The reception starts immediately after the ceremony.
Guests filter from the ceremonial space into an adjoining hall that's been transformed into something out of a magazine spread. Tables draped in silk, centerpieces of white roses and deep blue hydrangeas, a dance floor polished to a mirror shine, and enough champagne towers to supply a small country.
Bael and I stand near the entrance as people begin approaching to offer congratulations.
The first couple is older, clearly important based on how others defer to them as they pass. The alpha extends his hand to Bael.
"Congratulations, Bael. A beautiful ceremony."
"Thank you, Director Yan." Bael shakes his hand smoothly, then turns to me. "This is my spouse, Runze. Runze, Director Yan and his wife oversee our manufacturing division."
"A pleasure to meet you," I say with that practiced smile.
Mrs. Yan takes my hand with surprising warmth. "Such a lovely ceremony. You look absolutely radiant."
"You're very kind, thank you."
