Extra Four

Though it was a compliment to Lu Heng's acting, it also reflected everyone's true thoughts. Lu Heng smiled, patting Leo McConaughey on the back. "You're still as witty as ever."

The others also looked at Lu Heng with smiles. Nearly every guest who saw him wished for him to conquer Venice—and, while he was at it, complete the grand slam of all four major film festivals.

"This isn't just your achievement. It would also be an exceptionally rare accomplishment for the global film industry."

It was not only the guests at the ceremony who wanted to see the outcome; the Venice jury seemed to feel the same way. Once the ceremony began, everyone was somewhat distracted during the presentation of the other awards—except for those directly involved—until it was time to announce Best Actor—

Before everyone's eyes, the presenter opened the red envelope in his hand and declared loudly, "The winner of Best Actor at this Venice film Festival is—"

"Home and Country, Huaxia, Heng Lu."

In an instant, thunderous applause erupted. Everyone rose to their feet and applauded Lu Heng.

Several cameras at the ceremony simultaneously turned toward Lu Heng's seat.

On the globally broadcast stage, Wei Linxuan pulled the seated Lu Heng into an embrace, and the big screen immediately showed them hugging and kissing.

The guests in attendance and the fans outside screamed and clapped together, offering their most passionate blessings.

Lu Heng rose with a smile and made his way through the crowd. He embraced people and thanked them before walking onto the stage. Taking the trophy from the presenter, beneath the dazzling stars and glittering night sky, all the starlight in the world belonged to Lu Heng at that moment.

"Thank you, everyone. Thank you to all those who have walked this path with me.