Maya let out a deep breath. “You’re right. I can’t imagine my life without him.”
Gavin:Because I can see the Bears T-shirt.
Me:What? How?
I tucked my phone under my thigh and looped my hands through Maya’s arm. “Bettie, doesn’t love look incredible on her?”
Bettie put a hand on Maya’s cheek and one on mine. “I’m with the two most beautiful girlies in this arena. Love, friendship, contentment—whatever either of you are feeling, you both look dashing.”
“Listen, Ms. Snazzy, you’re looking pretty fabulous yourself.” I put my hand on top of Bettie’s and gave her a stern eye. “And let’s talk about how well you’re doing. To get to these seats, you had to descend at least twenty steps or more. You tackled them all by yourself—you wouldn’t even let us help you.”
“I held on to the railing.” She batted her lashes.
“So did I,” I offered. “That doesn’t change my opinion. You’re doing so, so great.”
She released both of us and waved the air. “I’m getting there.” She grinned. “But it sure feels good to get rid of that awful cane. It didn’t matter how many scarves I tied to it, it was a wicked eyesore.”
“And now it’s gone forever.” Maya briefly rested her head on Bettie’s arm.
“It better be,” Bettie said.
Gavin:I’m looking at it right now.
Me:Hold on ... you’reHere?
Gavin:Turn around. Look up. I’m two boxes to the right.
Me:Why didn’t you tell me you were coming?
Gavin:Surprise.
Me:Are you alone?
Gavin:I’m with Jordan. Maya doesn’t know. He wants her to have a girls’ night, so we’re having a guys’ night.
Me:And why did you tell me?
“The game is going to start soon.” Maya put her beer in the holder between us. “I’m going to run to the ladies’ room. Anyone need to join?”
I shook my head. “Unless you want me to go with you?”
“No, stay, I’m fine. How about you, Bettie?”
“I’m good, darling.”
“Be right back,” Maya announced and headed up the stairs.
Gavin:Because I refuse to leave this arena unless I taste you.
Me:You wild, wild boy. How is that going to happen?
Gavin:Don’t you have to go to the restroom?
Me:Now? The game is starting in less than 10 minutes.
Gavin:The game will be over two hours long. I’m sure you can find a window to escape.
I immediately felt Bettie’s gaze on me and turned toward her.
