Chapter 168: Forgot the Award?

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Cheng Yuqi sat gracefully at the piano, playing an elegant tune. Five minutes later, she rose for the curtain call. However, upon scanning the audience, she noticed Fang Yuan engrossed in her games, completely oblivious to her performance. Cheng Yuqi was instantly infuriated.

Thunderous applause erupted from the audience.

“Cheng Yuqi’s performance was truly exceptional! She’s as remarkable as ever!”

“As expected of the daughter of the country’s wealthiest individual. She has been outstanding from a young age!”

“But I still prefer Fang Jiayi’s composition. Disregarding the beginning and the end, the climax was truly outstanding!”

“1 also favor the climax of Fang Jiayi’s piece…”

As Cheng Yuqi descended from the stage, she overheard someone expressing this sentiment. Though her nails dug into her flesh, she maintained a composed demeanor, smiling and nodding at those around her.

It had to be acknowledged that Fang Jiayi’s climax was indeed well-crafted, displaying a creative prowess surpassing hers. Unfortunately, the overall composition suffered, resulting in her securing second place.

Upon hearing that many appreciated her piece, Fang Jiayi was exhilarated, feeling like she had stolen the spotlight.

“The top eight winners have now presented their participating pieces, allowing everyone to gain a deeper understanding of their placements.”

“Now, let’s move on to the day’s most crucial segment—the award ceremony.”

“Let’s warmly welcome the renowned relationship expert, Teacher Baisu, to confer awards upon the fourth to eighth winners!”

The audience erupted in enthusiastic applause as Bai Shan adjusted his suit and ascended the stage, presenting awards to each winner and capturing the moment with photographs.

After leaving the stage, the host seized the microphone with passion and announced, “Next, let’s welcome Mu Youlan, the Chairwoman of the Piano Association, to present the awards to the top three winners!”

The applause from the audience beneath the stage intensified.

As the third-place Wang Jingjing, second-place Fang Jiayi, and first-place Cheng Yuqi made their way towards the stage, their youthful charm and exceptional talent drew considerable attention, making them the stars of this year’s competition.

On their journey to the stage, Fang Jiayi warmly waved to the audience and even nodded cordially at Cheng Yuqi.

However, Cheng Yuqi appeared oblivious to the gesture of goodwill. She enthusiastically waved and smiled at others.

Once Mu Youlan took the stage, she handed the championship trophy to Cheng Yuqi and the third-place trophy to Wang Jingjing. Then, when her eyes fell on Fang Jiayi, her gaze turned notably cold.

The host was momentarily taken aback, attempting to navigate the situation, “Chairwoman Mu, it’s time to present the award for the second place…”

Though slightly embarrassed, Fang Jiayi, under the scrutiny of numerous eyes and the watchful lenses of reporters, maintained a polite smile. “Chairwoman Mu, I’m the second-place winner this time—Fang Jiayi.”

“I’m aware,” Mu Youlan’s voice resonated with coldness, her gaze piercing Fang Jiayi with an intensity that sent shivers through the audience.

Perplexity filled the air, as neither the onlookers nor the host could fathom the tension. However, Mu Youlan’s unsettling scrutiny left an indelible mark on the atmosphere, giving an eerie edge to the award ceremony.

The host attempted to salvage the situation by signaling to the etiquette lady beside him. Sensing the urgency, she promptly handed the trophy to Mu Youlan with a gracious smile, believing that the chairwoman was ready to present the award.

However, Mu Youlan remained motionless and spoke with chilling disdain, “You’re not worthy of the second-place trophy.”

Her words sent shockwaves through the entire venue, igniting a commotion.

Fang Jiayi’s face turned pallid, and embarrassment gripped her. Fang Liguo and Song Ling stood up, bewildered by the unfolding events. Even Lu Chen, usually composed, was taken aback by Mu Youlan’s uncharacteristic public reproach.

The host, attempting to diffuse the tension, questioned, “Chairwoman Mu, do you believe that Fang Jiayi deserves a higher rank based on her performance?”

The audience, momentarily confused, caught wind of the implication and breathed a collective sigh of relief. So, Mu Youlan must think Fang Jiayi deserves first place!

Cheng Yuqi clutched her trophy tightly, astounded. Was Mu Youlan about to declare that Fang Jiayi was more deserving of the top spot?

However, Mu Youlan dismissed the host’s question and locked eyes with Fang Jiayi. Her inquiry was stern, “Did you compose the entire piece you played on your own? Every note, every melody—your own creation, and no one else’s involvement?”

Fang Jiayi sensed the gravity of the situation and felt a surge of guilt. Her heart raced, and her legs weakened. “Yes, of course…”

Mu Youlan pressed on, “In other words, the entire composition, from start to finish, is solely your work, with no contributions from anyone else?”

Fang Jiayi teetered on the edge of panic. She couldn’t comprehend Mu Youlan’s line of questioning. Did Mu Youlan somehow discover that she had borrowed the climax from Fang Yuan’s song? It was inconceivable! Mu Youlan, a luminary in the field, would never be acquainted with a minor talent like Fang Yuan. Unless Fang Yuan had approached her and disclosed the matter…

“Chairwoman Mu, I’m not sure who informed you of such a thing.” Fang Jiayi opted to deny any wrongdoing. Redirecting attention seemed the best course of action at the moment..