Chapter 375: A Private Discussion
She and Penelope represented the stark contrast between hard work and natural talent. A talented person, even with only average effort and the guidance of a renowned teacher, could easily surpass someone who dedicated themselves completely. It was unfortunate, but the spotlight that night belonged to the ill-mannered student.
As the student performances concluded, Carlos received a message from Penelope, urging him to join her. Turning around, he saw the three gossiping and staring at him. Before he could speak, they all volunteered to accompany him, eager to witness the unfolding drama.
Back in the hallway outside the preparation room, Carlos found students leaving, some dejected, others excited. Several approached him to discuss their performances, and he patiently offered his feedback. He then encountered Sylvie, who had put her glasses back on and was carrying her bag. She greeted him respectfully, but a hint of sadness clouded her expression.
Assuming she was upset about her performance, Carlos comforted her, "You did very well today. Keep working hard, and you'll continue to improve." Isabella noticed Sylvie's eyes instantly brighten, as if the encouragement from someone she admired had given her renewed strength.
"Thank you, Mr. Carlos," Sylvie replied. Then, looking at him again, she added, "Mr. Carlos, you don't look well. You should take care of yourself."
Carlos was surprised. He hadn't expected Sylvie to notice his exhaustion. Between Sarah's situation and his own problems, rest had been scarce. He interpreted her comment as a student's genuine concern and smiled warmly. "Thank you, I will."
Sylvie seemed overwhelmed by his smile and quickly lowered her head before hurrying away. As she passed Isabella and the others, they noticed her blushing.
"This secret crush is adorable! We didn't even notice," Isabella thought. "Penelope, who supposedly loves Mr. Carlos so much, didn't notice his recent state either." However, Isabella did notice. Christopher and Rosalie, while not surprised by Sylvie's concern (you tend to care deeply about someone you like), found Penelope's lack of concern more telling. Penelope's waiting room was still unoccupied except for her. When Carlos knocked and entered, she rushed toward him like an excited bird. If not for the others behind him, she might have thrown herself into his arms.
Her expression hardened. "Mr. Carlos, I need to talk to you in private" She glanced at the three as she spoke.
Carlos, given Penelope's request, couldn't ask the others to stay. He turned to them and said, "How about you wait for me in the car? It shouldn't take long." Penelope looked unhappy at this. However, Isabella and the others readily agreed.
Once the door closed, the three stopped abruptly. They attempted to eavesdrop, but the soundproofing proved too effective. They had no choice but to sit on a nearby bench. They relied on Isabella's inner monologue for updates. As expected, Isabella was already broadcasting the gossip.
Isabella's Inner Monologue: "I knew it! She's definitely not talking about anything serious! Haha, Carlos is getting another confession. Penelope hasn't given up!"
Christopher and Rosalie pretended to be on their phones while excitedly discussing the fresh gossip.
Christopher and Rosalie: "Big news, big news! We're witnessing Carlos being confessed to by his student!"
(Isabella's imagined confession and Carlos's response, presumably overheard by Isabella via her 'inner monologue' is given below.)
"Why not? We're so well-matched. I'm young, beautiful, and talented. You must have feelings for me. Why else would you choose me? Why else would you treat me so well? You teach me, help me with my problems, and take care of me wholeheartedly. You"
"That's because I want to cultivate a talented singer. I think you have potential, and I don't want it to be wasted. You were my first student. I didn't expect you to misunderstand. I have no romantic feelings for you at all."