The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 176

Rachel felt a twinge of curiosity but nodded gently.

Before long, Peggie approached with a clipboard in hand. "Ms. Pearce, could you please sign this for me?"

"Of course," Rachel said, taking the pen and scribbling her name.

Peggie beamed as she took it back, then asked, "Are you here as a judge, Ms. Pearce?"

"No," Rachel replied with a smile, pulling Keen to her side. "I'm here to support this kid in the competition."

Peggie glanced at Keen, her eyes sparkling with admiration.

"Clearly, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. With a mom like Ms. Pearce, you're bound to take home the trophy."

to speak such words openly, especially in the

voice laced with dry

didn't miss a beat, unfazed by the implication. "Well, we're not friends. Ms. Pearce here is a violinist I greatly admire,

softened with newfound respect. "We haven't

hard work is essential, the legacy of musicians is often built

whose names might fade into obscurity, those

upon learning of Rachel's prestigious background, regarded her with

relationship with Keen and

whisper, "Haynie, explaining now will only embarrass Keen. What good does it do? If the judges find out Keen's mom is disgraced, how do you expect

"I'm trying to protect Stella's reputation. These judges are influential. They might not remember just anyone, but they'll certainly recall someone

away. Abby,