Exactly twenty-two seconds.
That's how long the room froze after I clapped my hands and announced there would be an event.
I counted.
It's a habit.
Actors need rhythm.
And tension?
Tension is beautiful when you know how to use it.
The music softened, the lights dimmed just a little, and the group's collective attention snapped toward me like a spotlight I didn't even have to earn.
I grinned.
Showtime.
Every Halloween party needed a twist, and I'd been preparing this one ever since I found out we were all going to spend our break here. If timing was destiny, then this—tonight, with all of us in our ridiculous costumes—was perfect.
"Okay, creatures of the night," I announced grandly, flicking my illusionist's cape behind me. "Gather."
Vince groaned. "Bro, why do you sound like a cult leader?"
"Shh," Kate whispered. "Let him finish, this actually sounds fun."
Jasmine crossed her arms. "Define fun."
Jeff adjusted his vampire collar solemnly. "Define night."
