Chapter 5: Reconstruction
A few days later, Massimo was back in his doctor's office. He was receiving a fourth treatment. The first three had gone well, but this one gave him a few more files to return. His doctor seemed very confident, but Massimo was afraid. He was afraid of dying. He had been given hope. He had hoped so much to be able to see Elsa again and finally live happily with his angel. He was afraid of leaving her in this whirlwind she had been living for three weeks.
When he got home, he went straight to his bed. He was exhausted. He took the time to turn on his record player to listen to Elsa's latest record. He wanted to hear her voice to fall asleep.
Meanwhile, in Beverly Hills, Elsa had packed all her boxes. She only wanted to keep her personal belongings and her clothes. She left the furniture and the rest. She wanted to start over in reality. She heard the noise of the moving truck that had just arrived. After barely 2 hours, she was in her new home. Josefina gave her a hand unpacking her boxes.
"Honestly Elsa, you're going to be so comfortable here." Josefina expressed.
"I'm sure of it." Elsa replied.
"Does Michael know you're being moved?"
"No, I just left the keys on the dining room table and left. I contacted the lawyer your husband Josh recommended. I need to protect myself in this whole divorce thing. I'm entitled to my share too, I have rights and I intend to enforce them. Mr. Callahan is also going to make sure that World Broadcasting Network gives me the money they owe me. As for the other breaches of contract, it's almost settled already. It's only with World Broadcasting Network that things are slowing down. According to Mr. Callahan, it's bad faith and perjury. »
"I'm glad you're getting the upper hand Elsa."
"It's far from won. My image is still tarnished and no one will ever want to associate with me again. I'm a fallen star now. It's really too bad because I don't feel like I could have been the artist I really wanted to be. I was constantly oppressed by the men in the lead. But it's okay, my career will have been like that. I still made a splash all these years."
"Oh yes Elsa definitely."
"Thank you, Josefina, for not abandoning me like everyone else. I sincerely appreciate it."
"It's nothing, see. That's what friends are for."
Suddenly Elsa's phone rang. She apologized to Josefina and went to pick it up.
"Yes hello." Elsa began.
"Yes hello Mrs. Mars, my name is Aaron Davis. I work for the new Label founded by the Warner Production Company. The Warner Bros. Records Label. And I would like to…" The man began.
"I know perfectly well who you are, Mr. Davis. How did you get my phone number?"
"Hummmm actually it was one of my colleagues who gave it to me. He knows Josh Morrison well, he's the one who gave him your number."
"Okay, I see. And what do you want from me exactly?"
"Listen Mrs. Mars, I know you're going through a difficult time, but it can't just end like this."
"Talk to you about what exactly?" Elsa asked doubtfully.
"Your career. Elsa, you're an exceptional artist, and everything can't collapse like this, it's a crime against humanity. I'd like to make you a proposition. Can we meet to discuss it?"
"That's not very good timing, I'm in the middle of moving right now and..." Elsa began.
"Listen, I understand that you're on your guard, it's completely legitimate, I suggest that your lawyer be present, he will advise you if necessary. What do you say?" »
"Okay, I'll give you Josefina, my assistant, she'll give you my contact information. You'll come here, because as I said, I'm in the middle of moving, so I'm busy."
Josefina looked at Elsa confused, there had never been any mention of any position like that. She followed the instructions then hung up before heading towards Elsa.
"Assistant?" Josefina asked.
"Yes, I know I should have consulted you first, but I really need a hand and I don't see anyone else but you."
"With pleasure Elsa."
"Ah thank you Josefina. And you will obviously be paid accordingly."
"So, what's the next step?" Josefina asked.
"Prepare ourselves my dear, because Mr. Aaron Davis himself is coming right here with a proposal for my career. I don't expect anything, but that doesn't stop us from appearing like real professionals."
"Then let's go! You're a star Elsa, it would be nice if they all remembered that!" Josefina enthused.
After getting ready, they heard the doorbell ring. Josefina headed to the terrace, where Elsa's lawyer was already seated. Elsa headed to the door.
"Mr. Davis. Hello." Elsa simply said as she opened the door.
"Mrs. Mars, it's an honor."
Elsa only rolled her eyes.
"Honestly, Mrs. Mars. I've always been a fan of your work. That's why I find it unfair to see what's happening to you."
"Well, come on, we're not going to talk in the doorway. Follow me."
As they reached the terrace table, Aaron noticed the two women's somewhat questioning faces.
"So, as I was saying, Mrs. Mars, your work has always been incredible. You have a talent for television and for music. I don't think your talent has ever been showcased enough. Also, I know for a fact that you've written a good hundred songs over the last few years, but you've been told that they weren't quality titles and that they would never be hits. However, I've had access to a few of your pieces, and I'm pretty sure they could be a hit."
"Wait a minute. How did you get that? Those songs are literally sitting in a drawer." »
"Yes, but you have, let's say, a guardian angel who sent me your texts."
"A guardian angel? Anything." Elsa laughed, taking a sip of whiskey.
"It's me, Elsa." Josefina simply said.
"What? What do you mean? I don't understand."
"You know that my husband is a high-ranking member of the company where he works?"
"Yes, I know." Elsa agreed.
"He's a director at Atlantique Records, a subsidiary of Warner. Their label has specialized in blues for years. But the new Warner Label, opened two years ago, Warner Bros. Records, was created by Warner to crush the old methods and the old, stupid managers. In short, Warner is going to blow everything up in their path. I'm convinced that you will finally be able to flourish with them." So I talked to my husband and I sent him some of your songs that World Broadcasting turned down. And my husband got in touch with Aaron, and that's it."
"And honestly, this is a real blessing for us Elsa, and I think for you as well."
"But what exactly are you offering my client?" Asked Mr. Callahan.
"A fresh start. What we want is for Ms. Mars to be able to continue where she left off, but with more power in her career, decision-making power. She has experience in the industry and she knows her audience better than anyone. She is an artist and I don't think that has been promoted enough. She has released albums, but she has never toured, why? Because that was supposed to be reserved for the show 'The Elsa Mars Hour'. Has anyone ever wondered if she would be a good live performer? I am convinced that she could easily fill the biggest concert halls in the country. Mr. Henry V. Gable buried her alive and reaped the profits. Why do you think he arranged for her to sign that particularly strict contract with World Broadcasting? Gable controlled her entire career. Unfortunately, Gable is someone a bit sexist and self-centered. I've had a taste of his medicine too. I know how unscrupulous he can be when it comes to protecting his skin."
"What do you mean, you too?" Elsa asked curiously.
"I worked for World Broadcasting for a while. One day, I was supposed to get a promotion, but unfortunately, my father has been in conflict with Mark Robson for a few years. Robson is quite influential in Hollywood, so Gable, who didn't want to alienate him, preferred to throw me out. Despite three years of loyal service. Shortly after, I was recruited by Warner. And honestly, it's the best thing that could have happened to me."
"That sounds interesting, Mr. Davis, but what exactly do you want from me?"
"Actually, we would sincerely like you to sign with us. For music and for any other television activity. And we promise to support you in your various projects and to make your image shine again. We already have some ideas that would allow you to come back to the forefront. We offer you a public relations team and press officers. In terms of management, we have some gems within our team. We offer you the support you need, but you remain the boss of your career. You will have the final say on everything, absolutely everything. Here, I leave you the basic contract that we have drawn up. It is a proposal. You are free to add your conditions and clauses to it. "
"Why? I mean, suddenly, the contract of my dreams falls on me like that, exactly when I am most vulnerable. It is too good to be true. I smell something fishy, it stinks in my nose. " Said Elsa as she got up to tell Aaron Davis that it was time to leave.
"Listen, take the time to read all this with your lawyer. I know it may seem strange, and I know it is difficult for you, but trust us. Yes, you are a goose that lays golden eggs, but you are much more than that. The mistake Gable made was to clip your wings, we want to turn you into a swan. " Aaron concluded before being escorted by Josefina.
Elsa sat back down and stared at the document on the table. Master Callahan approached her to take the document.
" Come on Elsa, we will study this together. " Said the lawyer as he got up and headed inside the house.
After almost three hours of scrutinizing the contract with Josefina and her lawyer, Elsa changed her mind.
" I don't understand why I am being offered all this. "
" They are not stupid Elsa, you are a real gold mine. And I think they simply see beyond the scandals of the last few weeks. You've proven yourself in the industry. We have to admit that Warner is offering you a very good, honest contract. They're not too greedy about percentages, they give you freedom over all your projects, they even want you in their films." Callahan explained.
"I don't know." Elsa simply said.
"There's nothing stopping us from making a counter offer. Davis said we could add whatever conditions we wanted, right? So we'll add an evasive clause for you. That way, if you feel the need, you can free yourself."
"They'll never accept that." Elsa smiled.
"Why not? If they want you. Be greedy Elsa, you've got nothing to lose." Callahan added.
"Yes. Hope." Elsa said, looking at the ground.
"If we offer them an extra 3% in exchange for that clause, it's a win win." Callahan suggested.
"Maybe." Elsa simply said.
"And you could choose your own agent. We'll adjust the percentage offer accordingly."
"I could do that?"
"Of course."
"I have someone in mind." Elsa said, staring at Josefina.
"Me?" But come on, I've never done that myself. I wouldn't know how to do it."
"You've been assisting me for years now. And I have to admit, since the beginning of this whirlwind of misfortune, you've played the role of agent, and you've played it very well at that."
"I agree with Mrs. Mars I must say. And Warner offers a complete team, you won't be able to leave Josefina to your own devices, they'll help you if needed." The lawyer added.
"I admit that would be tempting."
"Then, say yes." Elsa smiled at him.
"Okay, fine, I accept." Josefina added.
"Fantastic!" Elsa added, visibly happy.
After discussing many points, the counteroffer was finally ready. Mr. Callahan stood up and closed his briefcase.
"So, I'll send this to Warner first thing tomorrow morning. »
"Thank you, Master Callahan."
"Oh yeah, and I've completed the formal notice to send to World Broadcasting so they can pay you for the breaches of contract, I think it's wiser to wait to settle with Warner. With a monster like Warner behind you, Gable will go easier." Callahan concluded, making Elsa and Josefina laugh.
The next day, late in the morning, Elsa received a call from Callahan.
"Yes, hello?" Elsa began.
"Elsa, Warner is calling you and me to their office. It smells good, Elsa."
"When?" Elsa asked simply.
"Now. I'll be at your door in a minute."
"Alright, I'm coming."
Later, Elsa and her lawyer were sitting in a sumptuous office, in front of Aaron Davis and none other than Jack Warner.
"We've gone over your proposal with our lawyers. Honestly, Mrs. Mars, I like it. We'd be ready to sign now if you want." Jack said.
Elsa turned her head to her lawyer, who gave her an approving nod.
"Okay, we have an agreement."
After a few minutes, the contract was signed, and they were popping a bottle of champagne.
The four of them were talking together.
"Honestly, I'd pay good money to see Mr. Gable's face when he finds out I just signed with Warner."
"Let's hope that influences him to pay you what he owes you." Callahan said simply, taking a sip.
"Gable owes you money?" Jack asked simply, looking curious.
"Actually, he's withholding payment for breaking the contract with World Broadcasting. He's doing it to annoy me."
"That's not fair. Are you sure he's doing it on purpose? Although at the same time, I'm not surprised by him." Aaron said.
"100% sure. He's mad at me. Probably because I won't make him any more money, even though he's the one who broke the contracts, to him it's my fault. And he's influencing Michael too, my ex-husband and ex-manager. Michael gave me the time of the house sale to leave. That gave me plenty of time to find a new home. Well the day after the house was put up for sale, I get a notarized letter telling me that the house is sold and that I have to leave in a month. And the buyer was none other than Henry V. Gable. I also know that some of the brands that let me go, he's the one behind that."
"Come on, this is not possible. How can someone be that mean to another person?" Aaron adds.
"How much do you World Broadcasting Mrs. Mars?"
"Well, $175,000 total." Elsa replied.
"World Broadcasting owes her $153,000 for the breach of contract and they owe her an unpaid $22,000 for the last 11 episodes of Elsa Mars' hour, totaling $175,000." Lawyer Callahan explained.
"Ms. Mars, I have something to propose to you. How about Warner buying your contract with World Broadcasting? With the army of lawyers Warner has, trust me, they'll pay it off."
"Buy the contracts?" Elsa looked at her lawyer with a questioning look on her face.
"Warner pays you the $175,000 and World Broadcasting will have to pay Warner instead of you." Aaron explained.
Elsa smiled.
"We'll sign a contract to sell the contracts. And if you agree, I would even go so far as to demand an amount for damages. You could easily get an additional $25,000. I guarantee you that they will want to settle out of court to avoid harsher sentences, or just avoid legal proceedings." Jack smiled.
"Right from the legal proceedings? That's a bit of an exaggeration." Elsa commented.
"Elsa, what Gable is doing to you is illegal. Don't let anyone walk all over you anymore. You have a right to that money. Gable thinks he's stronger than you. It's true that he has stronger bones, but now, you are equipped to face him and defend yourself. Count on me." Jack said.
"Okay. Why are you doing this?" Elsa asked.
"First of all, if I may say so, you have been completely cheated by Gable. $22,000 for 11 episodes, that gives us $2,000 per episode. Unacceptable. Come on, an episode must bring in at least 15 times more, minimum. I would be curious to know how much you personally bring in to Gable. Honestly Elsa, you should have pocketed at least $8 to $12,000 per episode. Second, Gable has been an adversary since Warner entered television. Before, since we specialized only in cinema, we were not his adversaries. He even takes a malicious pleasure in putting spokes in our wheels. It will be my pleasure to put some in his turn. And third, I have followed your story from the beginning. Not only because my wife is one of your biggest fans, but also because I admire your determination and of course your work. What Gable is doing to you is unacceptable. Why now that the whole world knows that you with two wooden legs should hide and be ashamed? Your talent is the same as before this article was published, right? »
"I was naive, I think. I dreamed so much of doing this job. I wanted it so much. I accepted everything without question at each contract renewal. I didn't want this chance to be taken away from me." Elsa explained.
"And yet, you never practiced your profession to its full potential." Jack added.
"What do you mean?" Elsa asked.
"If I'm not mistaken, you always wanted to be a singer, right?" Jack asked.
"Yes."
"Is there any particular reason why you never toured with your songs?" Jack Warner asked.
"Um, actually, Mr. Gable said it wasn't a good idea. He said it would make me too cheap. That the rarity and exclusivity were a great asset to my career! I've made a few appearances here and there from time to time. A big Christmas concert too once. I loved that so much if you only knew." Elsa explained.
"I'll tell you what I think, Elsa. A tour that would have been disconnected from Elsa Mars time, and therefore from World Broadcasting, would not have been profitable for Gable at all. First of all, neither he nor his company could have touched a cent of your revenues and in addition, while you would have been on tour, the show would have been stopped, therefore not profitable during this period. That is why he made you believe his nonsense and sealed it in a contract. "Explained Jack.
"Scheiße. How could I have been so stupid?" Elsa said.
"Elsa, in no way were you stupid. You trusted those who reached out to you. That's a normal human reaction. So, if you want to go on tour, you will go on tour Elsa. Warner will assist you and support you in all your projects, it's in the contract. "Jack told her before winking at her.
"You know what? Deal. I sell you my contract with Gable. And please, don't spare him. "Elsa said.
"You have my word, Mrs. Mars." Jack Warner concluded before clinking his glass with Elsa's.