Chapter 66: An Actor’s Craft
Los Angeles’ sprawling acting community is legendary, with claims that one in five residents is an actor. Leveraging this, Hawk placed a recruitnt ad under Eric’s na in local newspapers.
By that afternoon, Eric’s temporary studio was packed with hopefuls.
The initial selection process moved swiftly—appearance was the primary filter.
Acting skills, disposition, and psychological resilience eliminated many more.
A few days later, four candidates made it onto Hawk’s shortlist. He invited the most suitable one for a face-to-face eting.
The Candidate
Kevin Lee arrived on ti. At 30 years old, he’d been pursuing acting for 11 years since moving to Los Angeles at 19. His most notable role was a bit part in a TV movie with seven lines.
Eric descended from his upstairs office to update Hawk. “In the interview, his acting was solid, and he fits Miller’s type perfectly.”
“Eleven years as a struggling actor,” Hawk mused. “He must have real determination.”
The two went downstairs.
Hawk entered an adjacent office, observing Kevin through a large one-way mirror.
The man’s brown hair, long face, and lancholic aura mirrored Eric’s, making him a perfect decoy tailored for Miller Collins.
Eric joined Kevin in the eting room.
Kevin stood up instinctively. “Good morning, Director.”
“Have a seat,” Eric instructed, his tone direct. “My film Night Voyage has been greenlit, with Castle Rock Entertainnt co-financing. You can verify this with the Directors Guild and Producers Alliance.”
“I already did,” Kevin replied. After years of scams and exploitation in Hollywood, he was cautious by nature. Castle Rock’s involvent ant the project was legitimate and would likely reach theaters.
“Good,” Eric continued. “Let’s get to the point. The role you’re auditioning for is the film’s male supporting lead, second only to the protagonists. Casting is entirely my decision.”
Kevin, familiar with Hollywood’s rules, asked, “What do you need to do, Director?”
Eric’s expression turned stern. “Before securing the role, there’s one thing you must do for .”
Kevin unbuttoned his shirt collar and said suggestively, “Now? I’m ready anyti.”
Eric recoiled, coughing violently in disgust. “Stop that nonsense—I’m into won.”
Kevin froze, thrown off by this unexpected turn. His assumptions shattered, he wondered if he’d misunderstood the situation entirely.
“Sit down,” Eric instructed, sipping water to calm himself. He explained the plan in detail.
After a mont of thought, Kevin said, “I can handle a one-night or even multiple-night stand if we hit it off. Even if things go south afterward, I can manage. But one thing is non-negotiable—I won’t do any filming. That’s your job.”
“You won’t need to touch a cara,” Eric assured him. “Just be with him in the right setting.”
Kevin, having waited 11 years for an opportunity like this, knew he had little left to lose—his body had already been traded plenty of tis before.
After a brief hesitation, Kevin declared, “I want a contract with the production beforehand.”
“Bring your agent, and we’ll sign today,” Eric promised.
For an actor of Kevin’s stature, finding an agent wasn’t hard, even if he didn’t have a dedicated one.
By the end of the day, they’d finalized the actor’s contract. Kevin left his contact information, offering to stay at the studio for convenience. Its accommodations were far better than his current short-term rental.
After Kevin left to pack his belongings, Eric turned to Hawk. “What’s the next step?”
“Start by prepping him,” Hawk said.
“How?” Eric asked.
Hawk grinned. “Teach him your mannerisms, behavior, and vibe. If Miller couldn’t resist you, there’s sothing about your style he finds irresistible.”
Eric groaned. “Don’t remind —it’s a nightmare I want to forget.”
The Waiting Ga
Hawk checked in with Edward, who was monitoring Miller Collins.
“He hasn’t left his house all day,” Edward reported.
“Keep watching,” Hawk instructed. “Let know if there’s any movent.”
Days passed with Miller sticking to a routine: ho, Tracy Gym, and a quick trip to San Diego with his agent for a team event.
Edward and Eric grew restless. Eric, increasingly agitated, showed up with a split lip and blad it on “Katherine’s hormones.”
Edward sympathized. “Being a director sounds rough.”
“Be patient,” Hawk advised, like a seasoned hunter stalking a fox. “Edward’s been combing through Miller’s trash. Lately, it’s been full of used sanitary products. Athletes have raging hormones—he won’t hold out much longer. He’ll start hunting soon.”
Eric grimaced. “This job is tougher than I thought.”
Edward smirked. “Our hard work justifies every dollar we earn.”
The Lead Erges
After nearly a week, Miller finally deviated from his routine.
Edward spotted Miller’s rcedes heading east on Wilshire Boulevard and imdiately alerted Hawk.
Hawk picked up the trail on Sunset Boulevard, taking over the pursuit.
Miller eventually slowed near the Viper Room, a bar Hawk had encountered him at before.
Calling Eric, Hawk instructed, “Bring Kevin to the Viper Room imdiately.”
Miller parked, tossing his keys to the valet, and entered the bar alone.
Hawk followed and found an empty table, quickly spotting Miller at the bar, drinking solo.
Eric and Kevin arrived shortly after.
Kevin entered the bar and found Miller at the counter, as instructed. Though his roles had been minor, Kevin was no stranger to navigating Hollywood’s darker side, making him well-prepared for the encounter.
Kevin approached an empty stool nearby and ordered loudly, “A Cosmopolitan.”
The cocktail, popular in certain circles, was almost a code.
Miller’s head turned at the sound, his gaze locking onto Kevin.
Kevin’s slim build, brown hair falling over his forehead, long face, stubble, and lancholic eyes exuded an artistic allure. Miller couldn’t help but think of the director who had captivated him before.
Noticing Miller’s attention, Kevin nodded subtly.
Miller raised his glass in response.
Kevin picked up his Cosmopolitan, sealing the connection.
In a place like this, subtle cues were enough. Miller moved over to Kevin’s side.
The two exchanged introductions, clinking glasses as they talked.
“What do you do?” Miller asked.
“I’m an actor,” Kevin admitted honestly. “Though not a very successful one. My biggest role was a minor part in a TV movie.”
Miller asked for the movie’s na and promised to watch it.
After a few drinks, Miller received a call and had to leave early.
As he exited the bar, he hesitated at the door, glancing back to find Kevin still nursing his drink alone.
Encouraged, Miller returned and asked for Kevin’s number before leaving.
The Follow-Up
Back ho, Miller put his wife Maria to bed, then stepped onto the balcony to make a call.
“I t an actor today—Kevin Lee,” Miller said to a friend. “He ntioned a TV movie he acted in. Have you heard of him?”
“No,” the friend replied. “But I know soone connected to that production. I’ll ask.”
A few minutes later, the friend called back. “Yes, he’s real. A struggling actor with decent talent.”
They added a warning. “But my contact says he’s gay. Be careful.”
“I understand,” Miller replied, though inwardly he was thrilled.
The Next Morning
Hawk received a call from Eric. “Miller wants to et Kevin again.”
“Tell Kevin to avoid hotels,” Hawk instructed. “Suggest eting at Miller’s place instead.”
Hotels could complicate things—dayti etings rarely led to fireworks.
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