Chapter 92

Lemira scrolled through Evelina’s posts, a wave of memory washing over her—the time her own account had been hijacked. With a swift swipe, she hit delete. Finally, free from the Langston family.

Then, a forwarded video from Jessica arrived: “[Lemira, is this streamer you? Sounds a lot like you.]” The video showed a recent live stream. Lemira hadn’t revealed her face, only her keyboard and fingers; she’d wanted to avoid family sabotage before achieving success.

Lemira replied, “[Hmm, I have no idea.]” She wouldn't admit it was her.

Setting down her phone, she closed her eyes and fell asleep; streaming was exhausting.

In the next room, Orion shot Thaddeus a glare. “If you’ve got nothing sensible to say, keep quiet.”

“But I was just curious, man. I didn’t think she’d confess liking you!”

Orion’s expression was awkward. “‘Like’ can mean many things,” he clarified. It wasn’t always romantic.

Thaddeus, brimming with excitement, announced, “I’ve already got someone editing Sweet Lemon’s streaming video. It’ll hit the trending page in no time, guaranteeing her a sensational summer!”

Orion watched the edited video Thaddeus sent; Lemira was indeed impressive. Soon, the live stream went viral. Everyone was guessing Sweet Lemon's identity.

Alaric, VibeCast's boss, learned the news immediately. Seeing the gamer’s name, he was thrilled. “She gained 100,000 followers overnight?”

“Yes, boss. The gunner you’ve been eyeing—Sweet Lemon—I think it's her. The game, character design, even her profession as a gunner all match.”

“Yes, it’s her.”

Alaric had been eager to sign Sweet Lemon. He hadn't expected her to start streaming, especially on PixelStage, his rival’s platform! He logged into the game, but she was offline and hadn't responded to his previous offer. He’d only skimmed the beginning of the video.

“No matter what, get her to VibeCast. I’m sure others are trying to sign her. Find a way to contact her.” He wouldn't let PixelStage steal her.

Evelina entered with a thermos. “Alaric, who’s the new star you’re planning to bring to VibeCast?”

“The gunner I mentioned. She went on PixelStage and gained 100,000 followers overnight! If she joins SkyBlaze, it’d be a huge boost.”

Hearing about the overnight surge, Evelina felt a pang of awkwardness. She’d only recently reached 100,000 followers herself, after considerable effort. Someone had achieved it in a single night?

Alaric noticed Evelina’s expression. “Eve, you’re doing great too. Keep it up, and I’ll make sure you get the newcomer award at this year’s internet celebrity festival.”

“Thanks, Alaric. I made you some late-night snacks. Please eat; don’t end up with stomach issues like Lucian.”

“See, Eve, you’re always so thoughtful, unlike some people.” Alaric’s mood darkened at the thought of Lemira.

Evelina felt a flicker of triumph. She might not be an overnight sensation, but compared to Lemira, she felt quite accomplished. She searched for Sweet Lemon’s video. The moment she heard the streamer’s voice, her mind went blank. Wasn’t that Lemira’s voice?