Chapter 162
In the contestants‘ waiting area, the staff noted the time–only thirty minutes were left until the contest began. Yet, the leading contestant had yet to arrive.
After a brief discussion, they decided to let the absent participant perform last. They proceeded with a draw for the order of the remaining contestants.
The sequence of performances would definitely influence how the competitors felt, amplifying their nerves.
Before long, the results of the draw were announced. The first to take the stage was Miles, the “Piano Prince” from Regalwood University. Madeline would perform nineteenth.
Once the draw concluded, Shirley made her entrance leisurely.
The staff, recognizing her as the top–ranked contestant, viewed her with reverence. After they explained the drawing process, Shirley said, “I apologize, everyone; I was held up by reporters at the entrance.”
With an air of nonchalance, she added, “As for the draw, it’s perfectly fine. Since I didn’t draw, performing last is only fitting. Thank you for your hard work!”
On the outside, Shirley seemed unruffled, but inside, she was thrilled at the thought of closing the show with her performance.
Inside the concert hall, most of the audience had taken their seats.
In the third row, 29 students from the Traditional Medicine Department at Betrico University were gathered. Initially disappointed because they were limited to just a few attendees, their spirits lifted when Cherise informed them she’d secured additional spots for everyone.
This unexpected news left many from other departments incredulous, leading the group to capture countless photos and – videos as proof later on.
Calvin turned to Zander and asked, “Is Ms. Leach not coming? Didn’t she say she would come cheer for Madeline?”
Zander was uncertain about the mysterious Ms. Leach and replied, “She said she’d be here; there are still twenty minutes left. Let’s wait a bit longer!”
Jacob, Mandy, Henry, Jemma, and Jeffrey were already seated, eagerly awaiting the contest to start.
“Shirley is truly remarkable. I heard her overall score during the preliminary selection was already the highest, I wouldn’t be surprised if she wins today,” Jemma said with a smile, clearly pleased with her future daughter–in–law.
Henry agreed, adding, “Exactly, Shirley plays exceptionally well; Liam will surely favor her.”
Jacob and Mandy exchanged pleased glances. Mandy felt proud but modestly said, “She’s still a long way off from Melissa.”
Just then, Jemma’s smile broadened.
“By the way, where is Melissa? Wasn’t she supposed to come?” Mandy asked, glancing around and not seeing Melissa. Jemma checked the time and replied, “Melissa just messaged that she’s almost here; she should arrive shortly.”
Outside the concert hall, Melissa approached, dressed in an elegant white casual dress. Unlike her flashy appearance at the recent university anniversary, she looked humble this time, declining all interview requests from journalists.
11.03
Chapter 162
Before long, Melissa’s figure disappeared from the reporters‘ view.
At the same time, footage from various media outlets began to generate numerous comments online.
[There’s really no need for a contest; I’ve seen the list, and the score gap is huge–Shirley won first place with 99 points, while Madeline was the last with just 15.]
[Let’s just have Liam award Shirley directly; there’s hardly anything worth seeing.]
[That’s an exaggeration; there’s still plenty to witness! I mainly want to see Arlina. For those attending, remember to take Arlina’s photos and share them!]
[It’s been ages since Melissa last appeared publicly; where has she been recently?]
[Where are the judges?]
[I want to see the judges too–Arlina, Liam, and Tina, the sister of the president of Artiverse Entertainment.]
[Why isn’t this being broadcast live? I want to see it too, even if I can’t follow the piano pieces!]
PR
