Chapter 21: Chapter 20: Mei’s Secret Experiment

Ava had dealt with plenty of crises in her matchmaking career: runaway brides, jilted grooms, and one particularly disastrous date involving a pet iguana. But this? This was new.

She stared at the empty chair across the consultation desk, her pulse rising. "She's not answering her phone," Ava muttered, jabbing at her screen again.

Kelly peeked her head into the office. "Still no sign of Mei?"

"Nope," Ava said, pacing the small room. "She was supposed to meet Mr. and Mrs. Patel ten minutes ago to discuss their son's matchmaking profile. They're expecting her, not me. How do I explain this?"

Kelly tapped her chin. "Tell them Mei's… deep in research? Meditating on their son's romantic destiny?"

Ava shot her a glare. "Not helpful."

Kelly shrugged. "You're the matchmaker. Be charming."