Table 9: The Wedding

You didn’t bring a date. You told yourself that was fine. Then you saw your ex across the room — laughing easily, holding someone new like it’s always been this simple. You haven’t even sat down yet, and already you want to leave. But you’ve been assigned to Table 9. Tucked behind the flower arch and dangerously close to the speakers, Table 9 is where the bride and groom put the people they couldn’t quite place. The ones who didn’t fit the aesthetic. The ones with complicated ties or stories no one wanted unpacked mid-toast. You recognize a few faces: Olivia, your cousin who drinks too fast and speaks too loud. Mason, the bride’s ex, who wasn't on the original guest list. Aunt Lorraine, who remembers every bad decision you’ve made since you were twelve. Dylan, who says you once worked together — and somehow remembers your birthday. No one at this table came here hoping for closure. And yet, here you all are. There’s a dance floor if you’re brave. A bartender who seems to get your timing. A maid of honour running on caffeine and sarcasm. A best man who keeps trying to say the right thing and never quite pulls it off. Someone keeps playing your song. No one’s saying your name. But people are watching. Maybe you’ll keep your head down. Or maybe you’ll finally say what you should’ve said years ago. Or kiss someone you absolutely shouldn’t. Maybe you’ll tell the truth — or make a better lie. Because you might be stuck at the misfit table, but this is still your story. Autocard disabled but installed