“But don’t you want to enjoy the reception?”
She scoffed. “I don’t think I’ve ever told you this, but I’m not a wedding person. In fact, I don’t even really like them. I just tolerate them. They’re overrated.”
“So why’d you come?” I laughed.
“Because only a fool would deny an invitation to one of the most famous basketball players’ weddings.”
“Understandable.”
“I’ll run to the ladies’ room to let Octavia know I’ll be taking Aleesa.” She gave my cheek a squeeze. She knew I hated when she did that, and I started to say so, until she said, “I love you, hermano. Have fun, okay?”
My face softened. “Te quiero, Catalina.”
She downed the rest of her champagne before placing the empty flute down on a nearby table. I watched her go until she rounded the corner for the restrooms.
I stopped by one of the open bars for a neat whiskey before making my way across the room to where Deke and Davina were speaking to a few of their guests.
Deke spotted me and excused himself from one of the people he was talking to, then he pressed a hand to Davina’s back and led her my way.
“Big J.” Deke greeted me with a dap and a brotherly hug. “You enjoying yourself?”
“I am. You did not have to stop your conversation for me, you know?”
“Oh, trust me, that was not for you,” Deke said. “That couple would’ve talked our heads off all night.”
“Really?” Davina asked, glancing over her shoulder at the older couple.
“Oh, yeah. They’re friends of my mom’s, and you know that woman can talk.”
“I can’t wait to tell your mom you said that.” Davina pretended to walk off, but Deke caught her by the arm and reeled her back in.
“You’re my wife now. You can’t snitch on me.”
She laughed as he hugged her around the waist and kissed her.
“I would never.”
They kissed again.
“Should I give you two some space or ...”
Davina giggled, playfully pushing Deke away so he’d stop trying to kiss her.
“Deke Bishop!” someone called, and Deke peered over his shoulder to see his manager, Arnold. “Congrats, big guy!”
Arnold made his way toward us.
Deke sighed. “Let me chat him up really quick.” He dropped a kiss on Davina’s forehead this time. “I’ll be back for you, wifey.”
When Deke took off, Davina let out a dreamy sigh and shook her head.
“Congratulations, Davina.” I raised my glass her way.
“Thank you, Javier.” She faced me, clinging to a half-empty glass of champagne. “I’m really glad you’re here.”
“Of course. I would not have missed it for the world.”
She continued a smile, darting her gaze to Deke. “I just hope I can keep him happy, you know?”
