The host's voice rang out once more,signaling a pause in the evening's spectacle.
"Ladies and gentlemen,we will now take a fifteen-minute intermission.Please enjoy refreshments in the grand lobby,and we'll resume shortly with the Q&A and the first live challenge!"
A ripple of excitement and chatter surged through the ballroom like an incoming tide. Chairs scraped back, silks rustled, crystal clinked against crystal as guests stood, stretched, and made their way toward the opulent refreshments.
Charlotte exhaled slowly,her palms slightly damp.
She turned to step off the stage—just as Serena moved in the same direction.
Their arms brushed.
Serena stopped.Tilted her head.Smiled with teeth.
"Well,"she said,voice honeyed and sharp,"hope you're not under the impression Hastings showing up means you get a shortcut.Must be comforting,though—having your farm guest play judge.How convenient.Did Alexander help you grow all the ingredients for the competition while he was on the farm?"
