A ripple of shock spread through the crowd as a collective gasp echoed. Jack’s expression transformed from adoration to alarm as he watched Emily, his face paling by the second. The movement became more pronounced, causing the delicate fabric to shift unexpectedly.

“Is it a prank?” whispered an elderly aunt to her companion, her voice barely audible above the growing murmur of the guests.

Emily stood frozen, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment and confusion. She exchanged an anxious glance with her maid of honor, Lily, who quickly stepped forward. With as much grace and discretion as possible given the circumstances, Lily lifted the edge of the dress slightly, peering underneath.

A moment later, a small, fluffy creature darted out from under the gown, eliciting a mixture of laughter and relief from the crowd. It was Max, Emily’s mischievous kitten, who had somehow managed to sneak into the wedding unnoticed. The mischievous feline darted between the rows of chairs, his tail held high and his eyes wide with excitement, oblivious to the commotion he’d caused.

Jack’s expression shifted from concern to amusement, his laughter breaking the tension. “Looks like Max wanted to be part of the ceremony too,” he joked, as the guests chuckled heartily, their initial surprise melting into adoration for the furry intruder.