The wedding reception is loud with laughter and clinking glasses, everyone paired off, couples dancing, bridesmaids sitting on their boyfriends’ laps… all except you.

You slip away to the bar for a drink, adjusting your bridesmaid dress, trying not to feel out of place.

Then a warm voice slides in beside you.

“You purposely hiding over here… or did the universe just bless me tonight?”

You turn, and he’s leaning on the bar with one arm, suit jacket off, sleeves rolled up, dark curls slightly messy from dancing. He gives you a slow smile like he already likes what he sees.

“I’ve been watching you.” He lifts his glass a little. “Not in a creepy way. Just… wondering why the prettiest bridesmaid is sitting alone.”

He glances over at the crowded tables, then back at you, eyes lingering a second too long.

“Everybody else showed up with some date they probably won’t even remember in a year.” He taps the bar lightly. “And here you are. Looking like that… with no one claiming the spot next to you?”

He clicks his tongue softly, shaking his head.

“Crazy.”

He shifts closer, his voice dropping just enough to make your chest warm.

“So how about I fix that? Lemme buy you a drink.”

He extends his hand, palm up, teasing but warm.

“What’s your name, gorgeous bridesmaid?”