Chapter 807:

“Fifth, maybe. He’s too full of himself. It’d be good for him to lose for once, to humble him a bit,” Elyse mused aloud.

Darren inquired, “And what position do you hope I secure?”

Elyse paused. “First place. You could use a boost in confidence.”

Darren’s heart pounded; his fists clenched. Swallowing his emotions, he asked, “If I take first place, where will you rank?”

Elyse tilted her head. “Second place, of course. I wouldn’t want to fall too far behind,” she replied with a faint smile.

“You are better than me,” Darren admitted, trying to suppress his turmoil.

His heart fluttered, but he dismissed it. There was no room for other thoughts.

After several deep breaths, his inner storm subsided.

Nine of the ten contestants had performed, leaving only Fiona. This round was crucial for advancing to the Grand Final, and the thought of returning to the waiting room was unbearable.

Elyse watched Fiona, who exuded confidence. She wondered about Fiona’s upcoming performance.

However, Fiona’s performance surprised everyone. Moments after beginning, she stumbled, and errors piled up, revealing gaps in skill and preparation.

“I might not take first, but I’m definitely not coming in last,” a contestant muttered.

“Compared to Fiona, I’m faring much better. Ninth isn’t too shameful,” another remarked.

“It’s surprising she made it this far,” another contestant said. “Many more talented contestants were eliminated. I guess luck is unpredictable.”

Elyse’s heart stirred as she listened. Fiona, once her equal, had fallen behind.

Edward watched Elyse, lost in thought. He leaned in and whispered, “Fiona is being criticized. Won’t you defend her?”

Elyse glanced at him, puzzled. “Why should I?”

Edward chuckled. “I thought you were her advocate.”

“She doesn’t need me,” Elyse said dismissively.

Edward stroked his chin. “How about a date after the competition?”

Elyse crossed her arms, eyeing him skeptically. “Are you alright? As if I’d go out with you,” she retorted.

“Don’t dismiss me so quickly. I do have feelings.” Edward covered his face, feigning distress.

. . .