Sophia's cheeks still glowed with warmth after Ethan left.

She stood by the doorway, watching his car disappear around the corner before turning away.

Her parents stood beneath the plane tree, dappled shadows obscuring their expressions.

Realizing they'd witnessed her intimate moment with Ethan, Sophia's ears burned.

Vincent cleared his throat. "Young love. We understand."

Evelyn smiled tenderly. "Seeing you so happy together warms my heart."

Night deepened.

Vincent graciously offered the master bedroom to the mother and daughter.

This was Sophia's first time sharing a bed with her mother.

She studied Evelyn's face in the lamplight—every fine wrinkle radiated gentleness.

Resting her head against Evelyn's shoulder, Sophia breathed in the faint jasmine scent.

"Mom, are you happy?"

Evelyn stroked her hair. "Very."

Sophia drifted into sleep with a smile still gracing her lips.

At 5 AM sharp, the makeup artist arrived.

"Miss Laurent, your complexion is flawless—hardly needs enhancement."

Sophia admired her painted-brush features in the mirror.

The embroidered phoenix on her Dragon-Phoenix Gown—a gift from Grandma Margaret—seemed ready to take flight.

Evelyn lingered by the door, seeing her younger self reflected in the scene.

"Mom?" Sophia called softly.

Evelyn wiped her eyes. "My daughter is breathtaking."

The bridesmaids arrived in succession.

Natalie burst in and hugged Sophia. "You're radiant today, sis!"

Iris produced a flour sack with a conspiratorial wink. "Wait for my surprise."

Sylvia kept glancing toward the entrance, distracted.

"Expecting someone?" Sophia teased.

Sylvia flushed. "N-no."

When Ethan appeared with his groomsmen, Natalie immediately switched allegiance.

"Brother!" She dashed to his side.

Iris stomped her foot. "Traitor!"

Ethan approached Sophia calmly, whispering in her ear, "I missed you."

Amid the cheers, Sylvia sidled up to Kyle.

"Mr. Grant..."

Kyle remained impassive. "My heart belongs to another."

Shane entered just then, impeccably suited.

Kyle pointed. "To him."

Sylvia's shocked gaze flew to Sophia for confirmation.

Sophia nodded. "They do live together."

Devastated, Sylvia retreated to the restroom.

Before the ceremony, Grace embraced Sophia tightly.

"I'm so happy for you," she whispered hoarsely.

Evelyn's eyes also glistened, conveying volumes through their hug.

Ethan lifted Sophia's veil and swept her into his arms.

"Let's go home, Mrs. Sullivan."

Tears streamed down Evelyn's face as she watched them leave.

Vincent gently wiped them away. "Our daughter will be happy."

"I know." Evelyn smiled through tears. "It's just... overwhelming joy."