"Jeff, what's up?"
"Martin, Angelina Jolie's agent, Heyer, called. Jolie wants to meet with you."
"Angelina Jolie? I don't think I've crossed paths with her. What does she want?"
"Apparently, it's about her charity foundation. She'd like to discuss it in person."
Martin paused, sifting through his memories.
"Alright, tell her I'll meet her in New York. I can't leave right now with the Spider-Man shoot wrapping up."
The Next Day
That evening, at the hotel where the crew was staying, Martin sat in the same café where he often handled meetings. Across from him sat Angelina Jolie.
The night before, Martin had delved into his memory bank about her. This was a woman who, in the future, would earn the moniker "Hollywood's Saint" through relentless charity work. Regardless of whether her efforts were publicity stunts, they had tangible impacts.
However, at this stage in her life, Jolie was still finding her footing, evident from the slight unease in her demeanor.
But she was no pushover. She quickly composed herself and got straight to the point.
"Martin, congratulations on receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom."
"Thank you."
"I saw the footage of you saving people that night. You're a real hero. You absolutely deserve the honor."
"Thanks."
After the brief exchange of pleasantries, Jolie transitioned to her agenda.
"While filming Tomb Raider in Cambodia, I witnessed things I never could have imagined—war, famine, orphans. It was eye-opening. I realized how much suffering exists in this world. That experience inspired me to start a charity foundation to bring relief to such places, starting with Cambodia. Through healthcare, education, microfinance, and environmental initiatives, I hope to benefit those communities."
Martin listened quietly, nodding occasionally.
When she finished, he replied, "I'm planning to establish a charity foundation as well. If you'd like to partner with me, that's fine, but I'd need to lead the effort."
Jolie frowned slightly, as though bracing for this.
"Martin, isn't that a bit..."
"Let me explain," he interrupted gently but firmly.
She glared, annoyed by the interruption, but stayed silent as he continued.
"The foundation can fully support your philanthropic trips worldwide and hire the best security to ensure your safety. We can also bring high-profile figures on board—people like Diana and Michael Jackson, for instance."
"Moreover, the foundation needs someone with an official title to represent it, such as a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador. I'm too busy to travel constantly, but you could be perfect for the role."
He raised three fingers. "If you agree, I promise that within three months, you'll be appointed a UN Goodwill Ambassador."
Jolie's eyes widened. It was an enticing offer.
Later that evening, Martin called his agent.
"Jeff, I've finalized things with Jolie. We're setting up the Myers-Jolie Charity Foundation. I'll hold 80% ownership. You and her agent Heyer will manage the legal details. Our first project will focus on Cambodia, with Diana and Jackson lending their support."
"Got it, Martin. Consider it done."
A Few Days Later
With Spider-Man wrapped up, Martin received a special gift from Manhattan's Second Bank—a black card and an honorary title.
"My honorary citizenship in New York? Dad, what's this even good for?"
"It's more than a status symbol, Martin. Like the Presidential Medal of Freedom, it's another shield for you. It also gives you certain privileges—for example, closing streets for filming or securing police support will be much easier. And if you ever consider entering politics, this adds to your credentials."
"Huh, that's actually useful."
"You should count your blessings! Every accolade matters if you're planning to run for office someday."
After the call, Martin leaned back, lost in thought about the prospect of entering politics.
New York City Hall
New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani stood at the podium, speaking into the microphone.
"Today, we honor a man many call a true hero, a beacon of light on that fateful night. Martin Myers, on behalf of the people of New York, I present you with the title of Honorary Citizen!"
"Mr. Martin Myers, please join us on stage."
Amid thunderous applause, Martin walked up to the stage, accepting the honorary certificate and symbolic golden key from Giuliani.
He stepped up to the microphone, gazing at the crowd—journalists, officials, and everyday citizens all waiting eagerly for his words.
"Thank you, Mayor Giuliani, and thank you to the people of New York for this incredible honor.
"To be honest, I don't feel deserving of it. That night, I just did what anyone should—helping my friends in danger.
"You call me a hero, but the real heroes are the police officers, firefighters, and medics who worked tirelessly that night. They are the true heroes of New York!"
Applause erupted once more, not just at City Hall but also in police precincts, fire stations, and hospitals across the city.
"He's got my respect!"
"Martin nailed it with that speech!"
"Good on him!"
August: The Princess Diaries Premiere
At the red carpet event, Anne Hathaway clung to Martin's arm as cameras flashed and fans cheered loudly.
Though she knew most of the attention was for Martin, Hathaway couldn't help but revel in the limelight.
This is what fame feels like, she thought.
When they reached the end of the red carpet, the host pulled them aside for an interview as the camera flashes continued nonstop. Hathaway maintained her graceful smile, savoring the attention.
"Martin, how did you meet Anne Hathaway? Are you two friends?"
Laughing, Martin replied, "Anne attended my book signing last year in New York. She told me she was a fan. So yes, we're friends."
The host turned to Hathaway. "Anne, you're Martin's fan? What's your favorite work of his?"
"Of course, I'm a huge fan! Not just of his books but his movies and music too. My favorites are Twilight and Hide and Seek," Hathaway said enthusiastically.