The Wolf of Los Angeles

[Chapter 147: Suicide]

In the morning, Hawke sat at the dining table, enjoying a simple breakfast prepared by Caroline while reading the newspaper Edward had picked up.

Edward, holding an AR-15 rifle, positioned himself at the window as a lookout.

Caroline poured several glasses of milk, placing them on the table.

Alongside them, a security team brought in from Brian stood guard; the three had spent the previous night in the villa.

Most newspapers featured front page headlines regarding the scandal involving Sterling Van Wagenen and Robert Redford.

Caroline picked up a few copies to read through the articles before she remarked, "The reporting styles differ, the formats are varied, but the thematic content is strikingly consistent -- calling for severe punishment for both Sterling Van Wagenen and Redford."

Hawke responded, "It's straightforward; on either side, parties want to avoid the collapse of the film and entertainment industry."

"Exactly," Brian said as he descended the stairs, holding his phone. "The key to this scenario lies with Pope, not Hollywood."

He sat down at the table, stating, "Just received news half an hour ago; the FBI stepped in after receiving reports from victims -- they intercepted Sterling Van Wagenen's vehicle on the coast highway. A shootout broke out, and Sterling Van Wagenen was shot dead on the scene."

Hawke wasn't shocked at all; Campos had obtained the goods and thoroughly searched Sterling Van Wagenen, who hadn't brought a gun.

But he kept this information to himself.

The moment those videos aired on Ace News, the contract between Hawke and Brian had been fulfilled.

Caroline witnessed the brutal reality and set the newspapers aside, instinctively asking, "Was he really shot dead because he resisted with a gun?"

Brian asserted, "With the FBI's proficiency, that's guaranteed."

Caroline swallowed nervously, asking, "Will they come after me?"

Hawke pointed to Brian. "Have you noticed him? He's our greatest shield. As long as he's fine, we are too; if he's compromised, you better bolt."

Brian was taken aback. "Are you not running?"

"Erika will definitely avenge you," Hawke said earnestly. "I'll also help her."

Brian responded, "Didn't expect your loyalty to run this deep."

Edward chimed in, asking, "What about Redford?"

Brian stated simply, "After the news rolled out last night, the bastard boarded a flight from Los Angeles International Airport to Nassau in the Bahamas, likely to transfer to France."

Hawke recalled something. "The U.S. and France lack an extradition treaty -- so he intends to be the second Roman Polanski?"

"Who knows if he'll even make it to France," Brian shrugged. "Polanski had personal issues; meanwhile, Redford is entangled in other matters."

After pondering, he added, "Clearly, they want to silence anyone involved; even the FBI has been deployed to ensure Sterling Van Wagenen's exit while keeping Redford untouched."

Hawke casually stated, "Suicide? Or perhaps, overseas -- an option."

Caroline queried, "Is that politics?"

Just then, Brian's phone rang, and he answered. After a brief conversation, he hung up. "I need to head to the office; more victims are reaching out for legal assistance regarding Sterling Van Wagenen."

Hawke inquired, "Will the civil lawsuit continue if Sterling Van Wagenen is dead?"

Brian nodded. "Of course, civil claims can proceed even if he's unavailable for criminal prosecution. This guy had no family; he's left behind millions. Rather than allowing those pigs to take it all, it'd be better if we had a piece."

He reassured, "Give it a few days; the PR fees we arranged will definitely materialize."

Hawke knew perfectly well that if they aimed to expedite this matter and remove media attention, they would work swiftly to settle matters with the victims -- using Sterling Van Wagenen and Redford's assets for compensation would be the simplest course of action.

...

In Nassau, Bahamas.

Near the airport at the Hilton Hotel, FBI vehicles pulled up suddenly as a balding officer and his team entered the hotel.

The hotel manager hurried to offer assistance.

The officer displayed identification. "We received a report of a person hanging in a room across the street from your hotel."

The manager's face paled. "Deputy Cowell, can you confirm?"

Given it was an American-owned hotel, Cowell must proceed cautiously. "I'll dispatch personnel to check; please hold on."

Before long, eyewitnesses and two policemen entered the hotel lobby.

One officer informed Cowell, "There is indeed a person on the fifth floor."

Cowell told the manager, "We need to check the fifth floor."

The hotel manager approached, and once informed, he led the group up to the fifth floor, where they found the correct room. After knocking and getting no response, they had someone unlock the door.

Once inside, two officers drew their guns, leading the way into the suite.

As others followed, they found the curtains open in the bedroom; a long shoelace dangled from the ceiling fan adorned with colorful lights, from which dangled a man in his 60s, lifeless.

"Secure the scene," Deputy Cowell directed, donning gloves and ordering, "Investigate the area."

Including the hotel manager, all were escorted to the door.

Two officers cautiously brought the body down.

One found the deceased's bag, which contained his passport and identification. Surprised, he exclaimed, "Chief! This guy is Robert Redford, a Hollywood star and director!"

Cowell approached the body, inspecting the corpse before glancing back to verify the photo in the ID: "I saw the old film The Great Gatsby -- it's definitely him."

Another officer added, "Found a note here; looks like a suicide note."

Cowell moved closer to read the cryptic, messy writing -- only a few lines existed.

It looked something like a confession, expressing regret for his actions and the harm done to minors. In a dream, God informed him he was headed to hell. To apologize and seek redemption, he chose to end his life.

Additionally, he offered his assets to compensate the victims.

Cowell preferred avoiding any controversy and instructed to place the note and relevant items into an evidence bag for safekeeping.

He dialed his superior, discussing the need to involve foreign affairs, ensuring communication with the American embassy.

If the embassy accepted the suicide narrative, the case would resolve swiftly.

Before long, his superior accompanied American officials to the scene.

After observing the scene and participating in clandestine discussions, they generally agreed that Hollywood star and producer Robert Redford died from a self-inflicted hanging due to guilt.

While this determination wouldn't be publicly announced immediately, both sides had confirmed the direction of the investigation, and overall progress would accelerate.

...

In Sacramento, Granit Bay.

Lawrence Pope hoisted a heavy suitcase into an SUV.

Lawyer Donnie and his ex-wife Linda approached the garage, each carrying bags to load into the cabin.

As Donnie's phone rang, he picked it up and informed Pope, "The divorce agreement went through, and the asset division was fair -- all very smooth."

Gripping Donnie's hand, Pope gratefully said, "Thanks, old friend."

Donnie appeared solid and reliable. "Even if some scoundrels have abandoned you, I won't; I'll fight for you. I can't promise acquittal, but I'll strive for the shortest sentence."

Linda interjected, "He deserves it."

Pope's face turned bitter, leaving him speechless.

Before legal proceedings kicked off, he left nothing unaddressed, ensuring everything he could keep remained with his wife and daughter.

Footsteps approached, and they wisely lapsed into silence as Catherine rolled over, dragging her suitcase along.

Still drowsy from poor sleep, Catherine complained, "Why are we suddenly going to New York? I'm not prepared!"

Pope reassured, "Your uncle arranged a big party for you."

"Cool!" Catherine climbed into the car.

Pope slapped Donnie on the arm. "Can you take them to the airport?"

"Of course," Donnie nodded, seating himself behind the wheel.

Linda slid into the passenger seat and firmly shut the door.

The garage door lifted, and they drove out toward the airport.

...

Once the vehicle was far away, Pope closed the door and stepped into the hall, glancing toward the road outside.

In just a few minutes, several FBI-marked black SUVs patrolled the area, pulling up alongside him.

Pope, prepared for this moment, opened the front door and strode toward the agents.

The lead FBI officer proceeded to present his warrant and promptly placed handcuffs on Pope, escorting him into the vehicle.

...

As they arrived at the airport, turning into the parking area, Linda turned to glance back.

Her daughter Catherine rested peacefully in the rear seat, lulled to sleep.

Linda whispered, "Turn him into a felon. Let him rot forever."

"Absolutely," Donnie remarked, wrapping an arm around Linda's shoulder. "I won't represent him; the firm will assign a rookie."

Linda draped her arms around Donnie's neck, drawing him into a passionate kiss.

After a lengthy moment, they parted.

Donnie declared, "Once the case concludes, return to me, and we'll marry."

The two had been entangled for some time now.

Linda felt a rush but knew this wasn't the place for overt expressions. "Take care of Catherine; I'll sneak back."

"Do it swiftly," Donnie suggested, checking his watch. "Hurry; don't miss your flight."

Linda awakened Catherine, while Donnie grabbed the suitcase, and together they approached the terminal entrance.

As the mother-daughter duo exited, Donnie lingered behind, frequently glancing at Catherine.

The young white girl had developed early.

Good spirits engulfed Donnie; the financial benefits from Pope's estate remained under his control, and he intended to keep both these women with him.

But would Pope ever be able to come back from this?

...

Back on Beverly Boulevard, at Brian's villa.

Hawke hung up his phone and relayed to Caroline and Edward, "I just received reliable intelligence: Robert Redford took his own life this morning in a hotel near Nassau International Airport, leaving behind a note, claiming it was a suicide due to guilt."

Caroline had grown numb. "He deserved to die; such scum should perish!"

Edward inquired, "And what about Lawrence Pope?"

"He's been invited by the FBI to assist with their investigation," Hawke revealed, a detail he'd learned from Brian. "He might survive this; the masked figures could remain unidentified for now, but with Sterling Van Wagenen and Redford dead, I suspect Pope will shoulder all blame."

Caroline grasped the unwritten rules of the game. "So, his family and loved ones will be well looked after?"

Hawke reflected on the controversy surrounding supposed suicides in years past. "It's also possible, once the heat lessens, Pope may end up taking his own life."

Edward recalled Hawke had previously noted: "The kind of guy who gets shot eight times in the back?"

Hawke casually responded, "He might also hang himself in prison."

Caroline felt she'd inadvertently boarded a pirate ship, quietly inquiring, "What about us down the line?"

Edward suddenly chuckled, revealing a toothy grin.

Hawke queried, "You're not interested in a high-paying job?"

Caroline quickly straightened her demeanor and flashed her cute, white, tiny fang-like teeth. "Speak, who do you want me to silence?"

Suddenly, Edward stirred with the AR rifle at hand, noting, "Boss, we've got company."

Security near the entrance was on the intercom, "Mr. Osment, a woman named Roonee Chasen is here to see you, claiming to be the director of BWR Public Relations."

Caroline frowned. "What's she here for?"

Hawke pondered briefly, then said, "Let her in."

...

A fashionable woman in high heels entered the yard, striding confidently towards the entrance.

Caroline went to open the door.

Rooney eyed the attractive woman who had pulled a fast one on her and boasted, "You've done well; I taught you well."

With a blank expression, Caroline welcomed her inside.

Rooney glanced over to Edward, noticing the AR he possessed. Yet, she appeared unfazed as she turned to Hawke.

He seemed unremarkable -- just an ordinary-looking person you might see on the street.

Hawke gestured toward the sofa. "Take a seat."

Rooney nodded slightly and sat opposite Hawke.

She asked straight out, "You had Caroline undermine me, didn't you?"

Hawke shook his head. "That was Caroline's idea."

Rooney turned and was surprised to fixate on Caroline.

While Hawke was the instigator, there was no way Caroline could argue against it now.

Her chin lifted defiantly in pride.

Rooney quickly nodded and confirmed, "I taught you well."

Yet, Hawke upon knowing her mindset, interjected, "You're here with something to discuss?"

"I wanted to see the person who caused me such a horrible defeat," Rooney replied. "Even up until yesterday afternoon, I thought I was winning, only to find myself utterly crushed."

Hawke simply sat, intrigued. "And what do you think now?"

Rooney produced a business card, sliding it across the coffee table toward Hawke. "Let's exchange cards?"

Hawke offered a card in return, also handing it over.

Rooney stated, "We have no personal grudges; perhaps we'll have opportunities to work together in the future."

In her perception, neither side represented good or evil; both merely served their distinct employers.

Hawke chuckled quietly, but chose not to elaborate further.

Rooney collected Hawke's card and prepared to leave.

Caroline voluntarily escorted her out.

As they moved across the threshold, the two women seemed to share a rivalry more intense than typical male hostilities.

Describing it as a standoff would be an understatement.

Rooney exited, muttering, "You bitch; you've now betrayed BWR -- one day you'll also flip on West Coast. Do you think Hawke Osment will trust you? Now the entire industry is aware of how you undermined your previous company. I'll be here waiting to see you get discarded by West Coast."

"You think I'll fret over my job?" Caroline responded, only moderating her tone slightly before revealing her true self -- a sheep head with sharp horns. "You came here to talk to Hawke; exchanging such talks only showcases how arrogantly you believed you'd defeated Hawke."

Rooney dismissed her remarks.

Having worked alongside her, Caroline had a handle on Rooney's personality, knowing precisely how to strike at her. She half-truthfully, half-deceptively articulated, "Disregarding Judy, Amanda, and Rachel, seven others have now expressed interest in joining the suit against Sterling Van Wagenen and Redford; do you want the reason?"

Without waiting for an answer, she replied, "We merely indicated what conditions you offered Rachel, and they all resolved to stand with us."

Rooney halted, pausing to think it over, and continued walking.

Caroline hovered near the door before making her way back.

Once Rooney got into her car, smiling wryly to herself, she absorbed the reality of her overwhelming defeat; even those she'd trained had begun to mock her.

...

In the coming days leading to 2003, America was entranced by the Hollywood scandal that emerged. Fox Television and the Ace News program continuously rolled out new evidence, keeping the relevant stories in high public demand.

The identities of other masked figures also became a focal point for the masses.

Both the LAPD and the FBI were inundated with calls from victims, and thus were compelled to collaborate on the case.

With the intertwining of both parties, the scenario grew increasingly murky.

As for the truth? No one was invested in uncovering it.

This conflict was inherently about partisanship, as those orchestrating the case maneuvered to strike at the authorities governing Sacramento.

At this stage, neither Hawke nor Brian could interfere.

Amid these clashes, the blue party unleashed a massive public relations counteroffensive.

The supermodel Gisele Bundchen unexpectedly held a press conference to accuse Leonardo DiCaprio of repeated infidelities. Having reached her breaking point, she chose to sever ties, prompting a media frenzy!

Leonardo DiCaprio's influence was far-reaching; from media, public, to trending discussions -- eyes swiftly shifted away from the masked figures and victims, focusing instead on the split of this golden couple.

In a bid to secure continuous headlines and shift public attention, blue media outlets extensively covered the breakup, tracking developments around the clock.

DiCaprio, as renowned as he was in the blue camp, artfully turned the relationship ups and downs into a gripping drama on ratings.

Just a day after Gisele announced their split, the public was still occupied unraveling DiCaprio's romantic entanglements -- until day three when he was captured onscreen outside Gisele's residence, donning a massive engagement ring to win her love back.

On the very first day of 2003, Leonardo and Gisele made a joint appearance before the media, with DiCaprio triumphantly announcing their reconciliation and formal engagement.

In numerous regions, the entertainment industry had become synonymous with dysfunction; whenever something went sour, it could be casually tossed to the entertainment world, clouding discourse while swiftly drawing public attention.

Entertainment news always found itself adept at commandeering the headlines.

This couple's engagement eclipsed all.

On the other side, the elephants held weaker media influence.

But the shifts lurking in the shadows continued being played out.

...

Following the New Year holiday of 2003, as Brian projected, the Los Angeles Superior Court acted swiftly to resolve compensation for the victims.

When those in charge craved efficiency, astounding swiftness was always achievable.

In line with the contract, Brian disbursed $1.2 million in public relations fees to Hawke.

He also covered all incidental expenses accrued during the legal proceedings.

Additionally, he gifted Hawke the bulletproof Mercedes.

*****

https://www.patreon.com/Sayonara816.