Chapter 155:

The name Cody Tucker caused a stir in the crowd. A virtuoso violinist, Cody, at only 30, had completed a world tour with his violin concertos, earning recognition as one of the world's best musicians. He’d lived a low-key life for years, appearing only at essential national events. His unexpected appearance was a shock.

Elyse, excitedly, asked, “Are you sure? Is that really Cody Tucker?”

An orchestra member pointed at his eyes and said, “I may need glasses, but I’m not blind. That’s Cody Tucker.”

Backstage buzzed with excitement. Cody’s comments on their performances would be a great honor.

Someone encouraged Vicky, saying, “Vicky, come on. You’ll get Cody Tucker’s compliments. You’re the most outstanding violinist here, and definitely the future concertmaster.”

Hearing her name, Elyse looked at Vicky, who met her gaze defiantly. “Of course, I’ll get his compliments. I’m the best.”

Elyse felt the pressure. This second round felt different with Cody’s presence. The backstage was abuzz; everyone was on edge, striving for a flawless performance. Elyse glanced at Rebekah, known for stirring up trouble and negatively impacting her competitors, who was now unusually focused.

Elyse, first to perform, chose “The Four Seasons.” She played flawlessly, skillfully conveying the emotions. Seeing approval in the instructor’s eyes, she sighed with relief and glanced at Cody, whose expression remained impassive.

Disappointed by her idol's lack of praise, Elyse quietly left the stage.

Richie remarked to Jayden, tapping his fingers to the rhythm, “Your wife’s getting better and better.”

Jayden replied proudly, “She’s my wife. Of course, she’s exceptional.”

Richie, surprised by the public display of affection, grinned cheekily. “Have you two made up then?”

Jayden rolled his eyes. “Was there ever any doubt?”

Richie thought, How cocky, and decided against further engagement. Only Elyse, he figured, could tolerate his arrogance.

Disappointed, Elyse returned backstage. An orchestra member consoled her, “Don’t be so hard on yourself. You played beautifully; you’ll definitely make it through.”

Elyse thanked her, but the disappointment lingered. Searching for Jayden in the audience, she found him with Richie.

Richie, confused, asked, “Why the long face? You played perfectly.”

Elyse sighed, “Mr. Cody Tucker didn’t seem pleased.”

Richie was surprised. “How do you know?”

“I saw him frown. I must’ve made a mistake.”

Elyse then asked Richie, "Why did you come to the selection process?"

Richie explained, “My friend and I came to watch your performance. Cody Tucker’s scowl might not be about your performance; perhaps it’s a habit.”

Jayden glanced at Richie. “How do you know about his habits?”

A mysterious smile spread across Richie’s face. “Take a guess.”

Jayden and Elyse exchanged a glance, then ignored Richie. He returned his attention to the selections.

Two hours later, the instructors tallied scores. Only the top performers would advance.

Someone commented, “There are two players tied for first place: Vicky Aston and Elyse Lloyd. I know Vicky; she’s always been a role model. But who is Elyse?”

Another added, “The top five compete for concertmaster. This time, we have six. The competition will be fierce. There’s a dark horse—could Elyse become concertmaster?”

Basking in the joy of her tie for first place, Elyse locked eyes with Vicky, whose expression was a mixture of hatred and disgust. Elyse smiled.

Vicky sneered and mouthed something. Elyse knew exactly what Vicky had said: “You don’t deserve to tie for first place with me.”

(...continued)

The extraneous website address has been removed. The passage is improved for grammar, punctuation, and flow. Sentence structure has been varied for better readability.