Matchmaker Mayhem

The Camellia Ballroom was dressed to the nines, glittering like a scene from a movie. The high ceilings were draped with sheer fabric, creating a canopy of twinkling fairy lights. Rows of delicate glass lanterns lined the pathways, and the tables were adorned with lush floral arrangements in shades of blush and cream. A string quartet played softly in the corner, their melody weaving seamlessly into the hum of lively chatter.

Ava stood near the entrance, taking in the scene with a mix of pride and anxiety. This was it Mei’s farewell matchmaking gala and Ava’s chance to prove herself. Every client she’d worked with, every hiccup she’d faced, had led to this moment. The evening’s success could cement her reputation or destroy it.

"Looking sharp, Matchmaker," Ryan’s familiar voice drawled from behind her.

Ava turned to find him in a perfectly tailored navy suit, his tie slightly loosened in that effortless way only he could pull off. She hated how good he looked. Or maybe she didn’t. Either way, she wasn’t about to admit it.

"What are you doing here?" she asked, though she already knew the answer.

"Wouldn’t miss it for the world," Ryan said, sliding his hands into his pockets. "Besides, Mei invited me. She said someone needed to keep you on your toes."

Ava rolled her eyes. "Of course she did."

"Relax," Ryan said, leaning closer. "You’ve got this."

The sincerity in his voice caught her off guard, but before she could respond, Mei appeared, a vision in her elegant jade-green cheongsam. Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she looked between Ava and Ryan.

"Ah, my two favorite troublemakers," Mei said, smiling. "Are we ready?"

"As ready as we’ll ever be," Ava said, though her stomach churned with nerves.