I blink. What is happening here? Are they actually…competing over a cupcake? Over me? Yeah, right. When the god of thunder swings his hammer through a tray of petit fours, maybe.

“I’ll bake cupcakes for everyone!” I say cheerfully. “Just name the time. Place. Flavor—”

“Don’t mind her excitement,” Archie interrupts. “No one—literally no one—has ever asked her to bake before.”

I slap my brother’s shoulder, but before I can retort, Charlie groans. “You’ve got to be kidding me. This is what we’re talking about at the Newhouse awards? Cupcakes?” He levels me with a glare.

Every last drop of hilarity seeps from me as sweat breaks out on my neck. The older man’s attention has turned to me. Finally. Here’s my chance to change the subject to his research. “Oh, um. I have lots of interests besides cupcakes. I’m not a scientist myself, but I love hearing about it! What’s your field of study, sir?”

“So you’re one of those.” He ignores my question, his temple twitching. “I never did understand you liberal-arts types.”

He skims his gaze over the crowd, dismissing the subject. Dismissing me. I haven’t felt this small since the admissions officer of our school deigned to interview me.

“Not long ago, I was a science fair judge, too,” Charlie says tightly. “Students would line up around the table just to have a word with me. I was more popular than the chocolate fountain! And now look at me.” His tone is so bitter, it makes the acid rise in my throat. “The only way I got entry to this banquet was as someone’s guardian.”

“It means a lot that you came with me, Uncle Charlie,” Bandit ventures.

The older man sighs, not sparing his nephew a glance. “I’m done, Chubbs. Let’s ditch this joint.” He turns to Zeke. “You have my contact information. Use it.”

No! He can’t leave yet. I’ve barely had a chance to talk to him. I haven’t received any evidence that he’s involved with the virus.

“It was an honor to meet you, sir,” Zeke says, oblivious to my growing panic.

I need more from Charlie. More interaction, more information. More pieces of the puzzle. And I won’t stop until I get them.

“Wait!” I shout as Bandit and Charlie turn to leave. All four men look at me, and I give Charlie my most charming smile. “It’s not often we meet someone of your esteem. The other students don’t know what they’re missing. Before you go, could you…give us some advice?” I gesture at Zeke, my brother, and myself. “We’d be so grateful for any wisdom you’re willing to share.”

Charlie tilts his head, assessing me. My smile wobbles, but I fix it in place.