Chapter 32 - Chapter 32: A Real Hollywood Party

After spending the better part of the day shopping with Zeta-Jones and the others at a mall near Sunset Boulevard, Milo took them back to his villa to prepare for the evening's event.Beverly Hills might seem like it was constantly buzzing with parties, big and small, happening every few days. But most of those were low-key affairs, like the pool parties Milo used to throw – gatherings for newcomers and models, with no real stars or rising talents in attendance.Disney's parties were a different beast altogether. Especially tonight. They were pulling out all the stops, using the upcoming release of "Toy Story" as an excuse for what was essentially their year-end company celebration. Hollywood studios rarely held formal annual meetings; they preferred parties like this. These kinds of events were rare, maybe once every couple of months, and were almost as prestigious as the Oscars. Besides Disney, high-ranking executives from other major studios, top producers, renowned screenwriters, and famous directors would all be there. They knew it was a prime opportunity to scout new talent. And the big-name actors and actresses knew they'd be seen by those important people. It was a mutually beneficial networking platform where unlikely collaborations could begin.Outside Disney's Beverly Hills mansion, the scene was a whirlwind of activity, with luxury cars lining the streets. The sheer scale of it all was beyond Zeta-Jones's wildest imagination. It was their first real glimpse of the dazzling, captivating side of Hollywood.Zeta-Jones wouldn't normally have been invited. Neither would Julie Delpy, a struggling actress. And certainly not Kate Blanchett, who was in America on vacation and had only landed minor roles in a couple of TV shows. But with Milo as their escort, they could get in.Before they entered, Milo gave them some final instructions. "At these events, it's okay to accept business cards, but don't be overly eager or seem desperate. I don't go looking for trouble, but I don't run from it either. If anyone acts inappropriately or says something rude, just shut them down. You don't need to be polite.""I suggest you don't focus on getting acting gigs or networking right now. You're not established yet. I brought you here to experience the atmosphere.""If you want to make friends, don't do it here. You won't find real friends here, not even casual acquaintances."Julie nodded in agreement. Having been in America longer than the others, she understood. If everyone was on equal footing, making connections would be no problem. But they didn't have that luxury. They were only there because of Milo. The best course of action was to keep a low profile. She relayed this to Zeta-Jones and Blanchett, urging them to be smart and not cause any trouble for Milo.When Milo was out of earshot, she added in a low voice, "You absolutely cannot do anything to change his opinion of us, understand?"Zeta-Jones nodded, but felt a little uneasy. Julie was acting like she was in charge, even though she'd only known Milo a little longer than Zeta-Jones herself. But this wasn't the time to argue. Julie had more experience in these matters. They'd have to listen to her.Led by impeccably dressed waiters, Milo and the women entered the mansion. The preparations for the high-profile event were evident. Stepping through the doors was like entering a fairytale castle. They felt as if they'd stumbled into a royal banquet.Every woman, deep down, loved the idea of a grand, fairytale ball. Even though Zeta-Jones and the others had been with Milo for a while, this was their first real taste of high-society events. The opulent, elegant ballroom left them speechless. They couldn't have imagined a party this lavish.But it was to be expected. This was Disney's exclusive hilltop mansion. Disney was consistently one of the top three studios in Hollywood. And events like this were planned months in advance. It was, without a doubt, one of the most extravagant parties in all of Beverly Hills."Wow, so many stars!" Julie whispered excitedly. "Catherine, look, it's Tom Hanks! And Tom Cruise! And Julia Roberts… Oh my god, Steven Spielberg and George Lucas! It's like half of Hollywood is here!""Alright, calm down," Milo said. "Don't go chasing after celebrities. Don't bother them. Just act normal. Remember, one day, newcomers will be looking at you the same way."Trying to meet celebrities at awards shows was one thing, but doing it at this kind of event was a major faux pas. It would make them look naive and out of place.Zeta-Jones and Blanchett were just as starstruck as Julie. But Milo's words brought them back to reality. Julie, who had been the most excited, was the first to regain her composure. She turned to her companions, her voice serious."If any big stars or directors try to chat you up, be polite, but that's it. If you get carried away and follow them off somewhere, don't say I didn't warn you. Remember how we got in here."Zeta-Jones and Blanchett instantly sobered up. Milo didn't seem to like promiscuous women; he seemed to prefer those with a bit more class. He was a wealthy East Coast heir, practically a big shot in Hollywood. They hadn't forgotten the way the Disney chairman had spoken to him. He wasn't short of beautiful women; Zeta-Jones suspected he was involved with Monica. That was why she was happy to have the other two as her allies. Someone like him, without any obvious vices, wouldn't be interested in women who slept around."Yes, I understand," Zeta-Jones said. "I'll stay with you all night.""Me too!" Blanchett quickly added.Julie nodded, relieved. She had almost gotten caught up in the excitement herself. But she had snapped out of it quickly and was more level-headed than the other two.In fact, Zeta-Jones's decision to make them her allies was partly due to Julie's subtle influence over the past few months. Julie was worried that they might get swept away by the glamour and be easily seduced by some charming celebrity. That would severely damage Milo's perception of them. Their current attitude put her at ease.