The Echoes of the Piano

The Start

The night of the opera performance had arrived, and the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. The prestigious opera hall was packed with guests, family members, music professionals, and critics. It was a night of glamour and prestige—one that would surely mark the next chapter of Haerin and Minji's journey, but neither of them knew how it would all end.

Haerin stood backstage, her nerves masked by an air of quiet confidence. Her eyes flickered over the shimmering fabric of her gown, a dress so opulent and intricate it seemed like a work of art in itself. The gown, made from luxurious silk and embroidered with delicate gold thread, looked like it belonged in a museum—one of those rare pieces that only the elite could access. It was a reflection of her family's wealth and status, a silent statement that she was the one to watch tonight.

Her reflection in the mirror only confirmed what she had known all along: *She couldn't lose. Not tonight.*

In the corner of the backstage area, Minji was adjusting her own classical ballroom gown. It was beautiful, elegant, but there was something about Haerin's gown that made Minji feel small in comparison. Minji had chosen simplicity over extravagance, a soft satin dress in a pale blush color that complemented her natural grace. It was the kind of gown that exuded quiet elegance—but next to Haerin's sparkling masterpiece, it seemed almost modest.

Minji took a deep breath, reminding herself that it wasn't about the gown. It was about the performance. And yet, as she stared at Haerin's flawless composure, she couldn't help but feel the weight of the rivalry pushing down on her shoulders. *I can't lose to her. Not tonight.*

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As the curtains were about to rise, the anticipation in the air grew even thicker. The famous opera singers, who had been invited to scout for rising talent, sat in the front row, their faces a picture of quiet concentration. They were looking for someone special—someone who could shine beyond the usual performances. And there was only one spot available for the singer who would join them for their next major event.

The opera began, and the music filled the air. The audience fell silent in awe as the orchestra played the opening notes. Haerin's heart raced, but she kept herself steady. *This is it. I've prepared for this moment all my life.* She could feel the eyes of her family, her relatives, and the audience on her, but there was only one thing that mattered: performing her best.

As Haerin and Minji took their places on stage for the duet, Minji noticed the sharp contrast between them. Haerin exuded a quiet dominance, her presence overwhelming in every sense. The way she stood, poised and confident, was magnetic. She was in control. On the other hand, Minji felt the nerves creeping in. This wasn't like practicing in the music room. There were no do-overs, no second chances.

Haerin gave Minji a glance just before they began. The look was almost imperceptible, but Minji caught it. *This is it. I'll show her who's really the best.*

The first notes of the duet began, and Haerin's voice rang out clear and controlled. The vibrato in her tone was perfect—every note precise, each line charged with emotion. The audience seemed to hang on every word. Haerin felt like she was floating above the stage, her voice carrying the weight of years of practice, the years of sacrifice, the years of expectations.

Minji sang alongside her, but as the song progressed, she felt herself starting to fall behind. Haerin was in her element—her voice carrying effortlessly through the high notes, every word dripping with meaning and emotion. Minji had always been able to hold her own, but this time, she couldn't ignore the rising tide of self-doubt. She was falling out of sync, struggling to keep up.