Chapter 851:

Elyse took center stage, her performance a graceful and precise display of talent under the spotlight. The audience erupted in enthusiastic applause as she concluded, and she bowed elegantly before exiting.

Darren loosened his tie, a smile lighting his face. “Finally, my moment. Time to add some excitement.”

He glanced back at Fiona, who sat dazed on the floor. He felt no compassion, offering a final indifferent look before turning his attention to the stage.

Darren took the stage for the final performance. Fiona watched him, her mind adrift. Wasn't she supposed to be there? How had she become the forgotten one, lost in the shadows?

Footsteps broke through her daze. She turned slowly, heavily, to see Elyse approaching in a fiery red dress. Elyse looked down with an air of superiority.

Fiona forced a weak smile. “How did you get back? You shouldn’t have come. Did you pull strings? How else could you be here?”

Elyse’s eyes narrowed. “Are you indirectly admitting you tried to sabotage me and steal my place?”

Fiona’s jaw tightened, her pride refusing to allow a confession. Her glare spoke volumes.

Elyse moved closer, circling Fiona like a predator. Crouching, she met Fiona’s gaze, her tone curious yet venomous. “I’ve always wondered, what does the violin truly mean to you? Do you love it, or is it merely a tool for social climbing?”

Fiona’s expression froze. “What are you implying?”

Elyse tilted her head, her gaze unwavering. “When you practiced, you were never serious. You even quit Mr. Tucker’s studio for a man. Now you’re fighting tooth and nail for the Swan Cup. Why? Do you regret leaving Mr. Tucker’s? Are you trying to prove yourself, hoping he’ll take you back?”

Fiona laughed coldly, defiance flashing in her eyes. “Why should I explain myself to you? What right do you have? Let me be clear—I don’t care about Cody Tucker. I only care about myself.”

Elyse nodded, her face unreadable as she rose. Her gaze was cold and distant. “If that’s how you feel, there’s nothing more to discuss. Stay backstage and watch me perform.”

A knowing smile, a silent victory, curved Elyse’s lips as she confidently left Fiona behind.

Fiona remained where she was, slowly sinking to the floor, overwhelmed by despair.

She looked down at her diamond-encrusted dress, its glitter mocking the victory now beyond her reach. She had poured everything into this, sacrificed so much for the spotlight, but Elyse had returned—a ghost refusing to be banished.