Chapter 3

The Hayes family had plenty of money anyway. Even if I did nothing, they couldn't just throw me out on the street.

I would eat my meals, sleep my fill, and live my life.

If Vanessa wanted to be a golden prodigy, she could bust her own ass. She wouldn't get a single drop of sweat out of me!

While I was lost in thought, violent banging rattled my bedroom door.

"Brooke! Open up! Open this door right now!"

The aggressive pounding made my ears ring.

Before I could even sit up, the door was shoved wide open.

My biological brother, Ethan Hayes, stormed in, his voice freezing cold.

"Brooke, you just set foot in this house and you're already causing drama, ripping up sheet music, and humiliating Mom and Dad. Do you think you're special or something?"

I sat on the bed and lazily lifted my eyelids. "That's just how we trashy country folk roll."

Ethan choked on his words, his face darkening.

Vanessa slipped into the room just in time, gently tugging at his sleeve. "Ethan, please don't. It's my fault.”

“I shouldn't have shoved the sheet music at her. I just wanted... I just wanted to practice with her and get closer. I had no idea she hated me this much..."

By the end of her sentence, her voice cracked into a soft sob.

Ethan gently patted her hand, then glared at me with pure venom.

"The Davenport family is hosting a gala next month, and our whole family has to attend. Talents will be on display. Starting right now, you're going to practice piano every day. Don't you dare embarrass the Hayes family!"

The Davenports were the most powerful old-money dynasty in New York.

Old Mrs. Davenport was a legendary concert pianist. To get on her good side, young socialites scrambled to play the piano and showcase their musical gifts.

In my previous life, Vanessa made a name for herself at that gala with a single piece, hailed as a once-in-a-generation musical prodigy.

Old Mrs. Davenport even praised her on the spot, hinting that a girl like Vanessa was worthy of marrying her grandson.

Ethan barked, "Starting tomorrow, you practice alongside Vanessa. At least four hours a day!"

I cocked an eyebrow. "And what if I refuse?"

Ethan sneered, "Refuse? Then don't expect a single bite of food or a drop of water in this house! Try me, Brooke. I mean what I say!"

I gritted my teeth slightly.

Looking over at Vanessa, I caught the smug glint flashing through her eyes.

The corners of my lips curved into a subtle smirk. "Piano practice, huh? Fine."

Ethan gave me one last warning glare, took Vanessa's hand, and walked out.

Early the next morning, the sound of piano music drifted from the music room.

When I strolled in, Vanessa was already seated gracefully at the grand piano, her slender fingers dancing across the keys.

Sunlight poured through the arched window, casting a warm glow over her profile like an oil painting.

Richard and Eleanor stood by the door, beamed with pride and relief.

Ethan leaned against the doorframe. Seeing me arrive, he gave an impassioned nod toward the bench.

"Brooke, you're here!"

Vanessa stopped playing, stood up with a radiant smile, and offered me her seat.

"This is Chopin's Nocturne in D-flat Major that we talked about yesterday. I've basically mastered it, so I can guide you through it."