The bridal boutique smelled like lace and anticipation.
Katherine stood on a pedestal, hands on her hips, wearing a gown that was… fine. Pretty. Safe.
Marian circled her slowly.
“You don’t love it,” Marian said.
Katherine sighed. “I want to love it. But it doesn’t feel like me.”
The consultant brought out another dress—sleek, elegant, with a delicate back.
Katherine stepped into it, emerged, and froze.
Marian’s eyes softened. “That’s the one.”
Katherine looked at herself in the mirror, eyes shining. “Oh.”
She turned to Marian. “This is how I want to feel. Not like I’m playing a role.”
Marian smiled. “Then say yes to that.”
They hugged—tight, emotional, grounding.
“Thank you,” Katherine whispered. “For being here.”
Marian nodded, a soft smile tugging at her lips as she glanced
