I wrap my arm around Vinnie’s back, practically plastering myself against him just because I know it’s going to piss off Luis and Javier.“Now if you’ll excuse us, we’re going to see Mom and Dad.”
They don’t say a word, only grunt, the closest thing they can do without me losing my shit on them.
“Sorry they’re assholes,” I tell Vinnie as we head toward the reception line near the steps to the dance floor.
His arm is around my back, gripping my hip with his massive hand.“They’re your brothers.It’s their job to be assholes, Bianca.I’d be worried if they weren’t.”
“My parents will be easier.My mother will be happy I’m not alone.”
He glances down at me as we get closer.“And your father?”
“He wants whatever makes me happy, and he’s your biggest fan.”
My father’s eyes light up as soon as he sees me.That’s the way it always is with him.He says I’m his greatest joy.I can literally do no wrong in my father’s eyes.My mother is a little tougher, worried I’ll grow old and be alone forever.
“Mija,” my father says, holding out his arms to me.
I release Vinnie and walk into my father’s embrace, wrapping my arms around him tightly.“Hi, Papa.”
“I’ve missed you,” he whispers in my ear.“You’re always locked away in that apartment of yours, typing away on your keyboard.”
“I’m on a deadline.I’m sorry.”
He backs away and cups my face.“Don’t ever be sorry for following your dream.I’m so proud of you.”
My insides warm at his words.“Thanks, Papa.”
My father’s eyes finally leave me, catching sight of the handsome man standing behind me.“Who do we have here?”
I reach out, hooking my arm through Vinnie’s.“This is my boyfriend, Vinnie.”
Vinnie holds out his hand.“It’s an honor to meet you, sir.”
“You look familiar, son.Where do I know you from?”
“Papa, this is Vinnie Gallo.He plays football for Chicago.”
My father slides his hand into Vinnie’s palm.“The superstar?”
Vinnie’s smile grows, and he stands a little taller.“Some people say that.”
My father looks at me, his hand still shaking Vinnie’s.“You’re dating a professional football player?”
I nod, unable to wipe the proud smile off my face.“Yes, Papa.He’s also my neighbor.”
“Oh my word,” my mother finally says after an aunt once removed and someone I’ve only seen once in my life finally walks away, letting her come up for air.“That woman can talk.”My mother roams her eyes over Vinnie, soaking in his handsome face, wide shoulders, and all-around huge, muscular body.
“Mama, this is Vinnie.”
“The boyfriend?”my mother asks, still staring at him like a piece of steak.
“Yes, ma’am,” Vinnie answers with that smile that could have just about any girl dropping her panties and begging to be fucked.
My mother wiggles her fingers, motioning for Vinnie to come closer.“Let me get a better look at you.”
Vinnie looks at me like I’m going to rescue him or give him permission, but I give him a little push in her direction.She’s the entire reason I asked Vinnie to come with me to this party.Maybe now she’ll get off my back and stop trying to fix me up with every available man she knows.
She touches his face first.“Well, aren’t you handsome.”
