Chapter 220 She Just Doesn't Want to Admit Defeat
Susanna caught Erica giving her a provocative look after chatting with Brian. She frowned, thinking, 'What's Erica's deal?'
Brian sauntered over to Susanna. "Hey, Susanna, are youtired?"
"Not really.There are chairs here. Brian, I was surprised to see your name on the guest list. I thought it was someone else. You didn't mention you were coming back for the concert," Susanna replied.
"Well, it wouldn't be a surprise if I told you," Brian said, noticing Susanna stuck standing in the corner. He frowned. "Sit with me. It's a better seat."
Susanna quickly shook her head. "I'm fine here. I need to be ready in case something comes up."
Brian finally gave in. "Alright, when you get back to Novaria, I'll take you to a grand concert."
By then, he planned to tell everyone about his kind, lovely, and obedient sister. He even toyed with the idea of making Susanna's concert an annual tradition!
Susanna nodded and watched Brian walk to the guest seats, sitting right next to Aaron!
Seeing this, she couldn't help but think, 'If I had accepted Brian's invite, would I be sitting next to Aaron now?'
In a flash, she saw Erica take the seat next to Aaron, wearing a smug grin. Susanna's expression dimmed briefly before she turned her attention to the stage setup.
Over there, Aaron glanced at her, his eyes filled with a complex expression. He had seen Brian approach Susanna and greet her warmly, as if they were very familiar.
Brian turned slightly to block Aaron's view of Susanna, speaking in a somber tone, "Mr. Abbott, the performance is about to start. You should be looking at the stage now."
The implication: Stop looking at Susanna!
Aaron was annoyed. "None of your business."
Erica, seeing this, immediately said, "Aaron, Brian seems very familiar with Susanna. He even personally reviewed the setup for this concert."
Aaron's face darkened upon hearing this.
In Novaria, Brian was known to be a playboy, never dating a girl for more than three months.
Brian looked at Erica and casually replied, "Yeah, I think Susanna has a talent for design and playing the piano, at least much better than you."
Erica's expression stiffened. "brother, are you kidding??"
"Don't call me that. I've never acknowledged your status, so don't try to get close to me," Brian countered.
Erica's face fell as these words hit her. Fear gnawed at her, worried Aaron might uncover her identity as the adopted daughter of the Jones family. How could she possibly marry into the Abbott family with this secret?
But to her surprise, Aaron remained unfazed, showing no curiosity. This unexpected reaction made Erica breathe a silent sigh of relief. She knew better than to push Brian any further, fearing he might spill the beans and expose her secret.
Soon, the concert began.
It was Susanna's first time at such a high-level concert. The live experience was completely different from watching it on TV; the beautiful music struck straight to the heart.
Watching the lead pianist, Susanna's fingers began to move rhythmically, as if she were part of the concert.
Two hours later, the concert was wrapping up.
As applause echoed through the room, anticipation peaked. Moments later, the host emerged, his voice booming, "We are privileged to showcase a remarkable team today, providing our students with a truly magnificent concert experience. But wait, there's more! We have a fun interactive segment lined up. Two lucky audience members will get to step onto this stage and be part of the magic."
The audience buzzed with excitement.
But Susanna stayed calm. She knew the "lucky" audience members were pre-selected, all top music students with a shot at joining such a music team in the future.
Soon, a senior from the music academy, bathed in the spotlight, gracefully made her way onto the stage in a stunning white dress. With finesse, she began her violin performance, captivating the audience with each melodious note. Susanna couldn't help but be awestruck by the young woman's extraordinary talent and impeccable rhythm.
Quickly, the second round began. Erica shot a quick glance at Susanna, a twinkle of excitement in her eyes. The spotlight danced around the room before landing on Susanna.
As the beam of light fixed on her, Susanna's initial shock quickly set in. Thoughts raced through her mind, 'Wait, me? Is this a mix-up? Did the lighting crew forget to pass the memo?'
The principal was also surprised but, seeing the light on Susanna and knowing Aaron was present, signaled the host to continue. Maybe it was a surprise Aaron arranged for Susanna.
The host, prepared to handle a change in performers, was surprised by the principal's approval. He immediately said, "Let's welcome this student to the stage. A big round of applause, please."
Susanna was troubled. Although she had been practicing the piano recently, she was only proficient in two pieces: one taught by Brian and a childhood nursery rhyme.
She instinctively looked towards Brian, who excitedly said, "You can do it, go for it."
Susanna was speechless; she was seeking help, not encouragement.
With so many talented people present, as a beginner, how could she dare perform in front of everyone?
At this moment, Erica stood up and said, "Susanna, if you really can't do it, you can ask for help. I can help you."
As Erica offered her help, a sly grin played on her lips, revealing her true intentions. Susanna saw through the facade—Erica wasn't offering aid out of kindness, but rather to witness a potential misstep, eager to see her stumble in the spotlight.
But Susanna took a deep breath and stood up, replying, "No, thank you. I'm just an amateur; I hope no one laughs at me."
The host immediately said, "This is an interactive segment, don't take it too seriously. Let's give her a big hand!"
Susanna walked onto the stage, still a bit nervous. She glanced at Brian and naturally saw Aaron next to him, his long eyes inscrutable.
In that moment, a fierce determination ignited within her. Despite her initial trepidation, she realized she harbored an unyielding desire not to lose this battle.
Seated gracefully at the piano, Susanna took a deep breath, her mind drifting to the invaluable lessons Brian had imparted. Drawing upon his wisdom, she felt a sense of tranquility wash over her, grounding her in the present moment.
Erica's face instantly changed upon hearing the piano piece!
