My Beloved Has Risen from Death's Embrace novel Chapter 19

At eight o'clock, the grand finale kicked off with the energy of a rock concert. Eleven contestants took their turns on stage, and their performances elicited cheers from the excited crowd. Initially, Cedric was all ears, soaking in the atmosphere with enthusiasm. But after a few songs, his excitement began to wane. The performances, though competent, started to blend into one another, lacking any standout moments that couldn't be better experienced through a polished studio recording.

It wasn't until the final contestant stepped onto the stage that Cedric's interest perked up again—not because she was exceptionally different, but because from the moment she appeared, her glances seemed to seek out the CEO, as if hoping for a moment of eye contact.

Miranda? Why does that name sound so familiar? Wait, isn’t she the adopted daughter from the Nightshade family, Ms. Nightshade's sister?

"Mr. Lockwood."

Cedric turned and saw Orion engrossed in the stock charts on his tablet, completely oblivious to the live show. It was impressive, almost eerie, how Mr. Lockwood could focus in such a noisy environment. But then again, attending this finale wasn’t originally on Mr. Lockwood’s schedule. He had been roped into it due to a previous CEO’s public promises, so his lack of interest was understandable.

"Mr. Lockwood, the contestant on stage is Ms. Nightshade’s sister."

"Mhm."

The man responded flatly, and his eyes never strayed from the screen.

“Hello everyone, I’m Miranda, contestant number 11. Tonight, I'll be performing an original song, 'Whispers in the Dark’.”

The song burst into life; its clear melody and upbeat rhythm was infused with sweet lyrics, transforming the mood of the venue into something light and joyful. Cedric found himself genuinely intrigued. The arrangement, lyrics, and harmonies of 'Whispers in the Dark' were distinctly superior to the previous performances, and surprisingly, it was an original piece. Ms. Nightshade's sister was indeed talented.

Xanthea arrived at the Discovery Pavilion just in time to catch 'Whispers in the Dark' live. The light, sweet tune and lyrics were like bursts of pink bubbles, delighting the senses and lightening the heart of the audience. She remembered crafting this song while deep in the throes of a new love, believing herself to be the happiest person in the world. Now, those illusions of happiness and sweetness had shattered, revealing the grim reality beneath.

“My dear, the competition is nearly over, and you just show up now?” Backstage at the pavilion, Oliver sighed in relief upon seeing her. “I thought you were going to forfeit!”

Xanthea playfully stuck her tongue out. “Uncle, don’t you know that the big stars always make a grand entrance?”