Chapter 284:

Rebekah shrugged, a self-righteous air about her. "Thanks to your actions, we all suffer," she said. "Our orchestra's reputation is in doubt; netizens are questioning our taste and competence. Shouldn't you quit?"

Elyse's face darkened with anger. "I've already said I can prove my innocence," she retorted.

Rebekah remained unconvinced. Giving Elyse a disdainful look, she scoffed, "Good luck with that."

Elyse sensed Rebekah's hostility in the provocative glint of her eyes, fueling her irritation. Other orchestra members, harboring their own grievances, joined the chorus of demands. "Your actions have consequences," they asserted. "You owe us a solution, or your resignation."

Rebekah chimed in with a smug smile. "See? It's not just me. We all agree you should quit."

Elyse glared at them. "Whether I leave or not is not your decision," she declared firmly. "I said I will prove my innocence, and I will."

With that, she gathered her belongings and violin, and left the lounge without another word.

After Elyse left, speculation about her dismissal immediately filled the lounge. Rebekah, arms folded, hummed happily as she walked out. Freddy, observing the scene, discreetly followed her.

Meanwhile, Vicky went to Abram's office. After knocking and entering, she greeted him cheerfully. "Mr. Ellsworth, have you decided on Elyse's punishment? Will she be removed from the tour?"

Abram, standing by the window, looked serious. "She must be removed from both the tour and the orchestra. There's no other option."

Surprised, Vicky asked, "But why?"

Abram stared out the window, his expression troubled. "Elyse is a musical genius. Her talent far surpasses yours."

Vicky was stunned. "What are you saying?"

Abram sighed heavily, turning to face her. "Elyse has had superior musical talent to yours for some time. Her only shortcoming is her lack of stage experience. If she remains in the orchestra, you won't be able to maintain your position as the best performer."

Vicky was too shocked to respond. Abram's words acknowledged Elyse's superior abilities.

Clasping her fists, Vicky asked, "Do you also believe Elyse is better than me?"

Abram realized Vicky hadn't understood. He picked up his laptop and played a song. "Vicky, what do you think of this song?"

Confused, Vicky replied, "It's just a song. I like it. Is it new?"

Abram clarified, "It's a new song by Mabel Lloyd that was taken down. I found it online. Can you compose something similar?"

Vicky shook her head. "I'm afraid I can't."

"This song was composed by Elyse," Abram said, pausing the music. "She's capable of it."

Vicky was astonished. "Mr. Ellsworth, do you believe Elyse composed this? How is that possible? The melody was captivating."

Abram shrugged. "I understand your disbelief, but it's true. She used an unfinished song to demonstrate her abilities."

After a moment of silence, Abram placed a hand on Vicky's shoulder. "That's why I can't allow her to remain in the orchestra," he said solemnly. "You are our orchestra's sole representative in the national contest. Do you understand now?"

Vicky was utterly bewildered. She suspected Abram was removing Elyse because he doubted her ability to compete against her.

Feeling humiliated, Vicky clung to the belief in her own superior skill.

Abram gazed at Vicky, his prized apprentice. Despite Elyse's superior competence, he couldn't afford to give her any opportunities. He was determined to ensure Vicky's success above all else.

Leaving his office, Vicky sought solace in the garden. Rebekah soon approached.

Vicky's irritation flared upon seeing her. "What brings you here?" she asked sharply.

Smiling, Rebekah leaned in. "I'm here to offer my congratulations."

Perplexed, Vicky asked, "Congratulations for what?"

Rebekah explained, "For soon being the sole talented violinist in the orchestra. Elyse, the troublesome one, will be leaving. You'll reign supreme."

Vicky's gaze sharpened. Remembering her instructor's acknowledgment of Elyse's competence, Rebekah's words felt more like an insult.