My name is Rachel, and at 14 I lost my mom to cancer. Her wedding dress became my most treasured memory,

and I promised I’d wear it on my wedding day to carry her love with me. Years later, my dad remarried Sandra,

who slowly replaced everything in our home that reminded me of Mom. But I kept the dress hidden, safe from her reach.

When I got engaged to Daniel, I tried it on — it fit perfectly. Sandra saw me and criticized it,

insisting I wear something “modern.” I refused, telling her I would wear Mom’s dress no matter what.

On the morning of my wedding, the dress was gone. Sandra admitted she had thrown it away. Heartbroken, I nearly canceled the ceremony

— until our neighbor, Mrs. Carter, arrived holding the dress she had rescued from the trash. She helped me clean it, and I wore it proudly.

As I walked down the aisle, guests gasped. My dad was emotional, and Sandra’s shocked expression said it all. Later, Dad gave a heartfelt

speech about memory and love, finally understanding how much Mom’s presence mattered. Sandra slipped away from the reception and never returned.

Wearing Mom’s dress reminded me that love lasts forever.