Chapter 1409:
Nick's turn cnext.
He stepped up, delivering a performance that was technically strong, yet riddled with flaws that Celeste’s trained
ears picked up instantly. Her irritation deepened.
With both performances complete, the moment for scoring arrived. Celeste, her expression as sour as unripe
fruit, filled in her scores, her frustration barely concealed.
Celeste’s face was a portrait of inner conflict as she evaluated the two contestants, torn between her personal
feelings and Elyse’s undeniable talent.
Despite wanting to give Elyse a lower score, she had to acknowledge her flawless performance and give credit
where credit was due. On the other hand, Nick's mistakes were glaring, and she couldn't, in good conscience,
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtreward subpar performance.
As she deliberated on whether to abstain from voting, she couldn't shake off the memory of her conversation
with Elyse backstage.
Sighing, she realized that Elyse had put her in a tight spot.
After much internal struggle, Celeste finally made her decision and wrote down her scores.
As the tension mounted and the final results hung in the air, Nick couldn't help but ask Elyse, “Do you believe
victory is within your grasp?”
With unwavering confidence, Elyse replied, “Of course, | won't lose.”
Nick's expression turned stern, his eyes narrowing with a mix of disbelief and disdain. “It’s incomprehensible to
confidence.”
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With a gentle smile, Elyse shot back, her words infused with conviction. “I want to make one final statement. |
did not cheat. | earned that first-place spot through my hard work and merit alone.”
Nick's skepticism was palpable. “I've heard it all before, and yet, you continue to make these empty claims
without so much as a shred of evidence to back them up.”
Elyse gazed directly at Celeste. “If my mark surpasses yours,” she declared, her voice imbued with conviction,
“it will be a testament to the unyielding dedication and unbridled talent that has drivento stand atop that
competition.”
With a gentle chuckle, Nick's lips curled into a subtle smile, and he fell silent.
The minutes ticked by, and the scores were finally announced.
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The host's excitement was palpable as he exclaimed, “This is quite the unexpected turn of events! Do you think
you scored as many points as you hoped?”
Elyse shook her head, her expression unreadable. “I couldn't even begin to guess,” she replied.
Nick nodded in agreement. “Neither can I. Just get on with it, please.”
The host obliged, his eyes shining with enthusiasm. “Let’s congratulate Elyse on taking first place!” he declared,
and the audience erupted into applause.
Elyse’s smile was serene, her clapping measured, while Nick stood frozen, his face a mask of confusion.
Elyse glanced at Celeste, who wore an enigmatic expression. This time, Celeste had judged fairly.
She turned back to the host, her voice clear and calm. “May | have the microphone to say a few words?”
The host handed it over, assuming Elyse wanted to deliver a victory speech.