Scented candles smelled of jasmine and sea salt.

I stood in the private dressing room behind the stage, looking at myself in the full-length mirror.

The emerald-green silk dress clung to my frame, falling to the floor in soft folds.

I wore no jewelry except for a simple platinum band on my right hand.

Mr. Han tapped gently on the door before stepping inside.

“The Mercer family has arrived,” he said, handing me a glass of sparkling water.

“They have been seated at table twelve, right in the center of the room.”

“And Mr. Vance?” I asked, taking a sip.

“He has just arrived,” Mr. Han said. “He is currently speaking with the resort’s welcoming committee.”

“I have placed him at table ten, directly adjacent to the Mercers.”

“Perfect,” I said, putting the glass down on the vanity.

“Let us go down.”

I walked down the private service stairs, entering the ballroom through the side doors reserved for VIP guests.

The room was packed with wealthy socialites, local politicians, and international investors.

I took my seat at a small, shaded booth near the back of the VIP section.