Chapter 168 Going Back to the City
Leo smiled with a hint of defeat as he retrieved a silk handkerchief from his pocket, tenderly wiping Hera’s lips. His gaze softened as he looked at her fondly. "You’re not a pig, but you’ve been looking a bit skinny lately, haven’t you?" Leo glanced at Xavier, silently inviting him to contribute to the effort of soothing Hera’s feelings, an unspoken understanding passing between them.
Hera glanced back and forth between Leo and Xavier, who sat on either side of her. She couldn’t help but wonder when their camaraderie had blossomed. Had it grown from their rivalry? Could it be that competition could cultivate connections as profound as friendship? Lost in contemplation, Hera observed the two sharing a knowing look, prompting her to delve deeper into the dynamics of their relationship. But she felt good seeing the two like this, rather than being on each other’s throat.
"You’re definitely not fat," Xavier stated, meeting Hera’s gaze with utmost seriousness. However, the way his words hung in the air implied a subtle acknowledgment of the jesting tone, hinting at the underlying sentiment that they perceived Hera as a pig in a playful manner. The trio’s banter sparked laughter all around, and the endearing exchange between the two men and Hera was met with amusement, with no one finding fault with the two men acting so sweet and affectionate over one woman.
Hera wasn’t genuinely annoyed; rather, she had orchestrated the scenario to observe people’s reactions. She wanted to gauge whether her interaction with the two men would be perceived as improper for a woman to entertain two suitors simultaneously, or if it would be interpreted as sisterly affection. Would she face criticism if there were hints of romantic interest? Hera sought to understand the boundaries she could push—whether she would encounter limitations unlike the original female lead, or if she would enjoy the same advantages as long as she remained under the protection of the male leads’ halo.
Amidst these contemplations, Hera found genuine enjoyment in the company of the remarkable individuals around her. She appreciated their unique charms and realized that, flaws notwithstanding, they all radiated a brilliance akin to stars. Upon hearing Leo and Xavier’s banter, she couldn’t suppress a laugh, but she couldn’t resist giving Xavier a playful glare. "So, you’re implying I’m a pig, huh?" she teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
Zen interjected with the playful energy of a mischievous brother, springing behind Hera with the intent to tease and annoy, much like a sibling would. With a playful pinch to her nose, he quipped, "Don’t worry, you’re a cute pig." Then, adopting a thoughtful expression, he added with a wide grin, "You’re like Pepa Pig," ending his remark with a chuckle.
Once more, hearty laughter filled the room. Hera didn’t take their teasing to heart; instead, she felt it drew them closer together. Their playful banter fostered a sense of camaraderie and warmth among them, strengthening their bonds.
The Victory Celebration ended in a light-hearted manner, neither Minerva nor Alice made any scenes to annoy Hera, they quietly sat at the corner of the hall, giving Hera a death glare, as if they wanted to eat her alive, although, Alice’s glare was much more hidden, but that’s what’s scary because you wouldn’t know when will the snake strikes even when you’re well aware that it would attack you. As if, it will get your neck the moment you look away from it.
Despite this awareness, Hera remained laid-back and unruffled. She understood that Alice wouldn’t rush into confrontation as hastily as before, especially after her recent misstep. However, this also meant that Alice might resort to underhanded tactics when backed into a corner. Hera decided against provoking Alice until she was thoroughly prepared and confident in her strategy.
As the Victory Celebration concluded, Hera, Xavier, Zen, and all the other participants gathered outside the cabin, their belongings packed and ready. It marked the end of their filming days in the village for ’The Quest’ Variety Show. The director and crew had already arranged for the participants’ respective managers or assistants to pick them up, coordinating logistics and ensuring a smooth departure.
As they prepared to part ways, the Director decided to address the group one last time. Leo stood by his side, his arms crossed, radiating an aura vastly different from when he stood beside Hera. Now, he exuded the regal and domineering aura that he always has while he was standing there and took the role of the Hendrix representative, commanding attention as the Director addressed the audience, Leo stood beside the Director as a guest during the show’s closing.