The gentle scent of roses and jasmine filled the air as morning sunlight spilled over the cliffs of Tuscany, bathing the hilltop villa in a golden glow.
Hope stood on the balcony of her bridal suite, staring at the view below. Olive trees swayed softly in the breeze, and guests-many of them peacebuilders, authors, educators, and global partners-were beginning to arrive. Everything was ready.
Today was the day.
She was getting married.
Behind her, Cassie adjusted a delicate flower crown on her daughter’s head.
“You look like your name,” she whispered. “Like hope.”
Hope turned, her eyes glistening. “I used to imagine this day… but never like this.”
Cassie smiled. “Neither did I. You’ve always surprised us.”
Hope took her mother’s hands. “Thank you for making me believe love should be
