Chapter 854:

After a moment of gloom, Cody managed a weak nod. “I suppose you’re right. I can’t change her mind. Just let it be.”

Gavin nodded in approval. “That’s the spirit. Let’s head back to the audience. We might still catch Elyse’s performance.”

Cody murmured his agreement, his shoulders slumped as they returned. Meanwhile, backstage, Elyse’s eyes were fixed nervously on the other performers.

Geraldine approached quietly. “Where have you been? You vanished!”

Caught off guard, Elyse quickly fabricated an excuse. “I was practicing alone.”

Geraldine frowned. “Practicing today? You’re pushing yourself too hard.”

Elyse offered a small smile. “I’m just trying to do my best.”

Though Geraldine pouted, slightly upset, she decided not to press further. She gestured toward Edward and asked, “What’s with him? Why does he look so worried?”

Following Geraldine’s gaze, Elyse noticed Edward clasping his hands, his demeanor one of deep prayer. Geraldine remarked with concern, “I’ve never seen him look so serious before. It’s making me anxious.”

Elyse replied thoughtfully, “Well, it’s the last competition. Everyone’s eager to win. It would be odd if he weren’t serious.”

Geraldine agreed wholeheartedly. “Absolutely! With the last competition on the line, Edward is bound to give his best.”

Elyse clutched her chest and gave a wry smile. “Please, don’t remind me. My heart’s pounding! It wasn’t this intense even when I was on stage earlier.”

Hearing this, Geraldine raised an eyebrow and teased, “I hope you get so nervous you mess up your performance. It’d be nice to have one less tough competitor.”

Elyse chuckled heartily. “That won’t happen. I’m going to nail my performance and snag first place.”

“In your dreams!” Geraldine retorted playfully. Needing to manage her own jitters, she sought a quiet corner to regain her composure.

Once the others dispersed, Elyse placed a hand on her chest, trying to calm her racing heart. Then Darren approached.

Whispering in her ear, he said, “I bumped into Jayden this morning. He was alone and seemed isolated, but he responded nicely when I said hello. Can you believe it?”

Elyse looked confused. “He’s always polite. What’s so shocking?”

Darren said helplessly, “But his politeness is usually reserved for you. It’s obvious; anyone could tell he favors you immensely.” . . .