Chapter 357

Serena's POV Just smiling my way through this circus, that was my whole plan. Just keep the mask in place, keep the panic on a short leash. I watched Mr. Alvin come gliding over, wearing that host-smile made for business cards. “Mrs. Lancaster, Mr. Lancaster! Wonderful to see you here tonight.” “Mr. Alvin, truly, you outdid yourself. The atmosphere's... incredible.” The lie felt cold on my tongue. Meanwhile my mind was running a mental obstacle course, mapping exits and counting possible detours if I needed out, fast. He leaned closer, voice full of importance. “You're far too kind. But honestly, tonight belongs to our investors. I cannot thank Mr. Lancaster and Mr. Blackwood enough for their support.” Mr. Blackwood. Just hearing his name was enough to hit me like a punch to the solar plexus. The smile on my lips started feeling fragile, brittle—like if I breathed wrong, it'd crack. God, please—let him be late tonight. Give me five more minutes to build some armor. So when my eyes swep