Bound by love: Marrying my Disabled Husband by Devocean

Chapter 184:

As soon as Vicky wrapped up her performance, Abram wasted no time in showering her with praise. “Bravo! Excellent performance,” he exclaimed, his admiration evident. Vicky held a special place in Abram’s heart as his favorite apprentice. Her chest swelled with pride at Abram’s words. She couldn’t help but sneak a glance at the silent Elyse and stifled a laugh. She had already made it clear to Elyse that the latter was no match for her. Yet, there was Elyse, attending the selection only to be outshone by her. It was almost comical, like watching a clown trying to compete with a star performer.

As Abram, Merlin, and the others engaged in a flurry of post-performance chatter, they beckoned Cody to share his thoughts. It wasn’t long before the fate of the Celestial Sounds Symphony’s concertmaster for the upcoming domestic tour was sealed. “Congratulations, Vicky! You’ve earned the prestigious title of concertmaster for our upcoming tour,” Abram announced proudly, his eyes darting over to Merlin with a subtle hint of whose apprentice reigned supreme. Merlin, sensing Abram’s provocation, maintained a stoic expression and applauded along with the rest, refusing to engage in any overt rivalry.

The room erupted in thunderous applause and joyful cheers, a cacophony of celebration that filled the air as Vicky basked in the adulation of her peers. She had always stood out among her peers, her talent shining brighter than the rest. It was no surprise then that she deserved the title of concertmaster.

Elyse descended the stage stairs with a heavy silence hanging around her, her heart weighed down by the bitter taste of defeat. The stage reserved for winners had never felt more distant, more unattainable to her. Richie and Darren approached her, perhaps to offer comfort or words of encouragement, but she silently declined, shaking her head before leaving the performance hall.

“What should we do, Richie?” he said anxiously. “I want to talk to her.” He was aware that Cody had been eager to mentor Elyse for some time, but he suspected Cody’s feelings might have changed. Despite this, Cody remained tight-lipped about

on Richie’s shoulder and shook his head. Grace interjected, “Let her be. The sting of a first

was Cody’s apprentice, and this setback wouldn’t define her. Abram’s booming voice interrupted their conversation. “Well done! You deserve to be my apprentice. No one your age can match you.” They glanced over to see Vicky standing confidently before a group

commendable, but there’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance.” Darren resignedly added, “Vicky’s track record is flawless. She truly stands out among her peers.” Grace, wearing a displeased expression, interjected, “If only you could overcome your stage nerves, Darren. Then perhaps you’d surpass her one day.” Darren, caught off guard by Grace’s blunt critique, could only offer a helpless look in return. How could she prod at his

he was nowhere to be found. Turning to Abram, she tugged at his sleeve and asked, “Mr. Ellsworth, where’s Mr. Tucker? Wasn’t he here to scout for an apprentice? I’ve clinched first place. Why

Cody, he puzzled aloud, “That’s odd. Where could he have disappeared to?” Vicky’s anxiety grew as she recalled seeing Cody engaged in conversation with Darren, Grace, and Bart—none of whom had been selected for the concertmaster position. She remembered how Cody had offered feedback, both constructive criticism and praise, highlighting their strengths and areas for improvement. Vicky couldn’t shake the feeling of confusion. She knew she was an exceptional musician, so why

that Cody had followed Elyse out of the performance hall. In the tranquil garden, Elyse found solace amidst the flowers,

he approached, his hands clasped behind his back. Startled by his presence, Elyse rose from her seat, her eyes wide with surprise.