If they couldn't find Sofia by 6:00 p.m., the banquet would have to be canceled, and Emerald would become a laughingstock.

Where at another estate on the west side of city.

I was having lunch in the garden with an elderly man who appeared to be around 70, his graying hair neatly combed.

"Ms. Lanka, try this truffle omelet; it is a dish that the chef especially prepares.

Smiling, I nodded. "Thank you."

We had a walk in the garden after breakfast.

"Ms Lanka, how does my estate stand in comparison with your mother's?" the old man asked.

I glanced around, then smiled. "Each has its own charm. Both are...