Chapter 360: Chapter 360: Breaking the Rumors

Translator: 549690339

Maxwell Martin sneered, “Miss Evans, there’s no need to be modest. You were young then, but you already showed an incredible talent for the violin. Three years is enough for you to accomplish something. Your skill might not be on par with Zara, but even if you don’t play well, we won’t mock you. We’ll help you improve. Or are you saying that you look down on me?”

The atmosphere changed as he spoke.

In the music industry, nothing is more taboo than disrespecting elders. Maxwell Martin is a well-known domestic musician who appears in all major programs. If word got out that Xaviera Evans was disrespectful to this elder, she would be harshly criticized.

Xaviera Evans gave a light-hearted smile, turned her gaze to Caleb Mamet and asked, “Caleb, should I perform?”

All eyes moved to Caleb Mamet.

Zara Woods’ heart pounded fiercely, her entire body trembling.

Caleb slowly lifted his gaze, his icy eyes scanned the crowd and finally settled on Zara Woods. “Do you want to compete with my wife?”

Everyone in the audience gasped, and they all looked at Zara Woods.

Zara swallowed, repressing her shuddering body, put on what she thought was a beautiful smile, and gently said: “Mr. Caleb Mamet, this isn’t really a competition. I’ve never heard Xaviera play before and I’m eager to experience it. Despite the rumors claiming Xaviera to be worthless, I simply want to show everyone that Xaviera is talented at something—playing the violin.”

“Moreover, I have heard that Madam Jaak is quite fond of the violin, so if Xaviera performs well, it would be a great opportunity for her to make her presence known.”

The way she phrased it seemed entirely reasonable and faultless.

There was a murmur among the crowd.

When they came to attend the birthday feast, they were told that Caleb would be taking his wife along for the banquet. They had yet to hear about Caleb’s marriage, hence they were quite curious about this Mrs. Mamet, who was rumored to be the notorious uncultured girl from the country—Xaviera Evans.

“Miss Woods is right, Xaviera’s reputation isn’t good indeed. While this might be the fault of the Evans family for leaving her in the country instead of upbringing her like a typical wealthy family’s daughter, it’s true that she was raised in the countryside.”

“Perhaps it’s because of Xaviera’s background that Mr. Caleb Mamet kept his marriage a secret. Otherwise, why hasn’t he made an official announcement yet?”

Caleb’s expression turned icy.

He never intended to keep it a secret, she was the one who didn’t want to make an official announcement.

But at this juncture, it actually could be a good thing. If he couldn’t urge Mrs. Mamet, he could seize this opportunity to get her to initiate the official announcement herself.

Xaviera Evans blinked, “Miss Woods, you really enjoy gossip, don’t you? I’m curious what rumors you’ve been hearing?”

Zara Woods lowered her gaze awkwardly, “Err…”

“That you lack cultural upbringing, that you’re void of the dignity and talent of a noble lady!” A woman beside Zara Woods blurted out.

“Every woman here is a daughter from a wealthy family. We’ve been brought up in luxury since childhood, learning music and flower arrangement. You, on the other hand, were raised in a rural area and undoubtedly lack finesse. Zara is only thinking of you, aware of the rumors branding you as ignorant and incompetent. That’s why she wants to help you dispel these rumors!”

Xaviera chuckled, “Oh… I see! Well, I really appreciate it, Miss Woods!”

Zara Woods let out a sigh of relief: “Xaviera, you’re Caleb’s wife, and I’m his friend. Helping you is only natural, there’s no need to thank me.”

Maxwell Martin spoke sarcastically, “Zara has already given you the opportunity. If Miss Evans doesn’t dare to get on stage for the performance, it would be incredibly disappointing. It’s no surprise that you didn’t make it to the finals at the time.”

“Zara, maybe we should forget it. It seems like Miss Evans is reluctant…”

“Mr. Martin, no way, Xaviera is excellent…” Zara Woods feigned concern, hastily defending Xaviera, albeit with a dismissive tone.

If Xaviera didn’t get on stage to perform, it would confirm the reputation of her being incompetent and ignorant besides disappointing Zara Woods. From that point onwards, she would never be able to hold her head high in front of her.

In an atmosphere thick with tension, Xaviera finally nodded, “Alright.”