A Surprising Twist of Fates (Sierra and Theo)

Seeing how calm and composed Sierra was when talking about her breakup, Cayden finally overcame the unease that had crept into his chest. His expression softened, and he encouraged her sincerely, "I understand, and I truly believe that you'll do well in the Marisol Cup."

"Thank you, Cayden," she responded with a polite smile. "I'll continue practicing now."

He hesitated for a brief moment before saying, "I don't have anything scheduled this morning. If you don't mind, I can stay and listen—maybe give you some feedback."

Sierra's eyes brightened with excitement.

Cayden was already a well-recognized pianist and one of Jemima's most accomplished students. Back when they competed together, they worked seamlessly as a duo, and she had always admired his talent.

Just earlier, she had considered asking for his guidance, but she didn't want to trouble him and had hesitated to bring it up.

Now, hearing him offer on his own, she was overjoyed.

She nodded. "Of course, I don't mind. I just hope it's not too much trouble for you, Cayden."

"It's no trouble at all," Cayden replied with a warm smile, his tone as refreshing as a spring breeze.

Sierra sat back down at the piano, her fingers poised gracefully over the keys. The moment she started playing, her full focus returned.

Cayden sat nearby, his gaze filled with genuine admiration.

Her delicate hands moved fluidly, gliding over the keys like a swan skimming across a lake. The melody was clear and crisp, flowing effortlessly, reminiscent of a mountain spring. The sheer elegance and depth in her music could pull anyone into its embrace.

Outside the piano room, Felicia stood behind the wall, watching. Her hands curled into tight fists as she stared at the scene inside the room. Cayden was smiling at Sierra and his eyes filled with undisguised appreciation. Felicia's jealousy boiled inside her. No. She couldn't let Sierra return to school. If Sierra was around Cayden on a daily basis, how would he ever notice Felicia?

With that thought, Felicia turned on her heel and looked for Janice.

"Felicia, where did you go just now?" Janice asked, frowning as soon as she saw her.

Felicia hesitated, then sighed, lowering her gaze like she was struggling with what to say.

"Janice, I just....." She bit her lip, pausing dramatically before continuing, "I stayed behind to talk to Sierra. I tried to convince her to leave-so she wouldn't keep bothering Ms. Anderson, but..."

Janice's frown deepened. "But what? What did she say?"

Felicia's tone was deliberate as she replied, "Sierra said she's going to defeat you and win the Marisol Cup championship. She also said that since you lost to her before, you'll lose again this time."

Crack!

Janice's grip tightened around her cup before she suddenly hurled it to the ground, it shattered on impact shards flying everywhere. Her expression darkened, and an uncontrollable fury flared up inside her, burning hot and wild.

"That's complete nonsense! There's no way I'm losing to her!"

Her voice trembled with rage, each word forced through clenched teeth, laced with unwavering determination and fury.

That was exactly what Felicia wanted to get Janice riled up. A hint of satisfaction flashed in her eyes before she stepped closer, her voice soft and reassuring.

"Janice, don't let it get to you. I know you're going to win. Honestly? The way Sierra looked earlier-being so sure of herself? It just feels off."

Janice frowned. "Didn't she just say she broke up with Benson?"

Felicia let out a scoff, her tone dripping with jealousy. "You really believe anything she says? I just saw her flirting with Cayden, getting him to listen to her play and even coaching her."

She crossed her arms, her voice thick with sarcasm. "She's always been like this-doing whatever it takes to get ahead. Back then, she showed off in front of Ms. Anderson just to make sure she only cared about her.

"Then, she gave up piano completely just to woo a rich husband. And now that she's been dumped, she's back here, playing the victim to win over the teachers and throwing herself at Cayden. Someone like her has no business competing with us."