Chapter 65
Chapter 65:
The numbers flashed across the big screen, and an excited murmur swept through the audience.
“Look at those scores! She’s nearly perfect—unbelievable p>
“Looks like Willa really won the judges over today p>
“I have to admit, she did put on quite the show today p>
“But now I want to see what score Amaya will give her p>
With the main panel finished, all eyes turned to Amaya, the special guest judge. Amaya lifted her card, meeting Willa’s eyes with a kindly smile—one only a seasoned mentor could offer a promising talent. “9.1. You delivered a strong performance. Keep striving for more p>
Willa’s heart soared as she offered a grateful bow. “Thank you so much, Ms. Tucker p>
“At the semifinals, Ms. Tucker only gave her a nine. This time she went higher. Willa must be getting better p>
S𝘩𝖺𝘳e 𝘺𝗈𝗎r 𝗳𝖺𝗏о𝗿𝘪tеѕ 𝘧r𝗈𝗺
“The more I watch her, the more I admire Willa. She works hard, stays grounded, and comes from an incredible family. She’s the definition of a cherished rich lady p>
“If only everyone could live a life like hers p>
Behind the curtains, Gerard’s eyes flicked over the judges’ numbers, satisfaction clear on his face.
He had considered having the judges award Willa a perfect score, but that would have drawn unwanted attention.
Next up would be Noelle. No matter how skillfully she performed, those four judges would never grant her top marks. The first-place title was meant for Willa and no one else.
Meanwhile, backstage, Hailey stared at the scoreboard, disbelief written across her face. “How on earth did she manage scores like that p>
Sure, Willa had put on a good show, but did it really deserve numbers that high? Turning to Noelle, Hailey clenched her fists in a silent show of support. “Noelle, you’re up next. Go show them what you’ve got p>
A warm smile spread across Noelle’s face. “Thanks, Hailey p>
Even as she cheered, worry gnawed at Hailey’s confidence. With years of dance experience, she understood exactly where every contestant stood. She had been certain Noelle would easily clinch the victory today.
Yet after seeing the marks given to Willa, doubt began to creep in. Willa now looked poised to take the top spot after all.
Stepping into the spotlight, the emcee called out the name of the final performer.
Excitement buzzed through the crowd as fans waited for Noelle to make her entrance. Once her name echoed through the venue, all eyes fixed on the stage. Suddenly, darkness draped the stage in suspense.
A single beam of light soon swept over the center, bathing the space in a soft, focused glow.
There, Noelle stood on pointe, the red skirt around her swirling in time with the opening notes. Her foot traced a delicate arc as she lifted her arms with effortless elegance. A spin set her skirt into motion, flaring out as the muscles in her calves flickered beneath the lights.