[Chapter 172: The Shallows Taken Off Theaters]
With Monica taking the initiative and Catherine assisting, their love games were absolutely thrilling, giving Linton an unforgettable experience.
At the same time, he noticed Monica's change in attitude; it seemed she wanted to join his inner circle willingly, but as usual, he never invited her first.
...
Sure enough, the next morning after their morning workout, Monica lay on top of Linton, catching her breath before coquettishly asking, "Darling, can I stay here often?"
"Baby, do you know the rules here?"
"Darling, Catherine told me last night -- I'll only have you as my man from now on. I promise I won't get involved with any other men."
"Anything else?"
"I'll get along well with the other girls."
"Are you really sure you can stick to those two?"
"I've thought it through. After having sex with you, who else could I have feelings for?"
"Alright, I get your intention. But if you really become my woman, it won't be easy to change your mind later. To avoid any rash decisions, I'll give you one more day to think it over. If by tomorrow morning, you still feel this way, come talk to me, okay?"
"Darling, you're a real man. I think I've fallen for you already."
"You're amazing too, baby, but I want you to be sure so you won't regret it later. For now, you can stay in the mansion today. If Catherine has no work commitments, you two can spend more time talking. But do not mention anything about the mansion to outsiders, including your agent."
"Thank you, you're so thoughtful."
---
Linton continued recording at Universal Records and was on schedule to finish today.
After two days of auditions and various challenges, Carson, Jack, and Axe were exhausted but finally finalized the five spots. They sent the final list just as Linton wrapped up his recording.
Looking at Carson's worn-out expression, Linton reminded him, "Take it easy, watch your health."
"It's a rare opportunity. I didn't expect these vixens to be so powerful. I won't overdo it next time."
Linton glanced at the final five selected. All were beautiful and talented. He approved without much scrutiny, asking Carson to start rehearsals and prepare the shooting schedule.
However, as Speed was set to release on July 9 and the premiere was on July 7, shooting had to end by July 6.
Starting June 20, there were only 17 days, and with promotional events in between, they could shoot at most six music videos.
The rest would have to wait until after the movie's release and promotional tour, in August.
Linton requested that the four music videos featuring Monica and Charlize be filmed first.
---
Back at the mansion in the evening, their intimate battles continued. Monica was even more wild and aggressive, her fighting spirit electrifying as she teamed up with Catherine for an exciting showdown with Linton.
The battles were as dazzling as ever and their sweet, enchanting voices lingered in the air.
...
At breakfast, Linton asked Monica, "Honey, have you made up your mind?"
"Darling, I decided to join you. I won't regret it."
"Good. Later you can pick a room on the second floor and decorate it however you like. Amy, the housekeeper, will help you."
"Muah, you're so kind." Monica kissed him excitedly.
"Regarding other arrangements, considering this is the critical period before Speed's release, Catherine and I are still faking a scandal to divert attention. To avoid accidents, we will arrange the rest after the movie finishes its run."
"Okay, I'll listen to you. But my agent told me I have to rehearse dancing with the crew today. Can I come back tonight?"
Linton was hesitant to let her come during this risky time, but seeing her pitiful face and remembering how good she was in bed, he said, "Sure, but avoid paparazzi. Contact Carter to pick you up and take you to your agent first."
Monica happily went off to rehearsals.
---
Linton and Catherine followed Universal's lead and spent a relaxing day at Disneyland. At night, they dined intimately at a restaurant on Sunset Boulevard, followed by paparazzi trailing them -- some hired by Universal, others just fans.
---
After eight weeks, The Shallows officially left North American theaters, grossing $85.23 million -- a spectacular result.
It was the third highest-grossing movie in North America in 1993 and expected to break the top ten for the year.
While it didn't hit $100 million domestically, with a production budget under $7 million, it was a huge success.
Internationally, The Shallows performed well in over 50 countries, bringing in a total of $93.6 million overseas, with global box office likely surpassing $190 million.
Zack officially rose to major director status, drawing mainstream Hollywood attention.
Cameron advanced to near A-list stardom, busy nonstop across America with interviews, endorsements, and business deals.
Yesterday, she called Linton, complaining she barely had time to enjoy their intimate sessions and said she had several new scripts being reviewed by her agency.
Linton recalled her breakout role in The Mask and advised her to keep an eye on potential lead roles at New Line Cinema.
Over 100 North American theaters requested extended runs, which might increase box office.
But theaters took 80% of extended gross, so Linton's studio wouldn't earn much from long runs.
After the movie finished, Linton coordinated with Levitt to review box office and merchandising revenues, notifying Henry, Mary, and Goodman to audit earnings with Universal.
Universal also rushed negotiations for The Shallows' TV and home video rights.
*****
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