it's the bride, Staci Reynolds!

"Jake?" said a raspy alto voice.

Abbie and Jake turned around to see who it was. Standing there in the doorway was a stunning young Black woman in a gorgeous yellow dress emblazoned with red flowers. Her hair was waved, shiny, and sprayed with a faint trace of glitter. She was all smiles, high energy, and definitely delighted to see Jake.

Staci Reynolds, the bride

"Staci!" exclaimed Jake, embracing her in a hug. "Gosh, Staci, it's been a while. It's so good to see you."

"Likewise! I was so surprised that you RSVP'ed yes to this. Surprised in the best way, of course. I'm so glad you're here." She turned to Abbie.

"Hi, Staci. I'm Abbie Andrews. I'm here with Jake. This is such a lovely party. Thank you for having us!"

"Absolutely my pleasure, Abbie. It's great to meet you." Staci reached her arms out and hugged Abbie as if they were fast friends. Patting Jake on the arm, she spoke again to Abbie. "Jake's horrible at staying in touch. I had no idea he was even seeing anyone. Please consider yourself one of the family, Abbie."

Jake shook his head. "She's right. I'm horrible at staying in touch."

"No pictures on Instagram? No text messages about a beautiful red-haired princess in your life?" Staci teased. "Jake, you know I like to know this stuff."

Now it was Abbie's turn to join in the teasing. "Jake, I'm surprised at you. I should be hurt that you were keeping me a secret. From your family!" She giggled, and then leaned to Staci and continued in half-veiled faux confidence. "I'm totally joking. We've only been, um, spending time together for a short while. It was actually a big step for Jake to bring me here."

Staci smiled. "You are utterly adorable together. The bride sayeth that Jake and Abbie are adorable, and -- why are you out here working the door like this?" Staci suddenly realized that this wasn't the way things were supposed to be going. "Where are Megan and Phoebe?" She glanced around.

"Oh, it's totally fine," said Abbie. "We talked to Megan and Phoebe. They had to go check on some things in the kitchen and I offered to help."

Staci furrowed her brow. "I hope they're back soon. I want you two inside enjoying the party."

"We are!" said Abbie. "Met a bunch of folks on their way in. And had some champagne -- very delicious!"

Staci leaned back into the ballroom, and waved to someone out of Jake and Abbie's view. "Phil!" she called. "Come over here!"