Chapter 253
Talia’s POV
I ignore both Aires and Imema, turning my full attention to Gerard. The legendary musician stands before me, his presence commanding, his eyes sharp despite his age.
“Mr. Adler, I am sorry for the trouble.”
Before I can continue, Gerard raises a hand, cutting me off. “I know you.”
I am taken aback. My words die in my throat.
Gerard continues, his voice thoughtful. “I saw your videos when I arrived in Starlight City. You are talented and have great potential.” He pauses, studying my face. “Among my many students, only a few can match you.”
r
His praise is high, and my eyes sparkle with excitement. A warmth spreads through my chest. To be recognized by someone of his stature, to be compared to his best disciples-
But then Gerard’s tone shifts. His expression hardens.
“You are indeed the daughter of Serena.” He nods slowly. “Remarkable talent. But…”
1/7
12:50
2 Bonus
Chapter 253
He pauses, his sharp eyes scrutinizing me like I am a specimen under a microscope.
“You are nothing like your mother.” His voice is flat. “She truly loved music. You… do not seem to.”
I feel the words like a slap.
Gerard sizes me up, his sharp eyes filled with a hint of disappointment. “You are willing to give up what you love for your family. Even with your talent, you do not meet my
standards.”
He shakes his head. “After all, who is to say you will not give up music again for something else?”
Gerard’s words leave me utterly ashamed. I have no defense. No argument. No clever retort.
He is right.
I speak earnestly, my voice soft. “You are right… I made a mistake. I should not have given up so easily.”
I lift my gaze to meet his. “Mr. Adler, I can assure you, I will never give up again.” I pause. “Could you give me another chance?”
12:50
+2 Bonus
< Chapter 253
Gerard replies indifferently, his voice cold. “Ms. Green, I have already given you a chance. You did not take it.” He folds his arms. “My place is not one you can turn down when you are busy and come back to whenever it suits you.”
My expression shifts. Confusion flickers across my face. “You gave me a chance?” I search his eyes. “When?”
Gerard looks at me deeply, his gaze penetrating. “Not long ago, I thought you had great potential and arranged to meet you.”
He glances at Aires standing beside me. “Your husband met with me on your behalf.” His voice is flat. “He said you were too busy with family and declined.”
I turn to Aires, my eyes filled with disbelief. The world seems to
tilt around me.
“You met Mr. Adler for me?”
Aires’s gaze flickers. He looks away, unable to meet my eyes. His jaw tightens.
Seeing his reaction, I understand everything.
Aires turned down Gerard on my behalf.
He took that opportunity. That once–in–a–lifetime chance. And
3/7
12.50
+2 Bonus
< Chapter 253
he threw it away without even telling me.
But I know this is not the time to confront him. Not here. Not
now. Not in front of Gerard and half the music world.
I quickly explain, my voice urgent. “I am sorry, Mr. Adler. I was not aware of this. Could you please—”
Gerard raises a hand, stopping me mid–sentence.
“I am old.” His voice is tired. “I do not have much energy left. I have already decided that I will take my last disciple.”
He shifts his eyes and looks at Imema. His expression softens.
“Ms. Davis will be my last disciple.”
Imema, hearing her name, smiles. She steps forward slightly. “Mr. Adler.”
Gerard nods, a genuine smile crossing his weathered face. “Though Imema may not be as talented as you, she has greater passion for music and works harder.”
He glances at me, then back at her. “Even with a terminal illness, she has never given up.”
I stand frozen, watching the scene unfold.
4/7
12:50
-2 Bonus
<Chapter 253
“Over the years, I have chosen disciples with high talent.” Gerard sighs. “But talent alone is not enough. I have made mistakes. Some who were not as talented but worked hard were
overlooked.”
He gestures vaguely. “Now, they are thriving in their fields. Meanwhile, some of my most talented students either gave up music for family or became complacent, only to be surpassed by those less talented.” He shakes his head. “They ultimately achieved nothing.”
He looks at me, and I see the disappointment in his eyes. “So, for my last disciple, I have decided to do things differently.”
At this moment, Gerard’s sharp demeanor softens into
something almost grandfatherly. Kind. Gentle. But the kindness.
is not directed at me.
I open my mouth, but the words I want to say stick in my throat. They will not come.
I know that opportunities often come only once. Once missed, they are gone forever. Perhaps Gerard had initially planned to take on one last exceptionally talented disciple, but something changed his mind.
And now, he has already made his choice.
The light in my eyes dims. The warmth in my chest cools. 12:50
2 Bonus
< Chapter 253
Just then, Noah speaks up. He has been silent until now, watching, waiting.
“Mr. Adler, Ms. Green was not aware of your invitation.” His voice is respectful but insistent. “If she had known, she would never have refused.”
Gerard shakes his head, a small smile on his lips. “I am sorry, but I have decided not to take on any more disciples.”
Noah presses on, undeterred. “Ms. Green is exceptionally talented and still passionate about music.” He pauses. “You do not have to take her as a disciple. Perhaps you could guide her as a mentor to someone who has lost her way?”
Gerard considers this. His eyes drift back to me, studying my
face.
I hold my breath.
r
The room seems to shrink around us. The murmuring crowd fades into background noise.
Gerard’s gaze is unreadable. Weighing. Measuring.
I wait.
6 Write your comment

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Alpha's Discarded Luna (Talia)