So, from this day forward, Sergio would be part of her family as her cousin-in-law. The thought of Sergio referring to her as cousin-in- law in times to come brought a spontaneous smile to Shirley's face.

Suddenly, Shirley felt a movement within her belly. Realizing something, she secretly glanced around to ensure no one noticed her.

Then, she placed her hand on her belly and tenderly stroked it several times. Her stomach moved again as though the baby inside was answering her touch.

Resplendent in her lavish wedding gown, Marnie glided into the venue arm-in-arm with Jamal.

After Marnie and Sergio exchanged rings, sealing their vows, they gracefully descended from the stage to greet their respective parents in-law.

From her seat across the room, Shirley strained to catch glimpses of Sergio's parents, her view obstructed by the exquisite floral arrangements adorning the stage.

Following the greeting, the newlyweds returned to the stage with their parents to pose for a group photograph.

Shirley blinked when she saw Sergio's parents, a nagging sense of familiarity tugging at her thoughts. Why did Sergio's mother look so much like her landlord?

Wendell, sitting beside Shirley, voiced her thoughts, his voice a hushed whisper, “Shirley, do you think that woman looks Like our landlord?"

"Yes."

With the ceremony concluded, the newlyweds descended the stage, and the festivities continued, and dishes were served to the guests.

Given Marnie's pregnancy, there was no need for her to partake in the toasts. Sergio stepped forward, graciously sharing toasts with the elders of the Nelson family.

After offering goodwill and toasting his glass in celebration to the people at that prominent table, Sergio put the glass on the tray. He turned around and walked to the next table under the elder's guidance.

Suddenly, Sergio's gaze landed on a familiar figure at one of the tables. He halted in his tracks, squinting slightly until recognition dawned. It was Shirley seated beside Wendell, and he immediately understood her identity. He had heard her name mentioned before, but he didn't think that it would be the Shirley he knew. He hadn't anticipated that she would be Marnie's cousin.

As Shirley happened to lift her head and meet Sergio's eyes, she offered him a smile before refilling her cup with the offered drinks.

When Sergio approached the table, there was a pause in the mealtime and chatter as everyone's attention turned toward him. The elder introduced him briefly.

Picking up his glass, Sergio addressed the gathered guests, “Thank you for attending my wedding with Marnie. She's not feeling too great, so I'll be the one to propose a toast to you."

Shirley reciprocated, raising her glass and taking a sip.

After exchanging a few more pleasantries, Sergio turned his attention to the neighboring table, continuing with his rounds of greetings and toasts.

As the wedding banquet drew to a close, guests began bidding their farewells, gradually trickling out of the venue one by one.