Chapter 185

Abby sat in the audience, her eyes narrowing slightly as she listened to Rachel’s performance. “Who would’ve thought Rachel could actually play like that?” Abby mused to herself. “Oh, she’s good. Which means she’s been playing at being mediocre this whole time. Clever bitch.”

Neville, seated beside her, chimed in, “She’s quite the sensation online now, has a massive fan base. Sure, Haynes is pulling some strings for her, but she’s got genuine talent too.”

Abby was well aware of Rachel’s internet fame. Her name often popped up in the latest gossip columns, mostly due to her rumored romance with Haynes. Rachel’s popularity was undeniable, with a swarm of devoted followers. Abby often stumbled upon Rachel’s violin performance videos while browsing news sites, but never bothered to click on them. Her bias against Rachel painted her as nothing more than a drama queen, all tears and no substance.

Titles like “Violin Prodigy” or “Most Beautiful Violinist” only made Abby scoff. Real talent didn’t need online hype, she believed. Yet here Rachel was, proving she had what it took to get into Neo-Vespera University.

If today’s bet were with anyone else, they might seriously be in trouble, Abby thought.

Neville noticed Abby’s silence and asked, “You think Star might actually lose this one?”

Abby snapped back to reality. “Lose? Hell no. Rachel’s good, I admit, but she doesn’t hold a candle to Star.”

Neville raised an eyebrow, “Star’s really that good?”

“Do you think I’d lie to you?” Abby retorted.

Neville remained skeptical. “You’re the one who said not to intervene. If you lose, don’t blame me for not stepping in.”

Abby pursed her lips in frustration. “Why is everyone doubting Star?”

“It’s not about doubting Star. It’s just… hasn’t it been, like, five years since she seriously practiced the violin?” Neville pointed out. Abby coughed awkwardly, saying, “Star’s been practicing lately. Even if she hasn’t been at it for five years, Rachel’s no match for her.” Abby straightened, a fierce grin spreading. “Let’s be real – if Star was at her best, Rachel wouldn’t even make it to the encore.”

After Rachel finished her solo, the lights above her brightened, revealing Keen’s presence. Dressed in a sharp black suit with his hair slicked back, he looked every bit the young gentleman. The contrast of their attire – Rachel in white and Keen in black – along with their coordinated styles, showcased their charisma to the fullest.

The brief costume change didn’t faze Rachel in the slightest.

On the other side of the audience, Callie couldn’t help but admire the duo on stage. “I might not know much about the violin, but this sounds incredible. No wonder they’re such a hit online. They’ve got real talent.”

Even the usually critical Deanna showed a rare hint of approval. “Back when our company was on the rise, we needed strong allies. If it were now, I might not oppose them.”

Callie turned to Deanna and said, “But in the end, my brother married Stella, and she’s not even half as talented as Rachel.”

Mention of Stella brought a flicker of disdain to Deanna’s eyes.