Chapter 19: He Came to Replace

Kim Fei’er lunged at Wen Xiaochu. Thump! A dull thud echoed as Xia Yangyang swiftly seized Kim Fei’er’s arm, expertly throwing her over her shoulder. Kim Fei’er landed hard on the ground. The onlookers were shocked by Xia Yangyang’s lightning-fast, impeccable maneuver. No one knew she possessed such skill.

Stunned, Kim Fei’er remained on the ground for a moment before roaring, “Xia Yangyang, you dare… you dare…” to embarrass her publicly.

She stood up, saying, “Xia Yangyang, remember this! Do you really think you’ve won? The selection results haven't been announced; it's not yet clear who has lost and who has won.” Kim Fei’er then left the auditorium.

Wen Xiaochu asked, “What is she planning?”

That afternoon, the main casts of both drama clubs were summoned to the dean's office. Director Yin announced, “Yangyang, your drama was excellent! And unexpectedly, Chen Yu came to support us. The school has been greatly honored and received considerable media attention. The headmaster plans to reward you. Your drama team will participate in the school festival. You have half a month to prepare. Strive to shine!”

Xia Yangyang replied, “Director Yin, rest assured, we won't let you down.”

Kim Fei’er interrupted, “Director, I believe it’s premature to make that decision. Xia Yangyang’s team is incapable of performing at the school festival!”

“What do you mean?” Director Yin asked.

“In the play Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai, if Liang Shanbo is unavailable, how will the drama be performed?” Kim Fei’er countered.

Xia Yangyang felt a chill. Her gaze fell on Li Jiashu, who played Liang Shanbo. His head lowered, he said softly, “I’m sorry, Director. I have a family emergency. I’ve requested a leave of absence and won’t be able to attend rehearsals.”

A chill ran down Xia Yangyang’s spine. Wen Xiaochu exploded, “What happened? Tell us! We’ll find a solution. You can’t desert us now! You know how important this selection is for Yangyang!”

Li Jiashu mumbled, guilt-ridden, “I’m sorry, Yangyang.”

Wen Xiaochu accused, “What did Kim Fei’er offer you to betray us, Li Jiashu? We’ve all poured our hearts into this for half a month. Don’t you feel guilty?”

Li Jiashu remained silent, his eyes closed, his fingers clenched tightly. Finally, he whispered, “I’m sorry.”

Kim Fei’er laughed cruelly, “Without Liang Shanbo, your team can’t participate. We’ll replace you. Xia Yangyang, you lost. As per our bet, three slaps—and I promised not to hold back.”

Kim Fei’er approached Xia Yangyang, ready to slap her in front of Director Yin. But before her hand connected, a force stopped her.

“Stop!” Gu Zhaohan’s cold voice cut through the air.

All eyes turned to the aloof young man. He stated coldly, “I’ll replace Li Jiashu.”