Chapter Three: The Dead Woman in the Ring

“Who sent the rings?” Mira asked. “The Gu estate,” Adrian said, shutting the box. “Family tradition. My father keeps the heirloom bands until the steward delivers them to the groom.” “Does family tradition include engraving my name?” “No.” Mira pulled on a thin glove. “Open it.” “You’ve already collapsed once.” “If someone sends a death invitation to my desk, I should at least check the date.” She took the box from him. Through latex, heat pricked her fingertips but no vision came. Direct contact was required. As she removed the glove, Adrian caught her wrist. “Your gift isn’t evidence, and you are not expendable.” He was the first person since the chandelier fell to tell her not to look.