Wendy's heart raced with a mixture of excitement and anxiety as she adjusted the collar of her elegant dress in the mirror. The soft ivory fabric cascaded gracefully to the floor, accentuating her every movement. She wasn't one to attend weddings often, but today was special. Today, her dear friend Joy was marrying the love of her life, and Wendy couldn't have been happier for her. 

The venue was a picturesque countryside estate, adorned with vibrant flowers and twinkling fairy lights that danced in the warm evening breeze. As Wendy walked through the garden, the scent of blooming flowers filled the air, carrying a sense of romance that was both palpable and contagious. 

Just as Wendy was about to find her seat among the other guests, a familiar voice called out to her, "Wendy! Over here!" She turned to see Joy waving from a group of people gathered near a gazebo. Wendy smiled and made her way over, greeted by hugs and cheerful hellos from friends old and new. 

As Joy continued to greet the guests, Wendy's eyes caught a glimpse of a woman standing near the bride. She had a natural elegance, an aura that seemed to draw attention without effort. Wendy's gaze lingered on her for a moment, intrigued by the stranger's presence. She had never seen her before, but there was something about her that made Wendy's heart skip a beat. 

Wendy knew she had to introduce herself. "Beautiful wedding, isn't it?" Irene turned to find the woman standing beside her, a gentle smile playing on her lips. Her voice was like a melodic chime, and Irene was momentarily taken aback. 

"Yes, absolutely," Irene replied, her own smile mirroring the stranger's. "I'm Wendy, by the way." 

The woman extended her hand, "Irene. Nice to meet you, Wend