As twilight deepened into evening, the Shangri La transformed into something almost magical. Thousands of tiny lights reflected in the swimming pools and the lawns and gardens beyond, while candles glowed on every table. Bianca's gown shimmered with every step, and the grooms in their tailored suits remained impeccable despite hours spent greeting guests.

As most of the guests were people close to them, the atmosphere was relaxed rather than formal. To add to that, the Delanos owned Shangri-La, and so the servers were generous with their helpings of food.

When all the Delanos had turned up, Bianca looked around for Proserpina Delano, for she had expected the Delano matriarch...