The afternoon of the wedding arrived, and the sky was a flawless blue, the kind of perfect day that seemed to promise good things. I took a deep breath and stepped outside my apartment, carrying the neatly wrapped gift in my hands. The venue was as grand as Maria had described, a sprawling estate with manicured gardens and a hall that sparkled with crystal chandeliers. I felt a pang of anxiety as I stepped inside, immediately enveloped by the hum of chatter and laughter.
Despite my nerves, the ceremony was beautiful. Lisa looked radiant, her face glowing with happiness as she walked down the aisle. Daniel watched her with an expression that spoke volumes about their love. I couldn’t help but smile, caught up in the joy of the moment. It felt good to be there, to be part of something so full of life and promise.
After the ceremony, the reception began in a lavish ballroom. Tables were adorned with elegant centerpieces, and waitstaff moved smoothly among the guests, offering champagne and hors d’oeuvres. I settled at a table with a few other guests, chatting politely and trying to ignore the little voice in my head that insisted I didn’t belong.
