Standing in front of the mirror, dressed in an elegant yet simple white dress, Penny's lips curled into a smile. Slowly, a hand appeared on her shoulder—Allison, gazing at her daughter's reflection from behind.
"It's not even the wedding yet, and you're already so stunning, my baby," Allison said, pressing her lips together as her eyes began to sting. "I can't believe you're… a woman now."
Penny turned to face her mother, who had been helping her prepare. She gently held Allison's hand, fluttering her eyelashes tenderly. Penny didn't say anything, sensing her mother was on the verge of tears.
Allison sniffled, stroking the side of Penny's head. "If things get hard, just come home, okay?"
Penny nodded with a smile.
"You're so pretty." Allison wiped the corner of her eyes, and Penny leaned in for an embrace. As she felt her daughter's warmth, Allison pressed her lips tighter, another wave of tears threatening to spill from her eyes.