Chapter 514
Her smile was as tender as a spring morning, but the words that slipped through those lips were as fake as a three–dollar bill.
Brielle’s silence spoke volumes, prompting a knowing glance between Alivia and Tessa, both shimmering with smug satisfaction. How could a woman who couldn’t even play chopsticks on the piano have caught Max’s eye? It seemed unfathomable. She could only hold someone’s attention for so long before being tossed aside like last season’s fashion.
That was the collective thought buzzing around the room. A few snickers broke out among the crowd.
However, Brielle stood up amidst the laughter and piercing stares, exuding a calm that seemed to quiet the room. “What can I do for you, Ms. Tessa?”
When Brielle spoke, Tessa’s brow furrowed into a frown, her voice laced with mockery. “Play a duet with me. Either we do a four–hand performance on the piano, or perhaps, Ms. Brielle, you’d like to sing us a song instead?”
The insinuation was clear. Was she insinuating that Brielle was some kind of entertainer, there to sing for her supper?
to be something Brielle didn’t know, she’d be
were thrilled at the prospect of the drama unfolding, while the men continued to prattle on about stocks and bonds, oblivious to the brewing storm.
feigned concern, “Brielle, if you’re not up for it,
yourself.”
piano and started playing with unwavering confidence. Alivia was about to join Tessa for the duet, but Brielle had other plans. She stepped to the side and picked
the bow caressed the strings, the
chances to trip her up. Instead, she chose the violin to accompany Tessa’s
with instruments. Alivia had mentioned an upcoming mini–concert
of the night,
face paled, her composure shaken. Alivia’s expression also soured; her fingers curled into
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