Chapter 214: Fans

The red carpet at the Sunshine Theater was swarmed by Martin's fans, occupying nearly every available space. The area was filled with the radiant glow of lights and posters, as dense as the vegetation in a tropical rainforest.

Typically, young people were the primary audience for star-chasing events, especially for a film like "The Sisterhood Of Traveling Pants." However, an unusual sight greeted onlookers: a significant number of middle-aged and elderly individuals had gathered alongside the red carpet.

These older supporters displayed custom-made posters and banners that read:

- "Martin, you're a hero!"

- "Supporting Los Angeles' heroes!"

Much like Mene, Martin had garnered favor among this unexpected demographic. Within this group, there were even some fanatics.

The Burbank High School incident had pushed Martin beyond the boundaries of his celebrity status, expanding his influence far beyond the usual confines.

As Martin stepped out of his car onto the red carpet, the atmosphere surged like a tsunami. The crowd erupted into a cacophony of screams, shouts, and excited cheers. The latter were predominantly from the middle-aged and elderly supporters who believed in Martin's resilience in overcoming pain and psychological trauma to re-emerge in public.

Martin acknowledged his fans by waving to both sides frequently. While making his way down the middle section, he spotted an elderly woman with white hair, the same individual who had comforted him at the doors of Burbank Middle School.

Without hesitation, Martin approached her, opened his arms, and warmly embraced the old woman.

"Thank you, thank you for the comfort you gave me," Martin expressed his gratitude with sincerity. His words resonated with authenticity, as if they came straight from the heart. "You all helped me emerge from the darkness."

The old woman returned his smile and replied, "You've already emerged."

Martin turned back, signaling to the media to focus on them for a photo opportunity. Photographers eagerly snapped pictures of him and the old woman.

Afterward, Martin continued down the red carpet and, as he neared the media section, encountered a group of die-hard fans led by Rachel and Phoebe. With Jessica's coordination, the fan group had prepared a special surprise.

Rachel took charge and shouted, "Let's begin!"

Hundreds of fans simultaneously grabbed cans of Coca-Cola, opened them, raised their glasses to Martin, and collectively took a sip.

"Coke God!"

Emily, amidst the crowd, shouted at the top of her lungs. This triggered an explosion of enthusiasm on both sides of the red carpet.

"Coke God Cult!"

"Leader Martin..."

The crowd's ecstatic cries filled the air.

Martin strolled over, accepted an unopened can of Coke from Rachel, opened it, and took a couple of sips. He then passed the Coke to Bruce and proceeded into the media area.

Since receiving the golden key to honorary citizenship of Los Angeles, Martin had made fewer public appearances. At this moment, a multitude of reporters gathered around him. However, Martin was only granting interviews to official media outlets designated by the film's production team.

The interviewer happened to be an acquaintance, Helen from Warner TV. She inquired, "How does it feel to be a leader?"

Martin responded earnestly, "I honestly don't know what it means to be a leader."

Helen followed up with another question, "Can I join the Coke Cult?"

Martin waved his hand, and Bruce promptly handed a bottle of Coca-Cola to Helen. He then declared, "You're in."

Helen couldn't help but laugh.

Amidst the lively atmosphere, Blake Lively made a swift entrance into the media area. Helen quickly pulled her aside for an interview.

Helen inquired, "What's it like playing a couple with Martin in the film?"

Blake gazed directly at Martin and replied, "You can't even begin to imagine how fortunate I am. It's as if the Goddess of Destiny smiles upon me. Martin and I share a natural resonance. We have a unique, unspoken understanding. Everything we do or say feels like we're on the same wavelength."

Her words were candid and direct, like a dog licking its master's face. "Martin is my male idol. I genuinely hope for the opportunity to work with him again, regardless of the project."

Helen couldn't help but recall the near-kiss between the two during a particular scene.

After the interview, Martin concluded it gracefully and stood before a backdrop for a photo with Blake.

Blake tightly held onto Martin's arm as they posed for photographs, with the camera flashes illuminating their chemistry.

In this era, aesthetics still mattered, and everyone relished the sight of beautiful men and women.

A few minutes later, the duo made their way into the theater. Blake maintained her grip on Martin's arm, inquiring, "I called you last night, but you didn't answer?"

Martin explained, "I was utterly exhausted from the flight. I fell asleep as soon as I reached the hotel. I was completely drained."

Blake showed genuine concern. "Exhausted from work? You should take a break."

Martin admitted, "Yes, I am exhausted. There's an endless stream of responsibilities. At this stage, I can't afford to relax. If I don't keep advancing, I'll regress."

Blake understood the immense pressure of their industry and wanted to alleviate some of it for Martin. However, after careful consideration, she realized it might not be appropriate. As a result, she held onto his arm even tighter, unable to find the right words to say.

As they approached the theater entrance, Blake suddenly remembered something important and extended an invitation. "My 18th birthday is coming up in late August. Can you come to my birthday party?"

Martin made a heartfelt promise, saying, "I swear to God, I'll be there."

Once inside the theater lobby, they greeted the rest of the film's crew and took their seats next to each other.

Gradually, the film's main creative team began to arrive. The three leading actresses, April, Amenda, and Alexis, made a special effort to express their gratitude to Martin.

Among those who attended the premiere, there were 16 individuals directly saved by Martin during the Burbank Middle School incident.

Following the incident, the atmosphere among the four heroines, including Blake and April, had improved significantly on the film's set. In private, they were no longer at each other's throats and had begun to resemble good sisters. With time and personal growth, they might come to realize that the on-set squabbles were insignificant compared to the challenges life would throw at them as they grew older.

As time went on, the bonds between the four girls deepened. They were each facing their own truths, first loves, first losses, and first encounters with tragedy – experiences relatable to many. If the film could resonate emotionally with its target audience, it was bound to be a success.

Moreover, the film had gained considerable fame thanks to Martin. Those who had come to watch it primarily because of him were not disappointed. Every frame featuring Martin was captivating, with his looks deemed wallpaper-worthy.

Audience members exclaimed, "This movie is worth every penny just to see Martin and Blake."

Blake Lively, at this stage of her life, was at the peak of her allure, with her blonde and fair looks casting a captivating spell. Despite her naturally mature appearance, she still exuded a youthful charm.

Martin, in his brief appearances, radiated charisma that couldn't be ignored by anyone.

When the credits rolled, the audience erupted in warm applause. The cast and crew stood up and joined in the appreciation.

Amidst the applause, Blake turned to Martin, hugged him, and inquired, "We succeeded, didn't we?"

Martin confidently replied, "We will undoubtedly succeed."

As the premiere concluded, the audience began leaving the theater. The cast and crew also prepared to depart.

Blake bid farewell to Martin and, accompanied by her manager, headed toward the theater's main entrance.

However, as people exited the theater, a large crowd of fans gathered around, requesting autographs. Nearby entertainment reporters and paparazzi raised their cameras, eager to capture the moment.

Initially, Blake felt a bit overwhelmed, but with the protection of her agent and several security personnel, she soon regained her composure. She took out a pen and began signing autographs for her adoring fans.

Surrounded by fans, she relished the feeling of being the center of the world – a sensation that intoxicated those who experienced it for the first time.

When they finally got into the car, fans continued to block both the front and rear of the vehicle, chanting Blake's name. Nearby paparazzi continued to pursue the scene.

In that moment, Blake couldn't help but wonder if college was as appealing as this glamorous life she was experiencing tonight.

The success of a film could indeed alter people's choices and destinies.

Back at the Four Seasons Hotel, Martin entered his suite, anticipating a restful night's sleep. However, his phone rang once more.

It was Wes Craven, inviting Martin to join him for a night out.

Of course, Martin couldn't refuse. After making a few minor adjustments, he waited by the hotel's side entrance for a somewhat worn business car to arrive. Upon boarding the vehicle, he found Ajia and Zomi already inside, and the four of them headed to their usual spot.

It was another refreshing night.

At dawn, Blake descended from her room and sent her brother Eric to purchase a stack of newspapers and magazines. Without time for breakfast, she returned to her room, newspapers in hand, eagerly searching for reviews and news related to "The Sisterhood Of Traveling Pants."

The New York Times' brief review brought a smile to Blake's face as it praised the film as one that genuinely brought happiness. Meanwhile, The Hollywood Reporter hailed the two lead actors, stating, "Whenever Martin and Blake appear together, the film becomes undeniably enchanting."

After perusing some newspapers and statistics, Blake couldn't wait to call Martin. When he answered, she exclaimed, "Martin, have you seen it? The media reviews are overwhelmingly positive, and the film's reputation is outstanding!"

Martin, with a hint of exhaustion in his voice, replied, "Yes, 'The Sisterhood Of Traveling Pants' has received fantastic reviews, but I'm concerned about the box office. Be prepared, Blake, you're going to become even more famous!"

Blake, feeling quite familiar with the various aspects of male idols, sensed something unusual in Martin's tone. She couldn't help but ask, "Your voice sounds strange, are you unwell?"

Martin hung up the phone and playfully responded, "You must be punished!" He then released his grip and increased both the force and speed simultaneously.

Jolie, caught up in the excitement, fell into a frenzy, demanding, "Tell me how many women I've slept with!"