Ready to Rule: The Real Heiress Strikes Back novel Chapter 480

Lydia sat in the audience, watching Lucinda throw her little challenging looks, and honestly, she couldn't help but laugh. What was Lucinda even trying to do? Did she really think playing piano made her better than everyone else?

Up on stage, Lucinda looked like some graceful swan, all elegance and poise as she settled in front of the pristine white piano. Her focus was intense, almost like she and the piano had merged into one. Every note she played was packed with emotion, floating through the room and pulling everyone in.

Lydia arched an eyebrow. Sure, this wasn’t the version she’d arranged, but Lucinda was doing a decent job. The audience seemed completely swept away, totally lost in the music.

When the final note lingered in the air, the whole hall erupted in applause. It felt like it would never end. The judges stared at Lucinda, who was now standing and taking her bow, their faces full of praise.

“That was incredible. Absolutely incredible!”

“I haven’t seen anyone this talented in years.”

“Wonderful. Truly wonderful. I can’t wait to see what she does next.”

In the back corner, Richie was nodding along, pleased with what he’d seen. Lucinda’s technique was flawless, and she’d poured her heart into every note.

Lucinda heard the applause and felt her confidence soar. This was only the start. The song she’d just played was her own original piece, and she knew the real competition would only get harder from here. She was saving her best for last.

Just wait, she thought. By the end of today, everyone would be in awe of her.

After the first round, Lucinda’s name was near the top, but not quite number one. First place went to a male contestant from another country. That stung. Backstage, Lucinda was fuming, quietly cursing the judges who hadn’t picked her. Just wait until she played her showstopper. There was no way they’d ignore her then.

She knew Richie well enough by now. He hated arrogance, especially in his students. He wanted people who were humble, genuine, and respectful. She’d always made sure to act like the perfect student around him, but today, pride had gotten the best of her. And now, of all moments, Richie had caught her.

Her heart pounded as regret washed over her. She should have never said those things out loud, especially not here.

“Um… Master Richie…”

Grace was just as flustered. She jumped in to cover for Lucinda, her words tumbling out in a rush. “Master Richie, I’m so sorry. That was all me. Sometimes I just say things without thinking. Please don’t blame Lucinda.”

Richie had already heard plenty of rumors about Lucinda back in the Capital. People said she was spoiled, difficult, and had a serious princess attitude.