Angel squeezed Sarah’s hand. He still hated to hear Syd call her that, but was beginning to accept that it wasn’t going to be changing.

“Actually,” Angel said, “That’s kind of the plan. After school Sarah and I want to open up our own restaurant. My dad already said he’d help us, but not until we finish school,” He turned to gaze in Sarah’s eyes. “The wedding’s first, though.”

Sarah and Angel would both be attending San Diego State in the fall. She had been so close to going to New Mexico for a time that Angel had been beside himself. Just a few weeks ago though they had gotten news of her scholarship to San Diego and now everything was perfect. She would stay in La Jolla and work at the restaurant part time.

Sydney smiled. “Lynni told me if it were up to you you’d be married already.”

Angel frowned. “Yeah, everyone jumped all over that one. It’s cool. I’ll wait 'til we finish school, but no longer than that.”

The musicians started singing Sabor a Mi, a slow, romantic Mexican favorite. Sarah smiled at the sight of giant Alex next to petite Valerie. Those two were still going back and forth. Sarah didn’t get it. Alex looked at Valerie very much the same way Angel looked at Sarah, yet he was still doing the disappearing act on Valerie all the time. They’d go for a good few weeks being inseparable then he’d be gone with just a few short texts to check in with her and Valerie was certain he was with someone else.

Some people got up to dance including Eric and Sofia. Angel tugged Sarah’s hand. She put her drink down and he led her to the dance floor. Angel bumped Eric hard before putting his arms around Sarah.

“You’re an ass.” Eric chuckled.

Sarah rested her head against Angel’s strong shoulder and closed her eyes. His grip tightened and he kissed her head. Never in all her wildest dreams as a little girl could she have imagined being this happy. She was finally home.