Chapter 142

The atmosphere instantly shifted, Excitement buzzed through the room.

Karlee chose a soft, lyrical piece so as not to overshadow the contestants, but her presence still lit up the stage.

When she finished and bowed slightly, the crowd burst into applause.

The host then welcomed the judges to the stage.

"Coming through,guys! Please make way for the judges," a staff member called out.

Vivian and two other judges took the stage and gave their speeches before the final round began.

Backstage, Millie and the other contestants waited for their turn.

"It's gone by so fast. I can't believe we've reached the finals. I'm not ready to say goodbye," Vivian said with a soft smile. Her eyes looked a little red.

The audience quietly nodded along.

Vivian continued, her voice calm, "Though my time is running out, I know when I'm gone, I'll remember these days fondly. They'll bring me tears of joy."

She took a deep breath and then announced, "During the break later, I'll post fifty invitation cards on my social media. If anyone wishes to attend, please use one to come to my funeral a few months from now."She bowed, her eyes wet with emotion.

"I hope you'll come dressed in your best. I want you all to live boldly, and with spirit. And I hope none of you think attending a stranger's funeral would bring you bad luck."

Tears filled the eyes of many in the crowd. Someone shouted, "Not at all! We love you, Vivian! And we just feel sorry for you!"

Online chatter exploded.

Fans were full of sympathy, eager to know how to get a card.

"Only 50? I hope I can get one."

"Vivian's just trying not to bother people. She wants to keep it low-key."

"She's always so thoughtful. I'm honestly in tears."

"Millie, show your face! See how graceful Vivian is. Don't you feel ashamed?"

One harsh comment even read-"I'd rather trade Millie's life for Vivian's."①

That post quickly topped the trending list, racking up the most likes.

After speaking, Vivian left the stage, letting the next judge step forward.

Her eyes scanned the audience, confirming that the seat beside Brandon was still empty.

Lowering her head, she adjusted her outfit, and a faint glimmer of satisfaction lit her eyes.

"Come on, Millie. Show yourself. Let's see how you plan to handle this," Vivian thought.

Backstage, Millie had been watching everything unfold with a calm expression.

She noticed Vivian's frequent glances toward the audience-more specifically, at the empty seat beside Brandon.

She knew it had been reserved for her.

And she also knew Vivian's entire speech was aimed at stirring emotions and pressuring her.

Vivian's PR team really knew how to create a scene. They always had something up their sleeves-and this time was no different.

But Millie only smiled faintly. Vivian's plan wouldn't work.

She wouldn't be walking into the audience. She would be wNalking onto the stage.

Her eyes drifted to Brandon.

He was still staring at the empty seat, brows slightly furrowed, clearly lost in thought.

A few rows down, Jayceon and Adriana had their heads together, whispering and giggling like kids plotting something. Myron sat quietly nearby, half-hidden in the shadows, unreadable.

"Now, let's welcome today's first contestant-Daphne!" the host announced, marking the true start of the final round.