The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel 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."

It was quite improper for a judge to speak such words openly, especially in the presence of so many people.

Another judge arched an eyebrow, his voice laced with dry amusement. "Ms. Smith, do introduce us to your... esteemed acquaintance."

Peggie didn't miss 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, the man's dismissive demeanor shifted to one of respect.

"A Neo-Vespera University alum?" His gaze towards Rachel softened with newfound respect. "We haven't seen a music graduate from Neo-Vespera in Novaris for the past five years."

"This is outrageous! They're letting the judges believe whatever they want about you and Keen."

Stella held her back. "Once the divorce is final, I'll have no ties with the O'Brien family. It's better this way; it saves me a lot of trouble."

Abby scoffed, her voice dripping with disdain. "Oh please—Deanna wouldn't have spat on Rachel last year, and now she's suddenly her biggest fan? Just wait, they'll regret it soon enough!"

Rachel, buoyed by the compliments, turned and caught Stella's sarcastic gaze.

With a calm and self-assured smile, Rachel's eyes flashed with a mix of disdain and challenge.

"Ms. Cameron, if you're willing to speak up, I might just pretend you were joking."