Chapters 17-18 Summary

Nick flies to LA, first class, with a satchel full of money. On the flight, a producer who is a friend of the president recognizes him and makes a nasty comment. Expecting a rental Mustang, Nick is disappointed to see that Jeff Megall - the producer he is there to meet - has reserved an ostentatious limo. Inside the limo is a big-screen TV streaming Jeff's verbose, fawning assistant, Jack Bein, who is very concerned about Nick's comfort. They arrive at the Encomium, a swanky hotel where Nick is given a private suite and a butler. He is also given a masseuse, Bernie, who gives him an incredibly painful massage while babbling about dolphins before having sex with him.

The next morning, Nick goes to Jeff Megall's sprawling office building with Jack. Jack gives him a long tour before arriving at...