The Civil Affairs Bureau building was filled with people. Couples streamed in and out, their loud voices blending with the sounds of the cars across the street. Outside the entrance, Gregory stood rigid, impatience written across every line of his face. He checked his watch again and he looked like he was suppressing his anger.

“She’s late. How dare she keep me waiting? So rude!” he muttered, jaw clenched.

Tiffany stood beside him and took note of his anxious look. She quickly ...