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Guests fill the event hall tonight. Ecstatic classical music is being played by a live quartette, and I see many unknown faces. Some of those who have attended are our friends and even acquaintances of friends. I recognize a few even with masquerade masks on their faces. Family members I know back in Athens, Alayna’s siblings in Arianna’s care, her family, but I mainly observe the media. The press, journalists, and reporters are all jammed in one place.

Alayna’s still in the dressing room with Casey, preparing for the night’s program. I am wearing the matching suit for her evening gown tonight—a custom-made black and white suit with fabric that feels light as a feather.

“Brandon,” Oliver greets me with a shoulder pat. He wears a gold mask covering his eyes and an Armani blue tux.

“Thanks, man.”

“Hey, I missed that mask.” He grins. I am wearing the same one.

Daphne stands next to him, holding a black sequined mask attached to a stick.

She extends a brief hug in a gesture of politeness