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."

judge to speak such words

with dry amusement. "Ms. Smith, do introduce

a beat, unfazed by the implication. "Well, we're not friends. Ms. Pearce here is a violinist I greatly admire, a graduate of Neo-Vespera University." Hearing this,

softened with newfound respect. "We haven't seen a music graduate

work is essential, the legacy of musicians is often built

whose names might fade into obscurity, those from

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

noticed Peggie's misunderstanding of her relationship with Keen and

good does it do? If the judges find out Keen's mom is disgraced, how do you expect him to hold his head high? What will people say about

They might not remember just anyone, but they'll certainly recall someone linked to

the teacher maintaining order led the judges away. Abby, witnessing this,