Written Off as Trash, I Activated My Hidden Queen Mode novel Chapter 398

The song ended, and applause erupted.

"What chemistry between this couple!"

"They're perfect together."

"Such a handsome guy taken already... is it that easy?"

"I should've chased him the first day."

The words stung Amelia. She could barely focus on the stage.

If I'd confessed during the graduation trip, would things be different?

She forced a bitter smile and pushed the thought away.

No going back. No point in asking "what if."

Nicole squeezed her hand gently. "Amelia, we're next."

"Okay. Let's do our best."

Amelia smiled, showing no sadness at all.

When the three stepped onto stage, the crowd lit up.

"Who cares about skills? Look at those faces."

Tiffany's face darkened slightly.

She had Jaron now, and she would hold onto him tight.

The Wellington family—one of the top four. She would never let this status slip away.

The light, elegant melody filled the hall, like a classic concert. Everyone felt transported back to the 18th century.

Nicole, Jasper, and Amelia's string trio brought the piece to life perfectly.

The crowd was swept up in joy, completely relaxed.

No other performance mattered anymore.

"They're amazing!" Tiffany said.

Jaron grinned proudly. "Told you."

"I have great taste. Otherwise I wouldn't have picked you out of everyone."

Tiffany tilted her chin, clinging to his arm sweetly.

Jaron smiled and took her hand. "Come on. Let's go to them."

"That was incredible!"

Jaron put his arm around their shoulders like always—their usual group celebration.

But this time, something felt wrong.

"Your tradition is cute! I want in too."

Tiffany lifted her hand, realized she was too short, and dropped it awkwardly.

Jaron stood nearly 6'2''. Nicole and Amelia were about 5'9''. At 5'2'', Tiffany looked tiny beside them.

"Here. I'll lift you." Jaron wrapped one arm around her waist and lifted her up.

Rich kids are all so arrogant.

Someday I will enter their circle.

Fine. Jaron is taken. He doesn't deserve my Amelia.

I told myself I didn't care. So why?

"Jaron!" Tiffany ran after him, eyes glistening with obvious hurt.

"Sorry, I..."

What's wrong with me? I forgot I have a girlfriend.

"It's okay. Let's go." She linked her arm through his and smiled.

I can tell. Amelia loves Jaron.

Too bad the powerful young lady couldn't compete with me.

They arrived at the restaurant. Nicole ordered the most expensive dishes, plus the favorites of Jasper, Amelia and herself.

"I'm done."

Nicole watched Amelia worriedly. She hadn't wanted to come.

But Amelia didn't want anyone to guess her secret. Maybe deeper pain would help her move on.

Jaron stared at the dishes and laughed helplessly.

"Nicole, you mad at me? Nothing I like here."

"I'll order your favorites," Tiffany said, taking the menu.

The meal was unbearably awkward.

Jasper spoiled Nicole. Nicole spoiled Amelia. Tiffany spoiled Jaron.

Only Jaron and Amelia stared silently at each other—the two who were never the ones being taken care of.