chapter471

Richie sent Lucinda the updated sheet music with a message. [Don't waste Melody Mastro's effort. Find somewhere private and really practice.]

Any piece revised by Melody Mastro was basically legendary. Since this was the competition piece, it was best to keep it under wraps. No need to invite trouble before the big day. With the piano competition happening tomorrow, there were probably contestants all over France, tucked into every hotel.

Lucinda stared at the score and Richie's message, so excited she could barely sit still. Oh my god, Melody Mastro actually helped her revise the piece! Tomorrow's championship was as good as hers.

Lydia, just wait. Lucinda was determined to show her what a real international champion looked like.

While Lydia was working on the music, Connor had been quietly watching from the side, completely stunned. After the shock wore off, he just felt numb. He started to wonder if there was any field where Lydia didn't have some secret identity tucked away. She was just way too good at hiding her talents.

As soon as Lucinda got the revised score, she stood up from the piano. This place wasn't right for her practice anymore. These people didn't deserve to hear her masterpiece.

The moment she got up to leave, a few young men rushed over, all eager to talk, showering her with compliments about her looks, her vibe, her piano skills. The attention made her even more proud. She turned down every single one of them, barely concealing her disdain. How could any of these guys think they were worthy of her? Honestly, they didn't even deserve to be her fans.

"Lucinda!"

As she and Grace walked out of the restaurant, a voice called from behind, one she recognized instantly. Lucinda frowned.

"Lucinda! Wait up."

Grace glanced back and smiled. Mr. Hansen, what brings you here?"

It was Caspian Hansen, known in the Capital as the most low-key heir around. He had none of the arrogance or flashiness you'd expect from someone with his background. He was tall a bit on the leanside, always dressed simply and neatly. He didn't care about fan y brands but somehow always looked crisp and fresh. His face was pleasant, not exactly striking, but his eyes were clear and honest, totally free of scheming or cynicism.

"I... I heard Lucinda was here for the competition. I'm in town on a business trip, so I wanted to wish her good luck."

He pulled out a slender velvet box from his pocket, probably a necklace inside. He spoke softly, his voice humble and genuine, with not a trace of pretension.

Lucinda barely spared it a glance, her face showing clear annoyance. Did he really think she needed a necklace from him?

"Thanks, but I don't "

Grace stepped in smoothly, taking the box with an easy smile. "That's very thoughtful of you, Mr. Hansen Thanks for supporting Lucinda. Lucinda frowned, but Grace kent going. "Are you coming to the competition tomorrow?"

Caspian swallowed nervously, glancing at Lucinda, who looked as graceful and distant as ever. He nodded. "Yes, I'll be there."

Grace's smile brightened. Great, we'll see you there. Lucinda needs to get back to her practice now."

Caspian quickly agreed, and Lucinda didn't even look back as she walked away. Once they were outside the hotel, Lucinda shot Grace a puzzled look. Grace, why

did you take his gift? It's just a cheap necklace. What are we even going to do with

it?"

was calm and serious.

Grace's voice wa

"No matter what, he's the only heir to

the Hansen family. They might not

be on the same level as the

Jeffersons, but the Hangens are loaded and have real influence in the Capital."

Lucinda wrinkled her nose in disgust. So what? I honestly don't care."