Chapter 133 IN THE GAME!

LIORA'S POV;

The sleek marble floors of the reception area gleamed under the soft overhead lights as I approached the desk, clutching my portfolio tightly. I took a deep breath, my pulse quickening as I stepped forward.

“Hello,” I began, my voice steady despite the nervous flutter in my chest. “I’m here to register for Eterna Atelier.”

The person on the front desk, a poised woman with sharp features and a name tag that read Cassandra, glanced up from her screen. She offered a polite smile but shook her head.

“I’m sorry, ma’am,” she said gently, her tone laced with regret. “The registration for this year’s competition is closed. The shortlisted groups are about to be announced.”

My heart sank. I knew this could happen, but it didn’t make the disappointment any less piercing. “Oh,” I murmured, my shoulders slumping slightly.