Chapter 135

The unexpected twist abruptly cut the live broadcast short, cameras quickly panning to the judging panel. The host swiftly intervened, flashing a practiced smile. "A minor technical difficulty, folks! We'll give Ms. Sinclair and Mr. Blackwood a moment to regroup. Meanwhile, let's hear our judges' thoughts on tonight's performances—we've certainly had some spectacular surprises!"

As the camera focused on the judges—who'd just received urgent whispers from Preston Whitmore and Donovan Sharpe—the internet exploded. Live chat comments scrolled furiously:

What happened to Evelyn?! Is she okay?

This production is cursed! First the mic issues, now this!

I swear if they cut her performance short after that epic courtroom scene...

Team Elite just exposed half of Hollywood's skeletons tonight!

Someone check if the industry execs are having heart attacks backstage!

Backstage, chaos reigned—except for the Blackwood family, who formed a protective circle around Evelyn. Nathan reached her first, his hands hovering uncertainly as Margaret Blackwood fretted, "Sweetheart, where does it hurt?"

Evelyn bit her lip, guilt twisting her stomach. God, I hate lying to them... "Just my ankle," she murmured. "I don't think I can walk properly."

Julian immediately moved to carry her, while Sophia Blackwood checked for other injuries. "We're taking you to the hospital," Richard Blackwood declared, already pulling out his phone.

"No, really, it's not that bad—" Evelyn protested, but the Blackwoods had already shifted into crisis mode. Across the room, Isabelle Laurent fumed silently. She could at least tough it out for the finale!

Preston and Donovan arrived, faces pale. "The network's breathing down our necks," Preston whispered. "Can the show go on?"

Evelyn saw their desperation and had an idea. "We'll find a replacement," she promised.

Donovan's eyes widened. "Who could possibly—"

At that moment, Rebecca Yancey appeared in the doorway, concern etching her features. Evelyn's smile turned feline. "Perfect timing."

Every head swiveled toward the newcomer. Isabelle's jaw dropped as realization struck. Oh. My. God.

"Ms. Yancey," Evelyn said sweetly, wincing for effect. "I'm afraid I can't perform. Would you... take my place tonight?"

The backstage crew froze mid-bite on their snacks. Rebecca blinked as if struck. "Excuse me?"

Nathan's lips twitched. Clever girl. The Blackwoods exchanged knowing glances—their daughter-in-law had just set the stage for the performance of a lifetime.