The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 186

"If I'd known Haynes would end up marrying Stella, that airhead who hasn't even finished high school, I would've just let him be with Rachel," Deanna sighed, shaking her head.

Jasper leaned forward, his grin all teeth. "Oh, this I've got to see. Stella's humiliation? That'll be the performance of the evening."

Rachel needed some time to get ready, with a new shower and makeup. They originally planned for her to be the grand finale, giving her plenty of time to prepare.

But then Jasper had a revelation.

If Rachel was the finale, that meant Stella would have to perform before her. Although Stella couldn't possibly outshine Rachel, Jasper thought it was crucial for Stella to witness the vast chasm between them.

He wanted Stella to be so embarrassed that she'd never dare challenge Rachel again.

If Rachel performed before Stella, she'd captivate the judges and the audience entirely. By the time Stella got on stage, people would still be mesmerized by Rachel's performance, barely paying attention to hers.

Stella would be nothing more than a footnote, a mere background shadow. It was perfect!

When Jasper shared his idea with Rachel, she was immediately on board.

...

The judges sitting in the audience were already worn out from the long competition. Many were rubbing their temples, stifling yawns, and looking visibly tired.

Even some of the little kids in the audience were nodding off from sitting too long. Quite a few people had already left the auditorium to get some fresh air.

But then, the soothing and enchanting notes flowed from Rachel's fingertips, and everyone suddenly perked up.

"But honestly, with all the advancements in violin making, modern violins have surpassed older ones in many ways. They perform better now."

She gazed at Rachel's violin. "I bet this violin was custom-made at great expense, and its performance is outstanding—even surpassing the Nocturne Stella."

As they spoke, Rachel and Keen's performance came to an end.

Though they performed together, Rachel's talent was so dazzling that Keen seemed to fade into oblivion. Keen, though technically flawless, became a shadow in her glow.

By the final movement, the audience had narrowed to Rachel alone, as if the stage held only one performer.

As the final note faded, the room erupted into thunderous applause.