Golden Light and a Traitorous Heart

RUBY

I carefully pinned the last delicate flower into Olivia's hair, stepping back to admire my work. The white jasmine blooms contrasted beautifully against her dark curls, giving her an ethereal glow that matched the radiance in her eyes.

"There," I said, my voice soft with genuine affection. "You look absolutely breathtaking."

Olivia turned to face the full-length mirror, her hands fluttering to her mouth as she gasped. "Ruby, it's perfect. Everything is perfect."

She spun around and wrapped her arms around me in a tight embrace that threatened to crumple her wedding gown. I laughed, gently extracting myself.

"Careful! We can't have the bride looking wrinkled before she even walks down the aisle."

"I don't care," Olivia said, her eyes brimming with happy tears. "This is already the most wonderful day of my life, and it wouldn't be half as special without you here."