Instead, I slipped down the narrow alleyway toward the service entrance.

The metal door was heavy and cold to the touch.

I waited until a catering cart arrived, then caught the door before it latched shut.

The hallways backstage were a maze of concrete walls and exposed pipes.

I walked quickly, keeping my head down as waiters in white jackets hurried past carrying trays of champagne.

I found the service elevator and rode it to the third floor.

The corridor leading to the AV booth was empty.

I knocked twice on the grey door at the end of the hall.

The door cracked open, and Marcus looked out, his eyes wide with anxiety.

“Claire,” he whispered. “You shouldn’t be here. Security is tighter than usual.”

“Do you have the file?” I asked, handing him the USB drive.

He took it, his fingers twitching slightly.

“It’s ready to go,” Marcus said. “But the moment I press play, the security team will lock down the booth. I’ll lose my job.”

“Alexander will make sure you are taken care of,” I said. “I promise you.”