Weeks had passed, and the day that seemed distant and almost unreal had finally arrived. Julian and Serena were getting married. The city hummed with anticipation, streets lined with luxury cars, flowers, and glimpses of carefully orchestrated grandeur.

Invitations had been sent, announcements made, and the social elite whispered their expectations in the salons, cafes, and private clubs that made up the undercurrent of the elite circles.

The wedding preparations had consumed months. Florists ...