The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 182

"The opening act is crucial," Abby had said, leaning back in her chair with a knowing smile. "Everyone's still fresh, so as long as you don't mess up and have a few highlights, you're bound to score high. Even if someone performs equally well later, it's tough to top the opener's score."

And Abby was right. One after another, the next five or six acts took the stage, and none managed to surpass that initial score.

Abby watched the performances with a puzzled look. "Hey, isn't this supposed to be a talent show? Why is everyone just playing instruments? Where's the singing and dancing?"

Singing and dancing were talents too, after all.

Neville, who had been lounging and watching the acts with a kind of bored detachment, finally spoke up. "Singing and dancing, for families like ours, are considered a bit lowbrow. In our circles, children learn proper disciplines—Mozart by seven, Debussy by ten, and at least passable watercolors before puberty. Not because we'll ever need them, of course. But taste is what separates us from the rest."

Abby nodded, understanding dawning on her. "Ah, I see."

On stage, there was a medley of instruments being played. Pianos, harps, organ, cellos, violins—you name it.

It was a blend of Eastern and Western, modern and classical, a true smorgasbord of sounds.

There was even a parent playing the violin, who seemed aware of the stiff competition and had a hard time focusing, scraping by with a mere eighty points.

Abby watched with great interest.

Time passed, and soon a teacher approached Stella and her son Marvin. "Marvin and family, please make your way backstage."

"We're ready, thank you," Stella replied, holding Marvin's hand as they headed off.

Abby called after them with a grin, "Stella, go out there and knock 'em dead! Go take what yours! No holding back!"

Stella smiled back. "Of course."