Chapter 156

Elyse retorted, mirroring Vicky's earlier statement, "You really don't deserve it." Vicky's eyes flashed with resentment as she glared at Elyse.

At that moment, the orchestra's conductor approached, accompanied by Cody and the teacher. He gestured for the top five contestants to step forward. "Go and prepare. Mr. Tucker here will be joining the panel of judges. I hope each of you can showcase your strengths and earn recognition through your performance."

A collective gasp followed his announcement.

"Oh my God, Cody Tucker is judging the performances! If I had known that, I would have worked harder. What a shame, I ranked sixth—only one point away from fifth!"

"Gosh, I really envy them. They get to receive Mr. Tucker's guidance and insights. I don't think I'll ever get that kind of opportunity with my ranking."

"Come on, don't be so glum. I didn't get chosen either."

Contrary to the lively atmosphere in the crowd, the six contestants were silent and tense, eyeing each other carefully. From that point on, they were no longer teammates but rivals vying for the title. This was understandable, as the competition's results would significantly impact their careers and futures.

Everyone began to disperse, and Elyse returned to the lounge. She was about to enter when she heard someone crying.

Peeking inside, she found Rebekah sobbing in a corner, crouched on the floor with her arms wrapped around her knees, her back to Elyse. Elyse briefly recalled that, while Rebekah hadn't been eliminated, she had barely passed to the second round, ranking last among the five. Elyse considered leaving, but Rebekah seemed to sense her presence.

She whirled around, meeting Elyse's gaze. Embarrassed, Elyse froze, unsure whether to leave or stay.

"Are you here to laugh at me?" Rebekah snapped angrily.

Elyse rolled her eyes. "Please, you're being paranoid. I'm not like you. I don't enjoy rubbing salt in wounds."

Since she'd been discovered, fleeing was pointless. She might as well collect her belongings. Elyse walked to her locker, took a piece of string, and turned to leave.

"So, you got a higher score than me, so what?" Rebekah screeched. "I will definitely win next time. Don't think you can act all arrogant to me."

Annoyed, Elyse looked back and frowned. "Can you stop making up stories? I didn't do anything to you. Stop slandering me."

Rebekah gnashed her teeth. She had never considered Elyse powerful, but everyone seemed to hold her in high regard. Rebekah wanted to know why they all favored Elyse.

Rebekah continued her rant, "You only got lucky this time. Once the selection for the concertmaster commences, everyone will finally see you for the fraud you are."

Elyse shrugged, unfazed. "In that case, I'll hold onto my luck until I get on that stage. Be sure to watch me shine from backstage, okay?"

Having never gotten along, Elyse felt no need to comfort Rebekah. She continued to the door, ignoring Rebekah's continued outburst.

Elyse left the venue and met Jayden. Not seeing Richie, she asked, "Where's Richie? Has he left?"

"He said he was going to look for a friend," Jayden replied, handing her phone back. "Theo sent you a message. He's inviting you to dinner at his house tonight."

"I'm not interested," Elyse said immediately. "He's probably up to something. I don't want to share a meal with him, especially at his place."

"Well, he seems to be threatening you," Jayden pointed out. "Apparently, if you don't go, your parents will pressure you."

Elyse frowned. "Are you saying you want me to go?"

"Of course not. But can you really ignore Mabel?"

Elyse fell silent. Their relationship was strained, but Mabel was still her sister. She wasn't heartless enough to abandon her.

"I'm afraid of Theo," she finally admitted.

Jayden smiled warmly. "Don't worry, I'll protect you. You are my wife, after all."

Meanwhile, Richie was playing mobile games in the orchestra leader's office. He looked up when Cody entered. "Well, how did Elyse do? Is she as good as I said?"

Cody sat on the opposite sofa, looking exhausted. "They look so alike," he said, pinching the bridge of his nose. "It makes me wonder if that person left a daughter behind before she died."

Richie was baffled but didn't pry. He changed the subject. "Didn't you always want an apprentice? Elyse would be perfect. Just look for the right opportunity to offer her your mentorship."

Cody looked up. "Do you have feelings for her? Why are you advocating for her so passionately?"

Richie sighed. "Listen, I'm just trying to find an apprentice to care for you after you retire. You're getting old, and you have no one else. An apprentice would look after you, at least."

Cody clicked his tongue. "You cunning little rascal."