Chapter 1334:
Celeste’s expression subtly shifted.
Although she believed Elyse outperformed Stuart, who was mediocre, Elyse—despite being merely competent—
managed to distinguish herself remarkably well. Stuart's attitude, however, deeply disappointed her.
Music represented a profound medium for expressing emotion, and such a significant art form demanded
absolute sincerity and commitment.
Pointing directly at Stuart, Celeste declared, “Even though I'm not a fan of Elyse, her performance far surpassed
yours. Her skills are undeniably superior. You simply don’t measure up.”
Stuart's face darkened tically. Celeste’s cutting remarks were undoubtedly demolishing his musical
aspirations.
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Elyse turned towards Stuart, her challenge crackling with confidence. “If you're unconvinced, feel free to
challengeagain. I'm more than prepared.”
Stuart clenched his teeth. “I never expected you to be so arrogant.”
Elyse tilted her head, a provocative smile playing across her lips. “Well, I'm here to challenge you contestants.
Challenge me, and I'll be absolutely delighted.” That smile—sharp and bold, like a dare—was caught perfectly by
the cameras, her confidence glowing under the stage lights.
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The next day, the episode aired, and it was like pouring gasoline on a fire.
The inteexploded with debates and commentary. Viewers speculated about the wager between Elyse and
Celeste, but it was Elyse’s audacious grin that set the virtual world ablaze.
Chloe hadn't expected the uproar. “You've gone viral,” she said, scrolling through her phone. “People are
convinced you're here to crush these amateurs like a wrecking ball.”
Elyse shrugged, her smile tinged with resignation. “I’m not that ruthless. | just wanted to prove | earned my spot
fair and square. But with Stuart as my opponent? Even Celeste thinks the only reason | won was because he was
hopeless.”
Chloe's brows furrowed thoughtfully. “Then for the next round, you need to up the stakes. Go after someone
who's undeniably strong. What about Nick Martel? He's Celeste’s protégé and the frontrunner for the top prize,
according to all the online buzz.
Elyse’s eyes narrowed in consideration. “Nick Martel, huh? That's a good idea. If | take him down, it'll shut
everyone up about favoritism.”
But Chloe's expression darkened with concern. “You have to win, Elyse. Celeste’s made it pretty clear—she’s
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmgunning for you to leave the industry. And if you lose, your solo concert tour? Poof. Gone.”
Elyse nodded, the weight of the situation sinking in.
“You're right. | can’t afford to slip up. I'll need to study Nick’s performances and see what I'm up against.”
Later that evening, Elyse returned home, drained from the day. She had just changed into her pajamas and was
preparing to sleep when her phone buzzed unexpectedly. She hesitated before answering.
“Hello? Grandma, is that you?” Her tone was uncertain but curious.
A warm chuckle cthrough the line, and Felicia’s voice, filled with delight, replied, “Yes, my dear. It's me!
Pearce gaveyour number. | saw you on television. My goodness, you were marvelous!”
Though a little surprised by the call, Elyse responded softly, “Thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed it. I'll be
performing on the show twice more—would you like to cand watch in person?”