Ileana felt her chest tighten as Rex collapsed completely at her feet.

Those eyes — the same eyes that had faithfully watched over her for years — were starting to dim. Her father, Mihai, knelt down beside her.

— Sweetheart, I think we should get him to the vet — he said softly, but Ileana already knew. She had already understood what Rex was trying to tell her.

— He waited — she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. — He waited to see me in my wedding dress.

Just then, Constantin, the groom, descended the church steps and walked toward them. Despite the sharpness of his tailored suit, he knelt beside Ileana and Rex.

— What’s going on? — he asked, concern etched into his voice.

— I think… he’s saying goodbye — Ileana whispered, tears streaming freely down her face.

Constantin grasped her hand gently, and with his other hand, he softly caressed Rex’s head.

The guests stood silently, watching — deeply moved, no one dared disturb the solemn moment.

Then, to everyone’s astonishment, Rex summoned the last of his strength and, though trembling, pushed himself up.

With great effort, he stepped toward Constantin and licked his hand, as though offering his blessing. Then, he turned back to Ileana, lay beside her one final time… and gently collapsed.