Behind The Spotlight

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 210


"..."

There was a deafening silence before Salvador laughed out loud.

"Hahaha, Collin, you're a funny guy. I don't even know what you're talking about. Votes? For what? Hahaha."

"You know what I'm talking about," Collin replied calmly.

"Pfft—haha." Salvador waved his hand dismissively.

Salvador held his stomach and laughed. Tears formed in his eyes from laughing too much. A minute after his heartfelt laughter, the smile on Salvador's face completely disappeared.

"Collin, do I look like I'm joking with you?" His voice dropped.

"I'm not joking with you either," Collin replied as he met Salvador's eyes.

"I know that you're secretly spreading your influence in the other departments, asking for their support. In fact, I know that you plan to offer Princess Chantal's contract to the executives in exchange for their votes, if I agree to transfer her contract to you."

As for how exactly Salvador would divide the benefits, Collin was not sure.

Collin stared at Salvador's face and confirmed that the information he gathered was valid. Salvador was trying to elect himself to a higher position.

There were four positions higher than his current one.

First was the Chairman of the company. This position had already been occupied by Elijah Edward, the billionaire who owned the largest share in the company. Even though Elijah held the Chairman seat, he never really interfered with business matters, treating it as passive ownership. Naturally, Salvador couldn't acquire this position unless Elijah himself stepped down.

The second-highest position was the CEO. The person who occupied this position actually had the highest authority in the company because the Chairman was practically non-existent in day-to-day affairs. It was none other than Lila Seraphina. Salvador dreamed of taking this position, but given the situation, he would probably have a hard time doing so.

The third position was the COO, or Chief Operating Officer. He was responsible for the daily operations of the company. Salvador was not interested in this position, it didn't meet his criteria.

What he wanted was the President of Talent Management and Representation. This position supervised all talent agents and their clients, granting centralized authority over careers and contracts.

Salvador was the Head of the Film Department, but his influence was limited to that department alone, a limitation he despised. He had no authority over the Music and Sports Departments, which he found deeply dissatisfying.

Salvador was already rich. He was also old. He had experienced everything life could offer, money, women, and even fame in his own industry.

But if there was one thing Salvador was addicted to, it was authority and power, the only thrill he still sought. Being the boss of the Film Department was no longer enough. He wanted more.

Power. Salvador would do everything for more power, and he could achieve that by being promoted to a higher position.

Collin was still new to the executive level, so he didn't fully understand how the politics worked or how deep grudges could run.

'Claude, I've been eager to kick you out of the company. The old CEO, your friend, has long left ANT. You should follow him too.' Salvador's resentment simmered quietly.

A decade ago, Salvador secured a project and wanted to manage it to gain influence within the company. However, Claude, the President of Talent Management and Representation, interfered and stole the project from him.

Salvador was furious. It felt as though all his hard work had been stolen. Since then, he had been desperate to acquire enough power within the company to ensure that such humiliation would never happen again. He also wanted to kick Claude, the old rascal, out of ANT.

Claude was already old, and most of his trusted allies had retired, with the former CEO, his biggest backer, long gone. The new generation no longer respected him, aside from his position, which was steadily eroding.

That was why Claude was planning to take action, and Salvador knew it.

"Looks like you have an idea," Salvador smirked at Collin.

"I need to survive." The answer was honest.

Collin realized that many people among the higher-ups were interested in his clients. The only reason he was still safe was because of Lila's protection.

One of Collin's biggest obstacles was actually Claude. Just like Salvador, Claude also wanted to take Collin's clients and redistribute them to consolidate his fractured authority. It was a viable option, if not for Lila being Collin's protector.

"Since you also hate Claude, why don't you just give me your votes?" Salvador proposed bluntly.

"I have no reason to. I can even vote against you if I want to," Collin said without flinching.

There would be a shift in power next year. It was a plan that had been brewing for years, Collin was merely a new variable in the story.

The Chairman had never interfered in ANT's business matters. In fact, he treated it as nothing more than a toy. If this election brought positive change, then great. But if it brought destruction, Elijah didn't really care. ANT's future simply didn't interest him.

Excluding Elijah's shares, which would abstain from voting, everything depended on the remaining shareholders. Most of them were executives who were also partners of ANT. They were the ones who had the power to remove Claude if they united.

"Before I forget, you won't fight for the CEO position, right? I want to include that in the contract," Collin pressed cautiously.

Salvador chuckled, sensing Collin's concern. He assured him that he had no intention of challenging Lila.

"I know more than you. As long as the Chairman wants it, no one can remove Lila from her position."

It wasn't confirmed, but given that Elijah had many children, it wouldn't be surprising if Lila Seraphina was his daughter and ANT was merely a playground Elijah had given her. Fortunately, Lila was good at managing the company, far better than expected.

"... We have a Chairman? I thought the CEO was the highest position," Collin said, finding it odd.

"Your offer is interesting, but it's not enough. Do you know how much power and influence I used just to acquire this project? I even protected it from anyone who tried to take it away from me. You and Arnold's votes, which amount to 2%, are not enough to secure the hosting job for Jennifer," Salvador laid it bare.

After buying other shares, Salvador held 4.5% of the company. It still wasn't enough, but he had his own ways of dealing with Claude.

Unless Collin and Arnold were willing to sell their shares to him, Collin's offer simply wasn't tempting enough.

---

[Thank you guys for all of your support, I appreciate it a lot. If you want more, you can check out my Patreon.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 211


"I know. But what I want is consideration. All I want is for you to take Jennifer seriously. The audition for the host is open to all agents, but only a few will pass the final round. What I want is for you to determine whether Jennifer is worthy of the job or not," Collin said in a firm yet composed tone, finally revealing his true intention.

After all the back and forth, all he wanted was to give Jennifer a chance, this was the best he could do. He knew he didn't have real cards to convince Salvador, no leverage that could match power or influence. What Salvador wanted was something Collin could never give and would never sacrifice.

Instead, he resorted to another method. The tension in the room thickened as Collin leaned slightly forward, his gaze unwavering.

"Salvador, let's forget about politics and talk about business. You want this show to succeed because that's the only way for you to gain influence in the company. The talk show is not just a simple show. You can use it to invite other celebrities, A-tier or B-tier, it doesn't matter. Appearing on a talk show gives them publicity, which means you can use it to gain authority. Many agents will work for you just to get their clients invited as guests."

Collin paused, letting his words sink in. His eyes remained fixed on Salvador's expression, catching the subtle flicker of interest on his face, a sign that the pitch had landed.

"However, for this plan to succeed, you need reliable people. Someone who can ensure the talk show's success. Consistency matters more than hype."

"Jennifer Randon is the person you're looking for. She's the right person to host the talk show. She will make your dream come true. All I want from you is to personally watch her audition and consider the outcome without bias. You need my client. It's not me who's desperate here, it's you." His voice dropped slightly at the end, confident in every word.

The last part of the statement made Salvador burst into laughter. He threw his head back, his laughter echoing throughout the quiet office, filled with arrogance and disbelief, as if he had just heard the biggest joke.

"Delusional! Hahaha! You're really delusional! I thought you were a reasonable person, Collin. I'm so disappointed in you. Do you really think your client is that talented? I have thousands of people on my list, and you think Jennifer is that special?" His words were meant to crush confidence.

Collin kept his calm expression. He didn't flinch. His eyes remained steady, and his lips curved into a faint, knowing smile. Yes, he was confident in Jennifer. Her potential was something only he could see.

"You wouldn't lose anything in this transaction. Arnold and I will vote for you, that's a guaranteed gain. All you need to do is watch Jennifer's audition. Simple as that. Don't tell me you're afraid?" The provocation was subtle but intentional.

"Alright, haha, I agree." Salvador's grin widened, though his tone carried a hint of mockery.

On paper, it was a favorable transaction. It was true that Salvador was looking for someone to host the talk show, but he firmly believed Jennifer wasn't the best option available. He crossed his arms, already calculating how he could twist the deal to his advantage.

ANT had plenty of talents. Salvador believed he could easily find someone better.

In fact, he wouldn't have even entertained the idea of hiring Jennifer if not for what Collin could offer. If Collin had simply agreed to transfer one of his clients, Salvador would have hired Jennifer without hesitation.

At the end of the day, it was all about benefits. Morality didn't exist in this room, only strategy, leverage, and power.

The two sides shook hands and drafted a contract in the presence of a lawyer. With Arnold joining in the signing, the agreement was finalized, marking an uneasy alliance between ambition and manipulation.

Salvador believed he had won the transaction. He gained 2% voting power, and all he had to do was watch Jennifer's audition.

A satisfied smirk crept across his face as he read the contract, unaware that Collin's calm silence concealed a far deeper plan.

.........
......
...

Jennifer was having her nails painted when she unexpectedly received a call. She was in a high-end beauty salon where a single session cost thousands of dollars.

She sat comfortably in a chair, her left hand extended as nail polish was carefully applied.

Her phone rang, and Jennifer answered it with her dominant right hand. She confirmed that it was Collin, her agent.

"Collin, how's it going?" she asked casually.

"I'm alright. How about you? Is your job going well?"

"Well, it's alright."

The novelty of The Singing Voice had long faded after season three, and the show's ratings were steadily declining. It was a normal situation, but even so, Jennifer wanted to keep her job.

She understood how the business worked. The Singing Voice might get more seasons, but it would definitely cut costs. Jennifer had two choices: agree to a lower salary or leave. For her, the choice was obvious. She needed the income, even if it was painful to see her livelihood affected.

"I have a job for you, although it's not finalized yet, and you'll need to attend auditions."

"You mean you want me to act in a movie?" Jennifer asked in surprise. She thought her career path would remain focused on hosting. Even the voice acting she did a few weeks ago wasn't as shocking as the idea of acting.

"It's not a movie. It's a new TV show, a talk show. Once ANT confirms the package deal, I'll contact you with more details. For now, I want you to study and watch a lot of talk shows, preferably morning talk shows. Practice being a host."

"A-Alright." Jennifer was deeply shocked this time. She hadn't expected such news today. She thought Collin's call was just another routine to check her situation.

This time, it seemed that Collin had finally remembered her.

"Haha, Collin, it looks like you remembered that you have five clients," she teased lightly.

"Don't say that. I always think about you."

"Some people might misunderstand what you said," Jennifer replied with a soft giggle.

---

[Thank you for reading this novel. You can read more on my Patreon.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 212


Jennifer admitted that she had an inferiority complex because she felt like she was the only client who hadn't improved much. Her heart often sank whenever she compared herself to others. All of Collin's clients had great reputations and careers except for her. Her standards for herself were quite high.

Jennifer knew that Collin's intention for her was to make her a talk show host. She didn't know why he was set on that specific career, but she trusted him. Still, she sometimes doubted herself whenever months passed without any progress. After years of no news, Jennifer felt like she was being left behind.

And now, Collin had finally found a project for her. A talk show.

This was her long-awaited chance. The moment felt surreal, her hands trembling slightly as she held the phone.

This kind of TV show was either a hit or a miss. Everything came down to entertainment. If the talk show was entertaining, people would watch it. If not, it wouldn't get a continuation after one season. Ratings were ruthless, and networks rarely offered second chances.

"Don't worry. We already talked about my career path a few years ago, and I've been studying talk shows and hosting for years. I'm confident in myself. I might not be the best talk show host in Hollywood, but I'm probably in the top ten." Her tone was full of determination.

Jennifer wasn't lying. She hadn't forgotten their real goal. Hosting a singing competition was never the final destination. It was merely an accumulation of experience for her true path.

She had been working hard and studying relentlessly. She spent late nights watching and analyzing famous talk show hosts. She was ready. Even an impromptu audition wouldn't startle her.

Collin smiled when he heard her confidence. He was proud of Jennifer.

"I'm glad to hear that. Prepare for the audition and do your best. I believe this project is ours."

"Hm." Jennifer nodded as the call ended. She put down her phone and grinned excitedly, her heart racing with anticipation. At last, an opportunity had arrived, one she refused to waste.

Talk shows were harder to find compared to other TV programs such as narrative TV shows and reality TV shows. Limited slots meant brutal competition.

Narrative TV shows followed a storyline, such as drama series and comedy sitcoms.

Reality TV shows focused on real people and unscripted situations, such as talent shows and reality competitions.

Talk shows fell under the category of informational and discussion programs. This included news programs, documentaries, and, of course, talk shows. They relied heavily on charisma, personality, and chemistry between the host and the guests. They were less popular than narrative and reality TV shows, which was why networks only aired a few talk shows daily, perhaps only one or two.

The fact that they hadn't been able to find a talk show to audition for over many years showed just how difficult it was to secure one.

For Collin to find an available talk show for Jennifer to audition for was already a great feat.

Jennifer was impressed, happy, and excited. She had worked hard and prepared for this moment. A radiant smile spread across her face as she whispered to herself, "This is it."

.........
......
...

A man was happily sunbathing on a private island. Waves gently rushed against the white sand. His skin slowly tanned under the sun. He sat up and sipped from a fresh coconut drink. Then his assistant informed him that he had a call from Velvet Harmony.

The assistant handed him the phone.

"This is Jeff. Why did you call me?" His deep voice sounded lazy yet commanding.

Jeff Stain listened to the person on the other end of the line, his expression slowly turning solemn. The smile on his lips vanished, replaced by a deep frown.

"What happened last time must not be repeated. I don't care what tricks you use, I don't want Moonrise Music to succeed." He ended the call and tossed the phone onto the chair beside him, his jaw tightening.

Jeff was a financier who owned multiple businesses and properties. Within certain elite circles, he was famous for being an island owner.

He owned an island where all kinds of depravity took place. Beneath its paradise-like scenery lay darkness that would make anyone's stomach churn. He used the island to gain influence across multiple industries by satisfying the filthy desires of the wealthy.

He also used the island to gather blackmail material to maintain his status. He was both protected and scrutinized. So far, nothing had gone wrong for him.

He was friends with Papa Daddy, a black man who loved hosting freaky parties and inviting celebrities and young people.

He was also friends with R-Helly, another despicable individual involved in sex trafficking, including young women.

They were friends for a reason. Their bond was built on secrecy and mutual dirt on one another.

Jeff Stain recalled the time he invited Niko Walkman to one of his parties, where depravity was at its peak. The lights, the laughter, the vile moments, it all resurfaced in his memory.

At the time, Jeff believed Niko was just as disgusting as the rest of them. After all, Niko had a strange obsession with coins and seemed unhinged. He moaned over coins, which made Jeff think he was a pervert.

But when Niko stepped onto the island, Jeff was met with the most disappointing gaze of his life. Niko's cold, disgusted stare pierced him like a knife. It was the look one would give to the lowest form of filth.

That gaze offended Jeff deeply. His pride was crushed that day. Niko didn't even stay long on the island, leaving quickly without bidding Jeff farewell. The disrespect was something Jeff couldn't accept.

Even governors, former presidents of the USA, kings, and princes from other countries showed Jeff respect because of what he could provide. He handled their dirty deeds so the wealthy could indulge freely.

"Assistant, get me a pizza. I want to eat."

---

[Thank you for reading this novel. You can read more on my Patreon.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 213


He actually wanted to assassinate Niko, but the man also had some influence in the music industry, and silencing him would be troublesome. So the best he could do was destroy his career. Ruining his reputation was safer than risking an investigation.

Last time, they failed to steal Princess Chantal from her record label. But mistakes should not be repeated, the failure had only strengthened their determination to interfere again.

Jeff Stain and Velvet Harmony might have had strong influence in the music industry, but it all came down to profit. Princess Chantal's music was so loved by people that radio stations were bombarded with requests to play her songs, with endless listeners begging to hear them.

Even though these radio stations received orders that they must not play her music too often, they couldn't help but bend to the will of the masses.

That was the first time many radio stations had experienced such pressure. What followed was Princess Chantal's rise to stardom.

What Velvet Harmony was trying to do was prevent Moonrise Music's new artist, Pulse Static, from achieving the same status as Princess Chantal. They feared another unstoppable artist would weaken their influence.

They didn't want Moonrise Music to become more successful.

.........
......
...

"Do it."

"Why me?"

"Because you're the band leader."

"Since when did I become the band leader? I'm the newest member."

"You're indeed the newest member, so you must listen to us. Go and give him coins."

"..."

Mikael Wagner was speechless as he looked at his band members, Jericho, Rosales, and Tonio. Together, they formed the band Pulse Static.

Mikael gulped and left with no choice. He had to do it for their future. He approached Niko, the music producer who was currently sniffing coins with eagerness.

It had been a month since Pulse Static signed a contract with Moonrise Music, a record label with a good reputation. Moonrise Music was the label that made Princess Chantal a star. Since the company handled her career, expectations naturally became higher after Pulse Static joined.

Pulse Static's contract followed Princess Chantal's, showing that Moonrise Music was sincere in working with them. Even Arnold was happy when he read the contract. It was far better than other record labels. It showed that Moonrise Music had heart and confidence in their potential success.

$1 million advance payment.

20% royalty rate.

Five-album commitment from Moonrise Music.

Complete concert tour support, with Moonrise Music receiving 50% of the concert profits.

50% profit share from merchandise.

Moonrise Music decided to follow this contract because they would still earn a lot of money. However, the biggest reason Pulse Static received such a good contract was because of Collin.

If not for Collin, Pulse Static might have only received a 10% royalty rate with no concert tour support. This was the usual contract that record labels offered. Some even lowered the royalty rate to 5%, yet many artists still accepted it because young artists rarely had bargaining power.

Naturally, Arnold saw the advantage and agreed. He didn't even negotiate for more. For him, Moonrise Music was the perfect record label for his clients.

After signing the contract, the four members of Pulse Static each received $225,000. Arnold and his team naturally earned a 10% commission, which was why each member received $225,000 instead of $250,000.

Yet the fact that they easily earned $225,000 was enough to shock each member to the core. They were just ordinary people a month ago, not even sure if their dreams could become reality.

To make it clear, the $1 million they received was a loan they needed to pay back through album sales.

Mikael approached Niko, who was busy flirting with his coins and murmuring to them like treasured companions.

"Um, Niko, sir, here's a coin."

Mikael extended his hand to Niko. In his palm were old coins from a past era.

After getting briefed by Vivian, the owner of Moonrise Music, Mikael and the others realized that Niko was a talented music producer, but he had unique quirks. For Niko to work with Pulse Static, they needed to earn his approval.

Last time, Princess Chantal gave Niko a coin and the man agreed to produce her album. The story had become legend inside the label.

This time, Pulse Static had it harder.

Apparently, Niko rarely cooperated with male artists. He usually preferred working with female artists, especially those who gave him coins. Either way, it was difficult to work with him because most artists, male or female, were afraid to approach him. His behavior unsettled many professionals.

Vivian told them the trick to convince Niko. She learned the trick from the King of Pop himself. Jackson Mike had collaborated with Niko because of it.

The members of Pulse Static did their best to look for vintage coins, well-preserved coins with historical value.

Mikael nervously showed the coins, his palms sweaty. He had encountered his fair share of odd people in college, but someone who took pleasure in sniffing coins was on another level.

Suddenly, Niko stopped what he was doing. He stared at the coins and grabbed them, inspecting their condition, his eyes shining with collector enthusiasm.

"1847 Gothic Crown and 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent. The quality is good. However, I already have these coins in my collection."

"I- Is that so...?" Mikael's lips twitched. It cost them $10,000 to buy these coins from a collector.

Niko looked at Mikael and then at the three men behind him. Focus and sanity returned to his eyes.

"You guys are the new artists of Moonrise Music. Pulse Static, is that right?"

"Yes, sir."

Mikael was still skeptical about how this man created hit songs. He didn't look like someone capable of doing so, his appearance and actions contradicted his reputation.

"Vivian wants us to follow the emo punk rock style."

Emo punk rock was becoming popular in the early 2000s, and Moonrise Music wanted to ride the wave of its popularity.

"I see... You guys prepared a record tape? I want to listen to your songs."

"Um, we have cover songs."

"That will do." Niko stood up and went to the control room. The new studio had better equipment.

He played the tape and listened to their cover songs from famous rock bands. He slightly raised his brow and stared at the four men. They looked promising, particularly the vocalist.

'... Is finding talented singers really this easy?'

Niko had been a music producer for decades, and he could tell if a person was talented. When he listened to Princess Chantal's voice for the first time, he knew the woman would achieve success, and it seemed Pulse Static had the same potential.

---

[Author's Note:]

You can read more on my Patreon with:

81 advance chapters of Behind The Spotlight

63 advance chapters of Reincarnated as a Fisherman and Dad

Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_makii