The lake shimmered beneath the morning sun, quiet and glassy as though the world had exhaled just for them.
Nathalie stood barefoot at the edge of the dock, her wedding gown trailing behind her like white flame. The bodice was delicate—hand-sewn by her and Renata in silk woven with metallic thread. On her spine: a phoenix embroidered in crimson, wings unfurled.
Lisa peeked around the birch trees. “It's time."
Nathalie turned, heart steady.
Daniel waited beneath an arch of woven willow and white orchids. His suit was ash-gray, his tie a shade of deep dusk.
Jim stood beside him, proud and slightly fidgety in his tux.
Music drifted from a cello nearby as guests rose from their seats scattered across the grass.
Nathalie walked slowly, each step a stitch sewn into the future.
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When
