Eighty one

As I stepped out of the black limousine and walked toward the entrance of the hotel, my mind was a whirlwind of emotions.

The heavyweight of tonight’s promise to Uncle Robert hung over me like a storm cloud. Despite my effort to maintain a façade of calm and control, the knot in my stomach tightened with each step I took.

When I got inside, the grand hall was a spectacle of extravagance and excitement. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over the polished marble floor and the hum of conversations blended with the soft notes of a live jazz band.

I moved through the crowd with practiced ease, exchanging pleasantries and engaging in small talk. My goal was to enjoy the evening but remain vigilant. The last thing I needed was a lapse in security that could jeopardize everything I’d worked for.

“Tony,” I called out, catching my security chief in a quiet corner of the room. “How’s everything looking?”

Tony, always the picture of professionalism, straightened his tie and gave me a reassur