Chapter 6: The Game Begins

The next morning, as the city buzzed with life, birds chirping in the distance, Yuan Zi slowly opened his eyes. A knock on the door pulled him from his thoughts—it must be his assistant. Sure enough, the assistant entered with breakfast, placing it on the table.

"There's an educational shoot at a university in a few days," the assistant informed him. "They've requested you to join and film with the students to help promote the university."

Yuan Zi simply nodded, taking a sip of his coffee before starting his meal. After finishing, he got into the car and headed toward the shooting location.

Meanwhile, at the university, Huimin nearly shrieked when she heard the news. "Zhenya! Yuan Zi is coming!" she exclaimed, grabbing her friend's arm excitedly.

Zhenya's lips curled into a soft smile. Finally, she was going to meet her idol, Yuan Zi.

But when she glanced at the clock, her eyes widened. "I'm going to be late for class!" she gasped, quickly saying goodbye to Huimin before rushing down the hallway.

Inside the classroom, the professor stood at the podium, addressing the students. "As you all may have heard, Yuan Zi will be visiting our university for a shoot. One student will be selected to represent the Finance Department."

A male student immediately spoke up. "I think Zhenya should do it."

Before Zhenya could react, another voice interrupted.

"I refuse."

Tang Xi, a girl with sharp features and an air of confidence, crossed her arms. "I should be the one representing our department."

The professor considered for a moment. "Then we'll settle this with a vote."

The students cast their votes, whispering among themselves, excitement filling the air. When the final count was in, the professor announced, "Zhenya has won."

The room erupted in cheers—except for one person. Tang Xi sat stiffly, her fingers curled into fists beneath her desk. She despised Zhenya, not just for winning this opportunity but for being someone everyone admired. Beautiful, intelligent, well-mannered—everything Tang Xi secretly wished to be.

Her eyes darkened. This wasn't over.

Tang Xi clenched her fists under the desk, her lips pressing into a thin line as the class erupted in applause for Zhenya. Her gaze flickered toward the girl at the center of attention—Zhenya, smiling modestly as her friends congratulated her.

Perfect grades, perfect manners, perfect face.

Tang Xi's nails dug into her palm.

Everyone adores her. But let's see how long that lasts.

She forced a smile, masking the storm brewing inside her.

You want to represent the Finance Department, Zhenya? Let's see if you can still be everyone's favorite when I'm done with you.

Tang Xi leaned back in her chair, tilting her head as if deep in thought. The wheels in her mind had already begun turning.

This wasn't over. Not yet.