Chapter 159
Chapter 159:
Her words stirred something deep in her brothers and grandfather.
Deandre, though still unsure, stepped forward first. “So, Rylie, what do you plan to do p>
“I’m signing up for the famous Wesdown International Piano Competition. Registration for our national division opens tonight,” Rylie answered calmly.
Deandre, uninterested in music, blinked in confusion. “What’s that p>
“It’s one of the most prestigious piano competitions in the world. Held every four years,” Marcus explained. He then looked puzzled. “But it’s not time yet. How do you know registration is open p>
Rylie smiled faintly. “I saw it online. Registration begins at 8 PM p>
Marcus frowned and shook his head. “That’s not possible. The Wesdown competition is strict with timing. Registration never opens early. And with how confidential they are, even prep work is kept under wraps. Rylie, you might’ve seen fake news p>
“I’ll have the PR team clear up the rumors,” Felix added.
“There’s no need.” Rylie glanced at the clock. “Let’s just wait till eight.” Seeing how sure she was, her brothers didn’t argue. They adored her, and if anything went wrong, they were ready to back her up.
What they didn’t know was that Rylie, under her identity as X. Aria, had made one phone call that changed the entire competition schedule.
At exactly 8 PM…
The official Wesdown website released full details — the competition date, venue, registration process, and awards — exactly as Rylie had said. Marcus’ eyes widened. He gripped the edge of his tablet tightly.
“The portal is really open,” he muttered, refreshing the page to be sure it wasn’t a prank.
Next to him, Deandre noticed his reaction and leaned in. A smile broke across his face. “Rylie was right p>
“This doesn’t make sense. Even the President wouldn’t get anything out of those music elites. They never leak information, let alone release it early,” Marcus said, still stunned.
Felix took a sip of wine and smiled. “Marcus, girls are allowed to keep secrets. If she doesn’t want to say more, just let it be. As long as she’s happy, that’s what matters p>
Marcus rubbed his forehead. “I know we all revolve around Rylie, but it feels like she doesn’t just know the organizers — she’s deeply involved with them p>
“Maybe. Who knows? Tell me, how good is Rylie’s playing? I only know it sounds nice, but I can’t tell who plays better,” Deandre said.
“She’s a natural,” Marcus said honestly.
Felix chuckled, and Marcus shot him a look. “What’s so funny p>
“Nothing,” Felix replied, covering his mouth. “Just remembered the hospital staff once said the same thing. Back then, they said Rylie was born to be a doctor p>
Deandre let out a sigh. “She really is a genius. So, what are we even worried about p>
Meanwhile, as fake videos about Rylie continued to spread online, the Owens’ silence confused the public. People began to wonder if she truly wasn’t favored. If she was, why weren’t the Owens speaking up or trying to erase those videos online?