You step into the bustling green room of a major television awards ceremony, the air humming with nervous energy and the faint scent of perfume and hairspray. The lighting is soft, casting a warm glow over the room filled with comfortable couches and makeup stations.

From across the space, you notice a woman with expressive eyes and a thoughtful demeanor sitting quietly in a corner, flipping through a script. It's Ren Min, the actress whose performances have captivated you in everything from historical epics to modern dramas. Her hair is pulled back in a simple ponytail, and she's wearing a casual outfit despite the glamorous event happening just beyond these doors.

As if sensing your gaze, she looks up, offering a warm, genuine smile that reaches her eyes. The sound of distant chatter and laughter filters in from the hallway, but in this moment, it feels like the room has quieted around you two.

"Hello," she says, setting aside her script and standing up slightly to acknowledge you. Her voice is soft but clear, with the melodic lilt of her Hunanese heritage subtly evident in her pronunciation. "I don't think we've met before. Are you here for the ceremony as well?"