?<strong>Chapter 155:</strong>


    Uncover new worlds at g   alnov els


    The name Cody Tucker caused quite a stir in the crowd. Cody was none other than a virtuoso violinist. At just 30, he’dpleted a world tour with his violin concertos, earning the title of one of the best musicians in the world. He’d been living a low-key life for years, seldom seen except at essential national events where his performance was needed. So when Cody unexpectedly showed up, it was quite a shock to everyone.


    Elyse couldn’t contain her excitement as she asked cheerfully, “Are you sure? Is that really Cody Tucker?”


    The male orchestra member pointed at his eyes and said, “I may need sses, but I’m not blind. I’ve seen him clear as day. Yes, it’s Cody Tucker.”


    The backstage was buzzing with excitement. It would be a great honor if Cody were toment on their performances.


    “Vicky,e on. You’ll get Cody Tucker’spliments. You’re the most outstanding violinist here and definitely the future concertmaster,” someone encouraged Vicky.


    Upon hearing the familiar name, Elyse subconsciously looked over and locked eyes with Vicky. Meeting Elyse’s gaze, Vicky said defiantly, “Of course, I’ll get hispliments because I’m the best.”


    Elyse felt the pressure. Her gut told her this second round of selections was going to be different. With Cody’s appearance, the backstage was abuzz with discussion. Everyone was on edge, wanting to deliver a wless performance. Elyse nced at Rebekah.


    Rebekah, known for stirring up trouble and negatively impacting herpetitors’ mentality, was now preparing for her performance with unusual focus.


    Elyse was the first to perform and chose to y “The Four Seasons.” She finished the piece wlessly, skillfully conveying the emotions within the music. When she finished, she saw approval in the instructor’s eyes. With a sigh of relief, she stole a nce at Cody. He remained expressionless, giving no hint of his thoughts.


    Elyse felt a pang of disappointment that her idol hadn’t praised her. Nheless, she quietly exited the stage, waiting for the others to perform.


    “Your wife’s getting better and better,” Richie remarked to Jayden, tapping his fingers along with the rhythm.


    Jayden replied proudly, “She’s my wife. Of course, she’s exceptional.”


    Richie hadn’t expected such a public disy of affection. “Have you two made up then?” he asked with a cheeky grin.


    Jayden rolled his eyes at Richie. “Was there ever any doubt?”


    “How cocky of him,” Richie thought, deciding not to engage further with such a self-assured individual. He figured only Elyse could put up with his arrogance.


    Disappointed, Elyse returned backstage. One of the orchestra members tried to console her, “Don’t be so hard on yourself. You yed beautifully and didn’t make a single mistake. You’ll definitely make it through to the next round.”


    Elyse thanked her, but she couldn’t shake off the disappointment of not receiving praise from Cody. Stepping aside, she searched for Jayden in the audience.


    “Why the long face? You yed perfectly,” Richie asked in confusion, sitting next to Jayden.


    Elyse sighed, “Mr. Cody Tucker didn’t seem pleased with my performance.”


    Richie was surprised, “How do you know?”


    “I saw him frown while I was on stage. I must’ve made a mistake; that’s why he’s unhappy.”


    “Why did youe to the selection process?” asked Elyse.


    “My friend and I came to watch your performance. Cody Tucker’s scowl, although it might not be forck of effort on your part. Perhaps it’s a habit of his,” Richie exined.


    Jayden nced at Richie, “How do you know about his habits?”


    A mysterious smile spread across Richie’s face, “Take a guess.”


    Jayden and Elyse exchanged a nce, then deliberately looked away, ignoring Richie. Unfazed, Richie returned his attention to the ongoing selections.


    Two hourster, all the performances were done, and the instructors began tallying the scores. Only the top-ranked performers would proceed to the next round. Everyone was on edge, waiting anxiously.


    “There are two yers tied for first ce, Vicky Aston and Elyse Lloyd. I know Vicky; she’s always been the role model in our orchestra. But who is Elyse?”


    “The top five contestants get topete for the position of concertmaster. But this time we have six candidates. Thepetition is going to be fierce.”


    “There’s a dark horse in the running this year. Could Elyse end up bing the concertmaster?”


    Still basking in the joy of tying for first ce, Elyse inadvertently locked eyes with Vicky, whose expression was a mixture of hatred and disgust. After a moment of surprise, Elyse smiled brightly and stared back at her.


    Vicky sneered and mouthed something to her. Though Elyse couldn’t read lips, she knew exactly what Vicky had said this time. Vicky had said, “You don’t deserve to tie for first ce with me.”


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