The reception hall carried a different kind of energy from the ceremony.
The solemnity of vows had dissolved into rhythm. Drums blended with live band tuning. Waiters moved in organized patterns between tables, trays balanced carefully as perfume, food, and laughter mixed in the air. The gold accents of the decor reflected warm light across deep blue fabric draped along the walls, and everywhere you looked, there was motion.
Shade and Tunde had been ushered into the hall amid cheers. The applause had been sincere, not exaggerated. Family pride. Friends celebrate love. Elders nod with approval.
Dayo remained seated through it all.
He clapped when appropriate. Smiled when someone caught his eye, as at this point he had to lose the mask. Leaned slightly toward Abisola when she whispered commentary about who was related to who and which uncle had put on weight.
He just laughed as he had never seen this side of his mother before.
He did not stand unless necessary.
