"Family matters?" The question comes from an elderly board member, his interest piqued.
Victoria hesitates, recognizing her misstep too late. "A figure of speech. I simply meant household matters."
But Judge Montgomery is studying Elsa's face with new intensity. "There was something familiar about your playing. A distinctive phrasing, a particular emotional quality I've only encountered once before." His eyes narrow in sudden recognition. "You play like Matteo Martinez."
The name sends a visible shock through Victoria. Her composure slips, color draining from her face. "That's impossible," she whispers.
"Matteo Martinez," Montgomery continues, "was perhaps the most naturally gifted pianist I ever encountered. His career was cut tragically short under mysterious circumstances." He turns to Elsa. "You said your father was a pianist. Was Matteo Martinez your father?"
Before Elsa can answer, Victoria interrupts. "This is absurd! The girl is obviously copying techniques she's overheard during Sebastian's lessons."
"No one could imitate what I just heard," Montgomery replies firmly. "That wasn't technique. That was inheritance."
Maria steps forward at last, her years of practiced invisibility falling away as she moves to her daughter's side. "Her father was Matteo Martinez," she confirms, her voice steady despite her trembling hands. "My husband."
A shocked silence descends upon the gathering.
Victoria's expression hardens into something ugly. "Reynolds, you're fired. Both of you. Out of my house immediately."
"Reynolds?" Montgomery repeats, confusion evident.