Maya stirred awake with a flutter of nervous excitement in her chest. Today was the day she and Elias would meet the wedding planner the first real step toward the life they were about to build together.

Her heart raced a little as she brushed her hair and slipped into a pale blush dress. Standing before the mirror, she caught her own reflection and smiled faintly. There was a quiet glow in her eyes, the kind that came from peace rather than perfection.

After a light breakfast, she gathered her bag and the folder containing ideas she’d scribbled down the night before notes about flowers, fabrics, and melodies she’d dreamed...