Chapter 369 Tony perked up. "Oh, Ottilie! Of course I know her-the show's aired three episodes already, and every song she's performed is incredible!" "I know Ottilie too," someone chimed in. "People are saying she's this season's champion, hands down!" "Her songs are all originals, and they really have her own style," another added. "She's even managed to weave in traditional elements. That's rare these days!" Mary nodded in agreement. "Exactly. Honestly, her vocals are just average, but her songs are amazing. And she already responded on her social media-she said all the songs were written by Ms. Lockwood!" A sudden hush fell over the room, then a wave of commotion broke out.
Every eye turned to Rosita.
She tightened her grip on her water glass, heart pounding. Of all things, why did this have to cup now? But she kept her expression cool. "Mary, you're givingtoo much credit. Ottilie's my cousin she's always dreamed of being a singer. I just helped her out a little. Those songs? I wrote them in my spare time, just for fun." "Oh, don't be so modest, Ms. Lockwood!" Mary laughed. "Those tunes have a real folksy vibe. You'd have to be seriously talented to write songs like that!" Rosita studied Mary carefully. She couldn't shake the feeling that Mary was doing this on purpose.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtBut as far as she knew, only she and Ottilie were aware of the truth behind those songs. There was no way anyone else could know... unless- Her gaze snapped to Briony, suspicion flickering in her eyes.
Briony had been waiting for that look, and when it finally came, she smiled-a slow, knowing curve of her lips. "Ms. Lockwood, you really are the whole package. Acting, songwriting, and now we hear you're a folk music expert too. What a treasure you are." Rosita forced a smile, clenching her jaw. "I just dabble in it for fun. I wouldn't call myself an expert." Briony feigned surprise. "You taught yourself folk music?" Rosita had no choice but to nod. "Yes. Self-taught." At this, Ferdinand let out a quiet laugh.
Everyone glanced his way, puzzled at what he found funny.
Briony, however, understood perfectly.
Folk music wasn't something you could just pick up on your own. Even here in Goldenleaf, where tradition was valued and passed down, most started learning as children under the guidance of a mentor. Totruly master it, you needed to start young and have the right teacher.
Briony's grandfather had started scouting for a folk music tutor for her when she was just eight. It took her until she was thirteen to really get it, and only then did she begin experimenting, blending folko melodies into pop music.
Rosita, on the other hand, had stolen what she didn't understand and still thought she'd hidden it well.
Briony arched an eyebrow, her tone
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmlight but with a challenge beneath.
"What a coincidence-I'm a folk music since you're so enthusiast mysood, why don't we skilled, Ms.
have a little impromptu jam session? What do you say?" Rosita hesitated. "I... uh..." "I want to see!" Mary was the first to raise her hand, grinning and winking at Rosita. "Con, Ms. Lockwood- give us a show!" Rosita: "..."
too!" Tony shot his hand up. "I've had 'Grandpa's Paintbrush' on repeat for days now. Who knew the O composer was you, Ms. Lockwood? You're my idol- seriously, that's amazing!" Driscoll joined in, grinning. "Ms. Lockwood, you really are extraordinary. No wonder the show invited you as our special guest-you're full of surprises!"
The director, clearly delighted, slapped the table. "It's settled then! Ms. Lockwood, will you play d then! 'Grandpa's Paintbrush' for us? Someone get a folk guitar for her!" "On it!" called an assistant. Rosita: "