Chapter 9 How Can I Be At Ease?

• Stella's encounter with Marcus on the highway happened on a Wednesday, while the Farleys officially came to the Summers with the dowry on Friday. Only a day separated the two events, during which Alina and Cindy met to play cards and finalize the smaller details of the marriage arrangement.
• The speed with which the Farleys moved forward with the engagement highlighted their serious commitment to this business marriage.
• On the day of the betrothal, Lany and Alina came in person. However, both the groom and bride-to-be were absent—Marcus citing physical inconvenience and Stella claiming school obligations.