Forbidden Passion

Chapter 138: A Pianist's Triumph

In the wake of Theodore rushing Vanessa to the hospital, Phoebe was left to handle the imminent performance alone. With no one to replace her and the reputation of Reynolds Group at stake, failure was not an option. Glancing down at her gown, she spotted a few drops of fresh blood. She couldn't go on stage like that. At the makeup table, she found a pair of eyebrow scissors, bent down, and carefully cut a slit in the hem of her dress. With a swift tear, she removed the bloodstained fabric and tossed it in the trash before hurrying towards Stage 3.

Seated at the piano, the previous act ended to thunderous applause as the platform rose. A spotlight shone down on her, and Phoebe closed her eyes, clearing her mind of all distractions.

Her fingers hovered over the keys, and as the platform settled, she began to play. The haunting notes of "Love Song" filled the silent auditorium, a more challenging piece than the expected "Marriage of Love." Her performance was flawless, even through the most rapid passages, her fingers dancing across the keys with a passion that stirred the audience's hearts.

Christopher was stunned to see Phoebe at the piano. He frantically searched for Theodore, wondering if he was as

quickly began recording Phoebe's performance to send to

Brandon was the first to break the silence with applause,

with adrenaline and relief. She had done it without making a single mistake. Edward approached, offering a coffee and a handkerchief

such a long time," Edward said. "Your skills are as

last-minute

and Phoebe smiled back-a moment captured by a hidden camera. Within