Chapter Eight: Shadows and Silence
The clock struck eleven by the time the Soveirs began saying their goodbyes.
The banquet had been a success—Mr. Fu was in high spirits, gifts were being boxed and cataloged by his assistants, and the mood among the guests had mellowed into low murmurs and gentle laughter. Couples swayed to the music, and others retreated to the outer lounges or the garden for drinks and whispered conversations.
Melisa stood beside Aunt Eleanor as they spoke briefly with Mr. Fu one last time. Her feet ached from the heels, and the stiffness in her back told her she'd been smiling and standing straight for far too long. But she kept her posture poised.
Leonard appeared beside her with quiet timing, his presence a balm. "The car is ready," he murmured.
Eleanor turned to Melisa. "You two can leave first. George and I will stay another fifteen minutes."
Melisa didn't argue. A slow escape sounded perfect.
