Chapter 719:

Elyse held up her tag and replied, “I’m five. I’ll be performing before you.”

Raising an eyebrow, Edward remarked, “Well, congratulations. I hope your performance goes well.”

Elyse placed a confident hand on her chest and assured him, “It will be perfect.”

Positioning herself in a quiet corner backstage, she awaited her moment. Before long, it was time to take the stage. Draped in a green silk gown and clutching her violin, Elyse stepped into the spotlight. A quick glance revealed a packed audience, buzzing with anticipation. The hall was filled with media representatives, cameras poised to capture every second of the performances. Suddenly, Elyse felt a wave of nerves as her palms began to sweat. This was the Swan Cup—her first major step onto the international stage. A mix of excitement and anxiety surged through her.

Taking a deep breath, she steadied her racing thoughts and prepared herself.

“Please enjoy ‘The Last Rose of Summer’,” she announced.

As her violin’s first notes filled the room, they flowed like a gentle stream through a sunlit forest, evoking beauty and hope. The melody shifted, effortlessly blending the vibrant energy of summer with a delicate tenderness.

Elyse’s performance was a flawless display of skill, maintaining grace and poise even through the most challenging passages. The audience’s applause reflected their admiration for her smooth, captivating rendition.

As the final notes faded, Elyse gradually returned to the present. The delighted smiles on the audience’s faces confirmed her success. With a graceful bow, she walked off the stage, confident that she had delivered an exceptional performance.

Backstage, Edward approached, a hint of suspicion in his voice. “Weren’t you planning to play ‘Violin Concerto No. 3 in G Major’? Why did you switch to ‘The Last Rose of Summer’?”

Elyse boldly replied, “I can change my piece if I want to. When you asked, I felt like playing the concerto, but now I didn’t.”

Edward clenched his teeth in frustration. “Fine, fine. You like ‘The Last Rose of Summer,’ right? But that piece is notoriously difficult. What are you trying to prove by playing it at an exhibition? How will this affect the contestants who follow?”

Elyse’s smile widened. “I’m just showing off a little. Don’t get so worked up. You’re about to perform, so focus on yourself.”

With that, she covered her mouth and giggled, further provoking Edward until he was practically gnashing his teeth in frustration.

When Elyse glanced at Edward, she noticed his eyes were fixed on the stage with an intensity she rarely saw. His usual relaxed demeanor was replaced by a serious, almost brooding expression.

“Are you nervous?” she asked curiously.

Edward shook his head, his gaze unwavering. “No, I’m just observing my opponents. I want to see if they’re trying to hide their strengths or if they’re like you—eager to stand out from the get-go.”

Elyse let out a confident snort. “I don’t need to hide my real strength. I’m aiming for first place.”

Edward’s lips curved into a smile at her bold declaration. “Everyone knows you’re aiming for first place.”

“Is it that obvious?” Elyse felt a flush creep up her cheeks. She touched her face, suddenly shy. . . .