Chapter 164:

Elyse and Vicky locked eyes, their parting marked by unspoken discord. Entering the practice room, Elyse sighed heavily before picking up her violin, preparing to rehearse. Freddy then entered, offering a friendly greeting. “You seem burdened,” he remarked, noting her solemn expression. “Vicky’s presence must weigh heavily on you.”

Elyse looked up, meeting Freddy’s gaze. “It’s unusual for me to feel this much pressure,” she confided.

Freddy nodded knowingly. “Aside from Vicky, you have four other competitors: Grace Fuller (second place), Bart Gino (third), Darren Bill (fourth), and Gary Hank (fifth). Are you familiar with them?”

Elyse shook her head, indicating her lack of knowledge.

“Grace, Bart, and Gary are seasoned violinists from previous batches,” Freddy explained. “While not exceptionally talented, they possess formidable skills.” He paused. “Darren and Vicky, however, are rising stars. Although newcomers, they show promise. Unfortunately, Darren’s nerves overwhelmed him during his last performance, likely due to seeing Cody Tucker.”

Elyse’s curiosity was piqued. “Is Vicky’s instructor the assistant director of the orchestra?”

Glancing around cautiously, Freddy leaned in to whisper, “Yes, Vicky’s mentor is the assistant director. And Darren? He’s the director’s nephew.”

Elyse was taken aback. “They both have influential connections.”

Freddy nodded gravely. “Do you understand why I shared this?”

After a moment, Elyse replied, “You want me to be vigilant and diligent.”

Freddy shook his head. “I want to know if you have any influential supporters. Without strong backing, even if you win the selection, your path won't be smooth.”

Elyse opened her mouth, understanding his implication. She sighed helplessly. “You might as well have kept this to yourself. Aren’t you adding to my stress?”

Freddy shook his head gently. “No, it’s because I consider you a friend. I wanted to share this before the selection.” He continued in a serious tone: “This concerns your future. One is connected to the assistant director, and the other to the director. Upsetting either wouldn’t bode well for you.”

Elyse fell silent, contemplating his words. She lacked a renowned mentor; only Wanda offered guidance. She realized she lacked powerful advocacy. In such a competitive environment, this could lead to her elimination. She spoke in a subdued tone, her determination evident. “I may not have strong backing, but I’m not without strength. I’ll give it my best shot.”

Freddy nodded approvingly. “Now that you’ve thought it through, go for it.”

Elyse tightened her grip on her violin, resolve coursing through her. She’d already overcome much; she wouldn’t surrender now. Freddy observed the resolute gleam in her eyes, a fleeting hint of concern crossing his own. Yet, he admired her determination.

After steadying her emotions, Elyse played for a while. Suddenly, a stranger appeared at the doorway. “Are you Elyse Lloyd? The director, Merlin Reynolds, wants to see you in his office.”

Stunned, Elyse glanced at Freddy. His expression conveyed a silent message she understood instantly. She said to the messenger in a hushed tone, “Okay, I’ll go as soon as I put away my violin.”

The man, impatient, urged, “Please hurry. Mr. Reynolds doesn't like to be kept waiting.”

As he left, Freddy whispered urgently, “This might be your opportunity. Mr. Reynolds must want to discuss the concertmaster selection in two days.”

“I suppose you’re right,” Elyse replied calmly.

Having been in the orchestra for some time, Elyse found Merlin’s sudden summons peculiar, especially given the concertmaster selection. It seemed more than coincidental, prompting her to ponder his intentions.

Setting aside her violin, Elyse said, “Rest assured, I won’t make any rash decisions.”

Freddy nodded, his concern evident as she left.

Entering Merlin’s office, Elyse found him seated on the couch, drinking tea. He offered a warm greeting and invited her to join him.

Feeling nervous, Elyse cut to the chase. “Mr. Reynolds, why did you summon me?”

Merlin waved his hand dismissively. “No rush. Let’s enjoy some tea first. It’s quite good. Please have a sip.”

Observing his reluctance, Elyse didn’t push. Smiling graciously, she accepted the tea and took a few sips.

After she finished, Merlin looked at her. “You’re quite skilled. Who is your instructor?”

Elyse responded candidly, “I haven’t had a formal instructor. Wanda Hopkins has offered guidance; she’s been like a makeshift instructor.”

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This revised version improves grammar, punctuation, and word choice for clarity and flow. It also removes the unnecessary website advertisement.