Seeing how resolute Chen Hao was, Chu Jinliang stopped insisting, though the disappointment and confusion on his face were plain to see.
"Since Sect Leader Chen has chosen to abstain, let's not press him any further. Everyone, please cast your votes."
A dozen or so minutes later, Chu Jinliang announced the results. With more than half the votes, Qin Yumo became their new leader.
Qin Yumo clearly hadn't been prepared for this sudden appointment. She was just about to rise and say something when Chu Jinliang stopped her.
He knew what Qin Yumo wanted to say. Since this was everyone's decision, refusing again would be inappropriate.
"Since everyone has elected Qin Yumo as our new leader, we will respect that decision. From now on, Qin Yumo will serve as the first leader of the New World beneath the Sky Curtain."
His words were met with enthusiastic applause throughout the office.
After the meeting, Qin Yumo sought out Chen Hao. "Chen Hao, that position should have been yours. Why did you push it onto me?"
Chen Hao stopped and smiled. "It's not a matter of anyone pushing the position onto someone else. As long as that person can lead everyone toward a better life, it's the right choice. You're clearly more suited to it than I am."
Qin Yumo grabbed Chen Hao, still unwilling to give up. "Chen Hao, please, I'm begging you. If you really are hiding something from me, tell me now. We can face it together."
Chen Hao merely gave another faint smile and shook his head. "You're overthinking it."
Watching Chen Hao walk away, Qin Yumo stood rooted to the spot, silent for a long time.
After returning home, Chen Hao went to his parents' room and said to Li Xia with rare affection, "Mom, I want