Carmen Batista was filled with joy when Francisca turned to face her. The wedding dress her daughter wore was white with white lace accents. She had kept it all of these years with her dreams of this day. It fit Francisca beautifully.
With her lips trembling and her eyes close to tears, Carmen tried to tell Francisca how beautiful she looked; but the lump in her throat prevented her from speaking. Reaching out, Carmen took her daughters hands and gently spread her arms and smiled.
Francisca, her face flushed with excitement, said, “Thank you, the dress is beautiful.” Francisca slowly turned in a full circle so her mother could see how well it fit. A knock at the door drew their attention. The door latch clicked, and the door opened.
Two young ladies, Francisca"s age, entered the room. T
