Chapter 5

Before anyone could say "one," the reception hall's big screen suddenly went dark.

The launch stage stayed unlit, and the fireworks never fired. Applause was cut off mid-air, as if someone had reached out and snuffed it out.

Charles's hand was still resting on Susan's.

Susan's face went pale. She quickly turned to the tech desk. "What's happening? Is the equipment malfunctioning?"

Gavin stood up from the judges' table, his suit buttoned neatly, his voice calm. "The equipment's fine. The association has suspended the launch."

Charles let go of Susan's hand, his gaze cold as he looked over. "Mr. Hunt,…