Elena approached as a microphone was being passed back near the speaking area and asked to say a few words.

Before the change could be checked, she had it.

“If I may,” she said, smiling toward Julian.

“A mother should speak on her daughter’s wedding day.”

My chair moved against the floor.

Chloe stood before I did.

“Chloe, my beautiful girl,” Elena began.

“From the day you were born, I dreamed of seeing you in white.”