The bridesmaids stepped forward, forming a semi-circle around Dorothy. Emily handed her mother a bouquet, identical to the others. The audience watched in awe as Dorothy, initially hesitant, joined the circle. The tension melted away as the guests erupted into applause.

The ceremony proceeded, filled with laughter and tears of joy. In that moment, Emily’s plan had not only defused a potentially awkward situation but had also transformed it into a touching testament to love and acceptance. Dorothy, for all her bravado, seemed genuinely moved by her daughter’s gesture.