Chapter 499
Caitlin sat with the kids on a swing chair woven with flower vines, eyes fixed on the stage.
As the grand curtain slowly lifted, the entire room fell silent. Center stage stood a pristine white piano, and seated behind it was a man,
A single spotlight beamed down from above, illuminating the man where he sat.
His golden hair shimmered under the light, and his hands, almost ethereal, rested on the keys. The moment his fingers moved, the first notes rang out like magic.
The melodic piano music spread through the hall, smooth and graceful.
Gasps quickly followed as people began to recognize the performer.
“Oh my god, that’s the world–renowned piano prince, Federico Colli!“.
“It’s really Federico! I can’t believe they got him!”
“If Federico’s here, that must mean the entire European Royal Orchestra is here too!”
Caitlin and the others listened quietly. Her eyes fell on the pianist. True to his reputation, Federico’s elegance and mystique gave him the aura of nobility. His refined Italian charm made the title of “Piano Prince” more than justified.
Those who followed classical music knew Federico was famous for collaborating with the European Royal Orchestra. Every international performance featured his piano solos, and his concerts were nearly impossible to get tickets for.
To have him perform live tonight was no small feat.
Nolan leaned over to Sebastian and whispered, “Not bad for the international act, huh?”
“Yeah,” Sebastian nodded, clearly impressed. He was grateful Nolan had managed to pull strings to bring in such big names. It really elevated the whole
night.
As Federico’s solo concluded, more lights lit up across the stage, revealing the rest of the orchestra.
The conductor, dressed in a classic tailcoat, stepped forward and bowed toward Caitlin and her table. The rest of the orchestra followed suit.
As the baton waved, the performance began.
Powerfut and majestic. Dreamy and romantic. Touching and profound. Each movement tugged at emotions in its own way.
It was everything one would expect from the famed European Royal Orchestra. Their music didn’t just entertain–it moved the soul.
The performance was a stunning success. As the final note faded, the entire room rose to its feet, thunderous applause echoing through the hall.
The conductor and the musicians stood to bow. Federico also stood beside his piano.
Then something unexpected happened.
Federico walked to the other side of the piano, picked up a bouquet of flowers, and made his way toward Caitlin.
Everyone assumed he was simply delivering birthday wishes on behalf of the orchestra. But when Federico reached her, he spoke familiarity.
rprising
“My dear Trinity, it’s been too long. Happy birthday.”
“It really has, Federico. Thank you.”
1/2
Chapter 499
Aug
He gently took Caitlin’s hand and kissed the back of it, a charming European gesture.
It was a small kiss, but it set off a flare in Sebastian’s chest. The intensity in Federico’s eyes, the look of affection that couldn’t be hidden–Gebastiani felt it
all.
Jealousy hit hard.
What the hell? How did this guy know Caitlin?
“I didn’t expect to see you here. Do you have any idea how long I’ve been trying to find you, Trinity?” Federico said, voice low and sincere, eyes locked on hers like no one else in the room existed.
“I’m sorry, Federico. I didn’t stay in contact, and I regret that. But I’m really glad you’re here tonight. Thank you for coming”
Federico shook his head gently, smiling. “So, that means I’m welcome at your birthday celebration?”
“Of course. The entire orchestra is welcome. We’re honored to have you.”
“Thank you.”
Unable to contain his joy, Federico leaned in and gave Caitlin a soft, friendly hug.
That was enough for Sebastian.
He stepped up, placed a firm arm around Caitlin’s shoulder, and spoke to Federico with a calm but assertive smile.
“Nice to meet you, Mr. Colli. I’m Trinity’s fiancé.”
Federico looked surprised. He glanced between the two of them, trying to process the shift.
When he had known Caitlin, or rather, Trinity, she had been fiercely independent. She had turned down his advances, and he’d respected that. He’d even said he’d wait.
Now this?
“Oh, Trinity. You never mentioned having a fiancé. You once told me you didn’t believe in marriage.”
“Well,” Caitlin glanced at Sebastian, smiling, “things change. I met someone who made me want to believe.”
Federico looked stunned. “But… I love you.”
The words landed like a punch in the gut to everyone around them.
A world–renowned piano prince just confessed his love. Publicly.
Wendy muttered under her breath, “If Federico confessed to me, I’d marry him on the spot.”
Benjamin, standing nearby, smacked the back of her head. “Don’t even think about it.“.
Wendy shot him a glare. Why was he always up in her business?
Molly leaned toward her group. “This doesn’t look good. My brother’s in trouble.”
“Yeah, he’s got serious competition.”
Benjamin leaned into Sebastian’s ear. “You’re getting challenged right to your face. What are you gonna do?”
Sebastian’s jaw tightened. His eyes snapped toward Nolan, shooting daggers.
20:13 Tue, 19 Aug
Chapter 499
This was your idea?
You brought him?
You brought her ex–crush who just declared love for her in public?
Nolan, who had genuinely believed he was doing something good, felt his stomach drop. He had really screwed up.
What now?
Federico had the looks. The talent. The class. He was every bit Sebastian’s equal, if not more.
Panic set in.
Nolan silently prayed he could disappear and avoid the wrath that was surely coming.
Meanwhile, Federico was still deep in his heartfelt reunion. “You don’t know what these years have been like for me. I thought of you constantly. I’ve been waiting.”
“I’m sorry, Federico. We can be good friends,” Caitlin said gently, not wanting to ruin the evening.
“You mean… you’re willing to give me a chance? We can start as friends, get to know each other. I’ll share everything I have with you.”
He was clearly misunderstanding her.
Sebastian’s face darkened. His fists clenched.
Just as he was about to lose it, someone stepped in to stop him.
市
