Chapter 330

For years, countless hopeful musicians had approached Leonard Herty, begging for his guidance. Some truly desired to master the cello, while others saw him as nothing more than a means to climb the social ladder.

Leonard knew this all too well. It was why he had refused to take on students for so long.

The only exception had been Natalie Riley, a prodigious young cellist who had studied under him before he rose to prominence. She had been his pupil since the age of five, blossoming into a musician of extraordinary skill.

Yet now, Evelyn Carter had stirred something in him—something he hadn’t felt in years.

Her technique wasn’t flawless. Her execution needed refinement. But there was something undeniable in the way she played—an emotional intensity, a raw connection to the music that couldn’t be taught.

When Evelyn played, the cello didn’t just sing—it wept, it laughed, it breathed. Technique could be polished, but the soul she poured into every note was rare.

For the first time in decades, Leonard considered breaking his own rule.

He was certain—Evelyn had the makings of something extraordinary.

The irony wasn't lost on him. The talented young woman he'd been searching for was none other than the very apprentice he wished to mentor. Leonard found this twist of fate deliciously poetic.

His weathered face broke into a warm smile as he studied her. "Would you consider becoming my protégé? It would be my privilege to pass on everything I know and make you my final student."

Evelyn's breath caught. Her mind reeled at the realization that this was the legendary musician Olivia and the others had spoken of.

"Cat got your tongue?" Richard nudged her arm, his voice urgent. "Leonard Herty is offering to teach you! Do you understand how many would sell their soul for this chance?"

Evelyn pressed her lips into a thin line, tuning out Richard's excitement.

She met Leonard's expectant gaze and after a weighted pause, responded with gentle firmness, "Maestro Herty, your faith in me is humbling, but I'm merely a hobbyist. The cello is my escape, not my destiny."

Richard's jaw slackened, disbelief contorting his features.

His thoughts screamed, Have you lost your mind, Evelyn? This is your golden ticket into high society! How can you be so blind? You're rejecting what others would kill for!

Leonard reeled as if struck. After decades of rejecting pupils, he'd finally discovered someone worthy—only to face immediate rejection. The sting was sharper than he'd anticipated.

The air thickened with unspoken tension as Evelyn's refusal hung between them like a guillotine's blade.

To Leonard Herty's surprise, Evelyn Carter's blunt rejection didn't offend him—it intrigued him.

While others groveled for his attention, she stood firm, unshaken. A rare woman of principle.

A quiet laugh escaped him as he offered her an easy exit. "No pressure. Take all the time you need. My door remains open if you reconsider."

Richard Hayes, however, couldn't let this slip. His grip tightened on Evelyn's arm as he yanked her aside, frustration sharpening his tone.

"Have you lost your mind? This is Leonard Herty! Do you think he offers mentorship to just anyone?"

His voice dropped to a furious whisper. "You will accept. Do not humiliate him—or me—in front of everyone."

Evelyn stared at him, baffled. Since when did her choices belong to Richard?

Her retort came swift and biting. "Mr. Hayes, since when do you dictate my decisions? This is none of your concern."

The words rang louder than intended. Heads turned. Even Leonard's brows lifted, amusement flickering in his gaze.

Richard stiffened under the weight of their audience. The public defiance stung—a slap to his pride he hadn't seen coming.

Alexander turned back, his voice a dangerous whisper. "You're crossing a line."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow, her lips curling into a mocking smile. "That line was drawn years ago. Tell me, what sort of father abandons his own flesh and blood?"

The entire elite circle knew about Richard and Margaret's twisted priorities.

Instead of cherishing their biological daughter, they had poured their love and resources into an imposter—a fact that had fueled endless high-society gossip.

The murmurs in the room grew louder. Some guests didn't even bother to hide their judgmental stares at Richard, clearly relishing the scandal unfolding before them.

Secret Longing: A Second Chance at Love After Incarceration (Evelyn)

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