?Chapter 20:


    On the stage, Demi’s eyes suddenly caught sight of Ellie. Her voice, filled with surprise, rang out. “Ellie, why are you just standing there? Mom and Dad searched for you but couldn’t find you.”


    Demi was implying that Litzy and Houston had been looking for Ellie.


    How could Ellie just stand there idly and watch?


    As Demi pointed her out, the guests’ attention turned to a striking woman d in a subtle ck evening gown.


    Litzy, apanied by her husband, hade to support Demi, knowing that Ellie had caused Demi to lose face.


    She suddenly had an idea of how to humiliate Ellie. She gestured and called, “Ellie,e here, dear.” Demi’sughter echoed softly.


    Today wasn’t just about her shining; it was about unveiling Ellie’s real background to the high-profile circles of entertainment and fashion. A personcking a wealthy background was one thing, but masquerading as a refineddy was quite another!


    Ellie, though not close to the Gordons, her adoptive parents, feltpelled to uphold a certain decorum.


    Gracefully lifting her gown, she walked over to them.


    Litzy, with a friendly demeanor, suggested, “They say you’re quite talented with the violin. Would you grace us with a performance?” Ellie was now in a tough spot.


    Outperforming Demi could imply she exploited Demi’s resources. But performing poorly would only elevate Demi’s superiority.


    “I’m sorry, it’s been ages since Ist yed. I don’t know how to y anymore,” Ellie declined, choosing diplomacy over confrontation.


    Litzy, with a mix of satisfaction and disappointment, shook her head.


    “Have you truly forgotten? Such a waste of our years of nurturing. If Demi had started young, she might be in a prestigious conservatory now. Even the former Mrs. Thorpe once admired your talent. Well, I guess she misjudged you.”


    The “former Mrs. Thorpe” Litzy referred to was Brisa Thorpe, Kaiden’s mother.


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    Ellie had first encountered Brisa as a judge at a high school violinpetition. Since then, Brisa had been a source of encouragement and support for her. Ellie always held Brisa in high regard.


    Tragically, Brisa had sumbed to an illness years ago, a loss that still weighed on Ellie.


    Upon hearing Brisa’s name, Ellie’s neutral facade gave way to visible irritation.


    Litzy’s opinion of her mattered little, but to tarnish Brisa’s image was unforgivable. One’s reputation was precious and not to be tarnished so lightly!


    “Could you find me a banjo?” Ellie abruptly inquired of a nearby waiter.


    For Ellie, the banjo was the perfect instrument to settle this quietly simmering rivalry. Her intent was clear: to overshadow Demipletely.


    Before the waiter could reply, Demi interjected with augh, “A banjo? There’s a special one at the banquet hall entrance, but it’s not for ying. It’s an antique.”


    “I’m fine with any banjo,” Ellie said, maintaining herposure.


    The waiter replied, “Excuse me for a moment, ma’am.”


    Walking to the side, the waiter called Jerome to inform him of the situation.


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