My Great Escape Led Me to You novel Chapter 195

Arianna George’s brow furrowed. “That won’t do. The Starlight Piano Competition is built on fairness. I’ll speak to the committee—we’ll get the piano fixed first, then let you perform.”

No sooner had she finished than a wave of dissent rippled through the contestants and judges.

One of the other judges shook his head. “That’s not possible. The schedule for the preliminary round is set in stone. We can’t make exceptions. If Emily Blair gets extra time, it’s not fair to everyone else.”

Contestants chimed in, voices sharp with impatience. “Yeah, this isn’t right. We’ve all been waiting forever for results, and now you want us to wait even longer for her? It’s exhausting.”

“It’s always Emily Blair, isn’t it? Why is it that problems only ever crop up when it’s her turn?”

The grumbling grew louder, the complaints mounting until Arianna’s frown deepened.

She turned to Emily, her voice gentle but resolute. “Emily, we’ll get to the bottom of this. I promise, no injustice will fall on you.”

Drawing a steadying breath, she faced the room and raised her voice. “As head judge, I am authorized by the committee to delay Emily Blair’s performance—”

“Ms. George.” Emily’s voice cut in, calm and clear.

Arianna glanced over, her tone unwavering. “Emily, trust me. I’ll make sure this competition is fair. You won’t be treated unfairly because of this.”

Emily shook her head, smiling faintly. “It’s all right, Ms. George. I know you mean well, but really—it’s fine.”

“I can play on a different piano. There’s no need to hold everyone up for me.”

Arianna’s concern was obvious. “Emily, there’s no reason to be stubborn. At a competition like this, you should know how to weigh your options and seize opportunities. Don’t feel you have to refuse my offer right away.”

The truth was, Emily didn’t care which piano she used for the preliminaries. She had no desire to stand out too much at this stage and draw unnecessary attention or criticism.

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