Chapter 11
Chapter 11
to
Amaris waved her hand dismissively. “No, you’ve got it all wrong. She dissed me first. But honestly? I thought Ismay’s rap was really good. If she ever tried out for something like a singing program, she could totally make it into the top 100, maybe even the top 50. But Ismay isn’t the Type seule for that she’s always pushing for more. So, since she can’t be a singer, she’ll just be the loudest one spitting bars among the stand–up comedians. As long as she’s rapping, she’s the most special and unique one up there, no matter if the audience gets it or not! You know what? She really did succeed like this! We’ve got to give her credit”
Stand–up comedy is supposed to be all about having fun–joking around and spreading good vibes, as long as the audience is enjoying it
Amaris shot a few heartfelt lines toward Ismay, and the applause grew even wilder.
“You know, I think I might just hit the singing stage with a stand–up routine one day, Imagine everyone looking at me, realizing how special and different I am, and then maybe they’d let me climb all the way to the top and hand me a championship or something! Amaris continued.
From the judges‘ table. Angela Holt laughed and said, “That’s impossible! People are just gonna say, “You’re in the wrong venuel”
“Only deep connections can make dreams come true! Amaris teased with a playful smile, her scarlet lips curling. “But hey, I know I’m not going to win the championship because I’m too lazy. My scripts are all improvised. I just wing it with a few random lines. I can’t be like Ismay, knocking on the judges‘ doors late at night asking for serious coaching! Seriously, though, her rap lyrics were fantastic.”
She turned around and looked at Ismay with a meaningful smile. Remember that time you went around to all the judges and one of them actually took the time to help you out! Your dedication must’ve really moved them I’m actually touched. It shows the difference between a master and someone who’s just okay, I really admire Ismay’s hustle!
Ismay, sining off to the side, felt her cheeks heat up. Is Mary here to compete or just to stir things up? she wondered.
“It was baffling how Amaris could say one of the judges was Ismay’s ghostwriter. Sure, it was the truth, but to say that out loud!
Ismay didn’t want to be outdone. She smiled and replied. Thanks, but I’m not a master at anything—I just work hard.”
“So, if you snag the title, do you think the other contestants will be convinced? Amaris asked.
“Well, why don’t you ask yourselves why you can’t clinch the championship?”
“Right! That reminds me, I should ask all three of them. I’ll do it now Amaris seemed to be waiting for this moment. On stage, she dramatically pulled out her phone, pretending to dial. Then suddenly, an audio clip blared out from the speaker
“Mary, sign this contract, and I promise to support you in the top three!”
“And what if I don’t sign”
“Mary, is this your first time on the show? Look, it’s an industry rule–if you want to make it to the top three, you’ve got to sign with our company first. You need to realize this is an incredible opportunity. So many people dream of it but can’t get even close!”
“I’m not signing
out if you were the frontrunner for the title, and you’d give up such a huge chance to someone else?”
“Come on, think about itf
“Who’s the ‘someone else‘ again! Ismay?”
“I’m glad you know it.”
“If that’s how this title is won, I don’t want it!”
The audience buzzed with excitement at the revelation. It seemed like the championship had already been decided
They were still trying to lure Mary in, but Mary had the guts to refuse their ridiculous demands. From the moment she stepped into the ring, it was clear she was out of the title race.
It was obvious the winner was a done deal, yet there were so many contest procedures and voting rules. So, it was just for show. This competition was shady.
The atmosphere was chaotic, and a few prominent judges looked a bit rattled. Backstage, Liam caught a glimpse of the mess and rushed to the stage, only to be held back by Callan.
