The morning of the wedding arrived clear and bright, autumn sunlight spilling gently across the vineyard as Ivy stood in the small preparation room, her mother fastening the final buttons along the back of her dress with careful, steady hands.
"You're shaking," Diane observed gently, smoothing the fabric across Ivy's shoulders.
"I'm nervous." Ivy laughed softly, though happiness radiated through every word. "Good nervous, though. I don't think I've ever felt this certain about anything in my entire life."
"That's exactly how it should feel." Diane turned Ivy gently to face the mirror, both of them studying her reflection together, tears already gathering in both their eyes. "You look beautiful, sweetheart. Absolutely beautiful."
Ivy touched the small bouquet of daisies resting on the t
