Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism novel Chapter 110

"There are still quite a few competitors left," Nolan noted as he set a glass of water in front of Violeta.

"Just enjoy the experience and not get too caught up in the pressure."

Violeta gave a soft smile. "Do I look worried to you?"

She arched an eyebrow confidently. "Frankly, the competition here doesn't impress me."

Zoren often joked that Violeta was the boastful queen of the White family, and it was easy to see why.

Catching her expression, Nolan chuckled.

"What's so funny?" she asked.

"Nothing, just enjoying the moment," he replied.

"Do you think you can impress me?" Violeta teased.

" ... "

The smile briefly stiffened on Nolan's face.

He realised that he might be included in her judgment as well.

Shaking his head with a resigned smile, he began pouring tea instead.

Violeta leaned back and looked at Nolan's side profile.

In another life, she would admit Nolan had the charm and presence of a leading man in films.

With his looks, he would never struggle for attention.

It was a pity he was so easily mistaken about people.

Turning her attention away, Violeta closed her eyes, ready for the competition to start, while Zelena sat across from them.

Zelena watched Nolan and Violeta interact from a distance. Though she could not hear their conversation, the sight of Nolan sitting close to Violeta was enough to stoke her jealousy.

How infuriating!

How did Violeta manage to charm someone like Nolan?

...

Twenty minutes later, the competition officially began.

Participants picked up their signs and headed to their assigned chess boards.

Zelena was on board number 17, facing a middle-aged competitor, while Violeta, assigned to board number 18, sat opposite an elderly man.

Nearby, Benson took his place at board number 16, competing against a young boy of his age.

The rules were simple: win and advance until only one competitor remained.

Wade, who knew the owner of the chess hall, stood on stage as an observer alongside the vice president of the Chess Association.

"The competition is now underway," announced the director of the chess hall from the stage.

Traditionally, the older player used white pieces and the younger used black.

As the elderly man made his opening move, Violeta countered.