Chapter 333 - OLD HANDS (2/2)

Within a few moments, the entire crowd was hypnotised by the simple and nostalgic music. Some people could not help sighing with jealousy.

Their children could hardly manage acceptable calligraphy doodles while other people's daughters were changing the face of music. Moreover, with the twin factor, almost everyone felt aggrieved that their families did not have multiple births genes.

When the performance ended, the applause was deafening. While the girls were not perfect, they were talented and memorable.

”How could that loud woman give birth to such good daughters?” Hina whispered to Akira.

Akira looked at Hina with an obvious message. 'Have you looked at yourself in the mirror?'

”I am not as loud as she is. Anyway, when I give birth to children, they will be even cuter and smarter.” Hina scoffed before looking at Seiji with a sly smile.

Seiji felt that cold sensation when he saw the calculating light in her eyes.

The rest of the performances were not bad since most people in Mountain Ridge learnt music to some extent. However, it was hard to compete against moe twins with good voices and talent in playing instruments.

Akira was drawn back to the stage when Makiko stepped up. Everyone paid attention to the older woman as she sat elegantly at the piano because she had made herself a name in the classical music world. Her talent was indisputable even though she was no longer an active performer.

As she began the piece 'Islamey', her confidence was brimming, and she was like a shining beacon. However, her performance declined as she proceeded. It was not an obvious problem for the casual listener.

Still, people with a keen ear could sense the problems with the tempo.

”I bet it's her old hands that can't keep up,” Hina whispered to Akira.

”You will soon be just as old,” Akira responded calmly.

”You are right. I can't blame those old hands. I have seen grandpas do better. She probably has been wasting too much time on schemes. She probably has practised 'Islamey' this week only. Peh! She overestimates herself.” Hina whispered again.

After much difficulty, Makiko managed to complete her performance. She stood up as applause filled the pavilion and tried to smile graciously at the audience with a slight bow. However, the cold sweat on her forehead betrayed her difficulties.

Her sharp eyes found Akira and looked at her with a hidden harshness. Even though she had not done well, she was sure that Akira would do poorly and make her look good.

”Why is she looking at you?” Hina asked in another whisper.

”Maybe, I am too pretty,” Akira responded.

Yugo stood at the bottom of the platform as Makiko exited the stage.

”And now, for our special closing performance, Yamazaki Akira!”