Chapter 400

The school counselor approached Evelyn after her classes. "Evelyn, we're hosting a music festival next week and the administration wants to use your award-winning design concept. What do you think?"

"I'd be honored," Evelyn replied with quiet confidence.

This was perfect. As the lead designer, she'd have front-row access to all the performances. The thought sent a thrill through her.

"Here's the auditorium key." The counselor handed her a brass key. "Feel free to make any necessary modifications. The school wants to impress our special guests - the visiting musicians could help our seniors get recruited."

Evelyn nodded firmly. "I won't let the school down."

She clutched the key tightly. This was her chance to prove herself again.

"Just a warning," the counselor added. "The lead musician has a reputation for being... difficult. Try not to take it personally."

"Understood." Evelyn smiled politely.

Keys jingling, she headed straight to inspect the auditorium.

She'd barely begun her assessment when unfamiliar voices echoed through the empty space. The group's designer outfits marked them as outsiders.

"Ugh, this place is huge but so outdated," a female voice complained.

"I still don't get why we're performing at some no-name school," a man grumbled.

Evelyn froze. These must be the visiting musicians - and they sounded unpleasant.

She considered slipping out the side exit, but her foot caught a trash can, sending it clattering across the floor.

"Who's there?" a sharp voice demanded.

Evelyn took a steadying breath and stepped into view.

Her breath caught. Among the group stood Victoria Sinclair - her rival from the design competition.

Victoria's presence here made no sense. She'd disappeared after the competition's first round, rumored to have returned to Nord City.

A man in a floral shirt glared. "Are you some stalker trying to sneak photos?"

Evelyn straightened her shoulders. "I'm the student designer for the festival. I was assessing the space."

Victoria's lips curled. "Relax, Anthony. This is Evelyn Carter - first prize winner at the Fleur International. She's practically a celebrity."

Anthony scoffed. "Some country girl winning an art contest? Our orchestra performs at Carnegie Hall. This dump will ruin our reputation."

Evelyn noted their arrogance but couldn't deny their credentials. These were world-class musicians.

"Mr. Kensington," she said evenly, "do you have any specific requirements for the setup?"

"Can you even play piano?" he challenged.

Victoria laughed cruelly. "Don't be ridiculous. An orphan from the sticks? She's probably never seen a real piano before."