The Former Marine

Chapter 49: Media Reaction

The Tom Ford commercial starring Derek Rogan aired in prime time, right after the big NBA game, and social media exploded. As soon as the first scene appeared, with Derek behind the wheel of an Aston Martin, speeding through the streets of a fictional European city, people immediately began sharing and commenting on the video.

The commercial was a true cinematic masterpiece. The intense music, the flawless action scenes and, of course, the stellar cast, with Derek starring alongside Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt, Matt Damon as Jason Bourne and Daniel Craig as James Bond, left the audience breathless. The combination of Tom Ford's elegance with the adrenaline of spy movies resulted in something that felt more like a big-budget movie trailer than a fashion commercial.

As soon as the commercial ended, entertainment, fashion and pop culture websites began publishing articles and tweets about the news.

On Twitter, #DerekRogan, #TomFordSpy and #DerekBourneBondHunt began trending worldwide within minutes. Kylie Jenner fan profiles also joined in, praising Derek's performance.

"Just watched the Tom Ford commercial and OMG Derek Rogan is the spy of my dreams! 😍🔥" read one tweet with thousands of likes.

Another tweet commented: "Derek Rogan has achieved the impossible: looking even more badass next to Tom Cruise, Matt Damon and Daniel Craig. He is the definition of smooth! #TomFordSpy".

On Instagram stories, influencers and celebrities reposted the commercial, praising not only Derek's performance, but also the impeccable look he presented wearing Tom Ford. The combination of Derek, already widely known to the public for his relationship with Kylie Jenner, with the biggest stars of spy movies caused a real stir.

The press was not far behind. Websites such as GQ, Esquire and Vogue published detailed analyses of the commercial, highlighting Derek's appeal and how he brought an impressive authenticity to the role of a spy.

In an article in GQ, the title was clear: "Derek Rogan: The New Name in Fashion and Action?" The text highlighted how much Derek's presence alongside legends such as Tom Cruise, Matt Damon and Daniel Craig catapulted him to a new level.

"Derek Rogan may have started out as an ex-marine and businessman, but his performance in the Tom Ford commercial puts him in the elite of fashion and entertainment. His confident posture, natural charisma and, of course, his real-life espionage and action skills have made him stand out even alongside movie icons. Could we be seeing the birth of a new action star?"

Esquire focused more on the ad campaign as a whole and how Derek's casting brought a new perspective to the Tom Ford brand:

"The Tom Ford campaign was a masterstroke, marrying the elegance of the brand with the intensity of Hollywood's biggest action movies. However, it was Derek Rogan who really stole the show. His real-life military experience brought an authenticity to the screen that resonated with audiences. It's not every day you see someone who's actually lived the spy life play one on screen."

Meanwhile, Vogue explored the fashion impact:

"Derek Rogan not only showcased his acting chops and charisma, but he also redefined the aesthetic of the modern spy. Wearing Tom Ford with confidence and class, he proved that style and substance can go hand in hand. His presence alongside Cruise, Damon and Craig was a reminder that men's fashion is increasingly about action and dynamism."

At Derek's house, the phone was buzzing nonstop. Messages from friends, family and even former military buddies were pouring in nonstop. Some congratulated him on his performance, while others joked about the idea of ​​him being the next action star.

Kylie sat on the couch, a proud smile on her face as she watched her friends and influencers repost the commercial on their stories. She turned to Derek, who was sitting next to her, looking relaxed.

"I told you this was going to be huge," Kylie said excitedly. "You're basically being hailed as the next James Bond, you know?"

Derek laughed in disbelief. "I don't know about that, but… it was fun. It was nice to drive those cars and play spy again, without worrying about the real risk of getting hit."

Kylie shook her head with a smile. "Well, anyway, people are freaking out. Have you seen how much people are mentioning you on social media? It's like you're a movie star now."

He glanced at his phone, which was vibrating incessantly. "Yeah, it seems like people liked it. Who knew?"

Stormi, who had been playing nearby, came over curiously. "Daddy Derek, are you a superhero now?"

Derek laughed and pulled Stormi onto his lap. "No, sweetie. I just made a fun video, But you can still call me a hero if you want."

Stormi smiled and hugged him. "You're my hero!"

Kylie looked at the scene tenderly. "And a lot of people's hero now, apparently."

The collaboration between Derek and Tom Ford quickly became the talk of the fashion world. The brand, already known for its sophistication and luxury appeal, gained a new layer of popularity among fans of action and adrenaline. The commercial not only showed the clothes in elegant settings, but also in high-intensity situations, something that made many identify even more with the brand.

In addition, rumors began in the film industry about Derek's potential to act in action films. Producers and directors were impressed by his presence and charisma on screen. After all, it was rare to see someone with a real combat and special operations background acting alongside iconic action movie actors.

Meanwhile, Kylie could not contain her pride. She knew how private Derek was about his past life, but seeing how naturally he fit into the commercial and how the audience reacted so positively only increased the love and admiration she felt for him.

In the following days, Derek's inbox began to be flooded with new invitations for commercials, events and even film projects. Tom Ford, in particular, saw a significant increase in sales and, of course, wanted to keep Derek as the face of future campaigns.

"I didn't expect this to go this far," Derek told Kylie as they relaxed at home.

"This is just the beginning," she replied with a smile. "I think the world is ready for more of your charm."

Derek just shook his head, still trying to get used to the idea of ​​being so popular. But at the same time, he knew that this was a new adventure that was just beginning.

Chapter 50: Derek's Decision

After the massive backlash from the Tom Ford commercial, Derek Rogan began to feel the weight of constant attention. He never sought out celebrity or media attention. While he had fun playing a spy and working alongside big stars like Tom Cruise, Matt Damon, and Daniel Craig, he knew his true passion lay elsewhere—in his gym, spending time with Kylie and the kids, and keeping his life relatively low-key despite the media spotlight.

One quiet morning, Derek sat in his backyard, drinking coffee and reflecting on the direction his life had taken over the past few months. Kylie, always there to support him, approached with a smile, holding two steaming mugs of coffee.

"I thought you might like another cup," she said, sitting down next to him.

"Thanks, babe," he replied, accepting the mug.

Kylie watched Derek for a moment, noticing that he was deep in thought. "Are you okay? You've been thinking a lot about everything that's been going on, haven't you?"

Derek let out a soft sigh, nodding. "Yeah, I have. The commercial was fun, but I don't know if I want to do more of that, you know? It's not exactly what I expected my life to be like after leaving the military. I never imagined being in the spotlight like this."

Kylie smiled sympathetically. "I get it. Fame can be overwhelming sometimes. I know what it's like to have all eyes on you all the time, and that's not for everyone. But Derek, you did really well. Everyone loved it."

He looked at her and took her hand. "I know. It wasn't bad… in fact, it was an amazing experience. Working with guys like Tom Cruise, Matt Damon, and Daniel Craig, it's not something that happens every day. But in the end, I like my simple life better. I like working out, having time for you, Stormi, Aire, and my gym. I don't want to become that public figure, you know?"

Kylie nodded. "Of course I understand. You've always been more reserved, and that's one of the things I love about you. It's your authenticity. You don't have to force yourself to do more if you don't want to."

Derek smiled lightly and took a sip of his coffee. "It was fun, yes, but I don't think I'm ready to dive into Hollywood or become a regular face in ad campaigns. But, you know… I liked Tom Ford. Maybe someday, if something really interesting comes along, I might consider doing something like that again. But for now, I'd rather focus on what makes me truly happy."

Kylie smiled, pleased to hear his honesty. "You know, I support whatever you decide. If you want to continue with the gym and avoid the media, I'm on your side. If you want to do another campaign sometime in the future, I'll be there to cheer you on too. The important thing is that you feel good about what you do."

Derek squeezed her hand affectionately. "You always get me, and that means a lot. I just don't want all this attention to negatively affect our lives."

"It won't," she assured him. "We have a solid foundation, Derek. Our relationship is strong, and what matters is what we experience day to day, here at home, with the kids. The rest... the fame, the media, all of that is secondary."

He nodded, feeling more at ease. "You're right. I guess I needed to hear that."

Kylie laughed lightly. "Every now and then, everyone needs a little push to remember what's important."

Derek gave her a relaxed smile, and for a moment a comfortable silence took over as they watched the light morning movement in the backyard. Stormi and Aire were playing up ahead, and seeing the kids so happy was always a reminder of what really mattered to him.

After a few minutes, Kylie spoke again. "Have you ever thought about what it would be like if another big invitation came up? Like, something impossible to refuse?"

Derek laughed. "It depends on what it would be, I guess. Like I said, I liked the vibe of Tom Ford. The style of the brand fits what I like to wear, and the concept of the commercial was cool, so... if something along those lines ever comes along, I might consider it. But I have no plans to make a career out of it."

Kylie nodded. "Well, Tom Ford nailed it with you. They must be super happy with the result. I know the fans loved it."

Derek smiled. "I'm glad they did, really. And it was fun driving those cars. But at the end of the day, I don't want to stray too far from the life I've built. I like the simplicity of having my own gym, working out and helping other people. And of course, having time to spend with you and the kids."

Kylie smiled fondly. "I'm the luckiest person in the world to have you around all the time."

Derek pulled her close, wrapping her in a warm hug. "I'm the lucky one, to have you."

The following week, Derek got a call from the Tom Ford team. They were ecstatic about the success of the campaign. And it was no surprise that they wanted to discuss the possibility of future collaborations. Derek, keeping his commitment to himself not to get involved in too many projects of this type, decided to talk to them honestly.

In the video meeting with the brand's creative director, Derek was blunt. "I just wanted to make it clear that I loved the opportunity and experience of working with you guys. It was a unique experience. But to be honest, I'm not interested in doing a lot of advertising work or pursuing a career in media."

The creative director, visibly understanding, nodded. "We completely understand, Derek. We know you have a life outside of this world, and we respect that. Whatever you decide, we're always open to future collaborations."

Derek smiled. "I appreciate that. I would say that if something special comes up, like this campaign, I'm open to talking. But for now, I think I'll focus on my gym and the things that make me happy."

The director gave a relaxed smile. "I'm happy to hear that. Your talent and authenticity are part of what made this campaign a success, and knowing that you're happy is the most important thing. If we ever shift focus to something more intimate, something that you feel would be fun, we're ready."

Derek nodded, pleased with the conversation. They parted amicably, and Derek felt relieved that he had made the right decision.

In the days that followed, Derek returned to his routine at the gym, training clients and dedicating time to his family. He felt an inner peace that he had made the choice to keep his life simple and authentic. He knew that fame and the spotlight could be alluring, but at the end of the day, what he cherished most was the peace of his home, the time with Kylie, Stormi and Aire, and the work that kept him connected to what he truly loved.

Still, he wasn't completely ruling out the idea of ​​doing something new with Tom Ford at some point. But for now, he was exactly where he wanted to be living his life at his own pace, without rushing, and with a contented smile on his face.

Chapter 51: A Look Behind the Story

It was a quiet afternoon at Kris Jenner's house. Derek was sitting comfortably on the large couch in the living room, with Stormi and Aire in his arms. The giant TV screen dominated the room, and the movie "Zero Dark Thirty" was starting to play. The film, which told the story of the hunt for Osama bin Laden, always sparked great interest among Kylie's sisters, who loved stories about secret missions and military operations.

Kylie was sitting next to Derek, and Kris, Kim, Kourtney, Khloé, Kendall and Stassie were settled around them. It was one of those rare moments when all the Kardashians and Jenners got together, and the mood was light, but with a curiosity in the air as the movie unfolded.

Right during the first action scenes, where the special operations team prepares for the invasion of the compound in Pakistan, Kendall leaned forward, always curious about the military details.

"These guys in the movie, Derek... do you think this is accurate to what actually happens on an operation like this?" she asked, her eyes shining with excitement.

Derek smiled slightly, nodding. He was familiar with these kinds of questions. "They do a good job of trying to convey the realism of the operation, especially the tactical parts. Sure, some things are dramatized, but overall, the mission was pretty similar."

Kim, who was standing next to Kendall, frowned. "You knew people who were on that mission, right?"

Derek adjusted Aire's position in his arms and looked around at the women, aware that this was a story he rarely shared. He had grown accustomed to keeping his secrets, but in this intimate, familiar setting, it seemed like the right time to talk a little more about his past.

"Yes," he began, his tone even, "I worked with some of the guys who were on that mission. They're part of the same special operations community as I am. Some of them were known as the best in the world at what they did."

Kylie looked at Derek with a mixture of admiration and surprise. She had known he had been involved in major operations, but she hadn't heard many details about his connection to the mission that led to the capture of Osama bin Laden.

"Wait a minute," Kourtney interrupted, "are you saying you actually know the guys who hunted down and killed bin Laden?"

Derek nodded, his expression serious. "I do. In fact, I've worked with a few of them on different missions over the years. They were dedicated, highly trained, and incredibly focused men. The kind of people you want by your side when the going gets tough."

The room was silent for a moment. The Kardashian-Jenner sisters exchanged surprised glances, clearly impressed by what Derek had just revealed.

"This is insane," Khloé muttered, as she glanced at the screen where the mission was unfolding. "I knew you had an impressive past, but I had no idea you were so involved in this."

Derek shrugged modestly. "I've always kept that part of my life private. But the truth is that these types of operations are the result of the work of many people, not just one team. There were years of intelligence gathering, planning, and action to make the mission successful."

Kendall looked at the screen, where the characters were engaged in an intense shootout.

"And those combat scenes? They look pretty intense. Have you ever been through anything like that?"

Derek leaned forward slightly, not taking his eyes off Stormi, who was dozing peacefully.

"Yes, I've been in similar situations. But it's important to remember that in the real world, things aren't as glamorous as they are in a movie. In real life, every second counts, and the stakes are much higher than what they can show on screen."

Kris, who had been silent until then, watching the conversation intently, finally intervened.

"I knew you were a hero, Derek, but I guess I never realized how much sacrifice and work goes into something like that."

Derek smiled modestly. "I don't consider myself a hero, Kris. I did my job, as did many other men and women in the military. True courage lies in remaining calm and making the right decisions in times of crisis."

Stormi stirred in his arms, waking briefly. Derek adjusted her position, gently stroking her back until she fell back asleep. Kylie watched with a smile, delighted at how natural and caring Derek was as a father.

"And how did it feel, knowing that you knew these men who participated in such a historic mission?" Kim asked, still intrigued.

Derek thought for a moment before answering. "I felt pride, of course. But also a sense of reality. You see something like this on the news, or in movies like this, and it seems surreal. But for me, it was something that could have been any of us. At that level, all operators are highly capable, and a lot of times, it's just a matter of who gets the mission at that moment."

Kourtney looked back at the screen, where the film was showing the final moments of the mission, and commented.

"It makes me wonder how many other operations like this still happen that we don't even know about."

Derek nodded. "Most special operations missions never make it to the public. They're done in the shadows, in silence, and most people never hear about them. But they're essential to maintaining security and peace."

Stassie, who had been quiet until then, turned to Derek with a mischievous smile. "So, you're basically Jason Bourne in real life?"

Everyone in the room laughed, and even Derek smiled at the comparison.

"I guess I'm not as dramatic as him," he joked. "But yeah, some parts of my job were similar."

The conversation continued in a lighthearted manner, with the Kardashian-Jenner sisters clearly captivated by everything Derek was sharing. For them, it was like listening to a story from a movie, but they knew the reality was much deeper than anything Hollywood could portray.

As the film came to an end and the credits began to roll, Kris looked at Derek with a look of respect and gratitude.

"Thank you for sharing this with us, Derek. It's easy to forget how brave and difficult these missions really are."

Derek gave a slight smile. "I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to serve, but I'm also grateful to be here now, with you, living a more peaceful life."

Kylie, sitting next to him, gently patted his hand. "And we're grateful to have you here with us, Derek."

As the evening wore on, the family chatted for a while longer, the atmosphere relaxed and cozy. What started as a casual afternoon watching a movie turned into a heartfelt conversation about Derek's past, revealing a side of his life that few knew.

And, above all, he showed the Kardashians and Jenners how much of a strong and reserved person he was, someone who, even with all his achievements and impressive stories, preferred to focus on the present and the future he was building alongside Kylie and the children.

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