The room plunged into chaos. It didn’t happen all at once; it was a ripple effect. First, the glass slipped from Clarice’s fingers, shattering against the china plate with a violence that silenced the nearest tables. Then, she grabbed the tablecloth, dragging silverware and a centerpiece down with her as she collapsed into her chair.
Guests rose from their chairs, a wave of confusion washing over the ballroom. Someone screamed—a piercing, high-pitched sound that cut through the music. The band stopped mid-note, leaving a jarring silence filled only by the sounds of distress.
