The high-key bright luxury Dallas wedding venue was filled with soft chatter and light laughter. White marble floors caught the light from overhead chandeliers, and a massive wall of crisp white roses framed the altar. Framed American flag decor rested along the hall walls, adding a quiet dignity to the grand room. Guests in designer suits and elegant evening dresses leaned in toward each other, admiring the opulent setup.

Standing near the altar in a sleek black tuxedo, Marcus adjusted his bowtie, his chest tightening with a strange, heavy anxiety. Next to him, his bride, Victoria, held her orchid bouquet tightly, her polished smile flickering whenever he shifted his weight.

Victoria: Stop fidgeting, Marcus. Everyone is looking at us.

Marcus: I just feel like something is wrong. I can't explain it.

Victoria: Nothing is wrong. This wedding cost three hundred thousand dollars, and my family paid for every inch of this marble. Stand up straight.

Suddenly, the heavy double doors at the back of the chapel burst open. A sharp gasp rippled through the audience as a young girl ran frantically down the center aisle. She wore a faded, dusty blue dress, her bare feet smacking against the cold white marble. Clutched tightly against her chest was a crying baby wrapped in a worn blanket.

Victoria: What is this?! Security! Get that girl out of here right now!

Lily: Daddy! Daddy, please!

The young girl halted right in front of the altar, her face streak-stained with dirt and tears, her chest heaving as she held the baby close. Marcus took a breathless step forward, his jaw dropping as his entire world tilted on its axis.

Marcus: Lily... is it really you?

Lily: Daddy, please don't leave us alone!