Chapter 468:

The driver approached Gerry, but Gerry reacted poorly to the interruption. He yanked off his sunglasses and demanded, "Who the hell are you?"

The driver's expression hardened. "This is Mr. Hampton's villa. What do you think you're doing?"

Gerry tossed him a permit. "Mr. Hampton, eh? We rented this place."

The driver bent to pick up the paper, but Corey swiftly snatched it away. "Mr. Hopkins," Corey said, meeting Gerry's gaze, "when have I ever offended you?"

Gerry chuckled. "I'm sorry, do we even know each other? What makes you think you've offended me?"

Corey glanced at the nearly nude actors. "Then would you care to explain all this, Mr. Hopkins?"

"Well, your place has a great ambiance—spacious, lovely decor, plenty of light. Very ideal for filming," Gerry said, chewing gum nonchalantly. "Why, do you have a problem with that?"

Corey realized the futility of conversation. Dropping the pretense, he said, "This is breaking and entering. I never gave you permission to film on my property. I'll call the police."

Gerry shrugged. "Go ahead. You should know I have a lot of friends in the police force, though." He was lying, but his confidence was convincing.

Undeterred, Corey called the police. Gerry ignored him, instructing an actor to remove his pants for the next scene. The sounds and actions, though mostly post-production effects, were jarring to Corey, whose temples throbbed with irritation.

"Don't actually put it in, alright?" Gerry barked. "We'll use camera tricks."

Corey, completely flustered, stomped away. He regretted not bringing bodyguards; outnumbered, he could only wait for the authorities. Even then, Gerry continued his provocation.

"Do you like pornography, Mr. Hampton?" he called. "I can send you the uncut version. No charge."

"Have you no shame?" Corey retorted.

Gerry laughed. "What's this now? You were sneaking around, committing robbery in broad daylight, but I'm not allowed to make a film everyone likes? By the way, your house is perfect for outdoor scenes. I might shoot a late-night movie here later."

Corey understood. Gerry was retaliating for Caden. "What an admirable friendship," Corey sneered. "I see you're willing to go to great lengths for your friend."

Gerry puffed out his chest. "It's a good thing I enjoy it. I wonder... do you have someone who would do the same for you?"