The Imposter Bride (Natalia and Magnus) novel Chapter 550

Anna had never attended an event like this before and was determined to see it through successfully, no matter what.

After canvassing the classroom with the class president, it turned out that many of her classmates boasted a variety of talents, though most were merely dabblers, lacking true expertise. This was especially true when it came to finding someone to play the piano — either they hit sour notes or lost the melody entirely.

With no other option and a teacher's task hanging over her head, Anna decided to step up to the plate herself.

Rolling up her sleeves, she said softly, “Let me give it a try.”

The students crowding around the piano gave Anna a look and stepped aside, making way for her.

Taking a deep breath, Anna admitted, “Honestly, I don’t know if I can play well. I’m just going to try. Please, don’t laugh if I mess up.”

“Laugh at you? We’ll roast you mercilessly!” one classmate joked.

“Just play. We're all rookies here. No judgments!” another chimed in.

“Go for it, Anna,” encouraged another.

Her classmates, in their own unique ways, cheered her on. All eyes were warmly fixed on Anna as she took her seat by the piano, waiting in silent anticipation.

Anna nodded with a smile, her heart warmed by the camaraderie. This was why she loved being part of a group — they were just so supportive.

A serene smile graced her face as she extended her slender fingers and let them rest gently on the piano keys. As her fingers danced, the piano sang out with graceful notes, weaving together into a joyful melody — "Adeline by the Water's Edge." It was a famous piano piece with a romantic and elegant style by Richard Clayderman, the only recipient of the Golden Piano Award.

The students were carried by the music and transported to a tranquil forest glade. A gentle breeze carried the scent of pine and the bubbling sound of a nearby stream, wrapping them in an enchanting atmosphere.

When the piece ended, they remained in a daze, lost in the music’s ethereal realm. Anna struck the final note and rose from the piano, curtsying slightly to her audience.

The class erupted in applause.

“Anna, that was amazing! So beautiful!”

“I know that piece too, but I can't play it with such emotion. I'm so jealous of you, Anna.”

“Of course, Anna is the best. You'll have to teach us now!”

“Is this your brother? Oh my gosh, he’s so handsome!”

“Hello, I'm one of Anna's classmates. Please, look out for us.”

“Yes, me too! We're counting on you.”

The girls buzzed around Johanson, some even boldly introducing themselves and striking up a conversation.

Johanson acknowledged them with nods, not engaging much, and instead, he draped an arm around Anna’s shoulder, leading her away. “Let’s go. You've had a long day. How about I take you out for some comfort food?”

“Yeah!” The promise of a treat instantly made Anna forget the earlier critique, and she happily walked off with him into the sunset.

As Anna and Johanson walked away, the students left behind couldn't help but sigh with a mix of envy and awe. The girls couldn't stop gushing about how dashing Anna's brother was, and the boys were just as envious of Johanson for having a sister as sweet and beautiful as Anna.

From that day on, Anna became the talk of the school. A bevy of girls, especially the older ones, started to take her under their wing, showering her with attention.

Meanwhile, Anna's backpack began bulging with an array of trinkets and cards that her new admirers sent, hoping to catch Johanson's eye. Amongst these were anonymous gifts filled with cute little baubles that just kept appearing, their origins a mystery.