He explained it away as she was Diana’s cousin who came in her place while Diana was busy elsewhere.
Everyone seemed to buy it.
During the hour wait, Annika was careful to sip the single glass of champagne she’d taken off a roaming server. The last thing she wanted was to be tipsy when it came time to work her magic! So, she went nice and slow, but tried to fit in by at least carrying the flute around as she and Harrison went about the room, talking with folks.
“I feel so out of place here,” she noted when it was just her and Harrison in a corner. “There are movie stars, politicians, and lots of rich people!”
“And most of these people probably think they’re truly helping,” Harrison replied. “They have no idea that their host is an egotistical maniac. But don’t worry. You’re doing just fine. You look as if you belong here!”
Their conversation was interrupted when applause broke out around the room. Annika looked to see Edward Marlot descending from the central staircase. He had a gorgeous woman on one arm, and about six assistants behind him.
Her blood ran cold.
Everything inside of her wanted to curl up into a ball and start singing “Moon River.” But somehow, she remained upright.
Harrison held her arm. “You’re doing so good,” he whispered. “I’m proud of you. And you know who else is?”
That must have been Matteo’s cue, because his voice came over the earpiece. “Daddy is. Honey, you’re doing amazing. Take deep breaths. I’m not far. Remember that you’re not alone. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep you safe.”
“We’re all with you,” Ace’s voice added.
Kendrick spoke up, too. “I’m out of the limo and in the command center van. Ready to back you up whenever you need me.”
“Yep,” Stella said. “We’ve got you, sister.”
And just like that—hearing Daddy’s voice and then those of her friends—she knew she was okay. She’d get through it.
“I can do this,” she said.
“Good,” Stella replied. “Because it’s going down in a few seconds. I’m in the electrical system. Just remember—the generators will kick on almost instantly. Some things will have to reboot, but the retinal scanner is on a different system, one we can’t access. So…”
“We have to make this opportunity count,” Annika finished for her.
“Yep,” Stella confirmed.
Eli’s voice came over the com system. “We are all set and just waiting. When the power goes out, we’ll start throwing the pies.” The naughty Little laughed gleefully. “First time my Mommy has been involved in tossing pies in one of my pranks. I love it!”
Stella laughed. “Well, get ready to enjoy yourself. Because it’s happening on my count…”
Annika braced herself.
“Three. Two. One…”
Chapter Thirty-Two
The grand ballroom went dark for a total of maybe five or six seconds, Annika figured, but that was enough to leave most of the partygoers clearly shaken.
As the generators kicked in and the lights roared back, a team of security guards hurried by, rushing toward the doors.
“What’s going on?” Annika heard one ask.
“Those damned protesters are throwing pies!” another growled.
“Hey, did they do that thing with the lights?” another wondered.
Annika didn’t have a chance to hear the response because the doors flew open and the “protesters” swarmed inside.
“Eat pie!” Eli yelled.
