Chapter 78 – Back to the Routine
The Los Angeles sun shone brightly in the cloudless blue sky. The warm California air was a welcome reminder that Jacob Stewart was back home. After a hectic trip to New York, where he attended the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show and had unforgettable moments alongside Candice Swanepoel, Adriana Lima, and Alessandra Ambrosio, it was time to resume his disciplined routine.
Los Angeles was his base, his refuge, the place where he honed his skills and prepared for the challenges to come. Now, his schedule was full again: intense Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, USPSA shooting practice, weightlifting, and morning runs.
As soon as he woke up that morning, he knew exactly how his day would begin.
7:00 AM
Jacob descended the stairs of his Bel-Air mansion wearing an impeccable white kimono, with a navy blue belt tied tightly around his waist. He had been training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for several months, and the progress was evident. His athletic physique, discipline, and learning-oriented mindset made him a dedicated student.
In the car, on his way to the Gracie Academy, where he trained under the supervision of renowned masters, he received a message from his friend and training partner, Tyler Reese, a brown belt who always helped him with technical adjustments.
TYLER: "Get there early, we're going to do a lot of sparring today."
Jacob smiled and replied quickly.
JACOB: "I'm on my way. I hope you slept well, because I'm going to crush you today."
Upon arriving at the academy, he greeted everyone with a "Good morning," already familiar with the respectful and disciplined environment of Jiu-Jitsu.
After an intense warm-up, he began the drill sequence, where he refined his defense against takedowns and sweeps. The instructor, an experienced black belt, watched him attentively.
— PROFESSOR: "Jacob, you're improving. Your base is solid, but you need to think about the details. In Jiu-Jitsu, small adjustments make all the difference."
Jacob nodded, attentive to the instructions.
Then, he went to the rolls (sparring). His first partner was Tyler, and the two engaged in an intense technical duel. Jacob tried to pass the guard, but Tyler managed a perfect triangle choke.
Jacob defended, forced the opening, and skillfully escaped, turning onto Tyler's back.
— TYLER (panting): "Wow, you learned too fast!"
Jacob smiled and continued training.
After five five-minute rounds, he was sweaty and exhausted, but satisfied with his progress.
Before leaving, the professor gave him a friendly pat on the shoulder.
— PROFESSOR: "If you keep going at this pace, you'll soon be ready for competitions."
Jacob smiled.
— JACOB: "We'll see… for now, I just want to keep improving." 1:30 PM
After lunch and a short rest, Jacob headed to the private shooting range where he usually trained his accuracy for USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association) competitions.
He arrived with his customized Glock 34, the same one he had received after his victory in the last championship. His coach, Mark Henderson, a veteran with years of experience in tactical and sport shooting, was already waiting.
— MARK: "Ready for another day of fire?"
Jacob smiled and raised his pistol.
— JACOB: "Always."
They began with basic draw and fire drills. Jacob already had an impressive reaction time, but he always sought to improve.
Mark placed the targets 15 meters away, with different positions and obstacles simulating real-life scenarios.
— MARK: "Speed is important, but accuracy wins championships. Remember that."
Jacob took a deep breath and fired six rapid shots, all hitting within the target's Alpha zone. — MARK: "Not bad… Now let's increase the difficulty."
They moved on to practicing movement, shooting at multiple targets, and timed magazine changes. Jacob was sharp, and his performance was flawless.
At the end of the training, Mark looked at him and crossed his arms.
— MARK: "You know, Jacob… I've seen many professionals, and you're at the level of the best. Thinking about competing again?"
Jacob wiped the sweat from his brow and smiled.
— JACOB: "Maybe… I like the challenge."
Mark nodded and gave him a friendly pat on the shoulder.
— MARK: "Well, if you decide to enter, let me know. I'll prepare you to win again."
6:30 PM
After shooting practice, Jacob went straight to the private gym in his mansion.
He started with strength exercises: deadlifts, bench presses, and heavy squats. Each repetition was performed with focus and total control. While finishing an abdominal circuit, he received a message from his fitness coach.
COACH: "Don't forget the evening run. Take it easy on the weightlifting so you don't get too tired."
Jacob replied with a simple "I'm already on track" and finished his weight training session.
8:00 PM
He put his running shoes, started the stopwatch, and went out for a night run on Santa Monica beach. The cool evening breeze and the sound of the waves were invigorating.
He ran for almost an hour, alternating between faster paces and light jogs.
Along the way, some fans recognized him and greeted him.
— FAN: "Jacob! You're still training?"
He smiled without stopping running.
— JACOB: "Discipline has no schedule!"
He finished his run with a stretching session on the sand, breathing deeply and feeling the satisfaction of a productive day.
When he got home, he took a relaxing shower, ate a protein-rich meal, and collapsed on the sofa.
He picked up his cell phone and opened a message from his agent, Richard.
RICHARD: "We have some meetings in the next few days. There are also new invitations for interviews and events. Let's talk tomorrow."
Jacob sighed. He loved the training routine, but he also knew that his career demanded a balance between physical fitness and media presence.
Before going to sleep, he wrote in his notebook:
"Back to the routine. Body and mind are aligned. The next challenge? I don't know yet. But I'll be ready."
He closed his eyes, satisfied.
Tomorrow would be another day of progress.
Chapter 79 – The Return to the Golden Globe Awards
Time passed quickly, and 2017 had already begun. Jacob Stewart had enjoyed a quiet December, focused on training, taking moments of rest, and planning the next steps in his career. But now, one of the biggest events in film and television was about to happen: the Golden Globe Awards.
It was January 8, 2017, and even though Jacob wasn't nominated, he had been invited as a previous Golden Globe and Oscar winner. This meant his name was still relevant and prestigious in Hollywood, and his presence at the event was eagerly awaited by fans and journalists.
Jacob spent the morning relaxing at his mansion, accompanied by his faithful Labrador, Lucky. The day's schedule was quiet until the afternoon, when he would begin preparing for the event.
Around 3 p.m., his personal stylist arrived with a custom-made Giorgio Armani suit, a sophisticated piece in a classic black tone, with precise cuts that accentuated his athletic physique.
— STYLIST: "Jacob, this suit was made especially for you. Classic, yet modern. You'll look amazing on the red carpet."
He took the suit and examined it in the mirror, smiling contentedly.
— JACOB: "Impeccable, as always. Thank you, mate."
In addition to the suit, they chose a white shirt, a discreet bow tie, and Italian leather shoes. The watch was a Rolex Submariner, a sophisticated choice that suited the event.
After getting dressed, Jacob looked at himself in the mirror one last time. He exuded confidence.
Around 5:30 p.m., Jacob got into a black limousine, which would take him to the Beverly Hilton Hotel, where the event would take place.
On the way, he took out his cell phone and received a message from his agent, Richard Calloway.
RICHARD: "Get ready for lots of interviews. The press will want to know about your upcoming projects."
Jacob smiled, already expecting it.
As the car approached the red carpet, the flashes began to go off. As soon as he got out, the buzz among the journalists increased, and the fans who were there began to shout his name.
— FANS: "Jacob! Jacob!"
He smiled, waved, and took some photos before being approached by the press.
The first reporter to approach was from Entertainment Tonight.
— REPORTER: "Jacob, welcome back to the Golden Globes! How does it feel to be here again, now as an Oscar winner?"
He adjusted his tie and answered calmly.
— JACOB: "It's always an honor. The Golden Globes was a landmark moment in my career, and being here as a guest now brings back great memories."
— REPORTER: "Do you have plans for new films soon?"
— JACOB: "Yes, I'm looking at some interesting proposals. You'll have news soon."
After a few quick interviews, Jacob began walking through the event and soon encountered Leonardo DiCaprio, who was talking with Alejandro G. Iñárritu.
— LEONARDO: "Look who's here! The great Jacob!"
They greeted each other with a firm handshake.
— JACOB: "Leo! How's it going, man?"
— LEONARDO: "Very well. And you? Enjoying life after that Oscar?"
— JACOB (laughing): "I'm enjoying it, but I can't stop. I want to keep growing."
Alejandro also greeted him warmly.
— ALEJANDRO: "You made history, Jacob. I can't wait to see what's next."
Jacob thanked him, always humble, and continued chatting with other stars. He greeted Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, Tom Hardy, Amy Adams, and even took a picture with Meryl Streep.
While strolling through the hall, he felt a light touch on his shoulder and turned around. It was Margot Robbie, in a stunning gold dress.
— MARGOT: "Hey, Jacob! Long time no see!"
— JACOB: "Margot! You look incredible, as always."
They exchanged a few words, reminiscing about when they worked together at a fashion event months ago.
The night promised to be lively.
Jacob went to his table, where he was seated alongside other distinguished guests. Dinner was served with refined dishes, and he took the opportunity to talk with directors and producers about new projects.
When the awards ceremony began, he paid close attention to the speeches and emotional moments. Even without being nominated, he felt the energy of the event and remembered the emotion of when he won his first Golden Globe.
One of the most anticipated categories was Best Actor in a Drama Film, the same one he had won in the past. The award went to Casey Affleck for Manchester by the Sea, and Jacob applauded respectfully.
Throughout the evening, he watched other awards ceremonies, such as Best Picture, Best Actress, and Best Director, recognizing the talent present.
After the main ceremony, Jacob was invited to one of the exclusive after-parties, where the winners and guests were celebrating.
He walked to the event's bar, grabbed a drink, and looked around, seeing familiar faces.
Soon, he felt a presence beside him. Scarlett Johansson approached, holding a glass of champagne.
— SCARLETT: "You seem to be having a good time."
Jacob smiled.
— JACOB: "Just watching the party. Hollywood never disappoints."
They chatted for a few minutes, exchanging stories about the film industry and future projects.
Later, while talking with other friends and directors, he felt the night was drawing to a close.
Before leaving, he ran into Leonardo DiCaprio again, who joked with him.
— LEONARDO: "So, Jacob, ready for another successful year?"
Jacob laughed and grabbed his jacket.
— JACOB: "Always ready."
He drove home, watching the lights of Los Angeles twinkling through the window. The 2017 Golden Globe Awards were another milestone, and now he was more motivated than ever for the challenges ahead.
The next big role? The next win?
He knew the journey was just beginning again.
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