Chapter 112 Every few minutes, Brenda would ask if I was thirsty or if I wanted to eat something, but Sharon politely turned down each offer on my behalf.
Since my performance was scheduled last, it wasn't until around 9:00 pm that someone finally cto letknow it was tto get ready. By then, I was already feeling a bit sleepy-between being used to going to bed early and not sleeping well over the past couple of days, I was struggling to stay alert.
Right before I left, I thought I caught a glimpse of Leah again, slipping into the dressing room. Strange.
I didn't think much of it. Taking a deep breath, I made my way onto the stage.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtThe moment the audience saw me, a buzz of conversation filled the room.
"Oh wow, it's Evelyn Wiley. Does she even know how to play the piano? And she's the grand finale?" "She's so pretty, like one of those rich girls from a wealthy family." "Yeah, but just because she looks the part doesn't mean she can play. I bet she's not that good." The chatter and noise made it clear that it wasn't the best environment for a performance. Still, I calmly took my seat, smoothed the creases in my dress, and gently placed my hands on the piano. After a quick glance at the crowd, my fingers pressed the keys. The moment the first notes of "For Elise" filled the air, the audience fell silent.
It wasn't a particularly difficult piece in terms of technique, but what it required was emotion. That was where most people failed.
The crowd had seen Leah perform before, but her playing was all technique-there was no feeling in it.
As the music played, I noticed Leah's expression growing more and more sour, though she kept a smile plastered on her face. She couldn't hide her frustration.
When I finished, the venue was quiet for a second, as if everyone was absorbing what they'd just heard. Then, all at once, the applause erupted, louder than I expected.
"I can't believe it. Evelyn is actually an amazing pianist!" "I knew it! She's from the Wiley family, after all. Of course, she's learned these things." "I'm starting to like her now. Her dress is stunning too. She's the perfect image of a real-life princess!" The compliments rolled in, but Leah had heard enough. She let out a cold snort and stormed backstage. After the performance, I returned to the dressing room to change. I had just finished putting on my regular clothes when there was a knock at the door.
"Evelyn, are you inside? Please open the door," a voice called out. It was one of the professors.
I narrowed my eyes slightly, immediately thinking back to Leah's earlier appearance near the dressing room. It seemed like she had something planned.
After finishing up, I opened the door to find several people standing there-including Leah.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm"My bracelet went missing, and the only person I've cin contact with is Evelyn. She must have stolen it," Leah accused.
A bracelet, huh? So that was the story she was going with. I had an feeling it was either in my bag or planted somewhere nearby. Leah really was persistent in her schemes.
The professor's expression was serious as he looked at me. "Evelyn, am Leah's bracelet has gone missing, NO and we need your cooperation. Could you please bring your bag over so we can check it?"
"Yes, please do," Leah chimed in, nodding earnestly. "I'm sure it's in her bag. Even though Evelyn and I don't get along, this bracelet is really valuable, and I'd hate to lose it." She rubbed her nose as if trying to act remorseful. "It's a Cartier bracelet-my mom gave it toon her birthday.
I hardly ever wear it because it's so special."