Chapter 24
Three days later, the grand finals of the talent show arrived as scheduled.
Backstage was bustling with people. The remaining contestants were still practicing and rehearsing, striving to debut successfully on the highly anticipated show and embark on a new chapter in their lives.
Xia Linxia walked past a practice room, feeling a bit dazed. Five years, not long, not short, yet the scenes of her sweating in these rooms were still vivid in her memory. Initially, entering the entertainment industry was a sudden whim; she simply didn't want to follow the planned path anymore.
Due to Xia Yangxuan's personal tutelage, her academic performance had always been top-notch. However, this had also caught the attention of some ambitious individuals within the Xia Corporation. Certain high-level executives disliked Xia Yangxuan's uncompromising approach as a successor, so they set their sights on her. Their younger daughter was academically gifted and easier to control, making her suitable for grooming into someone aligned with their faction.
Thus, during her senior year of high school alone, she had come into contact with many mid-to-high-level executives who sent her gifts and invited her to various gatherings under different pretexts. She knew the simple purpose behind all this; the harassment she would face in the future would likely be even more intense, and these people constantly bad-mouthed Xia Yangxuan to her!
Moreover, her father also intended to cultivate her management skills in the business world. Given her father's preferences, it was not impossible that he would have her manage the company alongside her brother. Although Xia Yangxuan could be a bit fierce, he had barely slept since taking over the company. She didn't want to be her brother's enemy, so after much thought, she concluded that the entertainment industry, with its talent, good looks, and high earnings, was the most suitable path for her.
This way, she and her brother would forever remain siblings, not plastic siblings who could easily drift apart in the business world. Being sent to Jiang Yuan's company was also a good choice. Jiang Yuan's personality was very similar to Xia Yangxuan's: cold on the outside, warm on the inside. A month later, she and a group of trainees from the company were sent to participate in the talent show.
“Let’s take a selfie together! We should still meet up often in the future!”
As she passed a practice room, she saw a few young girls sitting together, taking photos as mementos, their faces filled with happy and innocent smiles. Xia Linxia couldn't help but smile, feeling a bit envious, but more so, a sense of regret. She wondered how long such friendships would last.
During the talent show, she also had a good friend. They were teammates during the first group assignment and had a lot of fun during rehearsals. After the first public performance, she was ranked first, and several girls came to show their favor. Her friend stood beside her, smiling.
Unfortunately, by the middle of the competition, her personality was criticized, and her friend distanced herself. When her friend came to the dorm again, she wasn't looking for Xia Linxia but for Xiao Yuran. Her friend didn't make it into the final group. When she left, she came to find Xia Linxia, but Xia Linxia refused to meet her.
When Xia Yangxuan and her father taught her how to survive in the business world, the first rule was profit. Once you have something to gain, everyone who approaches you is worth scrutinizing, and the best choice is mutual benefit.
She didn't want to scrutinize this friend, but she also didn't want anyone else to get close. While reminiscing, she entered the styling room and saw someone she particularly didn't want to deal with.
Fu Xiaoxuan was getting her makeup done. Invited as a guest mentor, she was to sit at the front throughout the show, watching the newcomers perform and offering her opinions. Under the pretense of being in front of outsiders, Fu Xiaoxuan put on a friendly facade and said with a smile, "Linxia, why are you only arriving now? Have you finished your rehearsal?"
"Mm," Xia Linxia pouted and followed the staff to the makeup station behind her, sitting down. The makeup artist asked, "What's your outfit for tonight? Let me see so I can do your makeup accordingly."
Xia Linxia glanced at Xiang Huaimeng, who went to contact the costume designer. Soon, the costume designer brought the performance outfit and shoes, placing them nearby. "This outfit is nice. I have some ideas," the makeup artist smiled and began preparing.
Xiang Huaimeng checked the clothes and couldn't help but worry, "Are you going to wear these shoes? The heels are too high and thin. Are you sure it's okay?" Xia Linxia glanced over, looking at the black stiletto heels adorned with a crystal-encrusted flower petal. They were indeed beautiful, but the height was considerable.
"It should be okay," she said. She was accustomed to wearing high heels during most performances.
Fu Xiaoxuan looked back and smiled, "It's fine. Linxia has worn shoes this high before for performances."
"But those were much thicker," Xiang Huaimeng said worriedly. "We absolutely must not have any stage accidents. Should I go find other shoes?"
"No need. These shoes match the outfit perfectly. If it's difficult, it's a challenge," Xia Linxia said nonchalantly.
"Alright, then I'll take the clothes to have them ironed again," Xiang Huaimeng said, taking the costumes and walking out.
Half an hour later, the show was about to begin. After Fu Xiaoxuan finished her makeup, she stood up and caught sight of someone waiting at the door. Her face lit up with joy, "Yuran!"
Hearing this, Xia Linxia looked up and saw the person standing at the door in the mirror. Xiao Yuran was wearing a denim mini-dress with an off-the-shoulder top, revealing her shoulder. Her long hair was permed, and she wore two yellow daisy hair clips, exuding vitality and youthfulness. Her smile was serene, giving off a spring-like aura.
"Xiaoxuan, are you ready?" Xiao Yuran responded, her gaze pausing for a moment. "Linxia, long time no see."
"The show is really playing games. Have the other two team members been invited?" Xia Linxia asked, changing the subject, curious.
"No, they have other schedules, and the timing didn't work out," Xiao Yuran replied.
"Xiao Yuran, Fu Xiaoxuan, get ready to go on stage," a staff member called from a distance.
"Coming right up. I'll go to the restroom first," Fu Xiaoxuan said, standing up. "I'm a bit nervous."
"Go ahead," Xiao Yuran said, then walked into the room and reminisced with Xia Linxia. "It makes me happy that you and Xiaoxuan are both here today. We haven't had time to properly catch up."
Xia Linxia said expressionlessly, "Even if we catch up, I don't know what we'd talk about. Gossip about others?"
"That's true, but whose gossip is more fun than yours?" Xiao Yuran said jokingly. "When did you and Fengxue get together?"
"What business is it of yours?"
"She's my best friend. Is it okay to care a little?" Xiao Yuran asked innocently. "How did you two get together?"
Xia Linxia knew she would be very curious! She understood this feeling; it was simply possessiveness at play. Even if Xiao Yuran was straight, with someone of Ji Fengxue's caliber pursuing her for so many years, it was hard to imagine she wouldn't hold a special place in her heart. But now that Ji Fengxue was dating her, Xiao Yuran must be incredulous, confused, and perhaps a little jealous.
Xia Linxia smiled and said, "Of course, it's because of love!"
For some reason, after saying this, she noticed that Xiao Yuran's reaction wasn't as dramatic as she had imagined. Instead, her expression relaxed a bit. What was going on? Wasn't love the standard answer?
Before she could say more, Fu Xiaoxuan returned and left with Xiao Yuran to go on stage.
The show quickly began. Xia Linxia watched the live broadcast on the room's television. The audience was as enthusiastic as ever. When Xiao Yuran introduced her invited friend, Fu Xiaoxuan, there were continuous rounds of applause and cheers. Perhaps Fu Xiaoxuan didn't have many fans, or perhaps she was burdened by scandals, but their former girl group, Miss.Dream, was the hottest group of that summer. Even after five years, many viewers still remembered the grandeur of those times, which had become a cherished memory.
Xia Linxia hadn't eaten dinner. While getting her makeup done, she ate some snacks to fill her stomach, occasionally watching the show. After changing into her costume, she returned to her dressing room. When she was bored, she played on her phone. The production crew had cameras filming, and a staff member asked, "Are you chatting with someone?"
"Mm."
"With whom?"
Xia Linxia was actually complaining to her brother, but she couldn't mention Xia Yangxuan's name. She thought of a scapegoat and smiled happily at the camera, "Lao Ji, my darling!" The staff member was satisfied with this answer.
Frankly speaking, inviting Xia Linxia as the final guest was a result of many factors. Firstly, Xia Linxia's current popularity and traffic had firmly placed her in the top tier, bringing her own fans and viewership. Secondly, Xia Linxia was one of the first people to debut on the show, and her current success could greatly inspire these newcomers. Of course, the most important factor was that Xia Linxia and Ji Fengxue's relationship had been a hot topic of public attention since it was revealed. Inviting one Xia Linxia made it easy to invite Ji Fengxue; even if they couldn't invite her, they could still generate buzz.
Of course, what surprised them the most was that Ji Fengxue, who rarely appeared on variety shows, actually accepted the invitation. It seemed that love truly could change a person. In such a short time, Fairy Ji had appeared on reality shows and variety shows, and all of them were with Xia Linxia. It was truly sweet!
However, Xia Linxia was still in the dark at this moment, so the staff intended to ask a few more questions to lay the groundwork and create a surprise effect for the mysterious guest. "Do you and Teacher Ji meet often?"
Xia Linxia played with her phone and replied, "Not very often, we're both too busy."
The staff member asked again, "Do you have anything you want to say to Teacher Ji?"
"No," Xia Linxia paused. "I mean... I don't want to say it here. We usually say things privately."
"Is this your kind of foreplay?"
Xia Linxia realized the person was talking too much and couldn't help but say, "...Are you Sun Wukong sent by some gossip group?"
The staff member chuckled awkwardly, "Are you still chatting with Teacher Ji right now?"
"Yes, so can you please not disturb me and my darling's chat?" Xia Linxia blinked.
"Okay."
The stage was being set up with new equipment, so the live broadcast cut to this segment.
[Today's makeup is so pretty!!! What a goddess!]
[She's wearing so little, just a tank top and shorts? And black bands on her legs, isn't she just selling sex appeal?]
[Who is this trash from earlier? What's your name? I'll definitely sweep your grave next Qingming Festival.]
[So loving! They're still chatting with Ji Fengxue during this short break. I wonder what they're talking about!]
In another dressing room, where there were no cameras or staff, Ji Fengxue subconsciously glanced at her phone.
Chen Nian asked, "Is she chatting with you?"
Ji Fengxue casually put down her phone and shook her head, "No."
"Hmm, then who could she be chatting with? I saw her on her phone for a long time. Could she have another lover?"
Ji Fengxue: "......"
"Speaking of which, she had quite a few scandals before. She's been much more well-behaved since 'dating' you," Chen Nian mused.
Ji Fengxue: "......"
"Could you two be faking it until it becomes real, and end up actually together? Hahaha," Chen Nian said, amused by her own thought.
Ji Fengxue: "......"
Chen Nian thought it more and more likely. "I'm serious. Although Xia Linxia and Xiao Yuran are completely different styles, don't you think you're quite boring with Xiao Yuran?"
Ji Fengxue glanced at her.
"No, I'm not saying you're boring, it's just..." Chen Nian organized her words. "Perhaps your personalities are too similar, lacking a bit of friction, that spark-like feeling."
Ji Fengxue understood what she meant, but she hadn't expected even Chen Nian to notice. Indeed, Xiao Yuran was excellent, with a lovely appearance, a good figure, and especially her personality – gentle, generous, and understanding, making her practically a mirror image of herself. Therefore, interacting with her lacked a certain element of fun. In the past, when they met, there were often awkward silences. She didn't know what to say to amuse the young girl. Xiao Yuran was initially reserved, but after becoming familiar, she would tell jokes to make her happy.
But wasn't she the one pursuing? This made her feel frustrated at times, doubting that her inability to communicate was the reason her confession failed. Later, she consulted a friend outside the industry, a married person, who said that marriage was like this. After being together for a long time, the novelty wore off, and they often did their own things. As long as they didn't dislike each other, they could just make do.
She suddenly felt at ease. She would absolutely not dislike Xiao Yuran. The moment she thought of their first meeting, she recalled the dizzying sensation of a scorching summer day. The scene of their first real meeting was still deeply etched in her memory. After being discharged from the hospital, she had told the production crew that she wanted to visit them privately. After passing several practice rooms, she finally stopped at the dance studio. Inside, several girls were watching the dance of the girl in the center. Xiao Yuran.
She stopped and stood at the doorway, watching for a while. Her gaze followed the movements, and she noticed her heart beating a little faster. How should she greet her? Hello, I'm Ji Fengxue, nice to meet you? Hello, you saved me last time, do you remember? Hello, can I have your phone number?...... Too cheesy!
As the dance was about to end, she still hadn't figured out how to strike up a conversation and felt a bit flustered. Just then, an displeased voice sounded from behind: "Move aside, don't block the way."
She shyly took a step back and looked back, her eyes lighting up. The person who arrived had exquisite features, and a pair of peach blossom eyes that could captivate countless people, though there was a hint of aggression about them. The moment the other person saw her, they also froze, "You came......"
"Ah! Is that Ji Fengxue?!" The girls inside also noticed the commotion at the door and all ran out, interrupting their conversation. Xiao Yuran followed last, clearly looking at her with admiration and curiosity. It was this look that gave her a bit of confidence.
"Teacher Ji, I love your movies so much! You are my goddess!" a girl exclaimed, grabbing her hand in surprise. However, she felt a bit resistant to strangers' touch.
"Hey, hey, are you guys annoying? Your flattery is too fake," the peach blossom-eyed girl said displeasedly, walking over and bumping into several people before squeezing into the room.
The group looked at Ji Fengxue sheepishly. At this moment, Xiao Yuran smiled, her voice sweet, "We're not flattering; we genuinely love your movies."
"Thank you," Ji Fengxue said to her, the single word of thanks serving both as gratitude for her admiration and for her help last time. Xiao Yuran asked again, "Are you feeling better? You fainted last time..."
She froze for a moment, then felt a surge of happiness. It was indeed her. She nodded, "I've recovered. I saw your show, and I really like you."
"Thank you," Xiao Yuran's smile deepened, the corners of her mouth curving up, revealing two shallow dimples. The two exchanged thanks back and forth, and the other girls realized they might know each other, starting to tease them.
Just then, an abrupt voice sounded: "Tch."
Everyone looked towards the person inside. One girl said, "Xia Linxia, can you stop being so passive-aggressive."
Xia Linxia scoffed, "If you don't want to practice, go to the lounge. Don't hinder others from practicing here. Flattery won't earn you skill. I advise you to practice quickly."
"Sorry to have disturbed your practice. I'll come see you again next time," Ji Fengxue said apologetically.
"I'll walk you out," Xiao Yuran volunteered, walking towards Ji Fengxue under the encouraging gazes of everyone.
As the two walked towards the villa, Ji Fengxue didn't know what topic to bring up, only occasionally glancing at her. Before getting into the car, Xiao Yuran asked, "Can I have an autograph?"
"Yes." Ji Fengxue took out paper and a pen from the car, paused, and then added a sentence.
Xiao Yuran looked at it for half a minute before asking, "Is that your phone number written at the back?"
Ji Fengxue felt a bit embarrassed. "Mm, you... good luck."
"That's great! I was wondering how to get your contact information! I'll work hard," Xiao Yuran said cheerfully. "Um... can I ask how you found me? Because when I saw you last time, you seemed unconscious."
Ji Fengxue pointed to her back, "Number, 18, I saw it."
"Oh, so you saw it."
Xiao Yuran smiled sweetly and heard her say, "Mm, thank you for carrying me for so long. The road was quite far."
"Mm?" Xiao Yuran was stunned for a few seconds, as if recalling the events of that day, and smiled, "Will you come see me again in the future?"
"Do you want me to come?"
"Yes, you're my idol." Xiao Yuran paused. "Can you only look at me?"
Ji Fengxue looked at her obedient smile, knowing the young girl wanted affirmation, so she said, "Okay, I'm only here to see you."
"That's wonderful."
Although it was their first meeting, and there was some awkwardness at the beginning, Xiao Yuran's constant smile dispelled her nervousness. However... ever since they met, Xiao Yuran had always been smiling. Sometimes, Ji Fengxue found it difficult to know her true thoughts. This led to Ji Fengxue possibly not knowing what she disliked over the years. However, in her memory, Xiao Yuran cried once, during her confession.
In fact, she wasn't good at many romantic gestures. That day, Xiao Yuran invited her to her home for dinner. Eating the food she cooked, she felt this was quite good. She liked this kind and gentle girl, so she directly expressed her desire to be with her.
Xiao Yuran refused her tearfully, but apart from a slight disappointment, she didn't have much of an emotional reaction. Perhaps it was because she already knew the other person was straight, so she hadn't held much hope. After saying it, she felt much more relaxed. Their subsequent interactions became more natural. She could clearly show her affection, whether the other person accepted it or not. She acted as if she were fulfilling a task.
She was born this way. She was such a person. If there was something unfinished, she would persist, regardless of the outcome, until it was completed. This could be seen from her continuous dedication to honing her acting skills.
"Xia Linxia is about to go on stage," Chen Nian said, watching the television. "The last contestant is performing now. After the final round of voting, she will take the stage, and then the list of debuted members will be announced."
Ji Fengxue nodded and looked at the television. The camera happened to sweep across Xiao Yuran, who was on the mentor's seat.
"Do you still like her?" Chen Nian noticed her action, then thought it necessary to interrupt her thoughts. "She's straight. Even though she broke up with her ex-boyfriend, it's inevitable that she'll find another, and another. You can't even be a backup."
Hearing this, Ji Fengxue smiled, "So I'm that miserable."
"Of course. Even if she gets along well with you, she can't do anything more intimate with you."
"That's not necessarily true," Ji Fengxue retorted. Thinking of something, she smiled, "Forget it, let's not talk about this. When do we go on?"
As soon as she finished speaking, a staff member knocked on the door, instructed them to get ready, and then led her towards the audience seats. The audience in the front row let out screams upon seeing her.
"Ahhhhhhhh Ji Fengxue, I love you!"
"Ahhhhhhhh Fairy, you're so beautiful! You look even better in person than on TV!"
"Fairy, you've lost weight! Eat more!"
"You and Baby Xia must be good to each other!!!"
Those in the back, not understanding what was happening, looked forward. The live director immediately managed the order.
Soon, the entire audience knew that Ji Fengxue had come to secretly watch Xia Linxia's performance, while Xia Linxia was completely unaware. Thus, everyone cooperated with the production crew, acting as if they knew nothing about the arrangements.
Ji Fengxue was arranged to sit in the best viewing seat on the left side of the T-shaped stage, with the backstage entrance and exit on the right. She sat down and greeted the enthusiastic audience around her. Her phone vibrated twice. As soon as she opened her phone, the audience member next to her asked with a smile, "Is Xia Linxia still chatting with you?"
It seemed everyone knew Xia Linxia had been "chatting" with her just now, so she had to nod in agreement, "Yes."
Audience members: Ahhhhhhhh, live broadcast of dog food!
Ji Fengxue avoided the eyes of others and secretly glanced at her phone. To her surprise, it was indeed a message from Xia Linxia.
[Xiaxia]: What are you doing? Little dinosaur question mark.jpg
[Xiaxia]: I'm about to meet your white moonlight. Is there anything you need me to pass on to her? I'll bring it for you this time, I promise.
Ji Fengxue: "......"
[Xiaxia's Darling]: Good luck.
[Xiaxia]: That's it???
[Xiaxia's Darling]: I mean, good luck.
[Xiaxia]: Little dinosaur happy.jpg
"Xiaxia" retracted a message.
[Xiaxia]: Damn it, accidental touch! I'm not talking anymore. I'm going on stage. Welcome to watch the dramatic evening show of new and old lovers meeting and fighting.
Ji Fengxue helplessly put away her phone and looked up, inadvertently catching sight of Xiao Yuran's gaze suddenly sweeping towards her. Their eyes met, and she didn't know how to react. It was Xiao Yuran who smiled first. The camera captured this moment, and many audience members began to respond to this pair of sisters.
"The final round of voting is about to close. Please, audience members present and watching on television, vote quickly to select your favorite contestant and help her debut," the host recited.
"The voting channel is now closed. Please give our statisticians a moment to complete the final tally. Now, there will be a special performance. This guest is incredible. She is a senior who emerged from our stage and is now an all-around idol. Let's give a warm round of applause for Xia Linxia!"
The audience immediately cheered. Many fans were present, holding up their light sticks. The stage lights dimmed, and the backup dancers had all taken their positions.
The entire venue lit up with orange-yellow light, the fan color belonging to Xia Linxia, like the color of the scorching summer sun. Ji Fengxue withdrew her gaze, took a deep breath, and looked at the stage with a mind full of thoughts.
A beam of orange light shone on the center of the stage. Everyone could only see a slender back, with long, fair legs. The high heels made her appear even taller. She wore a silk robe that reached her knees, with a large patch of cherry blossoms behind it. The person on stage stretched lazily, extending her arms upwards, and a languid English phrase was heard, like a whisper upon waking in the morning.
Her deep, elegant, and captivating voice immediately elicited screams. As the music intro began, she turned to face the audience, wearing a black high-waisted tank top and hot pants that perfectly showcased her curves. What drew the most attention was her eye makeup. Her already flawless features were enhanced by the makeup, making her unimaginably beautiful. Her lively peach blossom eyes swept over the audience, with budding cherry blossoms drawn at the corners. When she closed her eyes, the flowers bloomed.
Ji Fengxue felt that the surrounding audience was going crazy.
"Ahhhhhhhh Xiaxia is so beautiful, so beautiful!"
"Oh my god, sister, you're amazing! This makeup is so good, I want to try it when I get back!"
"I'm gone, I'm gone, I'm gone! This is my first time seeing Xia Linxia perform live, and her aura is truly incredible!"
"KWsl, this song is super difficult! I rarely heard her solo before. Is her voice really that distinctive?"
"It seems the girl group limited her development, haha!"
This song was a classic foreign song, very difficult, but Xia Linxia's pronunciation was excellent. Moreover, she was very smart, slightly adapting the song and combining it with visually impactful choreography, which made people overlook the gap with the original singer. The original song began with a high-pitched vocal, but after the adaptation, the lyrics gained a bit more storytelling. The entire song was like a narrative of a young girl waking up in the morning, dressing up meticulously, waiting for her beloved, and then expressing her passionate feelings.
It started with a slow tempo. Xia Linxia sang the classic English song with ease, her eyes clear, a smile on her lips. As the chorus approached, she stopped in the center and closed her eyes. The music gradually became more upbeat, and Xia Linxia sang effortlessly, walking with a cool and sexy demeanor to the front of the stage, interacting with the audience, winking at the camera, igniting the entire venue because she was so dazzling.
As the chorus was about to begin, Xia Linxia turned around and walked back with large strides, her eyes determined, as if going to meet her beloved. The stage was long, and the stage lights followed her back, slowly drawing a galaxy across the stage. Everyone watched, captivated by the scene.
"Xia Linxia! Xia Linxia! Xia Linxia!"
"This back view has won me over, I'm switching to being a fan!"
"Wuwuwu Xiaxia is so beautiful, the idol I stan is indeed amazing!"
"What did the production crew invite Xia Linxia for? She's completely overshadowing everyone. Won't this make those junior sisters feel depressed?"
"Although Xia Linxia's acting is bad, her stage charisma is undeniable. Her gaze is perfect; even a glance at me makes me feel like she's in love with me."
"You can stop it. She's clearly looking at me! She's seducing me!"
"I wonder what Ji Fengxue's expression will be when she sees her girlfriend's live performance, hahaha!"
"Everyone, don't push. The audience member next to Fairy Ji has good news to report – Fairy Ji is smiling! Oh my god, it must be a super doting, happy, and proud smile!"
Ji Fengxue was unaware that the audience around her was peeking at her emotions while watching the performance. She subconsciously straightened her back, wanting to see more clearly. This was the first time she had watched Xia Linxia's performance up close and seriously. Before, she had only seen it occasionally on television, but it was far less impactful than seeing it live. Being there, emotions were more easily conveyed. She had clearly underestimated Xia Linxia's strength. Five years ago, she was busy with work and had little time to follow the variety shows every week. After each episode aired, she would directly watch Xiao Yuran's individual clips online, completely unaware of this formidable opponent. Given Xia Linxia's strong personality, her bold declaration on the debut night was understandable. Because, deep down, she felt that at this moment, Xia Linxia was the queen on stage, capable of attracting everyone's attention.
Suddenly, Xia Linxia scanned in her direction.
Ji Fengxue's breath hitched, then she found it amusing. What was she nervous about? Was she being too serious about cooperating with the production crew for the mysterious segment?
Fortunately, Xia Linxia didn't have time to scrutinize the audience; she was just interacting with them. As Ji Fengxue secretly breathed a sigh of relief, she also felt a slight sense of disappointment. She suddenly wished she could see Xia Linxia's reaction upon seeing her. It must be surprise, followed by secretly scolding her and the production crew for the arrangement, but also feeling helpless.
When Xia Linxia returned to her starting position, she was only a few meters away. Then, she began to dance with the backup dancers, her body merging with the music, exuding sexiness and power, creating an explosive performance. Everyone shouted Xia Linxia's name in unison!
"Xia Linxia! Xia Linxia! We love you!!!"
The sound was deafening. Ji Fengxue disliked noise, but at this moment, she didn't feel uncomfortable. Instead, a sense of excitement stirred within her.
"Fairy Ji, do you want a light stick?" the girl next to her suddenly asked excitedly.
She glanced at the light stick in the girl's hand. She really didn't want to hold such a thing. Before she could refuse, the other person had already handed her the light stick. "You're welcome! I know you really want it!" the girl said with a smile, then looked back at the stage, waving her hands, her sweet face instantly emitting a roar like a lioness, "Ahhhhhhhh! Xiaxia! Mom loves you!"
Ji Fengxue: "......"
She helplessly placed the light stick on her lap. This experience was novel, as if her position had suddenly changed to that of a fan. A moment later, following the crowd's cheers, she quietly joined them, "Xia Linxia, good luck."
The girl next to her shouted, "Fairy Ji, your voice is too quiet. Come on, shout louder with me!"
Ji Fengxue: "......"
"Don't you want to cheer for Xiaxia? Don't you want her to see you? Don't you want to sleep with her... Oh, you can already sleep with her! Ahhhhhh, I'm so envious of you!"
Ji Fengxue: "............"
The girl urged, "Ahhh Xiaxia is looking this way! Ji Fengxue, hurry up and raise your sign so she can see us ahhhh!" She was so excited that she was shouting her name directly.
Amidst the girl's frantic roaring, Ji Fengxue surrendered and raised the light stick with both hands. The audience behind them immediately cheered, "Wow!!!"
Fu Xiaoxuan watched Xia Linxia's textbook-perfect performance. Glancing at Ji Fengxue holding the light stick and looking intently, a faint smile on her lips. She couldn't help but nudge Xiao Yuran and gesture in that direction. Taking off her headset, she whispered, "She used to be only your audience and never held a sign for you."
Xiao Yuran smiled and said nothing. After a moment, she looked intently in that direction, showing no particular emotion, which frustrated Fu Xiaoxuan. Xiao Yuran was too kind, which was why Xia Linxia had always been able to suppress her. Now, even Ji Fengxue was being snatched away. She felt indignant for Xiao Yuran.
Xiao Yuran smiled, "Because Linxia's performance today was brilliant."
Just as Fu Xiaoxuan was about to speak, she noticed the camera sweeping over. She stopped talking and stared intently at the stage, smiling coldly.
The performance was nearing its end. Xia Linxia's breath control was excellent. Even with large dance movements and strenuous physical exertion, her singing remained flawless. The accident happened in that instant.
At the end of the chorus, a difficult dance move was scheduled. As Xia Linxia landed after lifting her leg, the heel of her high heel suddenly broke. She lost her footing unexpectedly and fell backward with a "thump." The sound of her hitting the ground echoed through the microphone across the entire auditorium.
The audience was momentarily stunned, then cried out in alarm. The music stopped, and staff members rushed towards the stage. Viewers watching the live broadcast also frantically posted comments.
[WTF! What happened! That fall looked painful just watching it!]
[Those shoes broke. This is the show's responsibility, right? How could they let her wear such shoddy shoes for the performance?]
[Oh my god, it looks serious. Hurry and see a doctor. Anyway, the performance tonight has already deeply impressed me!]
[This is the best performance of the night, no doubt! In terms of skill, I'm really impressed by Xia Linxia.]
[Come on, Baby Xia, I'm crying!]
Xia Linxia felt a piercing pain. Her ankle was sprained, and her back and thighs were injured to varying degrees. She had used force during the dance, so the fall was a bit too forceful. She wondered if she could still stand up. She was so close to completing the performance. This was a live broadcast; how could she have such a stage accident?
The backup dancers surrounded her, asking how she was. She bit her lip, sweat beading on her forehead, and said with difficulty, "Help me up, let's continue."
"This... you should go to the hospital first. Your ankle is already swollen. Don't leave any lingering problems. You'll have opportunities for performances later," one dancer said.
She knew that going to the hospital was the most important thing at the moment, but she felt a sense of unwillingness. This was a performance she had rehearsed with great care. There were so many of her fans present. They had been cheering enthusiastically for her just moments ago.
Just then, a voice sounded from the side of the stage.
"Xia Linxia!"
Everyone looked over. Xia Linxia's gaze froze, and her eyes slowly widened. Ji Fengxue stood in front of her fans, holding a light stick high, with her name on it.
"Xia Linxia, good luck," Ji Fengxue shouted.
The audience, both present and watching online, responded, shouting "Xia Linxia, good luck" together.
Xia Linxia blinked, her eyes slightly moist. She glanced at the backup dancers beside her and said, "You guys continue, don't mind me."
The group didn't understand her meaning. The next moment, they saw her take off her high heels, her red lips parted, and her heavenly voice began to sing. Xia Linxia continued to sing. Fortunately, the rhythm gradually slowed down, and the chorus, like the fervent emotions of a young girl seeing her beloved, now that she had finally seen her beloved, she slowly whispered her feelings.
After she finished singing the first line a cappella, the music director immediately played the accompaniment, feeling deeply moved. Some fans had already started crying, while more were still shouting encouragement.
Xia Linxia lay on the ground, singing, and extended her other uninjured leg straight upwards. She bent her knee, turned, and changed her dance pose.
Seeing this, the audience cried while also screaming for her legs.
At this moment, Xia Linxia straightened up with a thrust of her waist, turning towards Ji Fengxue, her eyes filled with emotion. Supporting herself with her hands on the ground, she slowly and firmly crawled a couple of times in that direction. Her outer robe slipped off, revealing her smooth, lustrous shoulders. She lazily lifted it, singing the last line of the lyrics.
Ji Fengxue felt as if she had been pricked by a needle. At this moment, Xia Linxia shed her usual assertiveness, becoming vulnerable, yet also stronger. At this moment, she sincerely believed that Xia Linxia was a charismatic woman.
After the song ended, Xia Linxia smiled, tilted her head back, and closed her eyes. The cherry blossoms at the corners of her eyes bloomed, and below them was a drop like dew on a flower. A beautiful save, a perfect ending. The entire venue erupted in thunderous applause.
"Xia Linxia! You're the best!"
"Xia Linxia, good luck!!!"
"Xiaxia fly bravely, Xia Hua will always follow!"
"Wuwuwu Xia Linxia, go!"
The backup dancers carefully helped her up. The host brought a chair onto the stage, helped her sit down, and said emotionally, "Thank you, Xia Linxia, for the wonderful performance just now! You've also set a good example for the juniors. Cherish every stage. Let's give another round of applause for Xia Linxia."
Xia Linxia wiped away her tears.
"Why did you cry at the end?" the host asked emotionally.
Xia Linxia sniffled, "Because it hurt."
Audience: "Hahahaha!"
The audience's emotions were truly fluctuating tonight. The host asked again, "In the last segment, you sang towards a certain direction. Is there anything you want to say to the person there?"
Hearing this, Xia Linxia turned her head and looked at Ji Fengxue again. The latter was still standing in her original spot, surrounded by fans, looking like their leader. She didn't answer the host's question and directly asked Ji Fengxue, "When did you get here? You didn't even say anything."
Ji Fengxue looked around and heard the host invite her onto the stage, "Come, Ji Fengxue, come up. This mysterious surprise was discovered early, but when Fengxue called your name just now, it gave everyone a lot of dog food, didn't it?"
The audience shouted in unison: "Yes!!"
Ji Fengxue walked onto the stage, then remembered the light stick in her hand and awkwardly covered it with her hand.
Xia Linxia's lips curved, "Sneaking to watch the live show behind my back? I'll deal with you later."
Audience: "Ooh ooh ooh~!"
Ji Fengxue ignored her banter and looked down at her foot, asking in a low voice, "How is it?"
"I won't die," Xia Linxia shook her good leg, her peripheral vision catching Fu Xiaoxuan's displeased expression and Xiao Yuran's smile disappearing significantly. Thinking of something, she suddenly pursed her lips and extended her hands pitifully, "But it still hurts a bit, darling, hug me."
Ji Fengxue put down the light stick and really hugged her. Xia Linxia rested her head on Ji Fengxue's abdomen, surprised and secretly delighted. She stuck out her tongue triumphantly at Xiao Yuran.
The host asked Ji Fengxue, "Fengxue, what do you think after watching this performance?"
Ji Fengxue took the microphone, subconsciously patted Xia Linxia's back, thought for a moment, and said, "I regret it a little. I should have discovered how excellent she was five years ago. If I had discovered it then, I would have definitely voted for her."
After saying this, Xia Linxia suddenly raised her head to look at her.
The fans of both sides immediately screamed. They still remembered Xia Linxia's previous interview where she had been holding a grudge about Ji Fengxue not voting for her.
Ji Fengxue looked at her exquisite face. The cherry blossoms at the corner of her eyes seemed even more crimson after crying from the pain. She couldn't help but touch the half-bloomed flower, then suddenly realized what she was doing and quickly withdrew her hand.
Xia Linxia asked curiously, "What? Are my eyes a bit hot to the touch?"
Ji Fengxue: "......"
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