Chapter 945:
With someone backing her, Fiona sensed a victory. Before Elyse could respond, she quickly interjected, “You don’t need to say that. It’s my fault. If she doesn’t want to forgive or accept me, I deserve it.”
Quinn frowned, his displeasure evident. “Give her some leeway, Elyse. You and Fiona were friends. Why be so indifferent and cruel? Or do you believe that since you’ve climbed to the top, you no longer need friends?”
Elyse, amused by his accusation, retorted, “You label me as indifferent and cruel? Are you aware of how she has treated me? Do you even grasp the grudge between us?”
Quinn found himself speechless, yet Fiona’s visible sorrow seemed to validate his stance. “Regardless of the conflict’s magnitude, I believe any dispute can be settled if you’re willing to sit and discuss it.”
Geraldine couldn’t contain herself and asked, “May I inquire about your relationship with Fiona Evans? Your defense of her was so strong, I almost believed she was your girlfriend.”
Quinn appeared irritated. “I’m not acquainted with her, nor do I understand her. I simply perceive her as pitiful. Despite her efforts for Elyse, she refused to grant her a chance. She truly is cold-hearted.”
Elyse snorted. “If you pity her and think I’m cold and cruel, that’s your concern. But please, just leave me alone.”
With that, Elyse ended the conversation and left. Geraldine glared at Quinn and quickly followed Elyse. Darren and Edward exchanged puzzled looks, trying to make sense of the unfolding drama.
Geraldine caught up with Elyse and linked arms with her, trying to calm her. “Relax. Quinn has always had trouble distinguishing right from wrong, which is probably why he’s friendless.”
Elyse shook her head. “I’m not upset with him.”
It was understandable that an outsider like Quinn was oblivious to Fiona’s true nature, having been swayed by her act. Yet, what truly infuriated Elyse was not just Fiona’s deception but the insidious intent behind her gestures. Elyse knew Fiona was determined to stay but couldn’t manage it alone, so Fiona feigned kindness toward her. Quinn, unfamiliar with Fiona, was easily deceived by her seemingly pitiful demeanor.
However, other performers were present. Elyse pondered whether Fiona’s pitiful appearance might sway them as well. Could this shift in perception recast Fiona as the victim and herself as the antagonist? The more Elyse mulled it over, the more convinced she became that Fiona was concocting a scheme.
Elyse couldn’t shake off her suspicions about Fiona’s intentions in staying. Was Fiona plotting to usurp her position?
While Elyse was lost in thought, an instructor for the tour entered and began the day’s training. Elyse pushed her concerns aside, picked up her violin, and positioned herself in front of the instructor. Noticing Fiona skulking in a corner, the instructor raised an eyebrow and inquired, “Who are you?”