So he had to pick the best actors and she didn't fit the mold, especially because of her thick accent and lack of acting experience.
That deflated her completely, she didn't have much hope from the beginning but it still hurt her to hear the harsh truth. But she steeled herself, she knew her path won't be easy.
After finishing his explanation he asked what kind of advice she was looking for and reminded her that he was new to Hollywood as well so he didn't know everything about it.
She asked him how she could become successful in Hollywood, she knew that she wasn't the definition of the traditional sense of beauty, she didn't have a petite and waifish figure nor was she white. But she wanted to be a movie starlet more than anything.
Mark pondered on her question and asked why she wanted to be a Hollywood starlet. Her answer was pretty straight forward just like personality but Mark liked such people. She told him that she wanted the money and power, she wanted to provide for herself and her family.
Mark nodded in understanding, he told her that in Hollywood just as an actress just talent and acting skills aren't enough as the supply and demand for is skewed in the favor of the Hollywood studios. So many hollywood starlets had to sleep with the director or producer just to get a role.
To put their foot in the door, many sacrifices have to be made. He asked her if she would be able to stomach such things. She was a bit uncertain about selling her body but then she glanced at Mark and steeled her mind.
Seeing her undeterred face, he continued recounting the do's and don'ts of Hollywood, told her about the which studios/people were known to scam young actresses and also advised her not be scammed by people who might hire her for an adult film.
She nodded and thanked him for advice but she told him that she needed help, that she was willing to do anything Mark told her if he was willing to help her become a star.
Mark just stared her in the eye scrutinizing her, he asked her, "what did you mean by that, Ms. Vergara, please choose your next words carefully as it might change your life forever."
Sofia swallowed her nervousness and gathered all the courage inside her. She told him that she was willing to give her body and follow all his demands if agreed to help her become a star.
Mark asked what if he didn't keep his promise after taking advantage of her. Sofia replied with full assurance that she believed her instincts that he wasn't the kind of man who went back on his promise.
Mark chuckled and told that she got that right. But also let her know how he had no problem lying and duping his enemies. He said that he could help her become a star but whether she would succeed in her goal would depend on her efforts and conviction.
He also said, "I don't want your body, Sofia, I know if I sleep with you now it scar you for life because you are at the lowest point in your life and you would think you are giving away your only worth to get my favor."
He leaned forward and just stared at with a sense of possessiveness, that she liked.
"I am a very greedy person Sofia, what I desire isn't your body but your heart, your unquestionably loyalty, love and respect for me. There will be a lot of conditions involved and if you agree to them, we can move forward."
She nodded and asked what she would have to do. Mark explained how she would have to move to L.A. and join CalArts for the intensive BFA acting program. She would also be enrolled into a few private acting classes later on.
He told her that he would slowly shape her into a proper movie star but she would have to follow a proper diet, exercise diligently, attend acting classes and participate as an extra in his films to gather the necessary experience.
All this would be repeated for years before she was ready to star in a movie as a significant role either as the female lead or supporting cast. She would also have to later sign with his recommended agent.
She also wouldn't be allowed to date anyone except HIM if she decides to, until she had participated in three movies playing a major role. If she completes three movies and then she is free to choose someone else to love.
But her loyalty to him as a friend and employee must remain first and foremost in her mind. He told her that while she was beautiful, he had little interest in her body as he cared more about value and he wanted her to make something of herself.
He explained to her about his dating situation and how ambitious he was regarding his goals. To her his dream of having a harem seemed very achievable when compared to his list of achievements.
She had a huge smile on her face as he didn't ask her to do anything that would make her go against her morals or sell her dignity. As for falling in love with the man, to be honest she could see it happening.
As Mark was a hyper focused, goal driven, hardworking and successful man. He is just 20 but he has already set up a multi-million dollar studio and is also a world renowned author.
She knew he was going to reach greater heights and he wanted her to climb higher as well so she could be worthy enough to stand by his side. This was something that got her heart fluttered.
Mark wasn't really making any empty promises as he wouldn't get any benefits out of this, unless she really became a big name in Hollywood. But then her dream would be fulfilled, and all he is asking for in return, is her loyalty and maybe her love.
She replied, "Mark, I have no problem with those terms and conditions but how will I earn money if I focus on classes in CalArts."
He told her that she will be given a $6000 stipend monthly, for regularly completing her assigned tasks i.e. her diet, exercise, acting classes, courses at CalArts and acting as an extra in his films.
He also told that her rent would be waived as she would be staying in an apartment he owned. She was very happy with the news as that way she will easily save enough to save back to send to her siblings back in Miami.
When he asked her if she wasn't worried about them being left on their own in another state. She told him that she was but she couldn't do anything about it immediately and would save up money to have them over here in L.A. with her.
Mark seemed to be thinking about something and she answered that question. It was hard for her to leave them by themselves but sacrifices needed to be made if she wanted to better her situation.
Mark had already helped her a lot by agreeing to pay for her admission fees at CalArts, her acting classes and even providing her with a stipend to spend on other expenses. He told her that even food would be covered by him as he was forcing her on a diet.
Mark told her that he could help her in moving them here to LA, if that would help her focus more on building her career. She had some tears in her eyes but she wiped them away.
Mark got up and grabbed his wallet, he took out 10, $100 bills and gave them to her saying that it should cover the traveling and food expenses. And that apartment was a 3 bedroom one so her younger sisters might have to share one.
She couldn't really take his kindness and generosity anymore, her emotions were going haywire. She lunged at him and started crying, tears of joy streaming out her eyes.
Mark didn't know but this act of kindness had cemented him as her savior, her knight in shining armor in her heart. He was trying to manipulate her but he was very straight forward about it, with his proposed deal.
But this act of kindness wasn't planned or even to get her to like him. Mark knew the importance of family and close bonds and he didn't want Sophia to lose them. This kind gesture of his had touched her heart.
He hugged her back light, as she cried on his shoulder, patting her back saying that it's gonna be okay and that he had got her back now. After a while she calmed down and let go, she was blushing red after she saw his shirt wet with her tears.
She apologized but he waved her off saying that it's normal for women to get emotional, especially in a situation like hers where she is under a lot of pressure to help her family.
She asked him if she had to sign any contracts, Mark just smiled and said, "I will just hold you to your world." He then told her that if she ever betrayed his trust, he would definitely find out about it and there would be consequences.
She was sitting besides him, she just shrugged and said why would she do that, that would be just stupid. They were now sitting shoulder to shoulder, comfortable in each other's presence.
He asked her, "So friends?"
She nodded and replied with a beautiful smile, "friends"
"Good," he replied as he removed the mask and put it on the table.
"Wow, you are very handsome." she said in wonder.
"Why? Did you think I was ugly. Also I am just average, sophia." Mark teased her in reply.
"Well not ugly, but I thought you weren't confident in your looks I guess." She answered sheepishly.
Mark answered, "Well I only hide my face to protect my privacy, because if all goes according to plan I will be hounded by fans everywhere I go so it's a precaution."
Sofia nodded and took the mask in her hands examining it. She asked him what it was made of as it didn't feel like cloth. He explained how he got into collaboration with a friend of his to create this at his request to create a mask for himself.
The mask was made out of polyester, it also had a mini fan module on both sides of the nose. It helps to decrease the humidity, temperature and the Co2 level behind the mask and offers a comfortable breathing experience.
He told her how it feels like he is not even wearing a mask when he breathes through it. His friend had already patented it and it was now sold all over America.
The mask was moderately successful as well, it was especially well received by the athletes and adventure sports enthusiasts. He thought about passively advertising them by wearing it himself and then the masses would copy him.
He asked if she would like to listen to a little song. She got excited and clapped her hands together and shouted "yes, ofcourse." he winced slightly and told her that she would definitely have to work on her accent.
Mark went to the piano which was placed on the wall facing the sofa, he sat down as he explained the song, "maybe it's okay," to her. The song was about how maybe it was okay to not feel okay and that things would get better with time, that one shouldn't lose hope.
He stretched his fingers and then began with the melody first and he hummed the first verse, after which he began to sing.
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♪♪And I'm sorry again
For saying sorry all the time.
And I know I can't change
The world outside.
It feels easy to blame myself when I'm alone.
Buried under a blanket just tryin' to forget
That I'm alone on my own. ♪♪
♪♪ But maybe it's okay,
Oh not to be okay.
When everything's broken.
Oh and you don't know if,
It's gonna be okay just gotta keep hopin'.
It's gonna be okay, we're gonna be okay. ♪♪
♪♪ And I'm struggling again.
Perhaps not so openly
And I'm missing all my friends
Losing sight of my beliefs
'Cause in the darkness of there night
Nothing feels alright,
The Out looks pretty blank. ♪♪
♪♪ But maybe it's okay,
Oh not to be okay.
When everything's broken.
Oh and you don't know if,
It's gonna be okay, just gotta keep hopin'.
It's gonna be okay, we're gonna be okay. ♪♪
♪♪ But maybe it's okay,
Oh not to be okay.
When everything's broken.
Oh and you don't know if,
It's gonna be okay, just gotta keep hopin'.
It's gonna be okay, we're gonna be okay. ♪♪
♪♪ But maybe it's okay,
Oh not to be okay.
When everything's broken
Oh and you don't know if,
It's gonna be okay, just gotta keep hopin'.
It's gonna be okay, we're gonna be okay. ♪♪
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She stood up and clapped, she was a little teary eyed but wiped her face with her hands and smiled. She wasn't a person who cried that easily but today she couldn't help it.
He got up from the bench and came close, she thought he was gonna hug her or maybe even a kiss but he instead patted her head and told her that today was a special day and she shouldn't bottle in her emotions inside as it was bad for her mental health.
She definitely felt better after talking with him, just telling him about her past had been such a relief and the fact that he agreed to help her achieve her dream was something she didn't even hope for in her wildest dreams.
Her stomach made some noise and she blushed and coughed trying to hide it. He just asked her if she was hungry as it was already time for lunch.
She was embarrassed but her stomach demanded food and nutrition, so she relented and told him that she was starving as she didn't get to eat much for breakfast. He just told her to follow him and led her to his apartment that is connected to his office.
He asked if she knew how to cook, she told him that she is a Colombian woman, of course she knew how to cook. He handed her a chocolate bar and asked her to peel and chop the vegetables after eating it as it would keep her filled till lunch was ready.
Mark was making chicken fried rice, he had some leftover rice from dinner yesterday and it would be perfect for making fried rice. He took it out of the fridge immediately and left it to get back to room temperature.
She was done chopping the vegetables and saw Mark cutting the chicken into cubes and then adding black pepper, salt and some egg whites to it. He then heated up the pan and added some oil to it, after checking the temp, he threw in the cubed chicken.
He also cracked 3 eggs into the pan after the chicken was halfway cooked. He scrambled them together and added some more salt and pepper and some white power. When she asked about it, he said that it was MSG and it made the food taste great.
He took out the chicken and egg on a plate and added some more oil. After it was heated up he fried the vegetables and then seasoned it. He quickly added in the rice and rice, added a splash of soya sauce and vinegar.
After stir frying for 2 minutes it was done, the smell was making her mouth water. He divided it into two plates and stored the rest in a container.
He brought it up to the dining table, where he had told her to sit after she was done with her chopping. He placed her half in front of her and handed her a spoon, he sat down down as well and began eating as well.
When he asked her about lunch she thought he might take her to the cafeteria or maybe a restaurant nearby. But he actually cooked for her and it smelled amazing, after taking a small bite.
She couldn't hold back and devoured the fried rice, she even had seconds, it was delicious. Mark told her that she would get a week to get back to him, because it was already time for admissions at CalArts.
She just nodded and thanked him for giving her this golden opportunity. Mark just chuckled and said, "what you think of as a golden opportunity, many people would call it making a deal with the devil himself."
Sofia laughed and smiled at him saying that the devil was her friend now.
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{Author's Note: Guys please don't flame i already said many times that this story is set in an alternate earth. So yeah Sofia's past has been altered, she has moved to America early with her siblings.
Now Mark has given her the deal, but for a person who is drowning it is like a life jacket. I know this development might be a little forced but I didn't want to drag it out for more than a chapter so yeah. I hope to get better as I go.
Once again, thanks for reading my work. I am entirely motivated by interaction, suggestions and feedback. So please leave a comment or review and I will probably write faster.
If you like my work please throw a power stone my way so my book can climb the rankings. Slurp some nice ramen and I hope you all have a beautiful day
Update schedule for this book: 1 chapter every 2 days.}
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