Chapter Five: The Empty Vow

“Marcus said if I wore it through the ceremony, my father would receive the approval he needs. He also scheduled one final medical exam at Pier Seven.” Mira had turned blank prophecy into proof. Both companies’ shares shook that night, while Bright Vow’s bookings filled six months. Society learned that Mira’s most expensive service was not making weddings happen. It was giving the wrong weddings an elegant death. Near midnight, they entered Pier Seven with the key. There was no master tape—only empty refrigerated crates and dozens of bridesmaid dresses. Jo pulled a tracking chip from a vent; its serial number matched the scan from Celeste’s wrist.