It was a soft ivory lace gown with a flowing skirt and subtle beading on the bodice. The moment I stepped out of the fitting room, Helen gasped.
“That’s the one, Laura,” she said. “You look radiant.”
Even the saleswoman got teary-eyed.
I twirled in front of the mirror, feeling like I had stepped into a new chapter of my life. “It’s perfect,” I whispered. “I feel… like myself again.”
I bought it that afternoon and carefully stored it in the garment bag in my closet, counting the days until the wedding.
The following weekend, I hosted a small family lunch to discuss wedding plans. Peter was there, as were Matthew and Amanda. The mood was light until Amanda asked, “So, have you found a dress yet?”
“Yes,” I said, smiling. “It’s beautiful. Ivory lace with a fitted bodice and—”
Before I could finish, she interrupted. “Oh. Lace? Isn’t that a bit much? I mean, it’s lovely for younger brides, but…” She gave me a sympathetic smile. “You might look more dignified in something simpler.”
Peter frowned. “I think Laura can wear whatever she wants.”
“Of course,” she said quickly. “I just want her to look elegant. You know how judgmental people can be.”
