Chapter 199: I’m Not Afraid Of A Little Competition
Even after the came out of the shower, Levi was being very clingy. He insisted on helping apply lotion on her skin and by the time he was done, Lyse was panting with renewed excitement. With a final, playful shove, she managed to extricate herself from Levi’s amorous clutches. "I really have to go," she said, her voice a mixture of amusement and exasperation. "If I don’t leave now, I will be late."
Levi, still grinning mischievously, reluctantly released her. "Fine," he conceded, his eyes sparkling. "But you still owe me. Big time."
Lyse rolled her eyes, but her heart was light. She felt aglow, energized, ready to conquer the world. Even the thought of the upcoming competition, and the inevitable encounter with Brooke, could not dampen her spirits.
She quickly finished getting ready, her movements efficient and purposeful. She chose a simple but elegant dress, something comfortable yet stylish, and applied a light layer of makeup. She wanted to look professional, but also herself.
As she grabbed her bag and headed out the door, she couldn’t help but smile. Levi had been right. Starting the day with...pleasure...had been surprisingly invigorating. She felt confident, focused, and ready to take on whatever challenges the day might bring.
The drive to the competition venue was quick, but her excitement grew with each passing mile. She was almost late, but she made it. She was here, ready to compete, ready to showcase her talent.
As she entered the backstage area, she noticed that the place was not as rowdy as the previous day thanks to the contestants who had not passed the screening. Then her good mood plummeted when she saw Brooke, standing there along with her entourage as if she had been waiting, her face a picture of smug satisfaction even though Lyse could spot the disappointment in her eyes. She spotted Lyse and her smile widened, a predatory gleam in her eyes.
"Well, well," she drawled, her voice laced with sarcasm. "Look who finally decided to show up. I was beginning to think you had chickened out, Lyse. Got cold feet, perhaps?"
Lyse met Brooke’s gaze with a confident smile. "I would not miss this for the world, Brooke," she replied, her voice calm and even. "I’m not afraid of a little competition."