That’s how I feel. Right now.

I make small talk with Stella and Carter while we wait in line at the bar. Eleanor joins us, a permanent smile fixed on her face thanks to the big guy at her side. Mitch is intimidating when you first meet him, but he’s actually a big ol’ teddy bear who can never seem to tear his gaze from his girlfriend.

It’s rather sweet. Even though the look in his eyes is more like he wants to tear her clothes off versus cherish her for life.

Once we have our drinks, we make way to our tables, splitting up when I stop at number eight. None of my friends are sitting with me, which is kind of annoying. Did Candice do that on purpose? Strand me all alone so I would have no choice but to turn to this Jonesie guy for company? If so, that was very sneaky of her.

Arriving at my table, I sit down, smiling at the lovey-dovey couple sitting across from me. They murmur their hellos before dipping their heads close together, speaking in low tones I can’t hear. Currently, they’re the only other ones at the table.

No Jonesie to be found.

I take a big swig of my drink, needing the liquid courage to calm my nerves. Feeling jittery, I open my small black velvet purse to check my phone. Of course, no notifications. Everyone I know and care about, minus my family, is here at this reception right now, and there’s no reason they want to text me or send a funny meme via Instagram DMs. They’re having fun. With their significant others.

Oooh boy. Sounds like a pity party of one is about to go into full effect.

“No frickin’ way.”

I quickly glance up at the sound of the vaguely familiar male voice to find Isaac standing in front of me, his hands gripping the back of the chair next to mine.

“Why did you say that?” I ask him irritably. I clear my throat. Do my best to rearrange my face so I don’t scowl. I need to quit being so sensitive. There’s nothing wrong with this guy. As a matter of fact, he’s very attractive. Especially all dressed up.

“You at this table?” He tips his blond head toward me and I can’t help but smile.

“I am. Are you at table eight too?” Hope flutters in my chest and I tell it to get lost. I don’t need to feel fluttery around this man. Boy. Whatever I should call him. He’s young. Younger than me, I’d almost bet on it.

He nods. “Mind if I sit next to you?”

“Please do,” I say without hesitation. Though that means nothing. I’m just being polite. And it’s nice to see a somewhat familiar face at my table. I was feeling very alone…

And now I don’t.

Isaac pulls the chair out and settles in, his arm brushing against mine, he’s sitting so close. A shiver steals over me and I exhale a quiet, shaky breath. It’s been a while since I’ve spent any one-on-one time with a man and I’m just…sensitive. Yes, that’s it.