Chapter: 1220

Each time she appeared, especially dressed for a performance, he found himself entranced.

The woman he admired was not just beautiful; she was profoundly talented.

Despite a recent pause in their communication due to misunderstandings, Sean's feelings remained unchanged.

The fleeting jealousy and confusion that had once clouded their relationship seemed trivial now, dissolved over the past year.

Nancy, sitting a row behind, struggled to follow their conversation.

Her eyes, fixed on Nora, betrayed a mix of envy and resentment.

Kayla, who had never been particularly fond of Nora on a personal level, found herself respecting the pianist's undeniable skill.

For those who excelled so distinctly, admiration was the only feeling, not jealousy.

The audience hushed as the spotlight intensified on Nora at the piano.

She sat elegantly, hands poised above the keys, embodying a serene readiness for the performance to begin.

On that vast stage, with just a piano and a captivating woman, the entire hall seemed to hold its breath, waiting for the first note to resonate through the silence.

After striking the first note, the melody unfolded with precision.

Kayla, eyes closed in concentration, listened intently before reopening them.

"It's not like Nora's skill. The notes are spot on, but the rhythm's all off."

With hundreds of rehearsals under her belt, that melody's rhythm should have been second nature. Aside from hitting a wrong note, she shouldn't have slipped up like this.

"She tried hard to adjust it, but it was futile. Such a shame."

In an international competition, even a minor slip could spell elimination.

Kayla felt a pang of regret. She had thought Nora might make it to the finals.

Nancy smiled softly. "Maybe she's just having an off day. I'm sure she'll make waves in the music world soon."

"If Nora keeps on this path, she'll be a star in the international music scene. But it's unfortunate she won't rank in this competition."

Joanna also noticed something amiss on stage.

“Norah seems a bit off. Any idea what's up?"

Susanna gripped her brother's arm. “Sean, Norah looks like she's in pain. What's with that expression while she plays?"

The part of Nora's face not covered by her mask seemed to furrow in discomfort.