All Chapters of While You Were Sleeping, I Waited: Chapter 21 - Chapter 29

(Ruby’s POV)I walked a considerable distance away from the Vale estate, my lightweight canvas duffel bag slung securely over my shoulder. Once I was several blocks away, ensuring I was completely clear of any potential roaming security patrols, I stepped up to the curb and hailed a taxicab.The cab pulled over with a low rumble. I opened the door, slid into the backseat, and gave the driver the exact residential address the real estate agent had sent to me earlier.As the taxi merged back into the midday traffic, I leaned my head against the cool glass of the window. The journey through the bustling streets of London was quiet, but for me, it was the most peaceful experience I had enjoyed in the last few days. There were no monitoring eyes, no oppressive family expectations, and no suffocating walls designed

(Author’s POV)After Nathan Cole left the contestants lounge, the room gradually returned to its previous atmosphere. The brief air of authority disappeared, replaced once again by quiet anticipation.Staff members resumed moving in and out of the room carrying files, clipboards, bottled water, and communication headsets. Some double-checked contestant registrations while others hurried away after receiving instructions through their earpieces.Outside, thousands of people were taking their seats. The media section had become almost full.Every few seconds the cameras panned across the enormous venue decorated with magnificent lighting and enormous digital screens displaying the golden emblem of the ‘International Crown Art Competition’.

(Author’s POV)The applause gradually settled after the introduction of all ten finalists.Daniel clasped his hands together."Now, it's finally time to begin the competition”.Excited cheers immediately echoed throughout the auditorium."Our respected panel has already received today's evaluation criteria” Daniel looked towards the judges."And finalists..." He then turned towards the contestants."I sincerely hope you all had a good breakfast because after this you probably won't remember food exists” Daniel laughed.The audience burst into laughter. Even a few con

(Author’s POV)Only three artists remained. Three dreams. Three destinies. One crown.The host walked to the center of the stage, the excitement in his voice matching the anticipation that had filled the entire venue."Ladies and gentlemen, we have finally arrived at the moment every artist dreams of”.The giant LED screen behind him slowly transformed. The golden emblem of the International Crown Art Competition faded into a majestic crown resting upon a painter's palette. Bold golden letters appeared beneath it.GRAND FINALEA loud cheer erupted from the audience."The next challenge will determine this year's Internation

(Author’s POV)For several long seconds after Ruby spoke, the entire auditorium remained silent. The judges looked toward each other.They exchanged uncertain glances before turning toward the host who himself looked equally conflicted."If examining the paintings helps clarify your concern, you may” Finally, Leonardo Romano nodded."Thank you” Ruby inclined her head politely.Without another word, she walked across the stage. Every pair of eyes followed her. The enormous LED screens projected her every movement, her calm footsteps echoed through the otherwise silent auditorium.She stopped before the three paintings. From the audience's perspective, the can