Chapter 183

The dance battle concluded without dispute; the disparity between the two sides was evident. After Dustin and Irene’s stunning performance, many in the crowd turned their attention to Phoebe. Irene, having won, was obligated to fulfill the bet: she had to get on the floor and oink like a pig.

A murmur rippled through the crowd: "Phoebe is the daughter of Lannopolis's most prestigious family. For her to kneel and squeal like a pig? Tomorrow's headline, and the Chandler family's reputation will be ruined!"

Another voice added, "The Chandler heiress forced to squeal after losing a dance-off? Lannopolis Elite College will be buzzing by noon. How will she ever show her face again?"

Phoebe’s face soured, as if she’d swallowed a fly. The humiliation was unbearable.

"You've won," Dustin said to Irene. "What happens next is up to you."

Irene looked at Phoebe. "Phoebe, you've always targeted me, but I won't stoop to humiliating you. I don't find joy in it," she said indifferently.

Phoebe managed a strained smile, barely concealing her resentment. "Thank you for your understanding."

Irene then whispered to Dustin, "Phoebe is the daughter of Lannopolis's most prestigious family. To humiliate her is to humiliate the Chandlers. The West family is still growing; if the Chandlers turn against us, it will be disastrous. You're involved; it's your decision."

Dustin nodded. Irene's foresight impressed him. She was clearly strategic. He wouldn't have been so forgiving.

Phoebe, however, showed no gratitude; her hatred for Irene intensified.

The party continued, with Irene becoming the new center of attention. Many sought her out, leaving Dustin on the periphery. He didn't mind, quietly sipping his wine. The party, hosted by wealthy students, offered premium wine, and Dustin enjoyed a couple more glasses.

Phoebe watched from afar, sneering. She had been impressed by Dustin's dancing, believing him important. But seeing his unassuming demeanor, she concluded he was merely an ordinary man, lacking wealth. Her jealousy lessened, replaced by a new plan.

Suddenly, a voice cut through the crowd: "Irene, marry me!"

Dustin raised an eyebrow, turning toward the speaker. Irene stood stunned, staring at a man in a blue suit. He held a bouquet of roses and a sparkling ring, his gaze resolute. The ring’s gemstone gleamed with a brilliant green light, catching everyone's attention.

"Say yes! Say yes!" the crowd chanted.

A young woman gasped, "Am I seeing things? That's the legendary Verdigris Emerald! It was auctioned last month in Central Harbor. And it's already a ring…"

Whispers rippled through the crowd: "That Verdigris Emerald sold for thirty million dollars! Mr. Aaron bought it for an engagement ring? He spared no expense!"

Phoebe watched, her face contorted with jealousy. During their first year, she had pursued Aaron Burke, but he had ignored her, instead focusing on Irene.