She always dreamed I’d wear it. My dad once said he was speechless when he saw her walk down the aisle in it.

As a kid, I’d sneak into her closet, run my fingers along the fabric, and whisper, “Someday, I’ll wear this.”

That dress wasn’t just fabric. It was love, memory, and her.

After getting engaged, I had the gown carefully packed from storage and brought to my apartment. It stayed in its garment bag, untouched, except when I took it out to plan alterations.