Page 104 of Worth the Fall

Mia’s cheeks flush, but she doesn’t look away. "He’s pretty incredible," she says softly.

"Stop, you’re embarrassing me," I call over, though my grin betrays me.

Mia laughs, shaking her head. "You’re fine, Ramirez. You can handle a little praise."

My mom leans back in her chair, her smile growing. She glances over to make sure Celine is out of earshot. "You know, Mia, I prayed for years that Miguel would find someone who truly saw him. Someone who could keep up with him but also bring out the best in him."

Mia looks down at her coffee, her expression thoughtful. "I think he brings out the best in me, too."

My mom reaches out to take her hand again. "That’s how it should be."

Celine finishes Felicity’s hair and turns her around, admiring her handiwork. "There. Now you’re ready."

Felicity hops off the stool and twirls, her dress fanning out around her. "How do I look?" she asks, looking between me, Mia, and my mom.

"Like a real princess," I say, grinning.

"The best princess," Mia adds, holding out her hand to Felicity. "Come here and let me see."

Felicity runs over, climbing into Mia’s lap and snuggling against her. "Do you think everyone will like my petals?" she asks, her voice small.

"They’re going to love them," Mia says, stroking her hair. "And they’re going to love you. You’re going to be amazing, Felicity."

Celine sits beside them, resting a hand on Felicity’s back. "And if anyone doesn’t love your petals, you send them to me. I’ll handle it."

Felicity giggles, looking up at her mom. "Okay, Mommy."

My mom reaches for Mia hand. "You’ve got a beautiful family, Mia."

Mia smiles, her eyes shining. "I really do."

As I watch them, my heart feels impossibly full. This is everything I’ve ever wanted—a family, love, and moments like this. And today, it all becomes official.

The first look with Mia is like something out of a dream.

The garden is quiet save for the soft rustle of leaves and the occasional chirp of a bird. The sun filters through the trees, casting dappled patterns of light and shadow across the stone path. My palms are slightly sweaty, my heart pounding harder with each passing second as I wait.

Then I hear it—her footsteps, soft and deliberate, crunching gently on the gravel. I swallow hard, my pulse quickening as her scent reaches me first, a subtle mix of vanilla and something floral that’s distinctly Mia.

"Miguel," her voice comes softly from behind me, a mix of excitement and nerves. "Okay, turn around."

I take a breath, steadying myself, and then I turn.

There she is.

For a moment, it’s like the world stops.

Mia stands a few feet away, and she’s breathtaking. Her dress is simple yet elegant, the soft fabric hugging her curves and flowing down into a train that pools slightly behind her. The bodice is delicately embroidered with lace, and the sheer sleeves add a timeless, ethereal touch. Her hair is swept back into loose waves, a few tendrils framing her face. And her bouquet—white ranunculus with hints of greenery—is understated, allowing her beauty to take center stage.

"Wow," I manage, my voice barely above a whisper. My throat feels tight, and for a moment, I wonder if I’ll ever find the right words.

Her lips curve into a smile, her cheeks already beginning to flush. "You like it?" she asks, her voice teasing but laced with vulnerability.

"Like it?" I step closer, my eyes never leaving hers. "Mia, you’re… you’re everything. I don’t have words for how beautiful you look."

Her smile widens, her eyes shining. "You’re going to make me cry before we even get to the ceremony," she says, her voice catching slightly.

I grin, reaching out to take her hands in mine. "I’d apologize, but I don’t think I’m capable of regret right now."

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