The soft lights spilled across my gown as my gaze fell to the floor, seeing nothing at all. My mother’s gentle voice cut through the haze, brushing a fold of fabric into place. “Jenna… it’s time,” she murmured.My fingers trembled over the embellished stones and beads on the bodice as I nodded, drawing in a shaky breath. Today, the vows, the ceremony, everything I dreaded, had arrived.Seated on the stool in the salon, dazzling in my ensemble, I felt my mother’s presence close, unwilling to leave my side. I shut my eyes tightly before opening them again, holding back the tears threatening to spill. I shifted slightly, feeling the faint weight of the fabric on my lap, the tiny crystals catching the light with every subtle movement.She offered a fragile smile and pulled me into a careful embrace. The warmth of her arms pressed against me, steadying and grounding.“Your mom loves you so much, Jenna. Keep your heart open for me, dear… never doubt it.”Her hand moved slowly over my back a
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