Chapter 52

"Frank, that's interesting," Justin, the drummer, said hurriedly. "The more challenging it is, the more interesting it becomes. It would be boring if she were like other women."

Frank replied, "You're right, Justin. I want that woman! Especially since she's Thomas's girlfriend! It'll be more fun."

"When we perform later," Justin continued, "we need to create a vibrant atmosphere and make the audience ecstatic. We'll use our strength to crush this reckless band and make that woman regret ever kneeling before me and begging." He added with a sneer, "A new band trying to surpass us? Dream on!"

"Cool!" Frank said.

Thomas and Selina walked side-by-side.

"I'm sorry, Selina," Thomas said. "You came to help me, and you encountered this."

"It's alright," Selina replied. "I dislike them. We have to give our best performance. We have to win and make them sincerely admit defeat!" Her voice was laced with anger.

These foreign mixed-bloods, she thought, had completely forgotten their Clusian heritage, instead priding themselves on their foreign blood. They looked down on the local girls while simultaneously exploiting them, using their actions as fodder for their amusement and self-satisfaction. Selina felt no pity for those girls; they were adults and responsible for their choices. But the men of Black Smoke's actions reflected poorly on all Clusian women, and that was what infuriated her most.

Thomas was stunned. He'd never seen Selina this angry before. She was like a leopard, concealing her lethal intent, sharpening her claws in the shadows. As the saying goes, quiet people often deliver the biggest surprises. Once she struck, it would be a devastating blow.

"What's wrong?" Luke asked, approaching with Lydia.

Thomas recounted the events.

Lydia exploded. "Holy shit! That guy dared to flirt with Selina? If I see him, I'll break his leg!"

Even Luke, usually stoic, showed his anger.

Selina calmly said, "Lydia, lend me some clothes. I'm going to do my makeup and change my style."

Elaine was bewildered. "Selina, we perform in an hour. Shouldn't we be practicing?"

"Ten minutes is enough," Selina replied.

Lydia snapped her fingers. "Okay, I brought extra clothes. Choose whatever you like. You need a change; as The Rose's guitarist, you look too…obedient. Get ready to amaze everyone!"

Thomas looked at Luke. "Luke, this performance is crucial. Don't let us down."

Luke nodded silently. Elaine, silently seething, thought, Boo hoo! As their manager, I'm practically invisible! Let them handle it!

Coincidentally, Black Smoke was the band performing before The Rose. As the fireworks blazed and the four members of Black Smoke, each with a distinct style, took the stage, the crowd went wild, roaring, "Black Smoke!"

Frank, the lead singer, commanded the stage with his powerful voice and the driving rhythm of their rock music. They were undeniably talented, far more than just a band relying on looks and mixed heritage.

Backstage, Selina and the others remained calm amidst the deafening roar from the stage. They calmly tuned their instruments, made final checks, and conferred quietly, seemingly preparing for a routine task rather than a high-stakes performance.

After Black Smoke's set, Selina and her bandmates went onstage. Frank, condescendingly eyeing Thomas, seemed to ask, "What do you think? As the lead singer, we're far superior." But when his gaze fell upon Selina, he was stunned.

Selina’s smoky eye makeup accentuated her eyes, creating a mysterious and captivating look. Clad in a punk rock black suit, a short-sleeved vest layered under a leather jacket, long black leather boots, and red lipstick, she exuded a powerful aura. Her long hair was pulled back in a ponytail, and a small hoop earring completed the transformation. Her usual quiet demeanor was replaced by a captivating allure.

Not only Frank, but all of Black Smoke stared, mesmerized. While Frank was the band’s core, Selina’s undeniable appeal threatened to overshadow even his dominance, tempting the other members to risk Frank's wrath for a chance with her.

"Beauty," Frank said arrogantly, "you still have a chance to change your mind. After witnessing Black Smoke's power, don't you see the difference? There's no future with The Rose. And I hear your drummer's a looker, too. How about you both join us?" He leered at Selina, ignoring Thomas and Luke entirely.

Selina simply smiled, then flipped him the middle finger. "Ugly man," she said quietly, and walked away.

Frank's face darkened. Yet, the memory of Selina's beauty, figure, and unique charm fueled his determination to conquer her.

The next second—slap!—a sharp pain shot through his foot. His face contorted in pain as he saw Lydia giving him the middle finger.

"Loser," she sneered.

How dare he treat her like a prize to be won?

Lydia thought, Damn it! Tonight, we're taking down Black Smoke!

The Rose took the stage. The crowd erupted.

"I just saw Black Smoke, and now my favorite band's on! This is awesome!"

"Black Smoke was way better. They're huge! What band dares challenge them?"

"Another shallow woman obsessed with looks. Black Smoke may be jerks, but at least they’re powerful."

"Damn it, Rose! Take down Black Smoke’s scum!"

BOOM! The fireworks burst, and the show began.