Entertainment: Starting as a Succubus, Taking Hollywood by Storm

"Campbell Oil Company?"

"Yes, this company holds over a hundred patents for shallow-sea oil extraction and participated in the Caspian Sea oil extraction eight years ago. Its workers have extensive experience, making it the perfect acquisition target," reported the acquisition agent respectfully to Martin.

Martin nodded. "What's their asking price?"

"Two hundred million dollars for all shares, but we'll also need to assume their $124 million debt."

"Does this company own any oil fields?"

"No, Campbell Oil Company focused primarily on oil extraction technology services—essentially helping others extract oil. Their clients were primarily in the Middle East and Russia. However, due to the ongoing war in Afghanistan, tensions with the Middle East and Russia have led to many contract terminations."

"Typical trouble caused by Little Bush," Martin chuckled internally. No wonder the guy's domestic approval ratings were plummeting. Without Afghanistan's mess, even his 2004 reelection prospects might be questionable!

The acquisition agent continued, "Campbell Oil Company has lost almost all its clients. Six months ago, they could no longer sustain operations. The owner, Campbell Jackson, initially planned to sell the company to the Texas Oil Group, but negotiations fell through due to their low-ball offer. That's when we got this opportunity…"

"Hmm?" Martin's interest piqued. "Did you disclose that I'm behind this acquisition?"

"Rest assured, Mr. Martin, I haven't revealed anything about you!"

"Good. I agree to their asking price. Once the acquisition is complete, you'll be the general manager of Campbell Oil Company."

The agent was overjoyed.

Martin, satisfied with the arrangement, withdrew the subtle magic he'd used to influence the agent.

The agent, David Scott, came highly recommended by Martin's father. With over a decade of experience in the oil industry and impeccable professionalism, Scott was the perfect tool for the job. Now, under Martin's magical influence, his loyalty was no longer in question.

September came and went.

After another month of box office dominance, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone had earned $408 million in North America and $1.193 billion globally.

This phenomenal success cemented its place as the second-highest-grossing film in history, trailing only Titanic. It also pushed down Jurassic Park and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring in the box office rankings.

The media lavished praise on the film. The three young actors playing the "golden trio" became global sensations, while Martin pocketed a substantial payday.

Instead of funneling this money into the stock market as usual, Martin set it aside to prepare for the upcoming UAE shallow-sea oilfield auction.

"Congratulations, Martin!"

Jennifer, lounging on a beach chair, turned to the young man beside her, her eyes sparkling with admiration.

At this moment, the entire Bruce Almighty crew was on Fiji Island—not for filming, but for a vacation, courtesy of Martin.

Fiji, located in the South Pacific, boasts pristine, stunning island scenery and is a world-famous tourist destination.

Recently, the crew had been pushing hard to accommodate Martin's tight schedule, leading to growing grumbles on set. Knowing the importance of balancing work and rest, Martin arranged a brief holiday to Fiji for the entire team.

"Martin, you seem to be in a hurry lately," Jennifer remarked curiously, sensing his urgency.

Martin sipped his juice, his sunglasses concealing the unabashed admiration in his eyes as he glanced at Jennifer's flawless figure. "I need to wrap up filming before November. I have something important to take care of then."

"Care to share?" Jennifer asked with growing curiosity.

But Martin dodged the question with a smile. "You'll find out soon enough."

Jennifer shrugged, letting the topic drop. "I love this place—Fiji. The people here lead such relaxed lives, nothing like the constant rush in Hollywood!"

"Like me?" Martin joked, laughing at his own expense.

Jennifer burst into laughter. "Speaking of Fiji, it's funny how laid-back everyone is here. Yesterday, Todd went to a bar only to find it hadn't opened until 9 PM. When he asked the owner if they weren't planning to run a business, the owner replied, 'This is Fiji Time!'"

"It's an incredible place," Martin agreed. "The ocean is abundant, the land is fertile, and the people here have little to worry about. Over time, that's shaped their laid-back culture."

"I really like it here," Jennifer said, stretching lazily. Her movements drew Martin's gaze despite his best efforts to stay casual. "Sunshine, beaches, fruit, seafood, wine—it's like a perfect dream."

Martin smiled, unapologetically admiring her. He removed his sunglasses, openly meeting her gaze. "If only the Indian accents here weren't so incomprehensible."

Jennifer laughed, recalling how Martin had joked about an interaction with an Indian fruit vendor.

"Did you know," Martin had said, "when Margaret Thatcher visited India, she turned to the British ambassador after an official's speech and whispered, 'Can you translate what he just said?'"

The memory made her laugh so hard she felt parched. She picked up her glass, only to find it empty.

At that moment, a cup with a straw appeared in front of her.

"Drink mine," Martin offered with a smile.

Jennifer hesitated for a moment before playfully sipping from the straw. She then handed the cup back, giving Martin a mischievous, challenging look.

Martin laughed heartily, then suddenly reached out to wipe her lips. "You've got juice on your mouth."

Jennifer's cheeks flushed bright red.