Victoria felt a flicker of curiosity but maintained her composed nod.

Moments later, Elizabeth approached with a sleek tablet in hand. "Ms. Langley, would you mind signing this release form?"

"Certainly," Victoria replied, accepting the stylus and gracefully signing her name.

Elizabeth's face lit up as she retrieved the tablet. "Are you participating as a judge today, Ms. Langley?"

"Not at all," Victoria answered smoothly, drawing Liam closer. "I'm here to cheer on this talented young man."

Elizabeth's gaze swept over Liam, admiration shining in her eyes. "With such an accomplished mentor, victory seems inevitable. The Solmaris Conservatory pedigree speaks for itself."

Her remark carried inappropriate favoritism, especially in such a public setting.

Another judge raised an eyebrow, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Ms. Thornton, perhaps you'd care to introduce us to your... distinguished guest?"

Elizabeth remained unruffled. "We're not acquainted personally. Ms. Langley is simply a musician I deeply respect - an alumna of Solmaris Conservatory." The man's dismissive expression transformed instantly.

"Solmaris?" His eyes widened with newfound respect. "We haven't had a Solmaris graduate grace Newhaven's music scene in nearly a decade."

In the world of classical music, while dedication matters, true legacy belongs to those with innate genius.

Unlike ordinary musicians destined for obscurity, Solmaris alumni carved their names in history.

The judging panel's demeanor shifted noticeably upon learning Victoria's prestigious background.

Victoria caught Elizabeth's mistaken assumption about her relationship with Liam and instinctively sought Alexander's reaction.

Alexander opened his mouth to correct the misconception, but Margaret intervened with a hushed warning. "Alex, clarifying now would only humiliate Liam. Think of the consequences if these influential judges discover his mother's... situation. How would that reflect on the Blackwood name?"

She cast a frosty glance toward Amy. "I'm actually protecting Stella's reputation. These judges move in powerful circles - they'll remember any connection to our family and use it against her."

Meanwhile, the event coordinator ushered the judges away. Samantha, witnessing the exchange, bristled with indignation.

"This is unacceptable! They're letting everyone believe you're Liam's mother!"

Amy restrained her with a gentle hand. "Once the divorce is finalized, I'll have no ties to the Blackwoods. Frankly, this misunderstanding saves me future complications."

Samantha snorted derisively. "Please - Margaret wouldn't have acknowledged Victoria's existence last year, and now she's her biggest admirer? Just wait - their hypocrisy will backfire spectacularly."

Flushed with the compliments, Victoria turned and locked eyes with Amy's sardonic stare.

With poised confidence, Victoria's lips curved into a smile that didn't reach her eyes, radiating both contempt and challenge.

"Ms. Sinclair, if you'd care to voice your thoughts, I might consider treating them as harmless humor."