On the screen behind him, a slide projected a provisional funding figure: $1,250,000.
The crowd applauded. Richard began boasting about new hires, expanded infrastructure, and a live demonstration of their pending institutional line of credit. He clicked his remote to display a mock transfer confirmation.
The screen flickered red.
TRANSACTION REJECTED: COMPLIANCE & FRAUD HOLD.
Richard blinked, startled. He clicked the remote again.
The same red error message flashed.
“Ah, just a minor technical glitch with the venue’s Wi-Fi,” Richard stammered, forcing a chuckle.
“It’s not a glitch, Richard.”
My voice echoed clearly from the back aisle.
Eric turned around, and every drop of color drained from his face. “Clara…?”
Sarah dropped her phone. Eleanor’s jaw hung open.
I walked down the center aisle toward the front row.
“Aren’t you supposed to be in Paris?” Eric stammered, stepping away from the stage.
“You certainly hoped I was.”
