Three weeks later, Sarah stood in front of a giant mirror inside a bright bridal boutique.
The cream-colored silk gown fit her changing figure with total perfection and soft grace.
It had taken months of work for the local tailor to craft every delicate seam.
Sarah smiled warmly as she touched the smooth fabric near her chest.
Her best friend, Nina, stood right behind her while clapping her hands in delight.
Nina: You look absolutely stunning, Sarah.
Sarah: I finally feel like a real bride today.
Nina: Mark is going to tear up the second he sees you walking down that aisle.
The door to the fitting room suddenly flew open without a warning knock.
Victoria marched inside while wearing an elegant, dark black designer suit.
She looked at Sarah's dress with total disdain and folded her arms tightly.
Victoria: That color is completely wrong for a traditional Vance family wedding.
Sarah: I chose cream because it feels warm and personal to me.
Victoria: It looks cheap, and it does not fit our formal standard at all.
Nina stepped forward to defend Sarah from the harsh critique.
Nina: With all due respect, this dress is custom-made and beautiful.
Victoria: Mind your own business, girl, before I have you removed from this store.
Victoria stepped right up to Sarah and looked directly into her tired eyes.
Victoria: You think you can just slide into our wealth and act like you belong here.
Sarah: I do not care about your money, Victoria.
Victoria: We will see how much you care when the entire city watches you fail.
Victoria turned on her high heels and left the boutique without saying another word.
Sarah leaned against the mirror pedestal to steady her shaky balance.
Nina wrapped a supportive arm around Sarah's shoulders to offer comfort.
Sarah knew she had to stay strong for the sweet baby growing inside her.
She refused to let Victoria's cruel words ruin her special day.
She paid for the gown and carried it home with a proud, tall posture.
That night, she placed the dress carefully inside a protective velvet bag.
She closed her eyes and hoped that tomorrow would bring peace instead of conflict.