?<strong>Chapter 391:</strong>


    Elyse and Irving reached the cafe to find Fiona and Gavin already there, loungingfortably. Gavin set his coffee down and looked up with a concerned expression. “How did your performance go? Any slipups?”


    “None,” Elyse responded, her voice tinged with pride as she pulled out a chair to sit. Irving had been silent the entire trip. Seizing the moment, he said bluntly, “It’s only the first round. Failing that should be a cue to reconsider your career choice.” Elyse shed a grin at Irving, who was known for his biting remarks.


    “Elyse, you’re here!” Just then, Darren entered, carrying his violin case. Vicky was close behind. It seemed they also nned to wait for the results here. “Joining us?” Elyse called out, beckoning Darren over. Darren nodded, a smile spreading across his face. He nced back at Vicky, who chose a separate seat, clearly preferring distance. Undeterred, Darren sat next to Elyse, his spirits high. “Running into you here was thest thing I expected,” he said, beaming at her. After a short exchange, she introduced him to the rest. “Everyone, this is Darren, a dear friend from my days at the Celestial Sounds Symphony. He was always there for me.”


    Irving looked Darren over and remarked, “I recognize you. You’re the one who falters under pressure. I’ve seen your performances; you often struggle mentally.” Darren’s smile faded as he recognized Irving. His voice shaky, he asked, “You’re Irving Dunn, the one who always tops the charts?” Irving raised an eyebrow. “You know of me?”


    “I always wished I could have yourposure. You are kind of my idol,” Darren admitted earnestly. With a puzzled expression, Elyse chimed in, “I didn’t expect you are his fan.” Irving’s lips twitched slightly as he noticed the intensity in Darren’s eyes.


    Gavin, stroking his chin, couldn’t help but tease, “Looks like you do have fans after all.” Irving shot back, “I’d prefer female admirers, not men.” Darren chose to ignore the jibe. Standing, he extended his hand to Irving. “I never miss your solos. You truly shine with the violin.” Despite his reservations, Gavin shook Darren’s hand. “Appreciate your support.”


    gα?ησν????s takes you on a journey


    Darren returned to his seat, his gaze drifting to Elyse. She shifted ufortably. “Why are you staring?” Darren’s voice was cool. “Both Gavin and Irving are under Cody’s guidance. How do you fit into that picture?” Elyse touched her nose, feeling oddly guilty. “They’re my seniors there.”


    “Your seniors,” Darren echoed, puzzled by the simplicity yetplexity of it. After a pause, he continued, “So you’re Cody’s apprentice as well?” Elyse nodded. “Yes, I am.” Darren fell silent, piecing things together. “So the rumors were true. Cody picked his apprentice during ourstpetition, and it was you.”


    “Why did you keep this from me?” Darren asked, a hint of hurt in his voice. Elyse felt trapped. She hadn’t known she was Cody’s pick until Richie exined it all. Darren sat back, digesting the news. “Let’s not tell Vicky just yet. She thinks Cody’s apprentice selection was a sham. She’d lose it if she knew.” Elyse nced at Vicky, who seemed absorbed in her phone, oblivious to their conversation. Puzzled, Elyse asked, “She seems fine to me. Why do you think she would react strongly?” Darren shook his head. “Because of you, she felt threatened. She’s trying to prove herself byposing, but it’s not going well.”


    .


    .


    .