I Walked Away And He Lost His Mind (Zephyra and Steven) novel Chapter 416

In the end, I didn't call Horace. I just sent him a message with my location and waited for the competition to start.

Horace had trouble walking, so he didn't come backstage. We had a quick video call before he went to prepare for his performance.

The singing competition featured various songs. Horace had placed first last time. If he did well in this qualifying round and maintained his top spot, he would be guaranteed a place in the top three, advancing directly to the championship round.

The atmosphere in the venue was electric. Horace had a massive fanbase; even some established singers weren't as popular as he was, despite him not having officially debuted.

As last round's winner, Horace had a solo stage. He sat at the piano in his wheelchair, dressed in a sharp suit, exuding a gentle and refined aura.

The lighting was soft, and his voice was deep and melancholic. He was like a sorrowful prince in a winter landscape, bathed in a halo of light that made everyone forget he couldn't walk.

Many female fans screamed, “Horace, I love you!”

Horace had a special quality when he sang, as if he had his own natural spotlight. He was positioned directly in front of me, and for a brief moment, our eyes met. He looked at me with such affection and tenderness.

My heart fluttered. Women seem to have a natural weakness for men who can create an atmosphere, and in that moment, even I was captivated by his charm.

A true gentleman, devoted and deeply affectionate.

Many were mesmerized by his handsome face or lost in his voice. Some with strong empathy even shed a few tears.

When the song ended, Horace once again received the highest score. The crowd erupted in cheers, and I clapped enthusiastically.

Everything was going smoothly until the final rankings were announced. Horace took first place, but one of the other contestants, clearly unhappy, grabbed a mic and spoke out.

Countless spotlights fixed on Horace's face. Some people, quick to believe rumors, began to wonder if he really was being sponsored by some sleazy older woman. Others remained steadfast in their support, and the two sides argued fiercely.

Horace held the microphone, looking around, lost. His gaze traveled through the crowd and landed on me. His eyes were clear, conveying his innocence.

Of course, I knew he was innocent. After all, the "fat old hag" in the rumor was supposed to be me.

Horace was in trouble. I couldn't just stand by and watch. I stood up and walked toward the stage.

In front of everyone, my voice rang out, clear and crisp.

“Hello, everyone. I’m the ‘fat old hag’ who made sure Horace could stay in the competition. It's not a sponsorship; it's just a fan spending money. Horace is worth it.”