Amanda Smith hid in a corner, holding a cup of fruit juice and looking around, oblivious to the fact that not far away, a gaze was fixed on her, intense with a coldness that was inexplicable, almost obsessive... it sent chills down the spine.
It was half-past eight in a flash, and the party officially started. After the critical fundraising part ended, the lights suddenly dimmed. Amanda was startled and, before she could react, she saw a man in a butterfly mask appear on the stage; it was clear he was the host.
Standing in the corner, Amanda watched with interest as the host sang and spoke, announcing that the game segment was next.
A server came down with a tray, on which there were many cards, each bearing a number. After all the guests had come forward and taken their respective cards, the game began.
Under the dim lights, Amanda checked her number; it was 22.
The host spoke from above, explaining the rules of the game.
