Chapter 52

The stage lights suddenly blazed to life.

Nathan Lowell's tall figure appeared under the spotlight, triggering screams from the live audience.

The live comments exploded instantly.

"Nathan's finally on stage!"

"I've waited so long for this moment!"

But dissenting voices soon emerged.

"Did some people forget about the apology?"

"Nathan owes Sophia a public apology!"

The comment section quickly divided into two camps.

Nathan's fans flooded the screen.

"He's always the best!"

"This new song will blow everyone away!"

The criticism was equally sharp.

"Hypocrites don't deserve this stage."

"Even cruel to his own sister. Speaks volumes about his character."

The show director wiped sweat from his brow.

The episode's popularity exceeded expectations, but public opinion was spiraling out of control.

Nathan stood at center stage.

He wore a black suit with a silver brooch at the collar.

The musical intro began softly.

A melancholic ballad.

Nathan's deep, magnetic voice filled the studio.

"When starlight falls..."

The opening line silenced the audience.

At the judges' table, Sophia Laurent arched an eyebrow.

Her fingers tapped lightly on the scoring sheet before her.

The melody remained steady.

No dramatic crescendos.

Like lukewarm water.

Comments started expressing disappointment.

"Something's missing..."

"Nowhere near his previous work."

"Proof he needs Composer T."

Nathan's gaze drifted toward the judges.

Sophia was writing notes.

She never once looked up.

The deliberate disregard tightened his throat.

He nearly missed a lyric.

The audience noticed his faltering.

"He seems off..."

"Stage fright maybe?"

The chorus arrived.

Should've been the emotional climax.

But Nathan's delivery stayed flat.

Like completing an obligation.

Not performing.

Judge Adrian Valentine turned to Sophia.

"Your thoughts?"

She set down her pen.

"Mediocre."

Her blunt assessment made nearby staff gasp.

This was her brother.

Such coldness?

The final note faded.

Polite applause followed.

Nothing like the initial excitement.

Nathan bowed stiffly.

His conflicted gaze lingered on the judges.

The host bounded onstage.

"Thank you, Nathan Lowell!"

"Judges, your comments please."

The camera focused on Sophia.

The room held its breath.

Everyone awaited the new judge's verdict.