Chapter 136: I Have Weathered Many Storms

Danielle quickly stepped forward, grasped Rebecca’s hand, and said, “It’s tough finding a replacement for our stage play. Taylor and Riley hinted that they’ll cancel our team’s act if we don't find someone. Why don't you perform with us? There’s no rule against inviting our competition.” Danielle pondered, continuing, “Besides, daring to find a last-minute replacement shows confidence and adaptability. You can handle stepping in for our play, right?” She seemed more convinced as she spoke, then cast a suspicious glance at Isabella. “How odd. Is this a coincidence?”

Isabella, guilt evident in her eyes, laughed. “Danielle’s analysis is spot on, Ms. Yancey. You’re up to it, right? This is your chance to prove yourself!”

Rebecca, initially dazed, perked up at the phrase “a chance to prove herself.” She had tirelessly pleaded with everyone, refusing to give up, for this very opportunity. Gordon had ruined her previous chance, but now, a new one had unexpectedly appeared. “There’s nothing scary about improvising,” she thought. “The real fear is not performing at all!” The preposterous proposal, coupled with Team A-list’s previous miracles, stirred an uncontrollable urge within her. Ambition swelled; her eyes sparkled. She looked at Isabella and asked, “Is it true? Can I really perform in your place? Will you give me this opportunity?”

“All you need to answer is whether you can do it,” Danielle said, smiling.

Rebecca quickly nodded, fearing she’d miss this golden opportunity. She was one who seized every chance. Without another word, Danielle handed Rebecca the script for the final five acts—just enough time for a single run-through.

The backstage crew watched, their gazes suggesting they were observing lunatics. It was incredibly nerve-wracking. Christopher finally spoke. “Hey—”

All eyes turned to him. With a strained expression, he began to speak, but Isabella interjected, “I believe in you! If the performance goes badly, I’ll take the blame!”

Danielle, remembering another key player, added, “Mr. Christopher is a professional! Just go with the flow. Even if the rest isn’t as good, the earlier part was spectacular.”

The Quirk family observed, curious about the online community’s reaction to this juicy piece of gossip. As for Christopher’s feelings… He thought, Damn it!

Oblivious to the surrounding chaos, Rebecca, engrossed in the script, stood transfixed. Danielle led her to the makeup table, instructing her personal makeup artist to make quick adjustments. Rebecca, like a puppet, allowed others to control her actions, her gaze fixed on the script. She didn't even ask about being officially signed on; she immediately focused on memorizing the script. Team A-list was surprised by her lack of reaction. The final act was, to some extent, adapted from accusations made against Rebecca by a group of wives. It seemed Rebecca could only focus on the script. She couldn’t let others down; her desperation was palpable.

Ten minutes flew by. Backstage, Simon rushed to inform Gordon, who had been leisurely sipping coffee, waiting for Rebecca’s submission. The news stunned him; he immediately sought out Taylor and Riley. How could this be allowed?

Taylor and Riley, however, had weathered many storms. Replacing an actress with one from the opposing team was insignificant. They were mentally prepared to move on to other projects, viewing this as a final, experimental act. Yet, seeing Rebecca about to go on stage, unprepared, made them anxious. She was to deliver an impromptu performance, based on a brief plot summary and cues from Christopher, during a live broadcast.

Taylor said, “If she can’t continue, the whole show is ruined. Everyone will blame her, burdening her with undeserved guilt. No sane person would accept such a risk.”

Riley added, “If she succeeds… she'll create an industry miracle. No one will deny her abilities anymore, and they won't just focus on her beauty. Anyway, Gordon doesn't want her to complete the performance.” As they spoke, Gordon arrived. They exchanged a glance, showing no favoritism. “If Mr. Gonzales can’t perform, we’ll extend other segments and cancel your stage play,” they stated.

Gordon attempted to speak, but Taylor began reorganizing the crew. “Let’s all work hard together. We must strive for the best.” Gordon, understanding their intentions, could only slink to the side, hoping to dissuade Rebecca. How can she help her opponent? Has she lost her mind? Rebecca and Christopher stood on stage, ready.

“Later, just act according to the script. I’ll do my best to keep up,” Rebecca said nervously.

Christopher glanced at her. “This is a team effort. The pressure won’t fall solely on you, so don’t worry.”

Rebecca paused, her eyes shimmering. She rarely received such respect and trust. “Thank you. I promise I won’t let you down!” She swept her gaze around, spotting those who wished her harm. A disdainful smirk played on her lips—she wouldn’t let them ruin her. Gordon and Simon stared in astonishment until the host announced the show’s resumption.

The live stream viewers paused their comments for a moment, then an overwhelming wave flooded in, causing a significant lag:

What? Rebecca is replacing Isabella? Rebecca is coming on? The change wasn't because she was afraid, but because of Mr. Gonzales? Aren’t they rivals? Why would Justice Upholder ask her? What sorcery is this? Is this a humiliation tactic? We’ll see Rebecca embarrass herself! Professional haters, get out! Rebecca isn't the villain! Team A-list knows something! Isabella's injury was an accident. Rebecca hasn't read the script. How will she perform? Just improvise. Christopher knows the plot. She’s mainly known for her looks, not method acting. On this stage… If Rebecca handles this, it proves the slander is false!