Chapter 182:

As the staff made arrangements, Darren approached Elyse, his eyebrows raised in curiosity. "So, it's a toss-up, right? Cody Tucker seems to have a soft spot for both Vicky and you."

Elyse, still confused, shook her head. "I'm not sure," she replied, her voice strained. "My heart's racing."

Grace leaned closer to whisper, "Regardless, Mr. Tucker's taken notice of you. Talent always wins in our field."

Bart sighed. "I really stepped up my game, but did Mr. Tucker even notice?"

A collective wave of disappointment filled the air. Elyse searched for a way to lift their spirits, but then noticed Vicky glaring at her.

Elyse approached Vicky, her tone firm. "Not convinced I've made the cut, huh?"

Vicky smirked smugly. "You've never had proper training. You're just lucky. Think I'll give you the satisfaction of being so cocky?"

Elyse's anger flared. "Lucky? Can't accept that I pose a threat? Fine. I'll show you how capable I am. Brace yourself, because if you doubt me, I'll prove you wrong. Let's see who truly has what it takes."

Vicky's narrowed gaze challenged her. "Are you declaring war?"

"I will win," Elyse retorted sharply.

The tension between them was palpable as they stood locked in a silent battle. Darren intervened, breaking the standoff. "Everything's set. Let's go," he said, pulling Elyse away.

"Looks like you two were about to throw down," Darren teased, trying to lighten her mood.

But Elyse remained silent, her mind focused on the upcoming selection.

Richie's voice cut through the corridor. "Hey, Elyse! Heard you nailed it. Maybe your dreams are about to come true."

His reassurance faltered when he saw her troubled expression. He playfully jostled her shoulders. "Come on, it's just a small competition."

Elyse shivered at the touch. "I wish I could relax, but this competition has me on edge," she admitted, frustration lacing her voice. A glimmer of hope appeared in her eyes. "If I win against Vicky, Mr. Tucker might become my instructor."

Richie hesitated, unsure how to tell her Cody had already chosen her. Before he could speak, Vicky appeared, defiant. Arms crossed, chin high, she challenged, "You think you can beat me? You'll have to prove it."

She bumped Elyse, leaving tension in her wake as she sauntered away. Elyse stumbled, regaining her balance.

"Are you alright?" Darren asked, concerned.

Elyse shook her head silently, entering the venue. "She's hard to unwind," Richie observed, noting her seriousness. He decided against telling her about Cody's choice.

Darren watched Elyse worriedly. "She's as tense as I was. I'm worried she'll mess up."

"Everyone makes mistakes. It's not a formal performance. Don't worry too much," Richie reassured him.

Darren shook his head. "You don't understand. We're all vying for first place so Cody Tucker will pick us."

Richie was surprised. He hadn't realized they were all competing to be Cody's apprentice, not just concertmaster. He knew his uncle was influential, but this level of fervor surprised him.

For the competition, Abram had assembled two seasoned orchestras. Vicky and Elyse stood as concertmasters, awaiting their cues.

Elyse's palms were slick with sweat. She lowered her head, trying to calm herself, opening and closing her fists. The nervousness lingered. She needed to adjust her mindset. Observing Vicky's calm demeanor, Elyse wondered about her confidence and if she was assured of winning. Her own tension mounted.