Chapter 18: The Bet
Xia Yangyang was satisfied with the election results. Ah K's ruthlessness had secured a one-vote advantage—enough to infuriate Kim Fei'er, who fell just short of victory despite attempts to manipulate the vote.
Kim Fei'er, livid and recognizing Xia Yangyang's counterattack, reported her to Dean Yin the next day, accusing her of vote manipulation and demanding disqualification. Dean Yin, overseeing the school festival, had already heard about the close election results.
Xia Yangyang, when confronted, admitted to vote manipulation but insisted she wasn't alone. She boldly suggested a thorough investigation and disqualification for all involved. Kim Fei'er was stunned by this unexpected move—a calculated risk to implicate her rival.
Dean Yin, however, was aware of the widespread vote manipulation inherent in a public voting system. He knew both girls were influential—one the mayor's daughter, the other a rising star actress—and that the school had strategically publicized the election to capitalize on Xia Yangyang's popularity. However, Kim Fei'er's influence couldn't be ignored, and a blanket disqualification would harm the school.
Dean Yin proposed a solution: both girls would receive the script, form their own teams, rehearse, and compete in a public performance a fortnight later. Attendance would determine the winner, ensuring a fair assessment of popularity. This would allow for continued rehearsals, generate school publicity, and foster healthy competition. Both agreed.
Leaving the dean's office, Kim Fei'er challenged Xia Yangyang to a bet: if Kim Fei'er won, Xia Yangyang would slap herself three times. If Xia Yangyang won, Kim Fei'er would publicly recant her slanderous posts and apologize on school radio. The bet was accepted.
Xia Yangyang, needing to clear her name, immediately began preparations. This bet was her only chance. She wouldn't let this opportunity slip away.
Seeking Wen Xiaochu's advice, Xia Yangyang discussed strategy. While recruiting team members wouldn't be difficult given her position as news club president, Wen Xiaochu cautioned that Kim Fei'er, a performing arts student with strong faculty support, possessed a significant advantage. To surpass her, Xia Yangyang needed a truly exceptional partner. They both simultaneously suggested Gu Zhaohan.