Chapter 847:

“Delay the competition! It must be postponed, or we risk catastrophe!”

Meanwhile, in the car, Elyse observed David’s composed demeanor and, puzzled, questioned him, “What did you do? I’ve just been told the competition has been delayed.”

David offered Elyse a mysterious smile and wink, teasing, “Curious, aren’t you? I might just keep you guessing.”

Elyse, visibly confused, stared at him, baffled by how someone without a phone signal could have influenced the competition’s schedule. David, amused by her puzzled look, added playfully, “Your confusion makes me want to hold onto the secret even longer.”

Meanwhile, Fiona comfortably applied her makeup in Elyse’s assigned lounge. Despite not qualifying for the Grand Final, Fiona had found a different way to be involved. She smirked at her reflection, pleased with how effortlessly she had secured Elyse’s position. Applying her lipstick, she mused aloud, “Elyse, I can’t wait to see the desperation on your face when you miss the competition.” She meticulously applied her lipstick, then checked her phone.

To her astonishment, the scheduled competition time had elapsed. Puzzled, she thought, “That’s odd. The competition should have started. What’s the delay?” Determined and prepared, she rose, intent on discovering what had happened. She sought out Darren, the only contestant with whom she could communicate effectively.

She knocked on his door, but received no response. Calling his name yielded silence. Growing impatient, she pushed the door open to find the room empty. “Was I forgotten?” Fiona wondered aloud, a mix of confusion and concern in her voice. “Could the competition have started without anyone informing me?”

She rushed to the backstage area in a panic. She found only a few chatting staff members and no contestants, which brought her momentary relief.

Gavin confronted her, arms crossed, with a stern look. “Fiona, why are you here? You’re not part of this competition. You shouldn’t be backstage.”

Turning to him, Fiona adopted a charming smile and inquired, “I’m waiting for Elyse. Have you seen her? Why hasn’t she arrived?”

Gavin, visibly irritated, already knew from Irving that Elyse was en route and that the competition had been temporarily delayed. Elyse might arrive before it started. Eyeing Fiona with suspicion, he asked, “Why such interest in Elyse? Given your history, it’s odd—almost as if you’re hiding something.”

Fiona’s smile faltered as she silently rebuked Gavin. She detested his negativity.

Frustrated, she responded coolly, “You are awfully wrong. And why can’t you just leave me alone? Always prying into things that don’t concern you.”

Taken aback by her bluntness, Gavin retorted with a smirk, “Oh, so now I’m nosy? If you think I’m meddling now, just wait—I’m just getting started.”

He turned to the staff and commanded, “She’s not a contestant. Please escort her out.” . . .