Chapter Two: A Wedding Without a Bride

“The wedding must happen.” Celeste placed a missing-person file on the desk. The twenty-year-old in the photograph resembled her. “My sister, Stella, disappeared three months ago. She was last seen going to the Gu estate for a bridesmaid fitting.” She glanced at Adrian. “He wants his aunt’s killer. I want my sister. Every clue points to this alliance. We need a planner who sees what others cannot.” After a long silence, Mira sealed the brooch inside its box. “Three conditions. I may change any part of the program. My team takes no direct orders from either family. If either of you conceals one material fact, I withdraw publicly and explain why.” “Agreed,” Celeste said. Adrian asked, “You don’t want to discuss your fee?”