"Mother, you're going to make me cry," Emily started to say, but her voice trailed off.
"Forgive me, sweet child," Victoria whispered. She reached out and squeezed Emily's hand, her eyes shining with pride. "You just look so beautiful. I can't help myself."
Victoria turned to look at Lyvana, who was standing nearby with a satisfied smile.
"Liv, you did an amazing job. This dress is spectacular. It's exactly what Emily needed for today."
Lyvana beamed, leaning in to give the large fabric flower one final, tiny adjustment. "She's the one making the dress look good, Mrs. Victoria."
The door suddenly opened again.
Emily's father walked in and stopped the moment he saw her.
For a second, he just stood there staring at his daughter in silence.
Then emotion broke across his face.
"My God," he whispered.
Emily smiled instantly. "Dad…"
He walked over and pulled her into a tight hug, careful not to ruin the dress.
