Chapter 82

The stage lights suddenly focused on Nathan Lowell as he walked slowly to the center.

The entire studio fell silent.

The flood of live comments visibly slowed down.

Everyone held their breath, waiting for the performance.

The prelude to "Child" began to play softly.

Nathan's deep voice flowed through the air.

The song told a story about growing distant from parents during adolescence.

When it reached the chorus, the melody abruptly became intense.

Some audience members frowned.

"This modulation..."

"Too abrupt."

The professional judges exchanged glances.

The live chat exploded with comments.

"Isn't this Composer T's signature style?"

"The imitation is too obvious."

"And the chorus sounds overdone."

Many in the audience were music students.

They immediately noticed the disharmony.

"Without that awkward modulation..."

"This song would be on par with Sophia's original 'Spring Love Song'."

This realization made many people thoughtful.

Nathan's fans remained unusually quiet in the chat.

Only a few superficial fans still defended him.

The judges' panel fell into brief silence.

Finally, Nathan's mentor cleared his throat.

"The lyrics have depth..."

"Experimenting with new styles is commendable..."

His praise sounded restrained.

Then Adrian Valentine suddenly raised his microphone.

"Nathan—"

He deliberately drew out the last syllable.

Nathan shot him a cold glare.

"I have a question."

Adrian ignored the warning look.

"Your previous works..."

"Were they all polished by Sophia?"

The words detonated like a bomb.

Every camera immediately focused on Nathan.

His expression froze.