CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SIX – BARE FRUSTRATIONS

But the incidents didn't stop there. Over the next few days, Rebecca faced a series of mysterious setbacks. Her favorite practice outfit went missing from the ship's laundry. She overheard passengers whispering about how she was "tone-deaf" and "embarrassing herself." Each time, Xarina was never far away, offering false sympathy with a gleam of satisfaction in her eyes. Despite the challenges, Rebecca refused to give up. She worked even harder, practicing late into the night and early in the morning. She befriended some of the ship's entertainment staff, who offered her encouragement and tips for her performance. One evening, exhausted from another long day of practice, Rebecca decided to treat herself to a fancy dinner at one of the ship's upscale restaurants. As she entered the dimly lit dining room, she spotted Luca at a corner table, engrossed in conversation with Xarina. Rebecca hesitated, unsure whether to approach or find another table. Before she could decide, Luca looked up