That night, during the reception, Muffin was the celebrity of the hour.
Guests lined up for photos, someone fashioned her a flower crown from Emily’s bouquet, and laughter filled every corner of the hall. When the music softened and the guests began to drift away, Emily cradled Muffin in her lap, smiling at Thomas. “She’s been following me everywhere,” she said softly.
“I guess she didn’t want me to start my new life without her.” He kissed her forehead. “Then she’s family now.” And outside, under the fading light, the church bells rang one last time — a tender echo of a day that would never fade from memory. Years later, framed in their living room, the photos would still tell the story: the ripple in the gown, the gasp of surprise, the laughter that followed, and the kitten that reminded everyone that even on the most perfect days, love has a way of surprising us — small, soft, and utterly unforgettable.
