Make a snarky comment about how easy the question is before answering "Brittany Chen"

You let out a small laugh, rolling your eyes theatrically. "Really? That's what you're starting with? My grandmother could answer that one and she thinks Netflix is a fishing technique." The shackles rattle as you shift your weight, one hip cocked in deliberate nonchalance. "Brittany Chen, who lit up social media more than this show will."

The audience reaction is immediate—a mix of laughter and a few scattered boos. Derek's smile doesn't falter, but something shifts behind his eyes, a flash of irritation quickly masked by professional charm.

"Well, well," he says, his voice honeyed with false warmth. "Aren't we confident? And correct, I might add." He gestures grandly toward the LED display behind you, which flashes $10,000 in gaudy green numbers. "Ten thousand dollars in your account, Lexi. Though I have to say—" He takes a step closer, microphone held casually at his side. "—that kind of attitude makes me very curious to see how you handle the questions that actually require, shall we say, specialized knowledge."

From her position by the transformation booth, Rita lets out a breathy giggle that seems entirely disconnected from anything funny. She's twirling a strand of platinum hair around one finger, watching Derek with the devoted attention of a golden retriever.

"Question two," Derek continues, pulling another card with practiced flair. He's enjoying himself now, you can tell. "This one's worth twenty thousand dollars, doubling your current winnings." He pauses, letting the studio lights catch his profile. "In BDSM terminology, what does the acronym SSC stand for—the ethical framework that emphasizes participant wellbeing?"

The audience murmurs with interest. This is what they tuned in for—the gradual slide from mainstream into something darker. Derek watches you with that predatory expression, waiting to see if your confidence will hold or crack.