(Second update)
It had reached the most critical moment, and every aspect of the situation was unfavorable to the Xie Faction.
Yet Xie Huilan remained unmoved, idly playing with the teacup on the table as she smiled at Cao Xupeng.
From the very beginning, County Party Deputy Secretary Cao Xupeng had clearly stood on Xiang Daofa's side. Other than abstaining once, he had supported nearly every proposal Xiang Daofa put forward. But when he saw Xie Huilan glance at him, Cao Xupeng gave a bitter smile. After considering it, he said, "...I support Dong Xuebin." He said no more and offered no explanation, simply stating his position.
Liao Yanshan furrowed his brow and glanced at Cao Xupeng.
Geng Yu Chao drew a breath, his hand tightening slightly around his cup.
Four votes to four!
Cao Xupeng's support for Dong Xuebin's nomination surprised only a few people. Xiang Daofa, Chen Tongbing, Huang Li, and the others showed no reaction. Before the Standing Committee meeting had begun, Cao Xupeng had already sought out Xiang Daofa and laid his position on the table. During that school hostage incident, Dong Xuebin had taken Cao Xupeng's place and willingly become a hostage, saving Secretary Cao's life. It was no small favor. After thinking it over, Cao Xupeng felt he had to cast this vote for Dong Xuebin, but he was also wary of Xiang Daofa, so he had simply gone to him and made things clear.
Xiang Daofa was not angry. On the contrary, he was relieved. If Cao Xupeng had kept silent, that would have made him uncomfortable.
In the Conference Room, Xiang Daofa wore a calm smile. He did not change expression because of Cao Xupeng's defection.
Everything was under his control.
Liao Yanshan and Geng Yu Chao also recalled some rumors at