Chapter 803:

Edward imitated Darren’s gesture, jokingly adding, “Let’s all give it our best. Looks like second and third places are up for grabs for you.”

Elyse gave Edward a sharp look. “I’m setting my sights on first.”

It was clear they weren’t the only ones aiming for the top spot. Geraldine, approaching with her violin, exuded confidence as she looked at Elyse and declared, “Sorry, but first place will be mine.”

Elyse fixed her gaze on Geraldine, remembering she had narrowly beaten her last time. This stirred unease.

What if Geraldine surpassed her this time? Elyse’s nerves tensed. She scanned her surroundings, keenly aware that everyone was a rival.

The backstage atmosphere was thick with tension. All ten contestants, each with a stern face, stood on stage; none appeared at ease.

The host surveyed the room and declared, “The final piece will be the ‘Violin Concerto in A Minor.’ We are eager to witness each contestant’s rendition.”

Hearing the piece, Elyse’s spirits fell. Known for its complexity, performing it solo demanded extraordinary skill and unwavering focus.

Edward caught the shift in Elyse’s demeanor and playfully remarked, “Look at your face. Is this piece your Achilles’ heel?”

“No, it just makes things more interesting,” Elyse responded with composed assurance.

The selected piece elicited varied reactions. Some contestants were content, while others, like Fiona, were disheartened. Fiona did not master this piece well.

Standing on stage, she felt incredibly uneasy, as though walking on eggshells. Despite this, she was resolute in her determination to reach the Grand Final, validate her worth to her doubters, and release her pent-up frustrations.

The contestants performed one by one. Fiona went backstage, discreetly took out her phone, and sent a message asking for advice.

The reply came quickly: “Concentrate on your performance. I’ll handle everything else.”

This significantly relieved Fiona. She approached Elyse, a smug look on her face. “With this piece, it wouldn’t be surprising if you didn’t make it.”

Elyse was puzzled by Fiona’s confidence and replied, “It’s still uncertain whether I’ll lose. However, your expression suggests you’ve already secured a win. Is this piece your forte?”

Elyse’s direct question caught Fiona off guard. Knowing this piece wasn’t her strength, and that she could make numerous errors, only added to her unease.

Swallowing nervously, Fiona tried to mask her uncertainty by raising her voice. “Whether I’m skilled at it or not, why should that matter to you?”

Elyse was taken aback by Fiona’s loud reaction but chose not to engage further, fearing it might disturb her focus.