The nominees were nearly driven mad with anticipation.
Duan Xiubo, after receiving comfort from Luo Ding, had managed to shake off much of his nervousness. Even though this was his first time being nominated for a Golden Lion, having worked in the entertainment industry for so many years, he fully understood what this award meant to an actor.
To be honest, before the nominations were announced, Duan had already imagined how he might react if he won. Though he had taken home trophies from several other film festivals in the past, even prestigious ones like the annual Film Festival or the European Film Festival combined couldn’t compare to the weight of a single Golden Lion. It’s only natural that people seek more honors as they rise; being recognized by the most professional jury is something everyone desires.
When the nominations were announced, seeing Luo Ding’s name listed alongside his made him feel a little dazed.
He hadn’t initially expected Luo Ding to be nominated. After all, even though Luo had risen to fame quickly, compared to veteran actors, he hadn’t appeared in that many films. Whether it was *Crouching Dragon* or *Supermodel*, both were excellent, but neither had seemed exceptional enough to catch the attention of the Golden Lion jury.
His most outstanding performance in *Blade Warrior III* was still just a supporting role, and even though it got a nomination, it had nothing to do with the Best Actor category.
*Assassin* wasn’t even on Duan’s radar as a potential contender at first.
When the script was first purchased, Duan hadn’t even thought about making a profit—he had done it purely to make Luo Ding happy. With Xu Zhen’s health in such decline, even though his talent was undeniable, how much could he still deliver?
Seeing Luo Ding’s name alongside his own on the Best Actor nomination list, Duan’s first reaction was joy. After a brief moment of hesitation, various thoughts crossed his mind, but they were soon replaced by an overwhelming sense of pride.
He could imagine how happy Luo Ding must have been when he found out. Honestly, that was enough. Awards and fame were external things. No matter how heavy they weighed, they couldn’t compare to the living, breathing person he wanted to spend his life with.
As the camera swirled overhead, capturing footage of the nominees, Duan mimicked Luo Ding’s earlier gesture by gently squeezing Luo’s hand.
Catching Luo Ding’s gaze, Duan smiled brightly, his meticulously styled hair catching the light with an added sheen.
Meanwhile, Tiffany, still teasing the crowd, wore a smile on her face, leisurely reading through the names of the nominated actors.
“Wilson… Fermanicki… Duan Xiubo… Luo Ding… Hey, you two over there, what are you doing?”
She playfully pointed at Luo Ding and Duan Xiubo, who were smiling at each other, and the camera immediately turned toward them. Luo Ding, laughing, quickly waved at Tiffany, signaling her not to pay them any attention.
Tiffany giggled, “The two of you seem to get along very well. I thought you’d be stepping on each other’s toes!” The audience burst into laughter before she continued, “So, who do you think I’ll be calling up?”
Luo Ding’s smile froze for a second, and then he blinked, his expression turning serious.
Did Tiffany’s comment mean… the final winner was between him and Duan Xiubo?
His first instinct was to quickly turn and look at Duan’s face, only to realize that Duan was also turning to look at him, his eyes filled with equal surprise.
Their expressions seemed to be saying the same thing: *It’s you, right?*
Tiffany opened the envelope and, pretending to be surprised, gave a knowing smile.
“Okay, I can say that this result is just as expected.”
Both Duan Xiubo and Luo Ding blinked, immediately catching the underlying meaning. Tonight’s Best Actor award was clearly not going to a Western actor.
It was definitely between the two Asian nominees.
Cameras immediately swung their way. Sitting close together, their arms brushing against each other, both wore calm smiles, though their fingers trembled slightly.
They wanted to hold hands, but in this situation, they had to hold back.
Tiffany, her voice sensual and slightly husky, began, “He’s talented, handsome, and exceptionally gifted. This winner is someone we can all admire and respect. I’m about to announce who he is and present him with this most prestigious trophy. The winner is…”
Her smile grew wider as her gaze fell directly on the seats where Duan Xiubo and Luo Ding were sitting.
Both of their hearts began to race.
Tiffany’s voice suddenly rose, pronouncing the name slowly, one syllable at a time: “Let’s welcome… from the East… Duan—Xiu—Bo—”
Applause immediately erupted. Tiffany pronounced Duan Xiubo’s name with perfect precision, clearly having practiced many times. The rush of blood coursing through Luo Ding’s veins subsided for a moment, and he felt a brief wave of dizziness from the sudden calm. The expected result, but still an unexpected reaction.
Strangely, he felt not even the slightest twinge of disappointment. Turning to look at Duan Xiubo, he gave him the most genuine smile.
Duan, however, didn’t seem in any rush to stand up. He was still sitting, gazing at Luo Ding with a hint of unease in his eyes.
Luo Ding hugged him directly, whispering softly, “Go on, get up there.”
As he pulled away, Duan suddenly tightened his grip, holding Luo firmly by the waist, refusing to let go.
Luo Ding patted him. “Hurry up.”
Duan Xiubo nuzzled his shoulder and murmured, “I’m sorry.”
He wasn’t sure why he felt the need to apologize, but somehow, his current emotions were filled more with regret than excitement.
Luo Ding was a little exasperated. Did Duan think he was that petty and unreasonable? He’d already guessed before the announcement that the award likely wasn’t his. The jury might have made their selections based purely on the films, but when the nominees are all of similar caliber, outside factors naturally come into play.
Things like experience, the number of works, and personal reputation.
On the first of these alone, Luo Ding was already at a disadvantage compared to the other nominees.
But the Golden Lion is awarded every six years. There would be plenty of time for him to turn his weaknesses into strengths.
Besides… with Duan Xiubo winning, wasn’t it still a victory within the family?
There was no pretense—he was genuinely happy for Duan. From the trophy cabinet placed directly opposite Duan’s bed, it was clear how much Duan truly valued such honors, even if he tried to downplay it.
Love isn’t a one-sided affair. Luo Ding could feel all of Duan’s worries and joys.
Watching Duan Xiubo ascend the stage, Luo Ding slightly tilted his head and gave him an encouraging nod.
Duan Xiubo smiled. When Tiffany asked him what he was smiling about, he looked straight at Luo Ding and replied, “I don’t know. I just feel really happy.”
*****
The golden trophy, shaped like a human body with a lion’s head, had smooth, flowing lines. Though not made of pure gold, every detail of the lion’s mane was intricately carved.
As they were leaving, Duan walked half a step behind Luo, sneaking glances at him from the corner of his eye.
After getting into the car, Luo noticed Duan was still standing outside, hesitating to get in. He leaned out and tapped the seat beside him. “What’s wrong?”
Duan, as if relieved, climbed in quickly.
Once the door closed, there was no congratulatory atmosphere. Mi Rui focused on driving, Gu Yaxing occasionally glanced back to check on Luo Ding and Duan Xiubo’s interactions, and Wu Fangyuan seemed afraid of getting caught in the tension, burying his head and staying completely silent. The vibe was strange.
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