Chapter 7 - The Gala of Lies
That evening, the Oakridge Country Club was hosting its annual charity gala. It was the social event of the season for the town's elite. Richard Vance was the guest of honor, being awarded for his "philanthropic contributions" to the community.
Sarah and I didn't have invitations. We didn't have designer clothes.
I wore my only funeral suit, and Sarah wore a simple black dress. We walked up the sweeping driveway of the country club, flanked by Marcus and three off-duty police officers Marcus knew from his city days—officers who weren't on Vance's payroll.
"Excuse me, sir, this is a private event," a security guard said, stepping in front of the grand ballroom doors.
I didn't slow down. I grabbed the guard by his lapels, moved him firmly to the side, and kicked the double doors open.
The ballroom fell dead silent. Hundreds of the city's wealthiest residents, dressed in tuxedos and gowns, turned to stare at the mechanic and the pharmacy tech standing in the doorway.
On the stage, Richard Vance was mid-speech, holding a crystal trophy. He frowned, lowering the microphone.
"What is the meaning of this?" Vance demanded. "Security! Get these people out of here!"
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"My name is Arthur Bennett!" I shouted, my voice booming across the silent room. I marched straight down the center aisle, Sarah right by my side. "And I am here to talk about your philanthropy, Richard!"
Principal Evans was sitting at the VIP table near the stage. When he saw me, the color completely drained from his face. He tried to stand, but one of Marcus's officers placed a heavy hand on his shoulder, forcing him back down.
