Side Chick Era... Over

Loving Mom 183

Chapter 183

Kelly clenched her fists without realizing it. Her nails splintered, digging into her palms, but she didn’t feel a thing.

The more skilled you were, the better you understood your opponent’s strength. And Kelly knew-no matter how many times they competed-she could never beat Sharon.

Her jaw tightened, her teeth grinding hard enough to crack. The look she gave Sharon could no longer hide her emotions. For the first time, raw hatred and bitter frustration burned in her eyes.

How could she lose to Sharon?

Why? Why her?

“Kelly,” Carter’s voice cut through the silence. “You made a bet. Now honor it.”

No one had expected Sharon to actually win. Not even Carter.

Even if he didn’t understand music-and even if he was hopelessly biased toward Kelly-he couldn’t lie to himself anymore.

Anyone with a decent sense of aesthetics could hear it. Sharon’s performance was more beautiful. More moving.

Kelly trembled, seething with helpless rage.

Since she’d returned to the country, she’d trampled Sharon like she was beneath her. Sure, she’d had her fair share of humiliating moments, but Carter had always stepped in to clean up her messes.

today… even Carter wasn’t on her

frozen in place, spoke calmly, almost casually. “Is it too difficult to take the necklace off yourself, Kelly?

as she swallowed her pride

time… I’ll admit your skills

these people watching, backing out now would cost her not just dignity, but reputation. She

“Here.”

never intended to return the necklace. Wearing it out every day had just been her way

what if she

But Shaluna…

determination flickered

would take. No matter

in her palm. A

Carter’s pupils contracted slightly

really mean that much

as if to say something, but Wendy’s voice cut

can’t count on

owned would’ve ended up gifted away like some grand

1/2

took a slow,

Nate.

what about