In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

On the morning of August 30th, the international departure hall of Beijing Capital International Airport was bustling with people.

Yang Guangming, dressed in a simple white short-sleeved shirt and light gray casual trousers, carrying a backpack, walked ahead with a leisurely pace.

Duan Yunfeng followed closely behind, dragging a suitcase containing Yang Guangming's personal belongings and clothing for formal occasions.

The two arrived at the first-class check-in counter, where Jiang Wen, Liu Xiaoqing, and Chen Hong were already waiting.

Jiang Wen looked exceptionally energetic today, wearing a dark blue polo shirt, khaki trousers, and her hair was neatly combed. Her face was filled with undisguised excitement and anticipation.

Liu Xiaoqing, on the other hand, wore a neat beige suit and sunglasses, exuding star quality.

Chen Hong stood next to Liu Xiaoqing, wearing a light blue dress with a white knitted cardigan over it, her long hair flowing smoothly over her shoulders.

She wore large sunglasses that covered half of her face, but her beautifully shaped chin and naturally bright red lips attracted the attention of many passing travelers.

Seeing the sunlight coming through, all three of them smiled.

"Young Master, we've been waiting for you!" Jiang Wen's loud voice drew the attention of several passengers nearby.

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "There was a bit of traffic on the way. Are you alright? You're not late, are you?"

"No, no, the timing is perfect." Liu Xiaoqing glanced at his watch. "Let's check in first, and after we drop off our luggage, we can rest in the VIP lounge for a while."

Duan Yunfeng stepped forward and handed the passports of the group to the check-in counter staff. After verifying the information, the staff quickly completed the procedures and affixed first-class baggage tags.

"Distinguished guests, this way please." The staff member respectfully guided them to the first-class passage.

After passing through security, the group arrived at the VIP lounge for international departures.

The spacious and bright lounge features comfortable and soft leather sofas, and the window seats offer a view of the tarmac. A variety of snacks, fruits, drinks, and freshly brewed coffee and tea are laid out on the counter.

As soon as Jiang Wen entered, she exclaimed, "The treatment in first class is really different. This lounge is even more comfortable than the teahouses we usually go to."

"This is just the beginning, Director Jiang." Yang Guangming sat down on the sofa. "The service will be even better once we're on the plane."

Chen Hong took off her sunglasses, revealing her clear eyes. She looked around, a hint of curiosity flashing in her eyes.

Although she has acted in many films and is considered a moderately famous actress, this is the first time she has ever traveled abroad to attend an international film festival, flown first class, and stayed in a luxury hotel.

All of this was brought about by the boy beside me.

Her gaze involuntarily drifted towards Yang Guangming. He was whispering something to Duan Yunfeng, his profile sharply defined, his expression focused and composed.

This boy, only seventeen years old, was already able to arrange such an international trip so freely. His composure beyond his years always stirred her heart.

"Honghong, what are you daydreaming about?" Liu Xiaoqing sat down next to her, followed her gaze, and smiled knowingly. "Don't you think our young master is becoming more and more charming?"

Chen Hong's cheeks flushed slightly, but she didn't deny it. She just said softly, "Sister Xiaoqing, what kind of person do you think he is? Every time I see him, I subconsciously ignore his age."

“That’s what makes him so special,” Liu Xiaoqing said slowly, picking up a glass of juice. “He has the composure and insight of an adult, as well as the purity and vigor of a young person. This combination is so rare. And have you noticed how thoughtful he is in everything he does, but he never tries to show off? Everything is so natural.”

Chen Hong nodded. During their time together, she had truly felt Yang Guangming's meticulous and thoughtful care. It wasn't about deliberate flattery, but rather genuine respect and concern that made her feel incredibly comfortable.

About half an hour later, the boarding announcement came on.

The group stood up and headed towards the boarding gate. First-class passengers boarded first, and flight attendants greeted them with smiles at the cabin door.

Stepping into the cabin, Jiang Wen was once again amazed by the spaciousness and luxury of the first-class section.

The seats are made of genuine leather and can be fully reclined into a bed. Each seat has an individual entertainment system and ample personal space. Flight attendants immediately approached to help them with their luggage and asked if they would like any drinks.

"Champagne, thank you." Jiang Wen said without any politeness.

"I want orange juice," Liu Xiaoqing said.

Chen Hong looked at Yang Guangming: "Guangming, what would you like to drink?"

"Water will do," Yang Guangming said to the flight attendant. "Please give us all a glass of water, thank you."

Duan Yunfeng sat in the back to ensure he could be there to help if needed.

The plane slowly taxied, took off, and climbed.

It was noon soon, and the flight attendants began serving meals. The first-class meals were as exquisite as those in a high-end restaurant, with appetizers, main courses, and desserts served one after another, accompanied by a selection of fine wines.

Jiang Wen ate with relish, saying as she ate, "This treatment is so much better than the economy class I took when I went to France for a film festival last time. Back then, I was crammed into my seat for more than ten hours, and my legs were swollen when I got off the plane."

Liu Xiaoqing laughed and said, "So we have to thank Guangming. If it weren't for him, we would have suffered a lot on this trip."

Yang Guangming was cutting a steak when he heard this and looked up: "It's only right. Going abroad represents our country's films, so since we have the resources, we can't be too stingy. Eat well and sleep well so you can be in good shape and look your best on the red carpet."

Chen Hong ate her salad in small bites, listening to their conversation, and felt a warm feeling in her heart.

She knew that all the high-standard arrangements for this trip were paid for out of Yang Guangming's own pocket. And he did all this not just for his own enjoyment, but also so that everyone could appear on the international stage in their best condition.

This kind of vision and financial resources made her appreciate the young man even more.

Long-haul flights can be tedious, but the comfort of first class greatly alleviates fatigue.

Yang Guangming read a magazine for a while, then reclined his seat to rest. Chen Hong also lay down, but couldn't fall asleep. She turned her head and looked out the porthole at the vast sea of ​​clouds, her thoughts drifting.

The Venice Film Festival is one of the world's premier cinematic events. Walking its red carpet is a dream for countless actors. And now, she's going, in the special capacity of being an investor's companion.

She glanced furtively at Yang Guangming, who was resting with his eyes closed beside her. The boy's peaceful sleeping face lacked some of his usual composure, but possessed a gentleness befitting his age.

As she thought about it, Chen Hong gradually became sleepy.

After an unknown amount of time, the plane began its descent. The flight attendants gently woke the passengers and informed them that they were about to arrive at Venice Marco Polo Airport.

Outside the window, the deep blue waters of the Adriatic Sea came into view, followed by the silhouette of that world-famous water city.

The orange-red rooftops, winding waterways, and crisscrossing bridges, bathed in the afterglow of the setting sun, resemble a richly colored oil painting.

"So beautiful," Chen Hong couldn't help but exclaim softly.

Yang Guangming had already woken up and was looking out the window: "This is Venice, a dream built on water."

The plane landed smoothly.

Baggage claim, customs clearance—everything went smoothly. Stepping out of the airport, the humid, hot air of Venice hit me, a stark contrast to the cool cabin air.

Duan Yunfeng had already arranged airport pick-up service from the hotel. A black luxury van was waiting outside the airport. The driver, a middle-aged Italian man, spoke with an accent and enthusiastically helped them load their luggage into the car.

Cars cannot drive directly to the hotel; transportation in Venice mainly relies on boats. They disembarked at the dock and transferred to the hotel's private gondolas.

This is a long, narrow boat unique to Venice, with its bow and stern raised high, and the gondolier standing at the stern skillfully rowing with a single oar.

The gondolas glide through the waterways, flanked by ancient buildings with weathered walls and blooming flowers on the windowsills. The setting sun casts its golden rays upon the water, creating a shimmering effect.

"It's so romantic!" Liu Xiaoqing couldn't help but take out her camera to take pictures.

Jiang Wen, on the other hand, focused more on the film itself: "The lighting and the composition—it would be absolutely stunning if we could film a movie here."

Yang Guangming and Chen Hong sat side by side in the boat. The small boat rocked gently, the water rippled, and the wind brought moist air and a faint smell of the sea.

Looking at the scenery on both sides of the river, and then at the boy beside her who was intently gazing into the distance, Chen Hong suddenly felt that this moment was just like a scene from a movie.

Located on the banks of the Grand Canal, the hotel is a historic building that has undergone modern renovations, retaining its classic exterior while boasting a luxurious and comfortable interior.

Duan Yunfeng checked in at the front desk and quickly received his room key.

"Director Jiang and Teacher Liu share a suite on the fifth floor," Duan Yunfeng said, distributing room keys. "Guangming, you're on the sixth floor, and Miss Chen is opposite you. I'm in another room on the fifth floor."

He deliberately arranged for Yang Guangming and Chen Hong's rooms to face each other, as Yang Guangming had instructed beforehand. Some opportunities require the right distance and setting.

Jiang Wen had no objection to this, while Liu Xiaoqing gave Duan Yunfeng a knowing look.

In the elevator, Jiang Wen was still excitedly talking about the film festival arrangements: "Tomorrow we'll go to the film festival organizing committee to register and get our badges. The opening ceremony is the day after tomorrow night, and we all have to walk the red carpet. Guangming, you and Chen Hong go together, and Xiaoqing and I go together, is that okay?"

"I'll follow your instructions." Yang Guangming nodded.

Chen Hong's heart skipped a beat. Although she had known for a long time that she would be walking the red carpet with Yang Guangming, she still couldn't help feeling nervous and excited as the moment approached.

The elevator reached the fifth floor, and Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing got off first. The elevator continued to the sixth floor.

The corridor was carpeted with thick carpets, and oil paintings of Venetian landscapes hung on the walls. Yang Guangming and Chen Hong's rooms faced each other directly.

"Get some rest and adjust to the time difference," Yang Guangming said to Chen Hong. "See you tomorrow."

"See you tomorrow," Chen Hong replied softly, swiping her swipe to open her room door.

The room was spacious and in a typical European style. Tall windows faced the Grand Canal, offering panoramic views of the city at night. The bed was covered in crisp white sheets, and welcome fruit and flowers were laid out on the bedside table.

Chen Hong put down her luggage and walked to the window.

As night falls, the lights of Venice illuminate one by one, reflecting on the dark water like stars, creating a dreamlike scene.

She took a deep breath, savoring the unique atmosphere of this water town. Then, she turned to look at the door opposite, a subtle ripple stirring within her heart.

The next morning, after having breakfast at the hotel restaurant, everyone headed to the main venue of the film festival – the Lido Island in Venice.

After a 20-minute water bus ride across the Grand Canal, you'll arrive at Lido Island. The island is already bustling with filmmakers, journalists, and movie fans from all over the world.

The film festival organizing committee's offices were located in a temporary building. Jiang Wen, as the director, went to complete the formalities with the necessary documents. Yang Guangming and the others waited in the rest area.

While waiting, many foreign journalists and filmmakers recognized Liu Xiaoqing—she has a certain international reputation, and her starring role in "Hibiscus Town" won an award at Cannes. People frequently came over to greet her and ask for photos.

Chen Hong stood quietly to the side, observing everything around her.

This place brought together the elite of the global film industry, where languages ​​intertwined and cultures collided. She saw many internationally renowned directors and stars she had only seen in magazines, now standing vividly before her eyes.

The atmosphere of this top-tier international film festival filled her with both excitement and trepidation. She was just a young actress from China, and here, she felt as insignificant as a drop in the ocean.

"Are you nervous?" Yang Guangming's voice rang in my ears.

Chen Hong turned her head and found that Yang Guangming had stood beside her at some point, looking at her gently.

"A little," Chen Hong said honestly. "It feels like this place is too big, and I feel too small."

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Everyone has a first time. Remember, you are here as a member of the Chinese film industry, representing the efforts and dreams of countless Chinese filmmakers. Stand up straight and be confident."

His words were simple, yet they reassured Chen Hong.

Yes, she didn't come alone. She came with director Jiang Wen and the crew of "In the Heat of the Sun." The fact that this film was nominated for the main competition is proof of its strength.

"Yes, I understand." Chen Hong nodded, her eyes becoming more determined.

At this moment, Jiang Wen returned after completing the formalities, carrying a stack of certificates and documents.

"Everything's done!" He waved his credentials excitedly. "Our film is scheduled to be screened on the morning of the third day. The opening ceremony is tomorrow night, and we all have to dress up for it."

He distributed the credentials to everyone. Yang Guangming took his credential, glanced at it, and saw his photo, name, and the identification label "Actor/Producer."

"Producer?" Chen Hong was somewhat surprised when she saw the logo on Yang Guangming's ID.

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "He's a representative of the investors, and also one of the producers."

Jiang Wen added from the side, "Guangming is not only an actor, but also the most important investor in our film. Without him, this film wouldn't have made it to Venice."

The following day, the group spent time on Lido Island getting acquainted with the surroundings, watching other film screenings, and attending some film-related forums and parties.

Yang Guangming's Italian and English were surprisingly fluent, allowing him to communicate with filmmakers from various countries without any obstacles, which greatly surprised Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing.

"Guangming, when did you learn Italian?" Liu Xiaoqing couldn't help but ask.

"Just a hobby, I learned it on my own," Yang Guangming said casually.

Given his photographic memory and the accumulation of knowledge over several lifetimes, it's not surprising that he has mastered multiple languages.

Chen Hong followed beside him, watching him calmly converse with a famous Italian director, her eyes growing increasingly unfocused.

How many more surprises does this young man hold that she doesn't know about?
The Venice Film Festival opened on the evening of September 1st.

A red carpet was laid out in front of the cinema on Lido Island, glittering with lights. The area was packed with journalists and movie fans from all over the world, their cameras and microphones aimed at the red carpet, flashes going off constantly.

Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing were the first to walk the red carpet. Jiang Wen looked sharp and energetic in a custom-made black suit, while Liu Xiaoqing wore a bright red cheongsam-style dress, exuding elegance and showcasing the charm of an Eastern woman. Their appearance immediately attracted numerous cameras.

Next, it was Yang Guangming and Chen Hong's turn.

Yang Guangming wore a well-tailored dark gray suit and white shirt, without a tie, the collar slightly open, giving him a look that was both formal and youthful. With his tall stature and striking appearance, he attracted considerable attention as soon as he stepped onto the red carpet.

Chen Hong, who was holding his arm, was the absolute focus of attention tonight.

She chose a light blue strapless gown, the skirt flowing like water, accentuating her snow-white skin and slender figure. Her long hair was styled in an updo, revealing her graceful neck and collarbone, with only a few strands falling beside her cheeks. Her makeup was delicate and understated, highlighting her natural beauty.

When she appeared on the red carpet, the number of flashes from the cameras instantly increased several times over.

Who is that?

"A Chinese actress? She's so beautiful!"

"Who is the young man next to her? He looks like a celebrity."

Reporters were abuzz with discussion. Many foreign media outlets didn't recognize Chen Hong, but her beauty was enough to captivate the camera.

Chen Hong took a deep breath, maintaining an elegant and poised smile. She could feel countless eyes focused on her, and hear the clicks of camera shutters and gasps of amazement. The tension remained, but more than anything, she felt excited and proud.

She linked arms with Yang Guangming, feeling his steady pace and firm support, which made her feel more at ease.

Yang Guangming kept pace with her, occasionally whispering in her ear, "There are reporters taking pictures on the left, smile."

His voice was gentle and calm, as if it had a magical power that made Chen Hong completely relax and show her best self.

The two stopped in the center of the red carpet to allow reporters to take photos. Yang Guangming naturally turned to the side, making Chen Hong the center of the frame. Chen Hong, on the other hand, faced the camera with grace and poise, striking a few simple poses, each angle breathtakingly beautiful.

"Look this way!" "Look here!"

The reporters shouted in various languages. Although Chen Hong couldn't understand them, she could understand what they meant and cooperated calmly.

After the red carpet event, the two entered the Palace of Cinema. The opening ceremony was about to begin, and the hall was packed with filmmakers from all over the world.

After finding her seat and sitting down, Chen Hong finally breathed a sigh of relief.

"How are you feeling?" Yang Guangming asked.

“It’s like a dream,” Chen Hong said softly, her eyes shining. “So many cameras, so many people watching. I’ve never experienced anything like this before.”

"You did a great job," Yang Guangming said sincerely. "Composed, elegant, and radiant. Tomorrow, many foreign magazines should have your photos on them."

Chen Hong looked at him, a warm feeling welling up in her heart: "Thank you, Guangming. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have had this opportunity."

"You have to seize the opportunity yourself," Yang Guangming smiled. "Beauty is your gift, and if you can showcase it on such an occasion, then show your most beautiful side."

The opening ceremony officially began. The festival president delivered a speech, the jury appeared, and the series of procedures proceeded smoothly. Although most of the speeches were in Italian or English, the solemn yet passionate artistic atmosphere captivated everyone present.

Chen Hong sat in her seat, looking at the heavyweight figures of the world film industry on the stage, her heart filled with emotion.

She recalled her early days in the entertainment industry, the days spent struggling for even a small role, and the uncertainty and anticipation she felt for the future. Now, she sat at the opening ceremony of the Venice Film Festival, beside this special young man, with limitless possibilities ahead.

Life's turning points can sometimes be just that wondrous.

After the opening ceremony, there was a brief reception. Jiang Wen, accompanied by Yang Guangming, took the initiative to interact with some international filmmakers. Yang Guangming's language skills and insights into film once again broadened Jiang Wen's horizons.

"Guangming, your knowledge is even broader than mine as a director," Jiang Wen said, half-jokingly and half-seriously.

"It's just that I see and think a lot usually," Yang Guangming said modestly.

Chen Hong followed by her side, and despite the language barrier, she maintained an elegant demeanor throughout. Her beauty was a passport in itself, and many foreign filmmakers showed great interest and goodwill towards her.

It was late at night when I got back to the hotel.

Inside the elevator, Chen Hong was still immersed in excitement, her cheeks slightly flushed and her eyes sparkling.

"I'm really happy today," she said to Yang Guangming in front of the door.

"This is just the beginning," Yang Guangming said with a smile. "The film screenings are the real test. Get some rest and recharge your energy."

"OK, good night."

"Good night."

Chen Hong swiped the SIM card to open the door and went inside. The moment she closed the door, she leaned against it and let out a long sigh of relief.

Everything today feels so unreal. The flashing lights on the red carpet, the solemn atmosphere in the film palace, the gazes of the international filmmakers at the reception, and the ever-composed young man beside me.

She walked to the window, looking at the tranquil night view of Venice outside, her heart filled with turmoil.

In the room across the street, Yang Guangming also stood by the window for a while.

The faint sound of water from Venice drifted by, and the city's nights possessed a unique tranquility. He recalled Chen Hong's dazzling performance on the red carpet earlier that day, and a slight smile played on his lips.

Beauty needs a stage. And he can provide that stage for her, watching her shine, and that feels good.

Over the next two days, "In the Heat of the Sun" was screened at the film festival.

On the morning of the screening, the cinema's 500-seat theater was packed. Besides journalists and filmmakers from various countries, there were also many ordinary viewers.

Jiang Wen, Yang Guangming, and other key members of the production team sat in the front row, all feeling somewhat nervous. This was the film's first official appearance on the international stage, and the reactions of the audience and professionals were crucial.

The lights dimmed, and the screen lit up.

As the familiar opening theme music begins, scenes of a summer in Beijing in the 1990s slowly unfold. The vibrant stories of youth—Ma Xiaojun, Milan, and Liu Yiku—during that unique era are presented to an international audience through the lens of film.

Yang Guangming stared intently at himself on the screen.

This was the first time in his life he had seen himself perform on the big screen. After meticulous post-production, the film's quality was even better than during filming. His portrayal of Ma Xiaojun, capturing the restlessness, confusion, yearning for beauty, and inner struggles of adolescence, was presented with subtlety and depth.

Throughout the screening, the audience was fully engaged. Laughter, sighs, and hushed discussions rose and fell with the plot. When the film reached its climax, with the adult Ma Xiaojun sitting in the car watching the changes in Beijing outside the window, and the background music flowing softly, the theater fell silent.

The subtitles appeared, and the lights came on.

After a brief silence, applause erupted like a tidal wave.

First came scattered applause, then it quickly spread, eventually coalescing into sustained and enthusiastic applause. The audience rose to their feet and saluted the creators.

Jiang Wen stood up excitedly and bowed to the audience. Yang Guangming, Liu Xiaoqing, and others also stood up to express their gratitude.

The applause lasted for nearly two minutes before gradually subsiding.

Next came the media interview session. Reporters from various countries flocked in, bombarding him with questions.

"Director Jiang, this film tells a story of youth during a special period in China. Are you worried that international audiences will not understand the cultural background?"

"Mr. Yang Guangming, as the male lead, and having never experienced that era, how were you able to portray this character so vividly?"

"Ms. Liu Xiaoqing, what are your thoughts on the film's performance on the international stage?"

"Ms. Chen Hong, as a Chinese actress, what are your feelings about participating in the Venice Film Festival?"

The questions were varied, but the overall tone was positive and curious. Judging from the audience's reaction and the reporters' attitude, the film's premiere was undoubtedly a success.

To Yang Guangming's surprise, many reporters and film critics paid special attention to his performance.

"Mr. Yang Guangming, your performance in the film was very impressive. The character Ma Xiaojun has a complex inner world, and you portrayed him perfectly. Could you talk about how you prepared for this role?"

"A veteran Italian film critic asked earnestly."

Yang Guangming replied in fluent Italian: "Thank you for your feedback. I believe the most important thing for an actor is to understand the character and feel the character's emotions."

Ma Xiaojun is an ordinary teenager who grew up in a special era. His confusion, desires, joys and pains actually transcend culture and time.

I tried to feel the atmosphere of that era, understand the mindset of that age, and then present it as authentically as possible.

His answer was appropriate and insightful, prompting the film critic to nod repeatedly.

Listening from the side, Chen Hong felt a surge of pride. This young man had gained professional recognition for his very first film role.

In the days following the screening, film reviews of "In the Heat of the Sun" began appearing in media outlets around the world.

Most reviews were positive, with high praise for the film's cinematography, narrative, and acting. Yang Guangming, as the male lead, became a hot topic—young, handsome, and talented, he seemed like the perfect protagonist.

"Yang Guangming's portrayal of Ma Xiaojun is one of the most unforgettable teenage characters in Chinese films in recent years."

"This film proves that excellent coming-of-age narratives can transcend cultures and touch people's hearts."

Similar positive reviews kept appearing, which greatly encouraged Jiang Wen and the entire crew.

However, the most important part of the film festival—the awards—would have to wait until the last day.

As is customary at the Venice Film Festival, the organizing committee will notify the creators of potentially award-winning films to "stay" the day before the closing ceremony. This means the film is guaranteed at least one award. If no notification is received, it usually means the film will go home empty-handed.

The final moments, the days spent waiting for notification, are the most agonizing.

Jiang Wen became visibly anxious, pacing back and forth in the hotel room, chain-smoking. Liu Xiaoqing was relatively calm, but her nervousness was also evident. Chen Hong, on the other hand, was more concerned for them.

Yang Guangming remained calm. He knew that this film had won the Best Actor award in the original timeline, and now, with more substantial funding and improved post-production, its chances of winning another award were only greater.

But he didn't say anything, only comforting Jiang Wen: "Director Jiang, relax. The film has already received so much praise, that's a success. Awards are icing on the cake, it's great to have them, but it doesn't matter if you don't."

“That’s true,” Jiang Wen sighed, “but since we’re already here, who wouldn’t want to take home a prize? Especially since you’ve invested so much money, I’d feel bad if we didn’t get one.”

“The investment was my own decision, so you don’t need to feel burdened,” Yang Guangming said. “And I believe our film deserves an award.”

On the afternoon of September 10th, the phone in the room finally rang.

Jiang Wen practically lunged forward to answer the phone: "Hello?"

The room fell silent instantly, and everyone held their breath.

The voice on the other end of the phone was in Italian, which Jiang Wen couldn't understand very well, so she quickly handed the receiver to Yang Guangming.

Yang Guangming took the phone, exchanged a few words in Italian, and a smile gradually appeared on his face.

After hanging up the phone, he looked at the expectant eyes in the room and slowly said, "The organizing committee notified us that we must attend the closing ceremony tomorrow. This means that our film will at least win an award."

"Really?" Jiang Wen's voice changed with excitement.

“Really.” Yang Guangming nodded. “We’ll have to wait until tomorrow to find out what the prize is. But at least we won’t go home empty-handed.”

"That's great!" Liu Xiaoqing clapped his hands happily.

Chen Hong also smiled with delight. She looked at Yang Guangming and found that he remained calm, as if this was something she had expected.

This young man always seemed to be in control of the situation, maintaining composure no matter what he faced.

Jiang Wen was so excited she didn't know what to do. She paced around the room several times before finally waving her hand and declaring, "Tonight it's my treat! Let's go out for a good meal to celebrate!"

Dinner was at a riverside restaurant where we could enjoy the night view of Venice.

With delicious food in front of them, the atmosphere was lively. Jiang Wen completely relaxed and became much more talkative than usual, recalling the hardships of filming and expressing her feelings about the difficult journey they had taken. When she spoke emotionally, her eyes even reddened.

“Guangming, really, without you, this film wouldn’t have made it to Venice, let alone won any awards.” Jiang Wen raised her glass. “This glass is for you. I won’t say much more about my thanks; it’s all in this drink.”

Yang Guangming raised his glass and clinked glasses: "It's the result of everyone's hard work."

Liu Xiaoqing also remarked, "This trip to Venice has truly broadened my horizons. Seeing so many world-class films and exchanging ideas with so many filmmakers has really expanded my perspective."

Chen Hong said softly, "Me too. I used to think that international film festivals were far away from me, but now that I'm involved in them, I realize how big the world is."

“There will be plenty of opportunities in the future,” Yang Guangming said with a smile. “Chinese films will increasingly go global, and you will appear more and more on the international stage.”

These words filled everyone present with longing.

After dinner, everyone strolled back to the hotel along the canal. The Venice night was cool and pleasant, with the sound of flowing water and faint music drifting from afar.

Chen Hong and Yang Guangming walked slightly behind.

"Guangming, what kind of award do you think it will be?" Chen Hong asked softly.

"I'm pretty likely to win Best Actor," Yang Guangming said honestly without any modesty. "The critics have given my performance very high marks. But there might be some surprises."

"If you were the one to win the award, would you be nervous?"

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "I'm a little excited, but not nervous. Winning an award is recognition, and not winning is not a rejection. The film has already fulfilled its mission, allowing many people to see it and be moved, and that's enough."

Looking at his calm profile, Chen Hong felt a complex mix of emotions welling up inside her.

This young man, though only seventeen, possesses a magnanimity and maturity that many people cannot achieve in their entire lives. Being around him, my own concerns about age seemed insignificant.

The Venice Film Festival closing ceremony and awards ceremony took place on the evening of September 11.

The Palais des Festivals was once again draped in red carpet, but the atmosphere was different from the opening ceremony, filled with a greater sense of tension and anticipation. Tonight, all the awards will be announced.

The cast and crew were still dressed to the nines, but their feelings were more complicated. Knowing there would be an award, but not knowing what it was, made the wait even more agonizing.

The ceremony began, and awards were presented one by one.

Best cinematography, best screenplay, and the Jury Special Award. With each award presented, some are happy while others are disappointed.

Jiang Wen clenched her hands tightly, beads of sweat even forming on her forehead. Liu Xiaoqing was also visibly nervous, frequently taking sips of water. Chen Hong quietly tightened her grip on her handbag, worried about Yang Guangming beside her.

Yang Guangming remained calm, simply focusing on the stage.

Finally, it's time for the performance awards.

"Next up is the Best Actress award."

The award went to a veteran French actress whose performance in the film was truly outstanding and well-deserved.

Then comes the Best Actor award – the Volpi Trophy.

The presenter was the previous year's Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival, an Italian national treasure. He walked onto the stage, opened the envelope, glanced at it, and smiled.

The winner of the Best Actor award at the 51st Venice International Film Festival is—

He paused deliberately, creating suspense. The room fell silent as the camera panned across the faces of the nominees.

Yang Guangming could feel Chen Hong holding her breath beside him.

"—In the Heat of the Sun, Sunshine Bright! Congratulations!"

Instantly, thunderous applause erupted!
The camera focused on Yang Guangming, whose face beamed with a radiant smile. His genuine joy was infectious, touching everyone present.

He first hugged Chen Hong, who was standing next to him. Chen Hong's eyes were slightly red with emotion, and she whispered in his ear, "Congratulations, Guangming!"

Then he hugged Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing and accepted their congratulations.

Amidst enthusiastic applause, Yang Guangming rose and strode lightly toward the stage. Unlike the other award winners who walked with solemnity, he spontaneously broke into a few light and graceful dance steps, his movements fluid and natural, full of youthful energy and joy.

This little impromptu performance made the atmosphere even more enthusiastic, with applause and cheers becoming even louder.

He had already won applause before he even reached the microphone.

As he walked onto the stage and received the silver Volpi Cup from the presenter, Yang Guangming felt the weight of the trophy and a genuine sense of accomplishment welled up inside him.

His first major award in this life came from film, from acting. This held special significance for him. (End of Chapter)