Time seemed to bend around that moment. Two hours had already passed since Celina had started getting ready, but to her it felt like a blink—one instant she was preparing, and the next, she was standing before the mirror, completely transformed. The white dress, simple yet elegant, draped perfectly over her body, accentuating the gentle curve of her belly where she carried her two little miracles. Her wavy hair cascaded softly over her shoulders, and the delicate makeup only enhanced the natural glow of her features.

Zoe watched her in silence for a few seconds before breaking into a radiant smile.

“You look stunning,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. “The most beautiful mom-to-be bride in the world.”

Celina smiled, her hands gently caressing her belly.

“This all feels like a dream, Zoe. A dream I never want to wake up from.”

Zoe stepped closer, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her friend’s ear.

“And he’ll be waiting downstairs—just like he’ll wait for you every day of you