?Chapter 79:


    Right now, Luciano had only one thing on his mind—Elliana must not win the championship. If she outshined Paige, his name would be dragged through the mud.


    Of course, Luca’s bold deration of Lonely Sunset as the winner broke thepetition rules. ording to the guidelines, judges were supposed to deliberate together and vote before announcing a result.


    Luciano jumped at the loophole and went after Luca without hesitation. Paige, too, didn’t want to see Elliana take the crown. She stood up right after Luciano, her tone sharp and biting. “Mr. Wilde, I’ve always admired your ce in the art world. I never imagined you’d toss aside your principles for personal gain. Tell us, how much did Elliana offer you to make you risk your name and break the rules?”


    Paige and Luciano cornered Luca with their usations. He realized he’d gone too far—but he showed no sign of remorse. Instead, heposed himself and answered calmly. “I apologize for my outburst. I spoke out of excitement. What I said earlier was just my personal opinion. Thepetition will go on as nned.”


    But everyone knew—those words were as good as casting a vote.


    After that, Luca turned to Elliana. His tone softened, his eyes sincere. “With my level of skill, I’m not qualified to vote on your work… What made you suddenly decide to enter the Starry Oil Painting Competition?”


    The audience stirred. They couldn’t understand why Luca, usually reserved and proud, was now so humble before Elliana.


    “Mr. Wilde is known for his integrity. He never tters anyone. What’s going on?”


    “Even if he likes her painting, there’s no need to lower himself like this. She’s a neer. He’s a legend.”


    No one could make sense of Luca’s sudden change in tone. Luciano and Paige were just as confused—and furious.


    Luciano, who had always disliked Luca, could barely keep his cool. His jaw tightened, and anger boiled beneath his skin. “What’s gotten into Luca?” he muttered under his breath.


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    Paige gave Luciano a side nce, her face clouded with unease. “Mr. Scott, grumbling won’t fix this. We need to stop Luca before he makes things worse.”


    Luciano didn’t answer. He took a deep breath and marched toward the stage.


    The host, seeing Luciano approach, quickly introduced him. “Ladies and gentlemen, this is Mr. Scott, president of the Calligraphers and Painters Association. He is an expert in oil painting, with numerous awards to his name. Please give a warm wee to Mr. Scott!” Apuse followed, though it was lukewarm. Everyone’s focus was still on Luca and Elliana.


    With a grim expression, Luciano took the microphone andunched his attack. “Mr. Wilde, you’ve always presented yourself as a calm and upright man. Today, you’ve made everyone question that. Are you and Elliana more than just judge and contestant?”


    Luca didn’t flinch. He didn’t even nce at Luciano. His eyes remained fixed on Elliana, still waiting for her response.


    Being ignored like this stung. Luciano’s pride took a hit. He chuckled coldly and struck even harder. “Everyone knows you and I don’t get along. Still, I’ve always respected your seniority and stayed professional. But today, you’ve crossed a line. If you’re going to disrupt the finals like this, I won’t stand by. Let’s settle this now! Is this really about art—or are you just trying to hurt me by favoring Elliana over my protégé, Paige?”


    He took a step forward, his voice rising. “You’re a master, a role model for the younger generation. Yet, here you are, misusing your authority out of personal spite. Don’t you feel ashamed?”


    The atmosphere thickened. Tension filled the room like smoke.


    The crowd only dared to whisper. No one wanted to step into a fight between two giants. Luca was a respected elder. Luciano held power as president of the Calligraphers and Painters Association. No one wanted to offend either side.


    Seeing Luciano take control of the moment, Paige followed his lead. She lifted the hem of her gown and walked onto the stage. But unlike Luciano’s sharp tone, she yed the victim. “Mr. Wilde, if this is what it takes to ease your tension with Mr. Scott, then I’m willing to step down from thepetition…”


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