Chapter 7: Angelic Pianist

Erica’s scolding made Annabel regret attending the banquet. Bored and tired of sitting, she considered leaving to escape both the woman and the party.

Before she could devise an escape plan, Heather approached, accompanied by a group of young women. Feigning ignorance of their previous encounter, Heather smiled brightly, kissing Erica’s cheeks. “Mrs. Benton, so good to see you! You’re stunning. This must be Rupert’s fiancée, right?” Turning to Annabel, she extended a hand. “Hi, I’m Heather Norman. Nice to meet you, Annabel.”

Heather’s feigned cordiality made it impolite for Annabel to ignore her.

Seeing Annabel hesitate to shake hands, Erica glared and said to Heather, smiling, “Don’t mind her, Heather. She’s just a country bumpkin; she doesn’t know etiquette.”

“It’s alright,” Heather replied. “By the way, I heard Annabel is very talented. There’s a piano on stage. How about a little competition to liven things up?”

Annabel’s eyes narrowed. The assumption that she was a slum dweller, coupled with Heather’s knowledge of her talent, made it clear this was a deliberate humiliation.

Without waiting for a response, Heather went straight to the piano. As a member of a reputable family and Rupert’s childhood sweetheart, she easily commanded attention. Her skillful performance of a familiar piece elicited a tumult of applause and praise.

After descending the stage majestically, Heather said to Annabel, “I didn’t put in my best. Your turn, Annabel. Let’s see if you’re good enough.”

Heather’s friends began to jeer. “You were amazing up there, girl! Totally amazing!” one called. Another added, “What are you waiting for, Annabel? Go up there and show us what you’ve got! Or don’t you know how to play the piano? Oh, no! That would be a slap in the face for Rupert if his fiancée can’t play a simple musical instrument.”

The guests watched, some already shaking their heads in disappointment. Erica, noticing everything, felt embarrassed, her disgust for Annabel intensifying.

Finally, Annabel smiled. “I’m not hesitating because I don’t know how to play. It’s just that playing the piano here makes me feel like a busker. Anyway, if you insist…”

She set down her wineglass and gracefully walked onto the stage. Intentionally choosing the same piece, she aimed to counter Heather’s humiliation. Unbeknownst to Heather, Annabel had become a professional pianist at the age of ten. No one could humiliate her.

Soft, melodious music filled the banquet hall. Soon, guests began to dance. The scene was beautiful and ethereal. Even those with limited piano knowledge recognized Annabel’s superior rendition.

Rupert, momentarily distracted by pleasantries, turned to see the pianist in a light blue dress, her curly hair cascading down her back. Her closed eyes and slender fingers on the keys gave her an angelic appearance.

The non-dancing guests were spellbound. Heather, frozen in shock, flushed crimson. Annabel’s superior skill was incomprehensible.

Annabel’s powerful ending brought thunderous applause. As she gracefully descended, Heather admitted defeat. “You are indeed talented, Annabel. Your skills are far better than mine.”

The insult stung. A country woman had bested a wealthy socialite.

“You also played well, Heather,” Annabel replied perfunctorily.

A middle-aged man in a well-ironed black suit approached. Annabel recognized Jayden Potter, her family’s butler. His presence signaled a potential exposure of her identity. Jayden went straight to Rupert and Erica. “It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Jayden Potter, butler to the Hewitt family. Mr. Hewitt is unwell and sent me in his place. He sends his apologies and best wishes.”

Erica stepped forward, shaking his hand. “Is Mr. Hewitt alright?” she asked anxiously.