Rachel smoothed her hand over her hair, tucking the honeyed strands that had come loose back into place, wishing she had her purse so she could at least replenish her lipstick. Oh, well, they'd just have to accept her the way she was. Checking her dress one last time, she headed toward the entrance to the ballroom. At the French doors she caught the attention of her assistant, Nina Chan, who was lurking in a corner keeping an eye on the crowd.

Nina had worked for her for more ...