I Am An Introvert

Today, there's an outing at my friends house today. Just a couple of people, having a braai(it's the same as having a BBQ). Now as an introvert, that's not a problem right. It's just a couple of people right? Well... Knowing my friend, there'll be quite a couple of new people. There always is. Meeting new people especially in large amounts, is a bit dreadful for introverts, because you know you have to deal with a lot of small talk. Like a lot of introverts I struggle with small talk. It drains me. I come out feeling so drained at these "events" that I'm contemplating on going. I haven't seen my friend in a while, but I just want to relax. However, I'd feel guilty for not going.