Chapter 433

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“We can head to the auditoriums now Let’s go, let’s port
Molly urged everyone toward the audience seating Caitlin walked with the group, and in the hallway, they can into the Xenos family.
Telix and Madison had brought their son Kyle, and with them were Paul, Leal , and Yasm,
Kyle was also a contestant in the competition, dressed in a crisp little suit, exuding confidence and charm
“Felix!”
They’d just spoken over the phone, and now here they were face–to–face again…
“Mr. Vanderbilt, you’re here too!”
Felix greeted them warmly. He and Madison had rushed over straight from a case just to make it in time for their son’s performance.
Madison greeted Caitlin with unusual warmth, “Caitlin, fancy seeing you here. Looks like our Kyle and your Howard are competing in
same event today. What a coincidence.”
Back in the day, Madison might’ve used this as an opportunity to show off, but now, she simply appreciated the shared experience.
“Yes, Kyle is so talented–both brains and brawn,” Caitlin replied with a smile.
Kyle politely nodded. “Thank you, Caitlin.”
As the two families exchanged pleasantries, Yasmin stood nearby, watching coldly. She couldn’t understand why Madison was now so friendly toward Caitlin, while being more distant with her.
Regardless of the reason, she had one clear goal: Howard must not outshine Kyle. Kyle had to win first place–no matter what
“We’ll take Kyle backstage to get ready,” Yasmin said sharply, clearly annoyed by Caitlin’s presence. She led Kyle away along with the teacher.
“Let’s head inside and watch the performances. Afterward , we can all grab a meal together,” Madison suggested cheerfully. The group moved
toward the main hall.
Backstage, all 24 finalists were preparing. After multiple rounds of selection, these young pianists were the best of the best. Each child waited with their teacher or guardian, ready for their moment,
Yasmin escorted Kyle in, who immediately spotted Howard and ran over to play with him.
Yasmin shot a glance at the Vanderbilt kids, then pulled the teacher aside to keep an eye on Kyle while she went to find one of the judges.
In the judges‘ lounge, she spotted Zora–one of the competition’s key panelists.
Zora, an acclaimed pianist with national championships under her belt, had been invited to judge the finals.
“Miss Harris!”
“Yasmin ? ” Zora was surprised to see her.
“Miss Harris, could we speak in private ? I have something I’d like to discuss.”
Once alone, Zora already had a hunch what Yasmin was about to say.
433.
“You know the competition rules. As a judge, I have to be impartial. I can’t play favorites.”
“ I understand! We’re not worried about Kyle–his skills are top–notch. But Caitlin’s son is also competing, Did you know that?”
Zora scoffed, “Of course I did.”
“She’s here too. I ran into her in the hallway earlier. She was s absolutely insufferable.”
strutting around like the owns the place. If her son wins today,
she’s going to be
Yasmin cut to the chase. “So I’m begging you–not to let her son quality. Please don’t give him a high score.”
Zora was silent for a moment, then smiled styly. “I see what you’re getting at. Do you really think I’d give her kid a high score? Don’t worry. He won’t be getting any favors from me.”
“Perfect. That’s all I needed to hear” Yasmin gave a satisfied nod and hurried off,
The finals had already begun. The emcee walked onstage to kick things off.
Up in the second floor VIP box, the Vanderbilt family had the best seats in the house, facing the stage directly.
“It’s starting! My nephew’s the best!”
Molly clapped excitedly. She was especially happy because Simon had managed to take time off to join her.
The children leaned forward, eyes glued to the stage.
Suddenly, Caitlin asked, “Why isn’t Patricia competing in the piano contest?”
She remembered that the Harris family had made Patricia learn piano from a young age, and the girl played quite well.
Patricia turned to explain herself. “Because I don’t want tol i don’t like playing piano!”
Having been forced into lessons when she was little, Patricia now hated it. No matter how well she played, she had no desire to compete.
Caitlin understood. She wouldn’t force her kids to do anything they didn’t love.
After the opening remarks, the emcee invited the five judges on stage , introducing each one with their professional credentials.
Every judge was an accomplished musician. When Zora was introduced as a two–time national piano champion, Caitlin looked up sharply
From behind the curtain, Zora stepped into view. It really was her.
Caitlin frowned. Zora? She’s one of the judges?
“That’s Auntle!”
Patricia waved enthusiastically.
Zora gave a light wave from the stage, then took her seat. Once all judges were in place, the first contestant was invited to pen. Performance order had been determined by a draw. Kyle was number 19. Howard was number 24–the final contestant
They’d have to wait quite a while to see both kids perform
The first child came on stage, but nerves got the best of him. He stood frozen until his teacher prompted him from the audience.
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One by one, the children took their turns. Beautiful piano pieces echon
They were all skilled so much so that to the average person, the differences were almost imperceptible. That’s where judges came in.
After a flurry of applause and performances, it was finally time for contestant number 19 Kyle
Dressed smartly, Kyle walked on stage, bowed politely, then took his place at the piano.
New York’s number one prodigy did not disappoint. His playing was graceful, expressive, and full of life. Confidence radiated from his face and his music had the power to move the entire audience.
When he finished, the applause was thunderous.
The judges gave their scores–and Kyle earned the highest total so far.
The Xenos family beamed with pride. Kyle was, without a doubt, their shining star
Two more performers followed. Then finally, It was time–contestant 24 was called.
The Vanderbilt family grew excited.
Molly rubbed her hands together. “It’s Howard’s turn at last!”
AD