An unidentified narrator (later revealed to be Pammie Banks) describes the beauty of another unnamed character (Emily Havistock) who tries on her wedding dress. With regret, Pammie predicts a canceled wedding and reflects on the details (i.e., cakes, dancing, photographs) that will never exist. Pammie ambiguously references a past failed scheme while resolving to execute her current, apparently malevolent plan.

The first-person narrator switches to the novel’s protagonist, Emily, as she struggles to order a glass of wine in a crowded bar. She is taking a break from a conference for human resources professionals; Emily works in recruitment for a consulting agency. One of the only women at her place of employment, Emily is successful at her job and enjoys a lucrative salary. An attractive man (Adam Banks) intentionally skips Emily’s turn in line and then pays for Emily’s drink. They exchange smiles, and Emily returns to her colleagues, who attempt to hit on her.

Just as Emily decides to leave the conference, Adam introduces himself and offers to buy her another drink. They flirt while making fun of Emily’s co-workers.