From Flower Vase to Film Emperor in Hollywood

“… … Trust me, the movie will be a success… …”

“Wow, I can't believe Sam actually finished the job.”

“The project I discussed with you last time… …”

Anson quietly moved through the crowd, discreetly concealing his presence, preparing to leave the “Spider-Man” premiere party early.

Saying it was early wasn't entirely accurate, as it was already three in the morning, and the bustling party had entered a semi-conscious, drunken state. Even the star of the premiere party could leave without anyone noticing.

After the premiere, Sony Columbia hosted a party at the Beverly Hills Hilton Hotel—

Not a celebration banquet, but an extension of the premiere, inviting reporters, film critics, producers, and actors to gather in a celebratory manner.

At the moment, film critics still maintained a professional image, or at least tried to. They wouldn't be easily bought off by film companies. Speaking their minds and maintaining their authoritative image earned them more income, far more than a party hosted by a film company could offer.

The true purpose of the premiere party was to probe and prepare in advance.

They tested the waters with film critics and reporters. If the reviews were overwhelmingly negative, the film company's publicity and distribution teams could formulate strategies overnight to see if they could salvage the situation, hoping to at least do well on the opening weekend.

Of course, not all the conversations at the party revolved around “Spider-Man.” Producers, actors, and directors were all trying to seize opportunities to break through.

No one should miss an opportunity.

Clinking glasses, fragrant dresses, and elegant hairstyles filled the entire evening, surrounded by lights, smiles, flattery, and alcohol. Tense shoulders were almost completely stiff.

Finally, leaving the noise and clamor behind, he arrived at the hotel entrance to wait for a taxi—

Taking a deep breath of the crisp morning air, he could immediately sense the stark contrast of the desert climate. Goosebumps erupted all over his skin, but the surging noise that had been pounding in his ears gradually faded away, and the world became quiet again.

Behind him, a voice called out.

“That Prius, please.”

Reacting instinctively, he looked over and saw a slender, slightly gloomy young man handing the car keys to the valet, then putting his hands into his pockets, his body trembling slightly.

Noticing Anson's gaze, he looked down at his slightly thin suit and gave an awkward smile, “My agent said it's best to dress up, and looking good is more important than staying warm.”

Anson chuckled, “But compared to the girls, at least we have jackets.”

Returning the joke, the young man laughed heartily, “I certainly can't complain.”

Then, the young man took the initiative to step forward, extending his right hand, “Ryan Gosling, sorry for not introducing myself, I am… …

Anson politely shook his hand, “I know, Brad's friend. I attended the premiere of your movie. Thank you for attending the movie premiere tonight.”

Ryan was stunned, and after a beat, he chuckled wryly, “So you remember.”

Three weeks ago, “Murder by Numbers,” starring Ryan Gosling, Brad Renfro, and Sandra Bullock, had already hit theaters. Although it was a spring release, the film still held a grand premiere—

After all, this was a work led by Sandra; and it was also a work that was widely released throughout North America.

Upon receiving Brad's invitation, Anson and Chris Evans also attended the premiere, while James Franco went to Atlanta to audition for a project, regrettably missing it.

Returning the favor, Anson also invited Brad and Ryan to the “Spider-Man” premiere today, hoping to increase their exposure.

For actors like them who were just starting their careers, any exposure was precious.

Looking at the slightly cautious Ryan, the smile on Anson's lips lifted slightly, “If I can't remember in such a short time, it's either a choice or early Alzheimer's. Either way, we can't do anything about it.”

Ryan was stunned, “Haha,” he couldn't help but burst out laughing.

Although Ryan came from the Mickey Mouse Club and can be considered a child star; in Hollywood, it is very difficult for child stars to transition after adulthood, so Ryan chose to start with independent films, making his way up step by step.

Naturally, this was his first time at such a grand premiere party, lacking experience.

Ryan's self-deprecating tone made Anson chuckle, “I didn't drink tonight either. Although no one cares that I'm not twenty-one yet, I thought I might be very tired after the party tonight, so I didn't drive.”

Ryan suddenly understood, “Smart!”

His gaze paused on Anson, “So, you're not twenty-one yet?”

Anson raised an eyebrow slightly, “No, actually I'm already forty-one.”

Ryan looked at Anson's serious face—

Very convincing.

This made it even more humorous. Ryan couldn't help but burst out laughing again, “Haha, why didn't Brad ever say you were a funny guy.”

Anson shrugged lightly, “Maybe because I'm not a woman?”

Bursting into laughter, Ryan slapped his thigh hard, immediately realizing that this was a complaint that Brad valued women over friends, only discussing women with others, but never mentioning his good friends.

Brad: Taking an arrow to the knee.

Just as they were talking, Ryan's silver Prius had already pulled up.

Faster than a taxi.

Ryan took the car keys from the valet, hesitated slightly, “Need a ride? Although I can't thank you enough for today's invitation, I can at least show a little sincerity.”

Anson was about to refuse.

Ryan added, “I promise, I'm not in danger of driving while tired.”

A joke made the atmosphere lighten up.

Anson didn't stand on ceremony. He looked at the valet, “Please notify the dispatch to cancel the taxi.”

Before him, Ryan had already opened the passenger seat door and was standing there waiting.

Anson didn't expect Ryan to be so quick.

Ryan glanced at Anson, “Wait, you don't want to sit in the back, do you? If that's the case, wouldn't I become your driver?”

A smile appeared in Anson's eyes, “Don't worry, I don't see you as a driver. My driver must be stronger and taller.”

Ryan, “Ouch, my knee hurts.”

Amidst the banter, Anson had already entered the passenger seat. Ryan walked around the front of the car, got into the driver's seat, started the engine, and slowly drove away from the hotel.

Turning his head, Ryan noticed Anson yawn. He wasn't sure if it was his imagination, but in the shadows, he seemed to detect some fatigue and loneliness in Anson.

Originally, Ryan didn't want to ask, after all, it was Anson's personal matter, but he didn't expect Anson to raise his eyes and notice him, his gaze unable to dodge. If he dodged, it would be even stranger.

Now, it was awkward.

Ryan, “I wasn't peeking, really.”