Page 142 of Stuart Woods' Golden Hour

He and Mari leaned toward the mic and said together, “Storm’s Eye, directed by Peter Barrington, and produced by Ben Bacchetti and Billy Barnett.”

Thunderous applause filled the auditorium as Billy, Peter, and Ben rose from their seats.

“Let’s all go,” Billy said.

Tessa and Adriene stood, but Stacy and Lizzie did not.

Billy pointed at them. “You, too.”

Stacy said, “But we didn’t—”

“You’re part of the team. Let’s go!”

They grinned and joined the group as it piled onto the stage.

Mari and Tom congratulated everyone, then handed the award to Ben.

Ben immediately passed it to Peter and motioned him to the mic.

“To call this unexpected would be an understatement,” Peter said. “Which is lucky for you, because it means I didn’t prepare any remarks.” A wave of laughter crossed the room. “Thank you to Constance Mueller and the entire World Thriller Film Festival staff. You’ve created a fantastic event.”

The room broke out in applause. At first, a trickle of people stood, and soon everyone was on their feet.

Once the clapping started to die down, Peter said, “Making films is all about the people you work with, and I couldn’t ask for a better group both behind the camera and in front. Thank you, everyone!”

Tessa said a few words, then Ben, and finally Billy was pushed forward.

“I echo what my colleagues have said, and would only add, what a crazy week this has been. Oh, and don’t forget to tell everyone you know to seeStorm’s Eye!”

Later, while celebrating with hisfriends at the closing-night party, Billy received a text from Lance.

Congratulations on your award. And you have to admit, I was right. Your trip was the perfect cover. Let me know if you’d ever like to help us out again.

“Everything all right?” Stacy asked.

Billy blocked Lance’s number, then smiled. “It is now.”