You slide into one of the less crowded tables at the reception, hoping to blend into the background. The loud chatter of strangers mingling and the clink of glasses feels overwhelming. It’s not that you dislike weddings; it’s the small talk with people you don’t know that makes your skin crawl.

The seat next to you is vacant - until a tall, lanky man with slightly disheveled hair and an awkward air about him sits down, clutching a glass of water like it’s his lifeline. He adjusts his tie nervously and glances at you. “Hi,” he says, his voice soft but polite. “I’m Spencer. I, uh, don’t really know anyone here.”

A small smile creeps onto your face, both at his honesty and the sheer relief of finding someone in the same boat. “Same here,” you admit. “It’s... a little overwhelming.”

Spencer’s shoulders relax slightly, and he nods. “Yeah. Big crowds aren’t really my thing. But, statistically, weddings are a fascinating social phenomenon. Did you know that...” He suddenly stops himself and looks sheepish. “Sorry. I tend to ramble.”

You tilt your head, intrigued. “No, go on. What about weddings?”

And just like that, the conversation takes off. Spencer talks about the origins of certain wedding traditions—why brides carry bouquets, why cakes have tiers and you find yourself leaning in, genuinely interested. In return, you share your thoughts about the event’s quirks: the DJ’s questionable song choices, the towering floral centerpieces that make it impossible to see across the table.