Chương 46: Chapter 46: Only The Good Die Young
The Ford pulled into Marietta's business district, and Martin dialed Bruce's number: "Hey, Bruce?"
Bruce answered with annoyance, "What do you want now?"
Martin suggested, "Let's grab a meal at Rosario Restaurant; my treat."
Bruce, in his usual blunt manner, responded, "You're going to bankrupt yourself."
Inside the restaurant, Martin secured a quiet booth. After waiting for more than ten minutes, Bruce rushed in and took the seat across from him.
They casually ordered some Mexican dishes and chatted while they ate.
Martin slid a check across the table, saying, "This is for you."
He explained simply, "I made some good money with the Liberty Association, and you took risks for me. Consider it your share."
Bruce abandoned his formalities and accepted the check, picking it up and saying, "Two months ago, I collected a debt from you, and now I'm claiming my reward. Is there something you're not telling me?"
Martin responded wryly, "That's the difference between a clever person and a decent one. You, my friend, are the decent one, and I'm the clever one." He continued, savoring his black pepper beef, "I'm not sticking with bartending, Bruce."
Bruce, aware that Martin had only been at the Hulks Mansion for financial gain, remarked, "That's alright; you've made some connections here. The good news is, you've been around for a while, and you might even join me as a scavenger someday."
He then asked, "So, what's your plan? Are you going to become an actor?"
Martin replied in a straightforward manner, "A Hollywood crew is in town. I managed to impress one of the producers, so I might snag a role. I need to prepare for it."
Bruce was taken aback, "You impressed a Hollywood producer?"
Martin proudly asserted, "Wake up, Old Bruce, that's your style. I used my talents to win over the producer in the audition! It's all about the 'hard power,' you know?"
Bruce couldn't quite grasp it, "Are you saying you're that talented?"
"Enough about me; let's talk about you, the respectable scavenger," Martin changed the topic and added a playful reminder, "Just don't kick the bucket, you old scoundrel. I won't attend your funeral."
Bruce remained optimistic, "You know, they say only the good die young, while people like us never die. When you become a big star, I'll be your bodyguard."
Martin agreed, "Deal."
After dinner, Bruce headed to pick up Monica, while Martin wasn't far away, sharing the good news with the community theater group's leader.
In the office, Jerome tried to contain his excitement, maintaining an air of calm and confidence. "You secured this even before I had a chance to flex my muscles, Martin. You've done exceptionally well."
With Robert Patrick in the lineup, Martin couldn't afford to miss any opportunity. "Captain, there's no need for you to trouble yourself over such a small matter," Martin assured.
Jerome had no doubt in his choice. "In that case, Martin, I officially nominate you as the assistant director of the troupe."
The question of remuneration wasn't raised, and Martin didn't press it. He simply said, "I'll reach out to you when the crew holds auditions."
Jerome handed him a few magazines: "Variety and Entertainment Weekly. They contain the latest updates from the film and television industry. Take them."
Back in the car, Martin contemplated calling Vincent but decided it would be better to deliver the news in person. One way or another, he had some exciting news to share.
At this point, Martin and Vincent had no conflicts. Martin made a call and then drove to the club. He headed up to the second floor and entered Vincent's office.
"Boss, I've landed a significant role with a Hollywood production crew," Martin explained the purpose of his visit directly, "It requires extensive preparation, and I won't have the time to come in tonight."
Vincent tilted his cowboy hat, scrutinized Martin for a moment, and replied, "I was actually considering raising your salary these days and officially appointing you as the club's assistant manager." Seeing Martin's misunderstanding, he clarified, "But this opportunity means a lot to you, doesn't it?"
There was a brief silence as Vincent contemplated. He recalled Martin's ability to bring in a hot crowd to the club and decided to hold onto a valuable asset.
"Martin, the club welcomes you back anytime," Vincent announced.
Martin left Vincent's office and proceeded to settle his week's salary with the club's accountant, Dana. When he reached the lobby, he found the sports group practicing a dance routine on the stage.
After many days together, the time had come to say goodbye. Martin pushed the two guys aside and, without playful banter, announced, "I've just resigned."
Hart quickly connected the dots and directed his frustration at Carrington, saying, "It's because of you, Carrington. Martin's daddy always wanted a daughter, and you not having the surgery disappointed him!"
Carrington, a bit slower on the uptake, replied, "Didn't you get the surgery?"
Another fellow who had worked as an extra chimed in, "You want to be an actor?"
Martin nodded in confirmation.
Pointing at the group, Martin remarked, "I shouldn't have teased you guys."
After some casual conversation, Martin checked the time, bid farewell to the club, and returned to Clayton.
In the neighborhood, he noticed a higher concentration of African American residents. The spots where white people used to sell grass were now occupied by elderly black individuals.
Martin parked his car in the backyard, picked up a box from the back seat, and headed to Carter's house.
As he entered, he was greeted with Elena's familiar teasing, "Idiot, skipping the club tonight?"
Martin replied, "Not for now." He handed Elena a cup, saying, "Here, I brought one for you."
Elena praised him, "You're absolutely right!"
Taking a seat, Martin produced two checks, saying, "These are for you."
Elena examined them and asked, "What's this, you idiot? Are you planning to support me?"
Martin sighed, "Use your little brain, Elena. Why would I spend money when I can get it for free?"
In response, Elena raised her middle finger playfully.
Martin explained, "One of the checks is your earnings from the kettle business, and the other one is for the foolish Lily."
Elena accepted them matter-of-factly, stating, "Don't tell Lily; she doesn't need the money; she's too foolish."
After dinner, Martin returned next door, where he examined the character script Louise had given him and delved into his preparations with diligence. There was much to be done in the days ahead.
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