The structured bodice fits me like a second skin, hugging my hips and then cascading into subtle, layered ruffles that end above my ankles. An open part on the left side showcases my legs and nude colored high heels. The moonstone around my neck fits just right and actually matches the dress—and even if it didn't, I would wear it anyway because it's from Maeve and it gives me strength, confidence, and comfort. The fabric is softand comfortable, neither scratchy nor restrictive. I'm all about comfort with my clothes these days.
The dress just feels romantic, sweet, and timeless—a classic Grace Kelly vibe.
I smile when I remember how Bailey had cried like I had found my wedding dress when I tried it on, and said it was the look on my face—a quiet confidence blooming the more I twirled in it.
A rush of gratitude overwhelms me—I feel beautiful, happy, and acutely aware of how precious this moment is. I owe it to the girl beside me, to Sasha and her generosity, to Michael for the invitation, and to his brother for making our weekend so special.
And most of all, I feel grateful to the man I love, waiting patiently outside for us to finish getting ready.
"Pictures! I need pictures," Sasha says, pulling out her phone and positioning Bailey and me like we're going to prom. Bailey and I pose together, smiling and giggling, blowing kisses at the camera before taking some more professional shots that Sasha can post on herCrown Craftsocial media page.
This moment, laughing with Bailey and Sasha as we take silly mirror photos, feels like puregirlhood, and I'm just so happy to experience this with these wonderful friends.
Grabbing my phone, I quickly send a picture to Tess, though she'll probably see it tomorrow morning when she wakes up. Bailey sends a picture of us to a new group chat with our friends, excluding Callum, only because she wants us to have afirst lookmoment in private. We receive an immediate influx of texts.
Atticus: You guys look great! Have fun and be safe tonight!
Jane: Stunning!
Parker: bark bark bark bark bark
Tonya: ladies, remember: if your men don't treat you right, I will! (I know they treat you like the queens you are)
"Alright, angels. Have a wonderful time tonight," Sasha says, packing up the rest of her tools in her travel cases.
"Are you sure you don't want to come?" Bailey asks, hugging her tightly. "I'm sure Michael could get two more tickets."
"Girl, it'sdate nightwith Mr. Graham," Sasha laughs, the taller woman quickly adjusting a stray piece of Bailey's hair. "There's an eight-oz filet calling my name atAvenue."
Bailey says she'll walk her downstairs, but before she goes, Sasha hugs me and whispers, "Tonight is all about fun—no cancer, no worries. The battle will continue tomorrow, but tonight is allyours, Sophie."
"Thank you, Sasha," I say, forcing my tears back because I refuse to mess up this makeup she worked so hard on.
Sasha smiles at me, grabbing her two bags as Bailey follows her out, telling me that she'll meet us in front of the doors in fifteen minutes. I can hear them saying goodbye to Callum, and I take a moment to look in the mirror.
The woman staring back at me is beautiful.
There's no cancer, no sickness, no betrayal tainting her.
She's just a beautiful woman in a lovely dress about to have a fun-filled night with the man she loves.
She's getting the fairy tale—for tonight at least.
"Baby?"
His voice calling through the door has me smiling widely; the butterflies fluttering in my stomach slow to a halt.
It's as if my body just knows:Callum is here, all is well.
Taking a deep breath, I open the door to the bathroom and step into the bedroom. Callum stands at the foot of the bed,pulling lightly at the black tie around his neck, but turns when he hears me.
And freezes.
"Hello, handsome."
The look on his face is something I will remember for a long time.
He blinks, once, twice, as if he can't believe what he's seeing. His mouth drops open, and I am so glad he didn't shave completely. He trimmed and shaped his beard, but that gorgeous scruff that always tickles me is still there. His hair is combed, and he has applied some pomade to keep it in place. He's wearing a black suit and a bow tie that fits his large body perfectly. I know he had gone to pick one out earlier this week while I was working, taking Atticus, Jane, and Bailey with him for approval.
