Logan taps me on the shoulder. I look to him eyes wide after looking at the slimeball on stage for too long. He gestures at the spot my earpiece is in, tapping it a few times. I mouth the words.
“It’s fucked.” He understands and winces. I don’t know what I was missing out on, but I was in the right place…or I was in the right place? Has the plan changed? It’s gone so well so far.
“My children… tonight, we honor the faithful.”
Ah…fucking hell. I have to listen to this surreptitious piece of shit from up close, while getting blasted from expensive speakers?
Fuck. Me.
Also, I don’t know if “surreptitious” is the right word… but it sounds good…
The crowd leans in, desperate for more.
“We bring forth those chosen…to be blessed…anointed… reborn in His grace.”
Oh, shit, this is supposed to be me.
Hands shoot up around me, voices rising, the energy shifting.
“Those children selected will be guided forward…to receive His touch.”
I Try to stay in character, smiling as Theordore.
Man just said he wants to touch kids…
My pulse kicks.
A figure appears before me, clasping me by the shoulder.
“Okay, Theodore.” I recognize the voice and try not to jump out of my skin.
Chace. Had he been there the whole time? Sharp suit, controlled posture, blending so perfectly into the environment that no one would look twice.
Ninja ass motherfucker.
I almost pissed myself.
“Hope you’re ready to get on your knees.” He says with a smile.
Ah, see. He gets it. You gotta have fun.
I snort under my breath.
“I promise to work the shaft and balls. Maybe slip a finger in.”
His lips twitch, just barely, before one of the guards signals.
Showtime.
The barrier opens, and Chace grips my arm, guiding me through. The crowd cheers, so elated for me.
Everything changes on this side.
I’m placed in line behind two women who already look like they’ve convinced themselves this is something sacred instead of something staged. When I know for a fact it’s staged as to get “selected” Chace had us donate to the cause. I roll my shoulders.
“Oh my goodness, I am so happy to be chosen with you!” I say, putting on my best eager, harmless expression.
They glance back at me, eyes bright with adulation, faces flushed with devotion.
