Outcast Queen: Her Return from Hell novel Chapter 206

A suffocating dread settled heavy in Phoebe's chest, leaving her paralyzed with anxiety.

Moving forward meant staring at a blank canvas she couldn't fill; backing down meant confessing her theft to the world. It was a lose-lose situation.

"I believe in you, Phoebe." Sebastian's gaze was steady, tinged with blind fanaticism. "Go show them what you can do. Make them worship your talent."

"Okay... I won't let you down." Phoebe forced her lips into a smile that looked more like a grimace.

Sebastian spun around, shooting Phoenix a dagger-like glare. "Just wait. She's going to use her skills to slap the smug look right off your face."

A faint smirk tugged at Phoenix's lips, amusement dancing in her eyes. She hadn't expected Phoebe to stubbornly accept the challenge while backed into such a corner.

"Mr. Vane, you don't mind bearing witness, do you?"

"It would be an honor." Charles offered a graceful nod. "I'm quite curious to see the visual feast you two 'geniuses' have in store."

He clapped his hands lightly. "Staff, bring out the supplies."

Moments later, two easels equipped with high-quality canvases and an array of paints were set up, waiting for the contenders.

Throwing a fleeting glance at Phoebe, Phoenix strolled over and took a seat. She looked completely relaxed, as though settling in for a cup of tea in her own backyard.

Under the searing scrutiny of the crowd, Phoebe clenched her fists and practically dragged her feet over to her station.

Compared to Phoenix's unshakable poise, Phoebe was stiff and ashen-faced, looking like a prisoner being marched to the executioner's block.

A low murmur rippled through the onlookers.

"Is she really a total fraud? Look at how she's shrinking back. She doesn't have an ounce of artistic presence."

"No kidding. Compared to Ms. Prescott, she looks like a terrified amateur. I bet all her past acclaim was bought and paid for."

Hearing the harsh whispers, Sebastian flew into a rage. "Shut up! She's just nervous from the pressure. Anyone else who opens their mouth will answer to the Prescott family!"

"Oh, the mighty Sebastian Prescott asserts his dominance," Macy mocked, crossing her arms. "With a tone like that, someone might actually think the Prescotts rule all of Cloudhaven."

"Exactly. Your family is well past its prime. You don't even match up to the Millers anymore." Meredith raised her chin arrogantly, perfectly playing the part of a bully. "I'd love to see exactly how you plan to 'make us answer'."

Sebastian's face turned a livid shade of purple under their taunts, but he had no comeback. He pinned every last drop of hope on Phoebe, praying she would stun them all and let him vent his fury.

Meanwhile, Phoenix was already in motion.

With elegant flicks of her wrist, her brush glided smoothly across the canvas. The previously lifeless lines seemed infused with a soul, rapidly weaving together into a vibrant, brilliant sketch.

Phoebe, on the other hand, sat paralyzed. The brush felt like it weighed a ton, hovering aimlessly over the stark white surface.

"What's wrong, Phoebe?" Sebastian asked, a hint of panic edging his voice. "Hurry up and start, we don't have much time."

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