hollywood system: art

May 9.

After the profits, the team began envisioning a format to help them create an online chat application. Using Microsoft's platform presented many challenges in developing what would become Messenger and the early hurdles of online chat technology. However, since 1989, they have been leveraging a more than useful tool to the company: Internet Relay Chat. This instant messaging platform enabled real-time communication via multi-user channels. Although it wasn't a modern instant messaging app, the communication capability was there.

Creating the chat itself was the easy part; designing it, not so much. Billy had provided them with enough data to ensure the page's layout and accessibility were as simple as possible. Security protocols, IP usage, names, and emojis were perhaps a qualitative leap in traditional chat usage. But the real challenge was a single, straightforward step: scalability and server capacity. The server infrastructure had to handle the load of millions of users connected simultaneously.

Furthermore, Billy knew that Microsoft had an independent vision for Messenger and was already using available technology to gain online subscribers. The online instant messaging service was one of the trickiest fields to penetrate. However, in Billy's model, unifying an app with an account wasn't the end goal—the aim was to attract as many online subscribers as possible.

The next challenge was to expand databases to store messages and user data. Microsoft maintained its databases but couldn't rely solely on one company indefinitely. Therefore, from the outset, they sought a way to create their robust database. But that would have to wait; winning the race in internet development was the top priority.

Focusing on promoting their web pages would be a tough blow for any other entrepreneur. But for Billy, it was just another step forward. His ambitions were centered on simpler, more tailored entertainment applications. First, Netflix, Instagram, Steam, and WhatsApp served as the pillars for app development, but he didn't underestimate products like LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, TikTok, and Snapchat. Each one of these companies would be instrumental in building his organized online entertainment network.

With platforms like Lux Web Service, ID Software: Lux Games, and Netflix, he was setting up a core structure for creation. Acquiring strategic companies with unique development models was crucial for the business's operation, as was creating a solid database.

-Recently, we rolled out all the connections,- remarked Aron Walter, the chief programmer, formerly of Hotmail and now heading Messenger development. He enjoyed having a sense of belonging. Working on such challenging projects was a luxury in itself. The team, once a small group of ten, had grown into a consolidated thirty, with some members handling the Steam page for video games and others working on Messenger. The web proposals were already heating up, as many of the sites were becoming more essential for the company. After a potential sale of Messenger, they would work on web pages for Lux Comics, Lux Toons, Lux Kids, Lux Animation (which included Pixar), Lux Nation, and Lux Films.

All in one.

-It might be time to launch it, - commented John Grew.

-No problem; we have the computers ready. We'll send messages from some servers in New York. Raimon will be joining us in setting up that service,- replied Aron Walter.

Aron knew well about Raimon's business dealings in New York; they were extensive and formidable, involving plenty of work and considerations, none of them easy to arrange.

Over all his years of work, Aron was perhaps a level-A programmer, yet much would still need to be learned in the process of developing apps of various sizes. That was perhaps the most crucial factor.

-What about the Java language we're trying to implement for Steam?- Aron finally asked.

-It's better to stick with HTML5 than switch to another system, but for certain functions, it's best to implement designs with stable structures,- replied John Walter.

***

Billy breathed in the summer air. Italy brought back familiar memories. Every moment in Italy reminded him of past visits—his younger, carefree days without a penny in his pocket, trips with his father, and his journey with Claudia, and now this trip for The English Patient, business, and Monica as his main focus.

-We've got the transportation,- said Billy's bodyguard.

A weekend awaited him in Italy. They'd stop in Rome, and from there, embark on a lengthy journey to Arezzo, around four hours, but it didn't matter; he'd spend those hours writing as much as he could.

For some time, he'd had The Expanse saga and Altered Carbon in his hands. They'd be published in the coming months, but he still had extensive work to do on the storyboards for the upcoming series. For instance, Spirit and Treasure Planet were nearly ready, though some minor adjustments remained.

As his pencil glided across the pages, organizing one idea after another, he didn't notice the sky darkening as Friday night approached.

…

Monica, waiting in a hotel, moved about lazily. She had a double bed and made sure she had a spacious room. She first refreshed herself, smoothing out her skin and enhancing her best features. A hint of black lipstick, a sheer nightgown, and the scent of cinnamon lingered on her skin. She loved those aromas. And with a little champagne, she was ready. Billy had promised no work, and although she didn't doubt him, she was sure he'd devote all his time to strengthening their relationship in the days ahead. She arranged a few gifts she had for Billy—a pair of handcrafted leather shoes from an artisan, along with a burgundy suit for formal events, featuring a deep-cut chest.

She'd also brought some silk shirts, so light Billy would be thrilled, along with a special wool coat, softer than cashmere. The Italians' expert craftsmanship felt like heaven to the touch, perfect for chilly nights.

She received a call and picked up the phone.

-I'll be right down,- replied Monica, brimming with excitement. Billy was likely organizing their entire stay. She bit her lip in anticipation.

She slipped into an oversized white shirt, a long embroidered skirt, and low-platform heels. She was ready. Arezzo had many places for them to explore.

…

-We're a bit far from the capital, but that doesn't mean there aren't great spots,- said Monica, taking Billy to a restaurant on their second day, recommended by a cameraman. The place was cozy, with two Michelin stars; the food was incredible yet affordable, at least by Californian standards.

-I can never complain when it comes to food,- replied Billy, taking in the ambiance, the soft violin music, and the candlelight.

-I just love trying new places. Recently, I got another offer for a role that sounds intriguing. Although it feels surprising, I'm flattered to be considered for new opportunities,- Monica shared, her beauty radiating more than ever these past few months.

-Everything will keep getting better, but you should stay in Hollywood for at least two more years. First, you need status; then, the big roles everyone wants will be yours, coming right to your door,- said Billy, brushing back a stray lock of her hair, and tucking it behind her ear.

-I rented a few movies,- Monica mentioned.

-I'm dying to get back to the hotel, but not for the movies, darling,- Billy whispered, leaning in for a kiss, their lips meeting in the moment he had been craving.

-Oh, my love… you'll have to wait because now it's my turn to take you somewhere,- Monica replied.

...