The Greatest Showman#1256 - meet the family

"You sure?"

"I'm sure."

Looking at Renly standing in front of him, Barry's eyes gradually took on a playful glint. The answer was unexpected, yet not entirely surprising.

Renly's professionalism and dedication to his craft were well-known throughout Hollywood. Some believed in his reputation, while others remained skeptical. After all, he was still relatively new to the industry, and building a solid professional image required time and consistency. Among actors, his reputation was largely trusted, but the higher-ups in the industry always retained a level of doubt.

Yet today, Barry caught something rare in Renly's eyes—sincerity. Pure, calm sincerity.

Involuntarily, Barry recalled their collaboration on Gravity.

As the lead actor and a producer on the film, Renly had every opportunity to assert control. Yet, he never overstepped. His focus remained solely on his role and the film itself. Even when it came to acting choices, he never interfered with Alfonso Cuarón's creative vision.

By the time the film wrapped, the entire crew had nothing but praise for him.

Snapping back to the present, Barry smiled and nodded. "What a pity. Then I can only look forward to our next collaboration."

Despite himself, Barry began to anticipate the final outcome of Gravity.

"Rumor has it you're planning to take a break." Oscar night held no secrets, and Renly's conversation with Steven had likely spread throughout the Sunset Tower Hotel by now. "It's understandable, but still a shame. However, promise me this: our company has submitted a project to Andy. Please take a look. Reach out anytime."

"Anytime?" Renly raised an eyebrow, his youthful energy evident. Oscar night was hardly a formal business affair.

Barry hesitated for a moment before realizing Renly was extending an olive branch. He chuckled. "Of course. You have my personal number, don't you?"

"I hope no one misinterprets that statement." Renly glanced around the room, his words carrying an unspoken meaning. Both men shared a knowing smile.

After a few more pleasantries, Renly politely excused himself and finally began to move through the crowd.

Barry remained seated, observing the sea of people—producers, directors, screenwriters, actors, reporters, fashion icons, executives. Almost every pair of eyes tracked Renly, as if he held the key to Hollywood's elite circles. Their greedy, eager gazes embodied the very essence of Vanity Fair.

Barry swirled the wine in his glass, replaying their conversation. A sense of excitement settled in his chest.

Renly's filmography remained predominantly artistic, with few commercial ventures. His only collaborations with the major studios were Universal's Fast & Furious 5 and Warner Bros.' Edge of Tomorrow.

But after Edge of Tomorrow grossed over $500 million domestically, the industry had taken notice. Every studio wanted to sign him, yet Andy Rogers, his agent, maintained a careful balance—keeping interest high while ensuring Renly wasn't overcommitted.

Warner Bros. had taken the lead. Regardless of Gravity's box office results, Barry had successfully positioned himself ahead of the competition. Now, it was up to the other players to show their hands and determine just how much Renly Hall was truly worth.

This was going to be interesting.

...

"If it were me, I wouldn't do it. Renly is trying to escape London—why would he willingly walk into a trap? Clearly, you haven't read the New York Times interview; otherwise, you wouldn't be making such a request."

A sharp, confident voice cut through the conversation, shattering the relaxed atmosphere.

All eyes turned to the woman standing before them.

She was striking—tall, perfectly proportioned, exuding an effortless allure. Black retro high-waisted trousers hugged her frame, paired with a smoky gray winged tulle top. Beneath the sheer fabric, glimpses of black lace hinted at sensuality without being overt. A pair of royal blue high heels provided a bold contrast, illuminating her entire ensemble.

Her smoky eye makeup and deep red lips radiated an unconventional elegance—rebellious yet refined. Though her presence clashed with the formal air of Oscar night, her confidence and self-assurance commanded attention. She was an epiphyllum in full bloom, standing proud in the midnight hour.

Renly's lips curled into a slight smile. He nodded. "Excuse me, everyone. Could you give us a little space? I know it's a difficult request tonight, but if possible, I'd truly appreciate it."

His gentlemanly tone diffused the tension, easing the moment.

The woman shrugged. "It doesn't matter. I didn't come here to ruin the conversation—just to state a fact."

Renly's eyes flickered with amusement. He studied her silently, his meaning clear: Or should I let them all stay?

The woman rolled her eyes, bared her teeth, and arched an eyebrow as if to say, You wouldn't dare.

Renly ignored her playful defiance and turned back to the group, offering a polite smile of apology. Realizing they were being dismissed, the guests exchanged understanding looks before departing. Soon, the once-crowded space emptied.

As they walked away, whispers filled the air. "Who is she?"

They might not recognize the woman, but they certainly recognized the two men flanking her—Chris Evans and Sebastian Stan. Speculation ran wild. Was Renly's rumored girlfriend from the Avengers cast, or was this an entirely new mystery woman?

Only those well-versed in fashion and photography circles would recognize Edith Hall.

Edith crossed her arms, unimpressed. "Great. You get to be the good guy while I play the villain. I clear away your annoying flies, and yet I'm the one carrying the blame."

Renly chuckled. "Aren't you used to it?"

She huffed, unable to argue, glaring at him instead.

Renly turned his attention to the two men beside her. The corners of his mouth lifted as he extended a hand. "Good evening, nice to see you again, Chris. And good evening to you as well, Mr. Stan."

Sebastian looked startled, then watched as Chris grinned and elbowed him. "Told you. I said we should come over and say hi, but Seba was worried it wouldn't be polite since you two hadn't met."

Chris clapped a hand on Sebastian's shoulder. "I told him, 'Don't worry. Renly's a really nice guy.'"

Nice?

Renly felt Edith's gaze boring into him, filled with disbelief. Of all the adjectives in the world, "nice" was the last word she'd use to describe her brother.

Still, Renly extended his hand toward Sebastian. "I actually saw Hot Tub Time Machine—I remember you. Also, after Edith and Chris started dating, I did my research. But let's pretend we've met before. I have an incredible memory, after all."

Chris stiffened slightly. Why did that sound so ominous?

Sebastian, however, beamed. "I... I'm Sebastian Stan, but you can call me Seba."

Renly laughed. "Nice to meet you, Seba."

A beat later, Sebastian realized Renly had already known his name. His introduction was completely unnecessary. He scratched his head sheepishly.

Chris patted his chest. "Relax. I told you, Renly's great."

Renly raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure?"

Chris faltered, suddenly remembering their awkward first encounter.

Renly smirked. "I'm not a friendly person. On the contrary, I can be quite evil. Especially toward certain people."