Chapter 213
Chapter 213:
Her smile was strange in its gentleness, but her words were sharp. “I was accused of stealing from contestant thirty-four. That’s not just an attack on me, it puts my mentor’s name at risk. I cannot allow that.” She paused, her voice steady as she spoke again. “Whoever makes such a claim must answer for it. Since you said I used your work to help number thirty-three win, then face me now. Let’s settle it with a challenge.” Her gaze dropped toward the stage as she gripped the microphone. “Can you rise to it?”
Paola’s mouth went dry. The smile she once wore had faded. Her voice trembled as she spoke, “Is now really the right time for something so reckless? We’re family, Rylie. That has to count for something.”
Rylie let out a short laugh. “So now we’re family again? That’s rich. Did you ever consider this when you were spreading the lies?” She didn’t raise her voice, but each word landed with weight. “This isn’t just about me. Whatever people say about me reflects back on my mentor. And I won’t allow anyone to believe that Mr. X. Aria trained someone who steals.”
Paola shook her head repeatedly. “That wasn’t slander. Everyone saw the video.”
Rylie tilted her head, her voice calm. “With your level of skill, why would I even need to copy you? If you’re so convinced I did, then why not let me prove I didn’t?”
From the crowd, voices rose in agreement. “Exactly! If there’s any doubt, a contest would clear it up! What’s wrong, Paola?”
Paola answered quickly, “I’m just trying to keep the peace.”
“When you were making snide remarks about Rylie stealing your first place earlier, why didn’t you think about family harmony then?” Novalee didn’t bother hiding her disdain. “You accused her in front of everyone. And now you want it all to go away? It’s not that easy.”
She took a step forward and added coldly, “You should admit what you did. Tell the truth. You set her up and even used fake footage. If you really care about this family, stop hiding.”
Paola froze. She couldn’t bring herself to admit anything. Her eyes darted to Isabella and the others, hoping for help. None of them met her gaze.
The judges huddled briefly before returning with a decision. “Since contestant thirty-four believes the judge acted unfairly and copied her work, we’ve decided to host a separate challenge. Anyone who holds doubt may take part.” One of them turned toward Paola. “You brought this up first, so you will go first.” She opened her mouth but barely made a sound. The foundation of her confidence — her makeup, her poise — had begun to crack. Voices from the crowd rose into a chant. Some had already started clapping in rhythm. “Challenge her! Let’s see it!”
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“Please, Paola.” Rylie turned toward her and raised a hand with grace. The white fabric of her outfit caught the light and shimmered as she smiled. “Choose any piece you want, or make up something right here.”
Two pianos were quickly rolled to the center of the stage and set side by side. Paola dragged herself forward, each step heavier than the last, until she reached one of the pianos.
She raised her hands, fingers trembling above the keys. Not a single note came to mind. The so-called “original” score she’d paid a fortune to secure had vanished from her memory.
Rylie spoke with calm clarity. “Why not perform the piece you accused me of stealing?” Her voice carried weight, though it remained soft. “Let everyone decide for themselves.”