Judge Holl took the microphone from the host without ceremony. The host stepped back, smile frozen.
The ballroom fell into a hush so deep I could hear the soft whir of the overhead lights.
Judge Holl looked out over the room, expression grave. “Ladies and gentlemen,” he said, voice steady, “I’m afraid we must pause tonight’s presentation.”
A ripple of murmurs. Victoria stopped mid-step, her smile flickering.
Judge Holl continued. “Serious allegations of financial misconduct have been brought to the attention of this association regarding the nominee, Victoria Hail Beckett.”
The room went still.
Victoria’s mouth opened slightly. “Excuse me?” she said, loud enough for the nearest tables to hear.
Judge Holl lifted a hand, silencing the murmurs before they could swell. “Out of respect for the integrity of this association,” he said, “and out of respect for the law, we will address these allegations immediately.”
Victoria’s face flashed with outrage. “This is absurd,” she snapped. “Who would—”
Judge Holl’s gaze remained impersonal. “Ms. Beckett,” he said, “you will have the opportunity to respond. But first, the evidence.”
The large screen behind the stage lit up.