Chapter 8: The Seduction of the Dominant Lady

The guests present all displayed different expressions.

The male guests, unaware of the situation, had a hint of a mocking smile on their lips.

They felt lucky that they had acted quickly earlier, avoiding the awkwardness of being left as the last choice.

Being one of two choices wasn’t scary; being the leftover was embarrassing.

The female guests, except for Tang Wan, all had less than pleasant expressions.

Qiao Sisi, professionally trained, had a glint in her eye that quickly disappeared as she spoke, “So, who will Xinran pair with?”

If Fang Zhou refused, she would have to pair with Sun Haotian.

Sun Haotian, who had approached Xinran and been ignored, had an awkward look on his honest face.

He scratched his head and laughed, “If Xinran thinks I’m unreliable, that’s okay.”

Although he said this, he was already feeling a bit resentful.

He glanced at Fang Zhou, who was still in a daze, thinking: What’s so good about that brat? Besides his face, he’s just a has-been game streamer.

In terms of money and connections, could he compare to me? Xinran is still too young, hasn’t faced the harsh realities of society, and doesn’t understand the importance of money.

But it’s okay, I like them young. Xinran’s face is exactly my type.

Sun Haotian was willing to tolerate her whims. After all, the show had just begun, and everyone was on the same starting line.

Mistakenly thinking they were on the same starting line, Fang Zhou, who was actually waiting at the finish line, thought: Huh?

He showed a clear look of surprise.

Why would Xinran choose him?

Shouldn’t she be eager to stay away from him? After all, he had said such harsh words before… Anyone would think he was a jerk.

Seeing Xinran’s watery eyes and expectant face, Fang Zhou’s heart tightened, sensing something was wrong.

No, he couldn’t pair with Xinran; she must have other intentions.

Fang Zhou shook his head repeatedly and said, “I accidentally fell yesterday, my leg isn’t quite right, so I can’t carry you.”

“I’d better be a host.”

Upon hearing this, the expressions of the female guests changed.

Xinran showed obvious disappointment, sighing “Oh.”

Qiao Sisi raised an eyebrow, seeming pleased with the outcome.

Han Xi exchanged a glance with Fang Zhou and quickly looked away.

Qin Yun smiled gently, as always, clapping her hands and organizing everyone to start the game.

“Alright, Xinran will pair with Sun Haotian. Let’s warm up and check the racecourse; we can start soon.”

The live chat was already mocking again.

“Oh my, did I hear right? Fang Zhou actually refused the school belle? Doesn’t know what’s good for him.”

“Hahaha, a man can’t say he’s incapable; Fang Zhou, get a grip!”

“I saw him limping earlier; he might really be injured, so don’t be too harsh.”

Some female fans, captivated by Fang Zhou’s face, started defending him.

Fang Zhou was actually telling the truth.

Yesterday, he was too focused on his phone while buying milk tea and indeed fell.

Arriving at the racecourse, which the production team had set up with obstacles like hurdles and benches, Fang Zhou took the stopwatch as instructed.

“Don’t worry, Sisi, with my speed, we’ll definitely get first place!”

Qi Le, determined to make up for his earlier offense to Qiao Sisi, vowed to perform well.

After all, dating a top-tier female star would be a huge boost to his image!

Qiao Sisi, warming up her arms, glanced disdainfully at Qi Le, who was grinning foolishly while boasting.

She thought to herself: This man better be useful; she didn’t want to sleep in a cave.

Han Xi stood aside, watching her partner Dong Donghui take off his suit jacket, saying nothing.

Sun Haotian was chatting cheerfully with Xinran.

“Xinran, it’s okay. Even if we sleep in a cave, I’ll protect you.”

He was candid, knowing he lacked physical advantage, and brought it up himself.

Xinran glanced at him, then at Fang Zhou, who was fiddling with the stopwatch, and lowered her eyes, softly responding, “Hmm, let’s work hard together.”

Hearing her sweet encouragement, Sun Haotian felt energized.

The remaining pairs warmed up energetically.

Seeing everyone almost ready, Qin Yun approached the finish line with Fang Zhou to start the race.

“Is your leg really injured?”

Qin Yun, smiling, whispered only for Fang Zhou to hear as she reached for the stopwatch.

They both needed to time the race, ensuring accurate results.

Fang Zhou nodded, “Really.”

He didn’t want to say much to Qin Yun, surrounded by cameras, fearing his secret might be exposed.

Handing her the stopwatch, Fang Zhou felt her fingernail lightly scrape his palm.

Not too hard or too soft, like a leaf falling into a calm lake, causing ripples.

Fang Zhou glanced at Qin Yun, still gentle and warm, her intentions unclear.

But Fang Zhou knew clearly.

She did it on purpose, trying to provoke him.

As a clinical doctor, meticulousness was in her bones; she wouldn’t make such a careless mistake.

Qin Yun turned with the stopwatch, her long curls forming a beautiful arc in the air.

Fang Zhou could even smell her faint osmanthus fragrance, silently invading his senses.

Just like Qin Yun herself, seemingly calm but always planning ahead.

Fang Zhou couldn’t help but wonder if Qin Yun’s appearance on the show was planned or a coincidence.

The guest list was confirmed a week ago, and Fang Zhou had joined through connections. The production team had kept it secret, with no leaks online.

How could Qin Yun have tracked him down?

But thinking of her university professor status, Fang Zhou felt anything was possible.

Oh well, it’s just dealing with a manipulative ex. With so many eyes watching, she shouldn’t do anything drastic.

Fang Zhou tightened his grip on the stopwatch, ready to start the race, feeling the tension in the air.