Suddenly, from under the layers of satin and lace, a small, fluffy head popped out. It was a kitten—tiny, gray, and wide-eyed, mewing as if wondering why everyone was making such a fuss.

Laughter erupted from the guests, a mixture of relief and delight. The tension that had filled the air dissipated, replaced by a warm wave of amusement. Sophie let out a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding, her panic transforming into laughter as she caught sight of the tiny stowaway.