The Greatest Showman #1227 - An Endless Stream

"I'm just asking, you and Renly are supposed to be friends, right? Don't you need to go up and say hello?"

Eric's simple question caught Jennifer off guard. She paused, her mind still clouded, but this time, she managed a polite smile. "Yes, we're friends. But definitely not the kind of relationship TMZ has been trying to explore."

With a light joke, Jennifer deftly changed the subject, easing the tension. "Why, do you want me to introduce you? I'm sure Renly would be happy to meet such a great producer."

"Let's talk about the party after the awards ceremony," Eric replied, gesturing with his eyes. Jennifer turned, only to notice Renly and Sula had already moved away, heading in the direction of Daniel Day-Lewis.

"It's no surprise," Jennifer remarked, her smile fading slightly. She took another sip of champagne. "Renly has always admired Daniel's performances. When we discussed acting, 'There Will Be Blood' and 'In the Name of the Father' were among the films he often mentioned."

"You two often discuss acting together?" Eric continued, intrigued. "That's unexpected..."

Jennifer's thoughts drifted away, becoming more introspective. She recalled the countless choices in life, each one shaping the future. Every decision, small or large, holds consequences—some clear, others unpredictable. No choice is truly right or wrong, for everyone acts according to their own circumstances and experiences. The results might seem obvious to outsiders, but for those making the decision, it's never that simple.

It's like Le Verne and Jane in Inside Llewyn Davis—there's no universal right answer, just different paths that lead to different futures.

"Renly, I'm thinking about going over to say hello to Mr. Steven Spielberg. Do you think it would be inappropriate?" Sula asked nervously, though her excitement was evident. It was as if the typical shy restraint of her culture melted away in the face of her own ambition.

Renly smiled, easing her nerves. "Of course not. In fact, it's a great idea. Would you like me to accompany you and introduce you?"

Sula took a deep breath. "Thank you, but no. I think it's better if I introduce myself. Wish me luck."

She turned to leave but then stopped and came back, offering Renly a bright smile. "Good luck tonight!" She turned again, her excitement driving her forward.

Renly couldn't help but laugh as he watched Sula go. He recalled his own nervousness when meeting Spielberg for the first time—how he was too shy to say hello when he unexpectedly saw an idol during an audition.

Just as Renly gathered his thoughts, a figure appeared beside him, as if they had been waiting for this moment. The man introduced himself with a smile. "Good evening, Renly. I'm Simon Keen..."

"Good evening, Mr. Keen. I've seen The Tightrope Walker, and I really enjoyed Finding Sugar Man this year," Renly said warmly.

Simon was taken aback. "You've seen those? They're documentaries. Not many people watch them, and the producers are often behind the scenes."

Renly smiled. "I'm a loyal supporter of Sundance."

Simon beamed, clearly pleased with the answer. "And a loyal supporter of documentaries, it seems!"

As the Oscars, the largest event in Hollywood, continued, Renly was greeted by a steady stream of guests. His presence remained the focal point as colleagues and acquaintances came and went, each exchange creating a whirlwind of activity that continued until Renly was seated.

"Can I steal a little time?"

A familiar voice, low and steady with a hint of teasing, interrupted his conversation with Jessica Chastain. Both of them looked up.

Jessica laughed, a warm and engaging sound. "Of course, you can. We were just chatting, and it would have been rude to rush in. But now... Hey, good luck tonight, Steven!"

Steven Spielberg's face lit up with a big smile. "Jessica, good luck tonight!"

Jessica turned back to Renly and gave him a wink before heading off. Renly didn't wait for Steven to speak, standing up to show respect. Spielberg, ever the playful spirit, gestured for him to sit down. "Your height's so noticeable, it's like a beacon—everyone's eyes are on you."

As Renly sat back down, Steven chuckled. "Jesus Christ!" He waved his hands dismissively. "Sit, sit, sit!"

Glancing around at the seats, Steven raised his eyebrows slightly at the plaques. Jessica Chastain to the left, Hugh Jackman to the right. "Seems like the organizing committee has put a lot of thought into this seating arrangement."

Once they were seated, Steven wasted no time in getting to the point. "I heard you and the Coen brothers just finished a project. Any plans coming up? I'm working on something, and I think you'd be perfect for it. Interested?"

Renly was momentarily taken aback, surprise flickering across his face. But before he could respond, Steven continued, "No need for modesty. Everyone knows Renly Hall is the hottest actor right now, and every studio wants to work with you. No point in pretending otherwise."

Renly chuckled. "I wasn't being modest. I just thought there might be a line of actors eager to work with Steven Spielberg. But if you're coming directly to me, does that mean I can allow myself a little pride?"

Steven laughed heartily. "Yes, yes!"

Renly's reply made Steven grin even wider. "Every time reporters ask when I'll be working with you again, or if I treat you differently—honestly, I haven't had the chance to work with you since the Band of Brothers series. The questions they ask are ridiculous."

Renly shrugged. "Forgive the reporters. They see only what they want to. At least, they have a broader perspective than most."

Steven gave him an approving look. "I'm satisfied with that answer."

Later, Renly continued, "I just wrapped two projects, so I'm planning to take a short break—probably won't take on anything through March or April. I'm looking forward to seeing some interesting offers on my agent's desk."

Steven smiled warmly. "That's fine. This project is still in the concept phase—no script, no director, no producer yet. Just an idea. We can talk more after the ceremony, but I think you'll be busy tonight."

With that, Steven stood, offering his final words. "Good luck tonight. Although I've already booked my tickets for Daniel Day-Lewis."

Renly grinned. "I guess our choices are set, then."

Steven raised an eyebrow. "Did I mention how much I like you? You're such a likable guy."