Chapter 485:
Elyse was taken aback by Darren’s words, her confusion evident as she asked, “What happened to her?”
Darren, with a history of rivalry with Vicky, admitted his ignorance on the matter. “I'm not sure, but it’s clear
she’s deeply affected by something.”
Elyse ran her hand through the back of her hair. She had limited knowledge about Vicky, paled in comparison to
Darren's. After all, he had known Vicky since they were young.
Backstage, the ten contestants stood apart, even those once on good terms opting for distance. They now
weren't allies striving together but rivals locked in competition. Their camaraderie ceased at this pivotal
moment.
“Let's welcour ten contestants to the stage,” the host announced.
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Elyse, the first-place winner, led the way onto the stage. As she surveyed the judging panel, her surprise peaked
at the sight of someone unexpected.
It was Freda! Why was she seated at the judging panel, prominently positioned?
Freda, chin in hand, delighted in Elyse’s evident shock and doubt. Her satisfaction knew no bounds. This was
precisely what Freda desired—to witness the disbelief on Elyse’s face. She had endured to this moment for that
express purpose.
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Her family, deeply entrenched in the music industry despite their business ventures, held significant sway. They
were major investors in various domestic events, including the Champions Cup. Thus, Freda’s position as a
judge, backed by her family’s influence, was easily secured. Besides, the individuals in the music industry lacked
the financial resources for such investments. If Freda aimed to secure a judging role, it would be a walk in the
park.
Freda basked in her triumph, boldly winking at Elyse and even pulling a face, a deliberate act of provocation.
Receiving Freda’s unmistakable signal of defiance, Elyse couldn't help but furrow her brow. Was Freda here to
deliberately stir up trouble for her? The possibility gnawed at Elyse’s mind as she contemplated the situation.
Speechless, Elyse hadn't anticipated becoming someone's target after severing ties with Theo. At that moment,
she found herself grappling with an unfamiliar pang of regret, questioning the choice she once made to be with
Theo.
“Elyse Lloyd will now grace us with the enchanting melody of ‘The Wanderer,’” the host declared before exiting
the stage with the other contestants, leaving Elyse to command the spotlight solo.
Elyse took center stage, striking a pose before drawing the first note from her violin, captivating the audience.
“Absolutely marvelous! Her performance is flawless, showing both skill and poise. She's a genius.”
“It's like she’s always been at the top, pouring her heart into every note.”
“Did you know Elyse is Cody’s apprentice? Her playing is anything but rigid; she exudes pure joy.”
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As the judges whispered their admiration, Freda couldn't hide her tight frown.
Did Elyse truly deserve such praise? Although not a music expert, Freda could appreciate beauty when she heard
it. Elyse’s violin resonated with haunting melodies, conveying the wanderer’s profound solitude and the ethereal
glow of moonlight.
Yet, despite the brilliance of her performance, Freda couldn't shake her disdain for Elyse. How could Elyse garner
such high acclaim?
With a disdainful glance around, Freda dared to interject, “Let’s not get carried away with Elyse’s performance.
She’s not as exceptional as you believe.”
After her remark, Freda scanned the room with a brazen air. Her eyes gleamed with determination as she silently
cautioned several judges against awarding high scores to Elyse with a stern gaze.
Caught in a moment of uncertainty, the judges exchanged uneasy glances, mindful of Freda’s influential position
as an investor.
Unbeknownst to Freda, Gavin sat discreetly behind the judges’ panel, overhearing every word. Gavin observed
her with a hint of astonishment, pondering the underlying motive behind her relentless focus on targeting Elyse.