Chapter 442
The spotlight illuminated Vincent Armstrong, the orchestra conductor, as he drew the final note to a close.
Evelyn Carter found herself unconsciously tapping her fingers to the rhythm, completely absorbed in the mesmerizing musical performance.
Two hours later, the concert reached its conclusion.
The applause continued as the host stepped forward. "What an honor to present such an extraordinary performance by these exceptionally talented musicians."
"As a special treat for tonight's event, we'll be selecting two lucky audience members to come onstage and perform with our musicians."
A wave of excitement rippled through the crowd.
Evelyn remained composed, assuming they would choose top students from the Music Academy who might soon join the professional orchestra.
The first spotlight landed on a senior music student. With elegant poise, she ascended the stage and performed a flawless violin solo.
Evelyn nodded appreciatively at the girl's impeccable sense of rhythm and timing.
Then came the moment to select the second participant.
From her VIP seat, Victoria Sinclair subtly signaled toward a specific direction. The spotlight danced across the audience before unexpectedly settling on Evelyn.
Shock flashed across Evelyn's face.
Was this some technical error? Had the crew misunderstood their instructions?
Beside her, Theodore Winslow looked equally confused. But remembering Nathaniel Whitmore's presence, he assumed this must be some romantic gesture from the husband to his wife.
As the host hesitated, Theodore discreetly signaled to proceed.
"Please join us on stage," the host encouraged. "Ladies and gentlemen, let's give our second participant a warm welcome!"
Evelyn's stomach twisted into knots. Though she'd been practicing piano, she only truly knew two pieces - the one Christopher Montgomery had taught her, and a simple children's melody.
Instinctively, she sought Christopher's gaze. To her dismay, he was enthusiastically cheering her on. "You've got this!"
Evelyn nearly groaned. She needed rescue, not encouragement!
How could an amateur like her perform before this audience of musical elites?
Just then, Victoria rose with false generosity. "Ms. Carter, if you're not comfortable performing alone, I'd be happy to assist you."
The triumphant gleam in Victoria's eyes revealed everything. This was no accident - it was a carefully orchestrated humiliation.
Drawing a steadying breath, Evelyn stood. "Thank you, but no. I play as a hobby, though I'm hardly professional. I hope the audience will forgive any mistakes."
"Don't worry, it's all in good fun!" The host smoothed over the tension with practiced ease.
As she approached the grand piano, Evelyn's hands trembled slightly. Then she caught sight of both Christopher and Nathaniel in the crowd.
Nathaniel's expression remained unreadable as ever.
But for reasons she couldn't explain, Evelyn refused to back down. However poorly she might play, she would never let Victoria Sinclair have this victory.
Settling at the piano bench, Evelyn mentally rehearsed Christopher's lesson. As her fingers found the keys, her nerves steadied, and she began the piece she knew best.
The moment the first notes sounded, Victoria's smug smile vanished.