The arena seemed to hold its breath. Both Dayo and Miguel were called up on stage for judgment. At one look, you could see the tension in both their eyes.
Spotlights shifted toward Miguel as the judges leaned forward, ready to deliver their verdict.
One of the European judges spoke first, his voice calm but direct.
"Miguel Alvarez… your performance was heartfelt. You carried real emotion, and that is something we can't teach. But there were moments when your control wavered. You hit the heart, but technically, there were cracks. Still, for a raffle draw contestant… You exceeded my expectations."
The scoreboard lit up: 8.5, 8, 9, 8.5, 9, 9.
Miguel's total appeared on the screen behind: 52 out of 60.
The crowd applauded loudly. Miguel exhaled sharply, bowing in gratitude. His eyes were wet, but he smiled while giving the judges a small bow.
Then came Dayo's turn.
