?<strong>Chapter 1409:</strong>


    Nick’s turn came next.


    He stepped up, delivering a performance that was technically strong, yet riddled with ws that Celeste’s trained ears picked up instantly. Her irritation deepened.


    With both performancesplete, the moment for scoring arrived. Celeste, her expression as sour as unripe fruit, filled in her scores, her frustration barely concealed.


    Celeste’s face was a portrait of inner conflict as she evaluated the two contestants, torn between her personal feelings and Elyse’s undeniable talent.


    Despite wanting to give Elyse a lower score, she had to acknowledge her wless performance and give credit where credit was due. On the other hand, Nick’s mistakes were ring, and she couldn’t, in good conscience, reward subpar performance.


    As she deliberated on whether to abstain from voting, she couldn’t shake off the memory of her conversation with Elyse backstage.


    Sighing, she realized that Elyse had put her in a tight spot.


    After much internal struggle, Celeste finally made her decision and wrote down her scores.


    As the tension mounted and the final results hung in the air, Nick couldn’t help but ask Elyse, “Do you believe victory is within your grasp?”


    With unwavering confidence, Elyse replied, “Of course, I won’t lose.”


    Nick’s expression turned stern, his eyes narrowing with a mix of disbelief and disdain. “It’s iprehensible to me how someone who resorts to underhanded tactics to achieve victory can exude such unwavering confidence.”


    With a gentle smile, Elyse shot back, her words infused with conviction. “I want to make one final statement. I did not cheat. I earned that first-ce spot through my hard work and merit alone.”


    Nick’s skepticism was palpable. “I’ve heard it all before, and yet, you continue to make these empty ims without so much as a shred of evidence to back them up.”


    Elyse gazed directly at Celeste. “If my mark surpasses yours,” she dered, her voice imbued with conviction, “it will be a testament to the unyielding dedication and unbridled talent that has driven me to stand atop thatpetition.”


    With a gentle chuckle, Nick’s lips curled into a subtle smile, and he fell silent.


    The minutes ticked by, and the scores were finally announced.


    The host’s excitement was palpable as he eximed, “This is quite the unexpected turn of events! Do you think you scored as many points as you hoped?”


    Elyse shook her head, her expression unreadable. “I couldn’t even begin to guess,” she replied.


    Nick nodded in agreement. “Neither can I. Just get on with it, please.”


    The host obliged, his eyes shining with enthusiasm. “Let’s congratte Elyse on taking first ce!” he dered, and the audience erupted into apuse.


    Elyse’s smile was serene, her pping measured, while Nick stood frozen, his face a mask of confusion.


    Elyse nced at Celeste, who wore an enigmatic expression. This time, Celeste had judged fairly.


    She turned back to the host, her voice clear and calm. “May I have the microphone to say a few words?”


    The host handed it over, assuming Elyse wanted to deliver a victory speech.


    .


    .


    .