The sharp crack of a gunshot shattered the air, sending a ripple of panic through the grand banquet hall. The sound echoed off the ornate wooden beams, the initial moment of silence stretching unbearably before chaos erupted.
Matthew Hesh's instincts took over in an instant. His Secret Service detail, positioned strategically throughout the hall, sprang into action. Agents swarmed around him, forming a protective barrier as another gunshot rang out.
"Get down!" one of the agents barked, shoving Matthew behind an overturned banquet table. Amber gasped, instinctively shielding Sophia in her arms as another agent grabbed Maverick and pulled him to safety.