MALIA’S POV

“I’m ready!” she declared, twirling in her flower girl dress.

I smiled, grateful for the distraction. “You look beautiful, Joan.”

“Thank you, Auntie Lia,” she beamed, running over to hug me. “Are you ready to marry Daddy?”

The innocent question took me off guard, and for a moment, I didn’t know how to answer. But then I looked down at Joan’s hopeful face, and I realized that, despite everything, I was ready. I had to be.

“Yes, sweetie,” I said softly, pulling her into my lap. “I’m ready.”

Joan giggled and hugged me tightly, her excitement contagious. As she bounced off to find Ella, I glanced at Elsa...