The reporters sensed Lucas's irritation, but instead of backing off, they pressed harder, seeing it as a rare opportunity to capture Lucas Knight losing his cool.
"Lucas, how does it feel to be reunited with your family?" one shouted.
Another chimed in, "Is this the end of the Knight family feud?"
Jack and Simon stepped in, creating a human shield around Lucas. "Back off! Give Mr. Knight some space," Jack barked.
As they pushed through the crowd, Lucas caught sight of his car. Relief washed over him as he quickened his pace, but the reporters were relentless, blocking the way to the vehicle.
Lucas took a deep breath, realizing he needed to regain control of the situation. He held up his hands, his voice firm but calm. "Alright, listen up. I know you're all just doing your jobs, but this is my brother's wedding day. How about we show some respect?"
The reporters hesitated, some looking a bit sheepish.
Lucas continued, his tone softening slightly. "I'll make you a deal. Let me through to my car, and I'll give you one statement. Just one. Deal?"
The crowd murmured in agreement, parting to create a path.
As Lucas reached his car door, he turned to face the reporters. "Here's your statement: Family is complicated. Today wasn't about drama or reconciliation. It was about celebrating my brother's happiness. That's all that matters. Now, if you'll excuse me."
With that, Lucas slipped into the car, leaving the reporters buzzing with his words. As the car pulled away, he couldn't help but feel a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction. He'd managed to handle the situation without completely losing his cool, and he'd given them just enough to chew on without feeding the frenzy.
Jack looked back at Lucas from the front seat. "Nicely handled, boss."
Lucas smiled wryly. "Thanks. Let's just hope it doesn't end up as tomorrow's headline."
As they drove off into the night, Lucas found himself looking forward to getting back to his normal routine - or as normal as life ever got for Lucas Knight.
Though he doubted things would ever truly settle down, especially given the controversial nature of his relationship with the Knight family.
***
The next morning, as Lucas sipped his coffee, his phone buzzed with an update on "Stranger Things." Netflix was already moving forward with casting plans.
As Lucas read through the details, something nagged at the back of his mind. The concept of "Stranger Things" reminded him of a video game he'd played - or rather, remembered playing in his past life - called "Beyond: Two Souls." The similarities in the supernatural elements and the focus on a young protagonist with special abilities were striking.
An idea began to form in Lucas's mind. If the original writers of "Stranger Things" needed any support or if scheduling conflicts arose, it might be worth reaching out to the writers of "Beyond: Two Souls."
Lucas made a mental note to suggest this to the Netflix team at their next meeting. He knew it was a long shot - after all, the Duffer Brothers had a clear vision for their show - but it couldn't hurt to have a backup plan or additional creative input.
As Lucas was lost in thought, the doorbell rang, pulling him back to reality. He got up and opened the door to find Neil standing there, a look of excitement on his face.
"Lucas, we've got news," Neil said as he stepped inside. "Kevin Feige wants to meet. About Deadpool."
Lucas raised an eyebrow, closing the door behind Neil. "Feige himself?"
Neil nodded, his excitement palpable. "Disney seems really confident about this project. They've just finalized the Fox acquisition, so they've got full control now."
Lucas leaned against the kitchen counter, processing the information. He remembered that Disney had indeed bought Fox the previous year. It was starting to make sense - they wanted complete control over the Deadpool franchise.
"Hmm," Lucas mused, "So they're not wasting any time, are they? Going straight from acquisition to development."
"No sir, they're not," Neil said. He added, "The project will begin next year, I think."
Lucas nodded, "Alright, I'll have a meeting with him."
Neil nodded, then reminded him, "And don't forget, you still have shooting for the sixth season of 'Modern Family'."
Lucas chuckled, "I didn't forget. That series literally started my career. If it wasn't for Christopher Lloyd's letter, I wouldn't be here."
Neil nodded in agreement, then his expression turned more serious. "By the way, I just saw the drama about your attendance at your brother's wedding."
Lucas raised an eyebrow, "Oh?"
Neil sighed, "Yeah, there's an interview with Myla. She didn't name you specifically, but she made some comments about 'uninvited guests' at her son's wedding. It's pretty obvious she's talking about you."
Lucas's jaw tightened slightly. "Of course she did," he muttered.
Neil looked at Lucas cautiously, "Do you want to release a statement or anything?"
Lucas shook his head, "No, let's not add fuel to the fire. Melvin invited me, and that's all that matters. If Myla wants to stir up drama, that's on her."
Neil nodded, respecting Lucas's decision. "Alright, I'll keep an eye on it though. Let me know if you change your mind."
As Neil left to make some calls, Lucas couldn't help but feel a twinge of frustration. He'd hoped attending the wedding might ease some family tensions, but it seemed Myla was determined to keep the feud alive.
***
In Aspen, Colorado, the Cavendish family's luxurious mountain lodge stood proudly against the snow-capped peaks. The sprawling, rustic-chic property, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and state-of-the-art amenities, was beginning to buzz with activity as staff prepared for the upcoming gathering of political and entertainment elites to celebrate William Cavendish III's birthday in a few days.
In the oak-paneled study, the old William faced off with his son, Robert Cavendish, the current governor of New York. The crackling fireplace cast dancing shadows across their faces, highlighting the family resemblance and the generational divide.
Robert stood before his father's desk, his voice businesslike. "Father, I've nearly finalized the guest list for your birthday celebration. The Secretary of State and three Supreme Court Justices have confirmed their attendance. I'm still waiting to hear back from a few studio heads."
William nodded, his weathered face still sharp and alert despite his advanced years. "Good, good. And what about Sophia's son? Have you invited him?"
Robert's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "The young actor?"
William nodded again, his eyes never leaving his son's face.
"I... I didn't think you'd want him here," Robert said, confusion evident in his voice. "I thought you blamed him for Sophia's death."
William's expression softened slightly, a hint of regret crossing his features. "I don't hate the boy, Robert. I never did. But I despised his father, still do. That feller is the reason we lost Sophia."
Robert studied his father, trying to figure understand this sudden change of heart. "So why now? Why reach out after all these years?"
William turned to look out the window, his voice quieter now. "He's made quite a name for himself, hasn't he? Perhaps it's time we acknowledged him as part of this family. Sophia would have wanted that."
Robert nodded slowly, still processing this unexpected turn of events. "I'll send the invitation right away. But father, are you sure about this? It could stir up a lot of old wounds."
William turned back to his son, a determined glint in his eye. "Sometimes, Robert, wounds need to be reopened to heal properly. Send the invitation. It's time we met him."
Robert nodded, a wry smile playing on his lips. "The Knight family probably won't take kindly to this, you know."
The Knight family was more than just Vince and his immediate relatives. They were a sprawling dynasty, with roots as deep and influential as the Cavendishes.
William waved his hand dismissively, his voice firm. "I don't give a damn what they think. I've had a long-standing dispute with that family, and I'm not about to start cowering now. And neither should you."
Robert's smile widened slightly. "Of course not, Father. I'll send the invitation."
***
Lucas arrived at the Marvel offices, his presence causing a stir among the employees. Heads turned and whispers followed him as the receptionist led him through the bustling workspace towards Kevin Feige's office.
As they approached, Lucas could see Kevin through the glass walls, poring over what looked like concept art spread across his desk. He seemed deeply engrossed, his brow furrowed in concentration.
The receptionist knocked lightly on the door frame. "Mr. Feige? Lucas Knight is here to see you."
Kevin looked up, his serious expression immediately transforming into a warm smile. He stood up, straightening his signature baseball cap. "Lucas! Come on in. Thanks for making the time to meet with us."
As Lucas entered the office, he couldn't help but notice the walls adorned with Marvel movie posters and character artwork. It was like stepping into a comic book fan's dream.
Kevin gestured to a chair across from his desk. "Please, have a seat. Can I get you anything? Water? Coffee?"
Lucas shook his head, smiling. "I'm good, thanks."
As they both settled into their seats, Kevin leaned forward. "So, Lucas, I'm sure you're wondering why we called you in today. We've got something big in the works, and we think you might be the perfect fit for it."
Lucas nodded, his curiosity piqued. "I'm all ears, Kevin. What have you got for me?"
Kevin paused for a moment, as if considering how to phrase his next words. Then, with a hint of a smile, he asked, "Tell me, Lucas, how do you feel about chimichangas?"
Lucas couldn't help but chuckle at Kevin's question. "Honestly? I'm not the biggest fan of chimichangas. They're a bit heavy for my taste." Then, with a mischievous glint in his eye, he added, "But there's this comic book character I really like - Deadpool. He's got a thing for chimichangas, if I remember correctly."
Kevin's eyebrows shot up, a mix of surprise and intrigue crossing his face. He clearly hadn't expected Lucas to make the connection so quickly.
Lucas, seeing Kevin's reaction, decided to push a little further. With a knowing smile, he leaned forward slightly. "Don't tell me the secret project Disney's cooking up is Deadpool?"
Kevin, momentarily flustered, regained his composure quickly. He cleared his throat, a hint of nervousness in his voice. "I... uh, did you sign an NDA that I'm not aware of?"
Lucas shook his head, his smile widening. "No NDA. Just a lucky guess based on a fondness for comic books and a bit of industry chatter."
Kevin relaxed a bit, chuckling. "Well, I guess the cat's out of the bag. Yes, we're looking at bringing Deadpool into the MCU, and we think you might fit for the role."