“I’d like to protect his identity.”
“How old is he?”
“Seven.”
“Seven, eh? What are his favorite hobbies?”
“Why do you want to know?”
Swanky laughed. “I’m just helping you brainstorm,” he said with a bitter smile. “Because if you win the grand prize, you’re going to be spending a lot of time with him!”
The audience clapped; Swanky swung around and pointed at the cameras. “Oh yeah!” The clapping faded, and he moved toward Daniella but didn’t offer to shake her hand. She looked at him strangely.
“And who are you, my darling?” he asked, as if nothing happened.
“Daniella Rogers.”
“What brings you here?’
“A few months ago, my dad passed away.” She teared up; Swanky handed her a handkerchief, and she blew her nose. “My mom died when I was young, and I’m the oldest of three siblings. I p
