Chapter 764:
Gavin met his gaze firmly. “As a Swan Cup jury member, I maintain impartiality,” he said. “Fiona was indeed my junior, but that relationship will not compromise my judgment.” The man whistled. “Wow. You’re so impartial!” he exclaimed. “If I were Fiona, I might resent you for that.” “Perhaps, but my conscience is clear,” Gavin responded. The man left the office.
Alone, Gavin pondered approaching Fiona, knowing they were at the same hotel. He decided against it; Fiona probably didn't want to be bothered.
After finishing work, Gavin left to find Elyse. Her next match was against Geraldine, a formidable competitor. Elyse excelled in specific areas but lacked Geraldine's overall skill. She needed significant effort to win.
Returning to the hotel, Gavin was intercepted at his door by Fiona. “Can we talk?” she asked coldly. Gavin’s eyes widened. “What are you up to?” he asked, confusion etched on his face. “In the next match, I’m up against Darren. I don’t think I can beat him,” Fiona said, her voice resigned. Gavin’s brow furrowed. “And what does that have to do with me?” “I’ve got three days left,” Fiona replied, her voice stiff. “I need your help. You know my weaknesses.” A flicker of humiliation crossed her face.
She was acutely aware of Darren’s skill. After three months alone since leaving Cody, Fiona realized her shortcomings. She’d advanced through luck, not facing truly tough opponents. Now, in the semifinals, she faced a formidable adversary.
She had to be realistic. There was no one left to rely on; those who could help had drifted away. To win, Fiona needed to swallow her pride and ask Gavin for help.
Hearing Darren’s name, Gavin considered him. Darren was talented, but barely in the top ten. Even with a superb performance, he might reach the top six, but not the top three. Gavin never considered Darren a serious contender.
“If Elyse faced Darren, she’d easily win,” Gavin remarked. “You’re far behind Elyse.” Fiona’s pride was hurt. “So, in your eyes, Elyse is the only one who matters? The only one who can win?” she shot back angrily.
“You’re so biased toward her! Back when I needed guidance, you and Irving only had eyes for her. Now that I’ve left Mr. Tucker’s studio, you’re just waiting for me to fail!” she shouted. Gavin sighed, looking at Fiona’s escalating anger. “Fiona, Irving and I never abandoned you. You chose to leave.” Fiona snapped, “That’s not true! I never gave up!” “Enough already. Why are you wasting your breath?” Irving appeared behind Gavin, carrying shopping bags and a lollipop. “Head to the park and help Elyse. She messaged me; Geraldine challenged her.” . . .