Exposing the Setup

The host walked over to Mia, pulled her up from her seat, and reached for her pocket.

Mia clutched her pocket tightly, refusing to let the host go through it.

Her gaze stayed fixed on the audience, landing on Clara's face, as if silently begging her for help.

There was such despair and sorrow in her eyes.

Clara got up from her seat and made her way forward, slow and steady.

She stopped a few steps