Felix's face drained of all color as Leo's words sank in. His mouth opened and closed several times, but no sound emerged.
Zara stumbled backward, knocking over her chair. "That's impossible. You're lying."
"I assure you, I am not," Leo said grimly. "These gentlemen are exactly who I said they are."
Governor Vance pulled out his official identification card, holding it up for everyone to see. The golden seal and official photograph were unmistakably authentic.
"Oh god," Zara whispered, her hands flying to cover her mouth. "Oh god, oh god, oh god."
Felix swayed on his feet, gripping the table for support. "I didn't know. How could I have known?"
"Perhaps," Director Payne said coldly, "you should have considered that possibility before insulting government officials."
"I apologize," Felix said desperately. "Please, I had no idea. I would never intentionally disrespect—"
"Yet you did," Governor Vance interrupted. "You called us actors from a cheap theater company."
