The Greatest Showman #1226 - Nodding Acquaintance

Cheers from fans, interviews from reporters, and live broadcasts from TV stations—Renly's arrival ignited the crowd's enthusiasm, making him the highlight of the first half of the red carpet. Hollywood Boulevard was ablaze with excitement. Despite keeping a relatively low profile during the awards season, there was no doubt that Renly had become the biggest star of 2012.

Time and again, Renly tried to move on, but the enthusiastic reporters kept him tethered, lingering for seven or eight minutes. The intensity of the media's excitement, after missing him all season, was palpable. One reporter, not missing a beat, called out, "Last question, Renly! Just one last question!"

"This is the fourth and final one," Renly remarked with mock complaint, causing the reporters to chuckle. Still, they pressed on, asking, "What are you most looking forward to tonight? Many are saying that your outstanding performance in Detachment gives you a shot at Best Actor again. What do you think?"

"So, you're asking if I'm looking forward to winning an award?" Renly quipped with a smile, earning a look of exasperation from the reporters. The mood remained light, and the atmosphere cheerful. "No, I'm not really looking forward to that. What I'm most excited about tonight is the moment the presenters take the stage."

The reporters groaned, as it was a safe, somewhat boring answer, but Renly didn't let them continue. He turned and walked away, clearing the way for other celebrities arriving on the scene.

Looking after him, the reporters quickly realized: His answer held more significance than they initially thought. Renly was set to present the Best Actress award, and with Jennifer Lawrence and Jessica Chastain as the top contenders, both of whom were friends of Renly, the stakes were high.

"Renly, which nominee for Best Actress do you support tonight?" one reporter shouted, hoping for a hint. But Renly, this time, didn't even acknowledge the question, continuing his stride forward. The reporters were left frustrated, with the most anticipated question left unanswered. Their regret was palpable—Damn, Renly.

After leaving the interview area, Renly noticed the fans gathered at the entrance of the Dolby Theater. It had been a year since he last walked the red carpet here, and he was now more attuned to the fans around him. Curious, he approached and started chatting with them: "Is this a special spot? Do you need to arrive early to be here? What makes this location different from others?"

The media on the sidelines watched in disbelief. Renly had just brushed off a round of reporters to talk to a group of fans?

Sura Sharma, who had been standing a little further away, noticed Renly's approach. She watched him with wide eyes, hesitant to step forward. Finally, she gathered her courage, greeted him, and then froze. Her words caught in her throat as she stood there, unsure of how to proceed.

Renly, noticing her discomfort, smiled gently and asked, "Would you like to join me for the banquet?"

Sura's eyes lit up. She nodded vigorously, and they walked together toward the banquet hall on the second floor.

Renly was four years older than Sura, but his composed and graceful demeanor made him seem much more mature. Sura couldn't help but admire him, her gaze lingering a bit longer than intended. She quickly averted her eyes, embarrassed.

"I really loved your performances in Love Crazy and Transcendence, especially the way you used your eyes—it was incredible!" Sura said, her voice tinged with excitement.

Renly tilted his head slightly and smiled, "Thank you. So, that means I'm doing a good job as an actor?"

"Good? More than good—it was... unbelievable!" Sura stammered, unable to contain her excitement. Her voice quivered as she spoke, but Renly didn't mind. It only made her more endearing.

"My honor," Renly said sincerely. "I also recently watched Life of Pi and thought your performance was simple, yet powerful. It was a real pleasure to watch, and your collaboration with Ang Lee must have been incredible."

"Wait, you've seen my film?" Sura exclaimed, her voice higher with shock.

"Of course, I really enjoyed it," Renly said with a cheerful laugh.

As they entered the banquet hall, the burgundy and dark brown décor surrounded them, rich and luxurious. The air was thick with the scent of fine food, and the atmosphere was buzzing with activity. The flashes of cameras reflected off the opulent surroundings, and Sura couldn't help but feel a little dizzy.

"Oh my God, is that Robert De Niro?" she gasped, eyes wide with wonder.

"And Sally Field! I love Forrest Gump!" she whispered, excited beyond belief. At just 19 years old, she looked every bit the movie fan caught in a whirlwind of celebrity.

Renly smiled, recalling his own first time at the Golden Globe Awards. He had felt the same excitement when he saw the stars he only knew from movies and news. It was an overwhelming, almost surreal experience.

His gaze shifted to Jennifer Lawrence, who was standing nearby, talking to Eric Fellner.

Eric Fellner, one of the top producers from the UK, was well-known for his work on films like Love Actually and Atonement, and this year he was nominated for Best Picture with Les Misérables. Renly and Eric had never worked together, though they were familiar with each other's names.

As Renly looked over, Eric noticed him and gave a polite nod, a smile spreading across his face. Jennifer, noticing his attention, turned to follow Eric's gaze.

Jennifer looked radiant tonight in a Dior strapless dress, a blend of off-white and pale pink. The delicate skirt flared out like a blooming flower. Her every movement exuded a tender beauty, the poise of a young woman stepping into full bloom.

Their eyes met for a brief moment, and Jennifer's smile was warm but reserved, a hint of grown-up grace and maturity in her demeanor. It was no longer the carefree, open expression she once wore, but rather a polite, restrained greeting—one that conveyed a sense of distance yet respect.

Renly responded with a subtle smile and a nod, his demeanor composed and courteous. He wasn't surprised by the distance, but the moment felt different from the past.

Jennifer, catching Renly's gaze, blinked, then quickly turned her attention back to Eric. The slight shift in her expression didn't go unnoticed, but she quickly regained her composure, taking a sip of her champagne as if to steady herself.

The warmth of the drink began to fade, making her frown slightly, her thoughts momentarily distracted. As she refocused, Eric's voice broke through. "Jennifer, are you alright?"

She smiled and nodded, catching her breath. "Sorry, I think I've had too much champagne. My head's a little light." She laughed softly, lifting her glass and making a self-deprecating grin.

Eric raised an eyebrow but chuckled. "Well, you and Renly must be friends, right? You didn't even say hello."

Jennifer froze for a moment, her mind momentarily lost in thought. Her eyes flickered back toward Renly, but she quickly masked her feelings, turning her attention back to Eric.