2021-01-01 New Year, New Hope

 2021-01-01  New Year, New Hope

“Ladies and gentlemen. I give you Mr and Mrs Angel Negron.”

Ziggy kissed Angel again and felt the tension melting from her body.  It was over.  She was now Ziggy Negron and she couldn’t be happier to be married to Angel.  For a while, she was afraid she wouldn’t live through it.  As the applause faded into the background, she remembered that she had always wanted a small wedding.  Of course, this was impossible.  Her own family was huge, as she considered fosters to be family as well.  But Angel’s family was even larger than her own and she had stressed about planning a huge, massive, crowded wedding.  Marriage was important to Angel and she would give him a proper wedding or die trying.  Covid made that a bit difficult, but they had placated the Alexandra government by insisting that all guests be tested 24 to 48 hours before the wedding and socially distancing the tables.  That gave them the ability to waive having to wear masks.  Alexandra was a safe place, but they still got supplied by mainland British Columbia, so better safe than sorry.

Life made it relatively simple for her in a way.  She had friends on the island, but all of them knew that she was not into large crowds.  That had caused a bunch of teasing, but no anger or resentment.  Ziggy had invited one friend … Fiona Reinhardt … because Fiona was there the day she and Angel had met and had nudged Ziggy towards Angel on that day.  Fiona had not only accepted, but helped by drafting her husband, Vincent as a harp player.  Harp music proved to be far more relaxing to Ziggy than a traditional pipe organ.

Being an artist, Ziggy was not the sharpest dresser in the world.  She had worried about her wedding dress and had even lost a few nights sleep.  Finally she went to the local seamstress on Water Street and explained to the apprentice Paige Beaulieu about her desires for artistry and simplicity.  Page had come through and Ziggy loved her wedding dress, which was loose fighting, off white with a wide belt around her middle.  She loved it.

Now the wedding was over and they could move on to the reception room.  There, she saw Dante’s best friend, who had worn an old fashioned tux to the wedding because it was the only thing he had, say his goodbyes and leave the building.  One less person.  Father O’Keeffe also left, having done his duty for the bride and groom.  Vincent also had to leave, getting help from Father O’Keeffe to take his harp, named Igor, home before his next virtual cooking class.

Ziggy Negron could finally sit as a banquet table and relax … she hoped.  Looking around she noticed people finding their seats … but what she had not expected was for her mother to take the hand of Arthur VanBuren and lead him to sit beside her.  Ziggy blinked at her mother and silently asked herself what … was happening.

Arthur VanBuren had sat with the mother of the bride at the wedding.  He saw the looks and kept his face casual.  It really had been a beautiful service.  Now he sat with Lydia at the table with her daughter and new son in law, knowing there were going to be distracting questions.

Lydia Alvin had been keeping a secret for far too long and she was ready to give it up. So she opened the door to questions in an obvious way. Arthur VanBuren had been her secret love for many years. They had held off and then held off and then ebbed and flowed and now…..this was the time for Lydia and Arthur to just let it show. So she made sure he was invited to Ziggy’s wedding, the first of her children to marry, to share in a huge part of her life. The ceremony was beautiful, Ziggy was beautiful. Angel looked handsome and she could feel their happiness radiating. Lydia had worn one of her nicest dresses, one she already owned. It was a flattering plum coloured wrap dress with a delicate pattern with flowers and hummingbirds. Lydia was a plus sized woman but she carried it with sensuality. She had chosen a plum coloured lipstick that matched the dress perfectly and the rest of her makeup was soft, smokey and understated. Lydia rarely wore jewelry save for things like macaroni necklaces made for her by her foster children and long ago her own children so the dress stood out on it’s own merit. She wore a classic pair of black heels which made her a bit taller but she wasn’t a naturally tall woman which made her contrast with Arthur’s height obvious. But somehow, they just fit in how they walked together and stood together and now sat together. She gave him an encouraging little smile and then looked around welcoming questions if needed but also enjoying the day and her daughter’s joy.

Angel Negron was almost floating with happiness. He had married the woman he loved, Ziggy Alvin, now Ziggy Negron. They now belonged to each other at the witness of their family and in the eyes of God. His world felt perfect. He sat beside Ziggy now at the reception still unable to take his eyes off her. She was beautiful in her dress but to him she was beautiful in anything. Angel was wearing a simple black suit with a white silk button up shirt but with no tie. He despised ties and had his top two buttons open. He didn’t like any clothing that choked him at the neckline. He had his light wire frame glasses on and for the wedding he had done something surprising. Angel had cut his hair. The ponytail was gone but his short style was flattering and not as short as some. His brown black hair was lightly layered down to the nap of his neck now but it was distinguished, especially for the wedding suit. Now he looked even more like Pedro, although Pedro had a different haircut and no glasses. Pedro, his brother and best man….was distracted today. Supportive and cheeky as always but a little far away at times. Angel felt bad Pedro hadn’t met a lady love of his own yet because Pedro was a man full of love to share and some lucky girl would find out one day when he finally settled himself down with one. But Ziggy’s distraction was more immediate as she watched her mother, his now mother in law Lydia take his bosses hand and bring him to the family table for the banquet. Angel raised a brow and then looked curiously at Ziggy “Did you know about this?”

Gareth Dunham had been what some who didn’t know him more recently uncharacteristically emotional through the wedding ceremony. He was so happy for Ziggy. He had a lifelong special connection to this foster sister of his and he could just feel her joy. It touched him and made him smiling and weepy. Ziggy was beautiful and this was her big day. He’d grown to really like Angel too and knew Angel loved her to the ends of the earth so he felt good about this man being Ziggy’s life partner forever. He pulled himself together for the banquet but then past him walked Lydia holding hands with Arthur VanBuren? Gareth put a hand on his heart and started laughing, not in mockery but in shock. Lydia and Arthur?! He took his seat next to Dante and the table of fosters, choosing to connect their over crowding in at the family table, even though both he and Dante really were family too. Mina, Stone and Elle were well on their way too. He looked at Dante and Gen and then back to Lydia with a bemused expression. Gareth was wearing a maroon with blue polkadot button up shirt unbuttoned one button at the top tucked into black dress pants with a shiny black belt with a simple chrome buckle. He had a nice black leather jacket over top which he took off for the dinner. His blonde hair was freshly cut and nicely styled and was often the case he simply looked gorgeous. “So Dante...any mention of Lydia having a  date in your house this week?”

Dante was in his black tie, white shirt and black dress pants he’d always worn for special occasions or to court. Gen had kindly tied his tie again and he had to admit he got off on watching her do it so they could stick to this plan until their own wedding even. He had started the clapping and hooting as the couple was announced by Father O’Keefe. Gene wasn’t staying for the reception but Dante was glad he came for the ceremony as to Dante, Gene was family too now. And his friend had worn the most epic tuxedo from the 1990s. It was worth it to just see him pull it off. His boss at Quorra Computers had apparently worn the tux to his grad in the 1990s. Hard core man. Hard core. Now they were seated and would soon be eating but all eyes strayed to Lydia….and Arthur Van Buren? Dante looked around at Simon, Theo and Ziggy and then Gareth asked him if he knew anything about Lydia having a date and he had to laugh “Nope…..” Then he looked at Gen and smirked “This should be good.”

Mina James was trying to keep an eye on Stone and Elle but she also couldn’t help noticing Lydia and Mr. Van Buren. Curious. She had been babysitting a bit more lately. Also Elle seemed a little mouthy with Dante lately and better with her and she wasn’t sure what that was about. It was a little early for hormones and mood swings still. Mina had those in spades. She had found a goth dress at the thrift shop. It’s possible it was once a halloween costume but she would make it work for a wedding. It was purple and black lace Lolita style and she wore it with black stockings, solid since Lydia had requested not fishnet this time please, and lace up black leather boots. Her hair had been died from cotton candy pink to cotton candy blue over the holidays. Dante looked amused by Lydia and her date as did Gareth but Mina was a little worried. Would the principal start coming over ALL the time now? She didn’t mind him but he was an authority figure in the school which made him of course a bit suspect in her books.

Simon Alvin had made a video of the wedding ceremony and was fussing with his phone after as people began to move to seats for the banquet. He had worn a white button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up to the elbow and a sort of old school suit vest in blue on top of a pair of brown dress pants. He also wore a bow tie in blue and brown paisley and a pair of brown oxford style dress shoes. In the order of seating Arthur VanBuren sat down beside him and he looked up from his phone with some confusion. He hadn’t seen Arthur walk to the table with his mother and figured he may be confused. “Oh Mr. VanBuren….um this is one of the family tables but I’d be happy to help you find a good spot. Actually I see one beside Fiona Reinhardt.” He waves to Fiona and is half way to standing when he sees a sudden look fired off from his mother who’s on the other side of Arthur.

Lydia looks at Simon intensely “Arthur is MY plus one Simon. Sit your ass down dear.”

Theo was on the other side of his brother and Tara beside him. They had both seen Lydia walk up with Arthur hand in hand and then heard the exchange with Simon. Tara looked at Theo for guidance as this was his family. Tara was wearing a billowy orange dress with a crew neck and half sleeves It had a bit of flair to the skirt which came to her mid calves and she had on a long necklace with dark blue beads and a pair of dark blue little flat ballet style shoes. She also had a white sort of shawl sweater as the dress was quite lightweight.

Mateo sat beside Maria who was on the other side of Angel and watched Lydia come up to sit holding the hand of the school principal Arthur VanBuren. He raised a brow at the moment and then watched Ziggy for her reaction before turning to his wife “Is this new?” It had been a beautiful day for their boy. Mateo was in a black suit with a red tie on a white shirt. 

Fernanda leaned into Duncan as the buzz and looks started happening about Lydia and Mr. VanBuren. “Well look at them.” Angel and Ziggy had gotten their beautiful ceremony. The reception was proving a bit more intriguing than romantic, but soon the dancing would start. Fernanda wore her favourite red dress that made her look like a Flamenco dancer and had clipped a corsage of flowers into her hair in a barrette that swept one side over. She had a pair of chunky black heels she could dance in. She swatted at Miguel who was staring at the principal “Close your mouth you’ll catch flies!”

Miguel Negron was stuffed into a somewhat ill fitting suit. He had refused to go shopping for a new one even though he had really outgrown this one. He left the jacket unbuttoned and untucked his shirt. His tie was….somewhere. It was a little pinstripe suit that had been adorable when it fit perfectly. Now it was just awkward and he wore it with white high top runners. He couldn’t believe Lydia seemed to eb holding hands with their school principal. Angel was a married man now and he liked Ziggy. They seemed to be having a nice day but he still stared until Fernanda made him stop.

Fiona was beaming with happiness for Ziggy and Angel. She had been there when they met and it was so exciting to see their wedding as a result. She wasn’t family so she wore a simple lavender coloured boat neck sweater and grey skirt with tall black boots and snuggled into Vincent during the ceremony. Even though it was different from theirs it was blissfully nostalgic with Father O’Keefe presiding. He had to go before the banquet so she stayed and would politely for the meal and then probably stick around for one drink and head home herself. It was curious to observe Lydia Alvin with Arthur VanBuren. They looked suddenly cosy. When did that happen. Even more interesting was the looks on Lydia’s children’s faces about it. She might linger on the dinner and drink just to see where this went. However the guy beside her started talking to her and her ability to snoop was a little distracted. And this Samuel Negron seemed to be hitting on her, asking her to play music together. She instantly requested to bring her husband to the proposed jam session in case Vincent’s absence made him forget she had one.

Samuel Negron wore a black dress shirt on black pants with his first two buttons undone. He ended up sitting beside a gorgeous redhead. He knew she was married but her harp playing husband left so he flirted a bit anyways. Besides, maybe she had some single friends? It was all harmless. He talked to her about music, which she knew quite a bit about, although a different genre than what he liked and grew up on. There was some fuss about Ziggy’s mother having a date it seemed. He didn’t see what the big deal was. He kept talking to Fiona “So folk music? That’s what you sing…..we should jam sometime…..oh yeah you can bring him.” He smiled “Of course.”

Ziggy sat smiling when her mother sat down.  Arthur VanBuren then sat with her and SImon tried to direct him to another seat when their mother snapped that he was her Plus One.  Ziggy blinked and stared at her mother ... then at Arthur .. then at her mother.  A Plus One?  But ... she would have thought ....  She looked at her brother, the smile on her lips, part happiness at being married and part caution at thinking her mother was dating and ... happy and .. not alone with only fosters to love.

Arthur did not get up when Simon suggested he do.  He knew Lydia and she did not disappoint.  Her words were short, sweet and to the point.  He decided, however not to say a single word and only smiled at the Alvin children, including the fosters and then back at Lydia with obvious affection.  A look he had denied himself for far too long now.

Ellie sat quietly.  Her eyes went between Stone and Dante, glaring at bth.  Then she noticed the principal of the school and sighed, trying to look like she wasn't absolutely miserable.

Theo was happy to see his sister be the first of them married off.  But it made him reconsider a large wedding ... well, if he ever got to ask Tara, that was.  She was looking wonderful, but the distraction seemed to be with his mother's Plus 1.  Tara looked at him and he looked at his brother.  The Oldest.  Surely this was for him to ... discuss.  For him, it meant there was a man in his mother's life but .. when had it started .. how had it started?  And ..he would have sworn his mother would die alone because no man could compete in any way with her husband and his father, Dave. 

Gen was dressed in a pretty pale blue dress with simple blue flats.  It was one of her best dresses and she was starting to consider getting Dante ties to match his formal wear when she noticed Mr VanBuren sitting beside Lydia.  Dante pronounced that this should be good and so far, he wasn't wrong, but she softly tapped him on the arm and pretended not to watch.  Her eyes fell on Elle and she wondered why the girl was so upset.

Maria was still a bit teary eyed after the ceremony.  Her baby boy, married.  Her Angel.  She watched as they were all seated and there was some commotion about Arthur VanBuren.  She arched her brows when Mateo asked if they were new ... Lydia and Arthur.  "Do they LOOK new?"  she asked and rolled her eyes.  When they stopped they landed on Samuel talking to .. flirting at the red haired wife of the harpist.  That distracted her.  "Estas loco (are you insane?)?  Ella esta casada (she is married)."

  

Pedro was watching what seemed to be the beginnings of drama among the Alvins.  He knew that Lydia had been alone for a long time and, if she had found someone, he was happy for her.  He looked around to see his family's reaction and saw Samuel flirting the moment before his mother snapped at him.  That boy was going to get beaten by some boyfriend or husband someday.

Duncan had worn a simple black suit, but had coordinated his tie to Fernanda's dress.  He watched the scene but remained quiet.

Laia watched Lydia Alvin and her Plus one with interest.  She was dressed in black pants and a red shirt with a white tie.  Her mother had argued that it was not feminine enough, but ultimately there was not time for Laia to change ... and she'd planned it that way. Now she watched Lydia Alvin and the principal of her school drive her clothing choices right out of her mothers head.

Tomas watched the whole thing silently while he realized, far too late, that he should have invited Mabel ... She would love the drama if nothing else.

Lydia returned Arthur’s  affectionate look and then as if to seal the deal she casually leaned over and kissed his cheek. He was such a  handsome man to her and she was ready to let the world know he was her man. It was Ziggy’s day though and she gave her daughter a bit of a sheepish smile, not wanting to steal any of her spotlight. Then she heard Simon calling her name in an irritated tone.

“Mom…..Mom! Mother…..Lydia Alvin please look at me…” Simon implored. As his mother turned he hand gestured in the air “You couldn’t have given us a head up?” He head jutted at Arthur “No offense...just communication right?”

Lydia came back in a sharp tone “Simon Sampson Alvin you mind your manners! If you had wanted to bring a date and this was how I treated them would you be fine with that?”

Simon argued back “No...but I also wouldn’t just spring it on everyone….” He hissed, lowering his voice as heads began to turn and look between them.

Tara shrank back a bit behind Theo because now it was turning into a bit of a showdown. She felt bad for Ziggy if it got louder. It was her wedding after all.

Mateo Negron chuckled at his wife and then saw and heard her chide Samuel for flirting with a married woman right before Lydia’s oldest seemed to be reacting poorly to her date. He came up with a solution and clapped his hands as he stood up looking at everyone “the Negron men would like to offer a song to the happy couple! Samuel….Pedro…..instruments!” He clapped again and moved to the microphone that was already set up. While he waited for his boys he filled the now awkward silence with a few silly songs to try and make people laugh “A big black eye has my brother Jim...somebody threw a tomato at him. Tomatoes can’t hurt you I said with a grin. Oh yes they can if they’re still in the tin!”

Samuel did get up and go pick up his bass guitar and begin to tune it. He looked at his mother and shrugged. They were just talking after all.

Fiona laughed at the goofy song but also took her chance and waved at Ziggy and Angel with her hand on her heart, blew them a kiss and then crept out while Samuel was looking down and tuning.  As much as she was curious if they’d work out the Lydia Arthur thing, she didn’t feel like having an evening of discomfort setting boundaries with Samuel.

Dante felt Gen’s tap and gave her a wink. Then Simon seemed to get into ti with Lydia and Mateo jumped up and tried to shift attention from that to his silly song and setting up for a little offering song. Dante couldn’t help but laugh at the whole thing, as awkward as it was. He did want Lydia to be happy of course. What a weird night.

Angel rubbed Ziggy’s back as the tension became palpable in the room and then when Simon got into it with Lydia he almost stood up to go have a talk with him about disrespecting his mother in public. But before he could his father came up with a more musical solution and then while he waited for his summoned brothers he started singing an old silly song he used to sing to all of them and Angel couldn’t help but laugh and love him for doing it.

Mina was a little shocked by Simon but she had seen Elle’s misery.  She watched the girl with concern until Mateo Negron was singing about tomatoes in tins and she stifled a laugh.

Gareth shifted uncomfortably as Simon got a little too objecting to Arthur, or not having known about him ahead. Yeah she could have told them, but he also could have waited until later to unpack that with her. Gareth shot Lydia and Arthur a sympathetic look and then looked at Ziggy with an apologetic smile. Then Mateo called up his boys to play music and started singing a funny little song. He  shook his head and laughed but could see the man’s intentions were to be helpful.

Stone saw Elle looking meanly at him and glared back at her as it put him on the defense. “What?!” He spat out “Why are you mad at me?” Stone was a very sensitive child after all. There was other stuff going on but he hyper focused on Elle.

Ziggy listened to SImon lay into their mother a bit and she was about to speak when Mateo came up with a funny song.  She laughed, then sniffed, then stood up.  She moved to the space behind and between her mother and Arthur and put a hand on each of their shoulders.  "This is the best present you could give me, Mom."  she sniffed and then hugged Arthur.  "You better love her!"  she proclaimed as she straightened.

Arthur kept a stoic face when Simon spoke, but smiled at Mateo and was surprised when Ziggy got up and behind him.  Then she said it was a great present and asked if he loved her mother.  He looked at Ziggy and then Lydia.  "Unequivocally."  he replied, looking into Lydia's eyes.

Pedro was reaching for his guitar even as his father started the distraction.  After the laughter his father had then started with a happy song.  Not as joking as the first but not a love song either.  But that would come.

Ellie was trying not to look at Stone, but she couldn't help it.  When he snapped at her, she almost snapped back, but instead she moved to him and hugged him hard.  "I love you."  she whispered into his ear.  "That's all."  it wasn't all, but she also knew that now was not the time.

Theo half stood when Simon started in.  But it was Mateo, followed by Ziggy who did stand, but said it was a great gift and hugged Arthur.  Theo agreed and smiled.  SImon had a point BUT ... given his reaction, he kinda got how their mother might have wanted to keep it under wraps.

Gen laughed at the song, and when Ziggy stood, talked about it as the best present ever and hugged Arthur, she sniffed.  "Oh how romantic.  All of it."  and she blinked away a tear.

Maria laughed at the ice breaker and nodded in approval at Ziggy's words and hugs.  She stands and begins to applaud.  "To the bride and groom .. and the best present ever!"  she nearly shouts.  Then the music starts and she sits watching her husband and sons with pride.

  

Duncan went through a myriad of emotions, but settled on happiness and laughter as he also gets to his feet to applaud both couples.  He smiles at the happiness, but a lot of it is a cover.  He hasn’t had time to discuss with Fernanda the news of his mother.  Now was not the time.  But soon, he promised himself.

Laia watches her brothers and father, then Simon and Ziggy and can't help but love her crazy family.  She also stands and applauds.

Tomas surges to his feet, applauding loudly and trying to remember every word for Mabel later.

Lydia was honestly a little rattled from Simon. She should have told them ahead. She was kicking herself a bit now too but then Ziggy walked up and stood between she and Arthur with a hand on each of their shoulders and said she had given her the best present ever and that Arthur better love her. But then Arthur looked her in the eyes and said unequivocally and she felt her eyes get misty and nodded at him. “And I love him unequivocally too.” She reached for Arthur’s hand and held it in her own and then smiled at her daughter and then over to Mateo and his wonderful musical sons.

Mateo was a natural showman and he held his hands open wide “This next song was sung at Maria and I’s wedding. My cousin Phiilipe god rest his soul…...but now I offer it to Ziggy and Angel. It is a song of everlasting love and blessings.” He puts a hand on his heart and nods at Pedro and Samuel beginning to sing after he counts it in “Uno, dos tres quatro!” And the instruments begin and then Mateo unclips the mic and walks around singing, stopping in front of the couple and raising  hand to them as his melodious voice washes over them in beautiful Spanish. He winks at Maria as he catches her eye. He keeps walking after awhile and raises a hand to Lydia and Arthur too giving them a little smile and then to Tara and Theo as he passes and he really then belts it out at Simon like he’s putting him in his place with song for chewing out his mother in public.

Angel walked up to Ziggy after he saw her and heard her talk to her mother and clearly a man who did love her, his boss even,and smiled with a  little bow “Blessings…..it’s beautiful. Congrats you two.” And if he could he’d tug Ziggy back to sit with him because he could see what his father was revving up to. When his father, who was truly his father even if not by birth, sang to them the song eh knew was so special to him and his mother, he teared up and smiled at him, and then Ziggy and then his mother, before wrapping his arms around Ziggy “This is the happiest I have ever been. I love you Ziggy Negron.”

Stone was ready for an argument but when his sister just tells him she loves him and hugs him he’s shocked into hugging her back and softens “OK Elle….I love you too.” He didn’t understand at all why she was so upset. Then Angel’s dad was walking around singing and being very expressive and he couldn’t help but be a little fascinated even if he didn;t understand Spanish.

Tara watched Ziggy with a smile and then was a little bowled over by Mateo and his singing. This crowd and these two families were way more expressive than her own but it was anything but boring. Mateo gesture and the newlyweds and then Lydia and her fellow and then to her surprise Theo and herself and she had to laugh a bit and blush, taking Theo’s hand. Then she blinked as Mateo zoned in on Simon.

Simon Alvin had been indignant and ready to press his point further but was diffused by his sister’s welcoming of their mothers new relationship and then further diffused by Mateo Negron and his singing. He sighed, feeling he’d been foolish and a bit petty. He couldn’t explain his stubbornness. It wasn’t about his father anymore. Maybe he was jealous, everyone was pairing off, even Theo had Tara and he had taken comfort in the fact that he always had his mother while the world went off on their dates. Now she had someone. He wanted her to be happy and he felt bad for questioning her. He came under the fire of song and shrank a bit and then smiled awkwardly at Mateo and nodded, holding up a hand.

Mateo kept at Simon and then grinned and shook his hand and walked around some more. He found other couples and sang his heart out at them. He sang to Fernanda and Duncan and then he sang to Dante and Gen and then he raised his hands and sang to the room before he sang the last chorus to the newlyweds again as he ended the song.

Dante had nodded at Gen and when he saw her wipe a tear he kissed her cheek and put his arm around her. Elle had hugged Stone after what seemed like almost a fight starting between them. He sighed a bit but was glad they worked whatever it was out. Then Mateo made the rounds with his singing and he watched and looked amused and suddenly he was singing to Duncan and Fernanda and then to he and Gen. Dante grinned as they were sung too and then gave Mateo a thumbs up in appreciation.

Fernanda applauded both couples with Duncan and then her father was doing his singing thing and her brothers were playing so she dutifully paid attention and it was wonderful as always. She was highly amused and then suddenly eh sang to her and Duncan and she stood up briefly and kissed her father’s cheek mid song and then hugged Duncan’s arm, glad he was seeing this because it was a Negron family wedding tradition and someday it would be them. As her father walked to sing to Dante and Gen she laughed and leaned into Duncan “He will do this to us at ours….just like them…” She gestures at Angel and Ziggy and chuckles.

Gareth stayed seated but clapped for both couples and then looked enthralled with Mateo and his wandering singing. It was a lovely song and he used it well. He began the clapping, hooting and hollering when it was finished.

Ziggy is happily tugged back into her seat/  She leans into him as the song progresses and sniffes.  She was learning Spanish, but didn't know every word.  It was alright, as she knew her husband would translate for her.  Later that night.  Ater love.  Angel wraps his arms around her and she sighs happily.  "And I love you, Angel Negron."  for him, she would do anything ... change her name and take his.  It did not change her.  She didn't feel she was leaving anything behind ... only gaining so much.

Arthur smiles at the proclamation of love.  It was their first in public and he was glad that at least two of her children were happy for them.

Pedro played his heart out for his brother.  He knew it was a family tradition and he could see the emotion not only in Angel but in his mother, remembering when it was sung to her at her wedding.  He glanced around at his sister, Fernanda sitting with Duncan.  He'd bet almost anything that they would be next.  They were certainly very deeply in love.  Their mother wanted it for all of them, but he wasn't a spectacle man.  He liked to keep these things simple.  And Samuel....  he looked over at his younger brother as he played.  If there was a wild Negron, Samuel was it.

Ellie finally let her brother go and sat watching the song.  She didn't understand the language, but it distracted her from her own inner sadness.

Theo squeezed Tara's hand as Mateo gestured at them.  He wondered if it was a welcome to the family ... and what a family it was.  As Mateo moved on, Theo took Tara's hand and kissed it.

Gen leaned into Dante.  When they were sung to, she looked at Dante, leaning into him and whispering into his ea.  "Tonight you can translate for me."  she knew their 'honeymoon' period was almost at an end.  School would be starting again and they wouldn't be sleeping together as much as they had been.  But he was only a door away and now that she had her own garage room, they could alternate weekends if they wanted to.

Maria sniffed and tried hard not to cry as Mateo sang and her sons played.  Her own wedding memories flooded her.  It was a bittersweet time for her, but she had found love with a good man, who also loved her son.  An had given her more sons to love, plus two beautiful daughters.

  

Duncan applauded, and smiles when Fernanda tells him that her father would do that at their wedding.  "The sooner, the better."  he murmured.  "And by then I will know what all of the words mean."

Laia clapped and smiled as her brothers sang.  Tradition was a wonderful thing, but change was also good, she thought.

Tomas hummed the song to himself.  This was a joyous time and he was enjoying every second of it.

Samuel had of course played his heart out too. He liked to flirt and party but at his core self was the family and the values they had instilled, even if that wasn’t what he showed. His brother looked so happy with his new wife. He wanted that, the whole marriage and blessing in the eyes of God. It just seemed so unattainable to him.

Fernanda smiled at Duncan and kissed his cheek after she applauded “I’ll go through the words in detail with you later. But it’s funny , it’s a song of lovers who meet at the sunrise and are eternal by the setting sun, just like we were. I love you Duncan Rogers, and we will be there soon enough.” She leans into him and sighs happily.

Dante beamed at Gen “I can translate the words and the implied ending in...actions…” He gives Gen a lingering peck of a kiss and then holds eye contact with her afterwards, smiling with his eyes. He was still savouring every moment they had like it was new and precious. It would always be precious.

Mateo smiled all around and gave a tiny bow before he gestured grandly to his sons playing their instruments “The real talent here…...my beautiful boys.” He walks over to them and puts the mic back and then pats each of them on the cheek in turn while kissing the other cheek. Mateo was an affectionate and demonstrative father “Thank you Samuel, Pedro. We’ll take a food break..” He says jovially and then turns to the mic and says into it “You should all have some of this wonderful food we’ve all brought. Bless the hands that made it and those who grew it.” And he waves and walks back to sit with Maria, kissing her cheek as he joins her.

Simon had clapped for the music and then sheepishly approached his mother and Arthur sort of leaning and half squatting between them “I apologize. That was uncalled for. I want you to be happy Mom and if Mr. VanBuren makes you happy then that’s all I need to know.”

Lydia had been clapping and then tenses as she saw Simon come up. But then his words made her tear up and grab her oldest in a hug “Oh Simon. I can’t stay mad at you. That was uncalled for. But I should have told you kids before the wedding. And he does make me happy.”

Tara clapped loudly and then saw Simon on the move and looked nervously at Theo until she saw Lydia hug him “Oh thank goodness….” She murmurs.

Angel had clapped and whistled. It was strange to him not to be performing with them but someday it would happen in turns for Pedro and Samuel. They’d all find their soulmates eventually and marry. It was the Negron way. Samuel was a bit unpredictable though. He looks at his parents with love and then to Ziggy “Should we get some food?”

Gareth had clapped and watched Mateo share affection with his sons with a thoughtful and somewhat strained expression on his face. Loving fathers were still a bittersweet thing. His own had been so damaging and then he’d connected with Dave Alvin….but not long before he died. He watched people now, couples and families. He was part of the Alvin family for sure but in his life he was also often on the fringes of family and definately beyond the fringes of finding a life partner. But he gave Ziggy a great big smile as she sat happily with hers. 

Stone only needed to hear Mateo tell people to go eat and he jumped up and yelled “Come on everybody he said we should eat!” He ran to the food before anyone else closely followed by the youngest Negron.

Mina face palmed at Stone but let him go. She was just glad people seemed to be working things out. The music was very nice too.

Miguel had been listening and clapping and a little bored. He was glad Angel was happy and he liked Ziggy but he was hungry and this was a long day. Then the neighbour boy Stone jumped up after the suggestion to go get food from his father and he practically sprinted after him “Amen!” He exclaimed as he grabbed a plate.

Ziggy nods about the food, after she watched Simon and his mother hug.  "Yes, please."  she was hungry now that the stresses of the wedding were over.

Arthur sits while Lydia and Simon talk.  The hug is a loving one, truly between a mother and her son.  "Can I get you both a plate?"  he offers and if he gets their orders, he will bring them food.

Pedro accepts the affection from his father.  He was loved, as were all of his siblings.  He carefully and lovingly puts his guitar away and follows his father to his mother.  "Papa.  Mama." he addressed them respectfully.  "I ... well I have a date this evening.  She is lovely and ... well ... if things work out .. who knows."  It is the day of his brother's wedding and he knows that suggesting that he might be next couldn't hurt his chances of being allowed to leave early.

Theo watches his brother and nods when he and their mother hug.  He leans into Tara.  "We are all partnered off except for him."  he murmurs to her.  "I want him to have the kind of love we all have.  I know he had it once ... maybe he thinks he never can again ... but I know he can."  he kisses her on the cheek.

Gen smiles at Dante and his promise.  He was home and they had forever, but the last couple of weeks, they'd done their best to play 'catch up' of the months they lost to his prison sentence.  "Let's eat.  Maybe we can bow out before the dancing..."  she suggests, hoping to get back to his place before the younger kids got sent home.  They would babysit them the rest of the night.

Maria smiled at her husband as he finished the song, announced the food and sat with her.  Pedro joined them and she beamed.  "You played for your brother.  And very well, I might add.  I say you can go on this date.  I hope she is worth it."  She looks at Mateo with love in her eyes.  Her babies were growing up, falling in love and getting married.  It had taken her a while, but now she looked at it as her family was expanding, not shrinking.

  

Duncan lisens to Fernanda give a general translation of the song her father sang.  It was beautiful.  Love was beautiful and Fernanda was beautiful.  "We will, Nan."  he promises her, taking her hand as she leans into him.  Then came time for food and after food would come dancing.  Not his favorite, but he was trying for his Nan.

Ellie went up for food with Stone.  Dante was distracted by Gen and she was able to help Stone get the food he wanted and go back to the table with it.  Times like this she felt like Stone's family.  While she was happy that Dante had learned to be a much better boy than when they'd all started life at the Alvin's house, the older boy had also become like a protective big brother to Stone - a role that used to be hers.  She felt like she was losing her baby brother.

Laia watched the kids getting their food and sighed dramatically when Miguel ran off with the much slimmer Stone.  Standing near Mina she says aloud, not thinking Mina might hear.  "For food, he will run like a champion."

Tomas watches his little brother head for the food.  He follows and gets a plate of food.  No more than he knows he will eat and goes back to his seat to eat it.  Dancing will be next, but he will sit at his table and send messages to a few of his friends until the dancing is done and it is time to go home.

Dante grinned at Gen and nodded at her suggestion. In the food line he whispered something to Mina and she nodded at him, whispered back and gave him a little swat. So Dante and Gen snacked lightly and then when he saw Samuel tuning a guitar and warming up again he took Gen by the hand and they slipped out.

Mina was keeping an eye on Stone but so was Elle so after his food stampede with Miguel on his heels Stone was taking direction from his sister and behaving. Lydia had always said feed him to calm him and it worked. But she hung back waiting for her turn to grab some food. Dante had passed her already and asked if she could be full on with the younger foster siblings. He clearly wanted to sneak home with Gen. They were still reuniting and she was cool with it. She whispered back that she could take them on and even do bedtime but she’d text him if Stone gave her any trouble. Lately it was Elle, but Elle was good for her and tough for Dante. Maybe because he’d been away so long? Then she heard a voice behind her say for food he will run like a champion and turned to see Laia there. She wore masculine clothing by some people’s standards but to Mina taking a kick at gender and stereotypes earned someone respect. She also found the clothes made Laia look really attractive, really really attractive. Mina ran a hand through her short blue hair “Yeah I have a brother like that too….but he also just runs, and climbs and bounces off walls….better after some food.” She half smiles at Laia and then steps forward as the line moves looking at a plate of some sort of fried battered finger food things. She suspects they may be foods from Laia’s culture, possibly made by one of her family and points “Do you know what those are?” She asks curiously. The food table was potluck so it was a total mix of things including some Italian bruschetta left by Vincent earlier, some little Irish potato bites left by Fiona, Dante’s famous Guatemalan pupusas, some little French cheese puff things from Gen, a fruit platter, a veggies and dip platter, Tara’s spinach artichoke dip with crackers and other crunchy things. Then there were sweets, lots of sweets. Baking from all the cultures and families represented with a gorgeous Earthcakes wedding cake ready to be cut at the right time too. 

((A note we can take out after because I looked up Puerto Riccan appetizers. They are these:https://www.tablespoon.com/recipes/puerto-rican-alcapurrias-fritters/009b5124-e1b2-451b-a99f-9b6564a85729

Stone had lapped up the attention from his big sister. He loved being doted on by her. Of course he looked up to Dante and he loved Mina too but Elle always looked out for him. But food was his focus and he stuffed himself happily once he was settled in with it.

Lydia had been touched Arthur wanting to get her and Simon food so they could keep resolving from the earlier blow up. Simon pulled a chair closer and the three did end up sitting together and talking, more comfortably until the music was back in swing. Then Lydia waited until the newlyweds hit the dance floor before reaching out to Arthur “We’ve never gotten to do this….dance with me Arthur?”

Angel happily ate and then dramatically and lovingly hand fed Ziggy and whispered in her ear “Reminds me of how we began….that steamy steamy first night.” He pulled back and kissed her a little indecently for in front of a crowd...but hey they were newlyweds right? Then when there was music again he immediately tugged her to the dance floor as soon as she would allow it. Angel loved dancing but tonight he moved slowly and sweetly, in a trance of their beautiful day and shared love.

Gareth had shifted to bartending as soon as Samuel shifted out to tune his guitar. He had fun with it and cracked jokes and poured and drank a few of his own. The Puerto Ricans sure loved their Don Q rum and he found it was pretty good. He’d tried it with Pedro and Brayden one night and then found the bottle and the two of them passed out in the livingroom the next morning so he drank slow.

Mateo ate a bit, drank a lot and then was back at the mic singing with Samuel on guitar. He loved it all and was happy to share his songs and love with the new extended family.

Fernanda snacked lightly and then gingerly pulled Duncan to the dance floor, knowing he was humouring her “Just 2 or three songs...then we could even sneak out?” She promised and kissed him as she pulled him close to her.

Tara was amazed by all the different foods and tried a bit of everything. She agreed with Theo about Simon and watched him sit and talk with his mom and Arthur and then slink back alone to his seat to scroll through his phone during the dancing. She gave Theo a little sad look about it. Simon did lookl lonely. Then she sighed and asked Theo to dance, because well it was a wedding and she couldn’t resist him.

Miguel sat beside Tomas while he texted and had a romance with food. Food was life after all. He watched the dancers though and enjoyed everyone having fun.

Ziggy grinned at Angel's reminder of their first night together.  Hand feeding and beautiful lovemaking.  Now they were husband and wife.  She didn't care who saw their kiss and when he led her to the dance floor, she did her best with him and he was patient with her.  It was a beautiful dance and she loved every second of it.

Arthur gave Lydia and her son space as they ate, but he wouldn't give up the chance to dance with her.  "I would love to dance with you."   he told her and offered her his hand to lead her onto the floor with her daughter and new son-in-law to dance close together.

Theo danced with his love, even as he thought about his brother.  Simon was into his phone, but that was Simon in many ways.  When he was with someone ... romantically ... he didn't as much.  He thought it was only a matter of time before his brother too was pulled into a love as strong as his own for Tara or even Ziggy's love for Angel.

Maria sat through some of the appetizers and then watched as Mateo and Samuel got back to singing.  She could listen to him all night and, in the past, had.  ALl of her children seemed so happy, which made her happy.

  

Duncan was pulled close by Fernanda and did his damndest not to step on her feet as she led them in the dance.  "I'm all for leaving a bit early."  he confessed.  He'd tried not to spoil the night, but he told her.  "Levi ... found my mother ...  it's ... its a fucking mess, Nan."  he sighs deeply.  "I didn't want to ruin this beautiful wedding, but ... yea.  I need ... I need you tonight."  he needed her.  His lover and best friend.

Ellie sat near her brother and ate while she watched him.  She didn't get on him as much for his sloppy eating.  He made a mess, but in the end, she would clean up after him.

Laia chuckled when Mina mentioned her brother was much like Miguel, except arguably worse.  Mina points out one of the appetizers and Laia nods.  "Those are Alcapurrias ... fritters."  she explains.  "They have meat in them, if you like meat.  I think they are very good, but I have them often."  She goes for some bruschetta and some cheese puffs, loving the many cultures represented at the table.

Tomas reached over to take one or two things off Miguel's plate, but his baby brother didn't complain too much.  All of the food was delicious and, between texts, he found videos.  "Miguel, look at this one.  He pulled up a Gabriel Iglasis video to show his brother.  He was a Mexican comedian but he was very big, like Tomas expected Miguel would be.  He was also hilarious and at the end of the video he sang out "Hey!  It's Fluffy!"  and moved on to another video.

Miguel ate and watched the videos, laughing heartily with Tomas and quoting and parroting “Aw hello no!” He laughed some more. This was the kind of bonding he loved. Chilling out with food and youtube. He pushed the plate between them, always happy to share food.

Mina took one of the fritters and looked curious “I’m not a vegetarian. But I think Theo sort of is so someone should tell him before he bites into one.” She had noticed he worked around chicken now at family dinners when all the Alvins were home. She could take her plate back to the table but she can see Elle and Stone and she’s kind of enjoying talking with Laia, which is rare for her with a lot of people. “Dante’s girlfriend made those.” She says about the cheese puffs as she sees Laia take them. Now she was actively trying to chat.

Fernanda swayed and turned her and Duncan as a slow song was sung and as he talked she could see he was upset. Then he told her why and she stopped all movement except leaning in to embrace and comfort him “Duncan….oh god. You should have told me and baby I’m all yours. Don’t worry about the wedding. Look at all these people celebrating. I need to be there for you. Let’s duck out and go to my house. Everyone’s here.” She kisses him and then takes him by the hand and leads him discreetly around the crowd to where their coats are stashed so they can go.

Stone was content in food and mess. He was too young to be aware really how much Elle doted on him and did for him but he loved it all. At one point he got up on his chair and danced and caught a look from Lydia for it so he gave it one more shake and sat back down looking pleased with himself.

Lydia melted into Arthur’s arms for the dance until she spotted Stone acting up and gave him the eye. He was having a good enough night that it only took a look this time. Elle was with him and Mina was watching from the food table talking to Laia Negron. Dante and Gen seemed to have wandered off but let them have their fun. All was well. Her family accepted her man. Ziggy was happily married. She could relax and stare into Arhtur’s eyes again before kissing him like they were newlyweds themselves.

Gareth was swaying all on his own at the bar and saw Stone clowning around and winked at him. Then he caught Lydia’s look and had a flashback to when he was in stone’s shoes and had to laugh. Then he hooted at Lydia and Arthur when they kissed. Simon approached the bar and looked a bit contrite “Hey there, what’s your pleasure brother?” He teased as he opened his hands and gestured at the bottles and choices.

Simon sighed “I don’t even know anymore…..give me a rum and coke I guess Gareth.”

Gareth poured and looked cautiously “You worked it out….with your mom. Is that still bugging you?” He handed over the drink.

Simon shrugged “How do you deal with it Gareth? Maybe I should be like you and just play the field...have some hook ups. Perhaps I wouldn’t be so...lonely.”

Gareth frowned and poured his own and came around to the front of the bar standing beside Simon “It’s not the answer….for awhile maybe but I’ve been….pretty solitary actually. I’m kinda done with the whole meaningless fling one night stand thing. I hear you on the loneliness front. But let’s hang out. I know I’m not a pretty lady but friends and family help….”

Simon looked thoughtful and then toasted Gareth “Ok man...you’re on. Let’s catch a movie or something….or dinner soon.”

Mateo had a quiet word with Samuel on a  break between songs and then Samuel stepped up to the mic on his own with his guitar and took the next one. He put his whole heart and soul into it and Mateo then walked over to Maria and held out a hand with a come hither look wishing for a dance “My love, we cannot have a night without dancing.” And once they get out there, the pair will blow away all the other dancers with their skills.

Angel was dancing with Ziggy when his parents twirled by them like old pros. As they showed off their dancing prowess more and more he led the group in beginning to just clap in time and stand around them cheering them on. His parents couldn’t be beat as dancers.

Ziggy feels like she can feel the breeze as her in-laws dance by them.  Angel begns to clap and Ziggy claps with him.  Her new husband was teaching her to dance, but Ziggy was a bit self conscious and believed she could never be as good as Mateo and Maria.

Arthur chuckles at the look Lydia gives Stone while they dance.  He almost comments on it before she kisses him.  He returns the kiss.  "I am so glad we're not hiding anymore."  he tells her when he hears the hooting.  "I'm just a little disappointed I can't go on the roof of the old community center and yell it from the rooftops."  he winks at her.

Maria watches as Samuel takes over playing music and singing.  Then Mateo comes over and offers his hand, which she takes.  She dances with him and they dance as if they have not aged in the last twenty plus years.  He makes her young.  Keeps her young.  She'd gotten her forever love and slowly her children were finding theirs.

  

Duncan doesn't protest when Fernanda takes his hand and leads him away.  He needs to talk.  As they leave, he hopes his siblings are also talking with people, because they have a lot to process.

Ellie watches Stone dance in his chair.  "If you really want to dance, you can dance with me."  she tells him and quickly reminds him.  "I'm not a girl.  I'm nothing but a sister."  that might make it more palatable and dancing was bound to help Stone burn off that energy.  "We can right here by the table .. just not in the chairs, OK?"

Laia wathes Theo carefully selecting things to eat.  "He's sticking to the vegetables it looks like from here."  she notes.  Tasting the cheese balls she grins and nods around the mouthfull.  "Oh these are good."  she compliments once she swallows.  She sits back a bit.  "I like that shade of blue."  she looks at Mina's hair.  Her own hair is long, but in a long plait behind her.  "It's really pretty."  she then takes in the outfit.  "Such bold choices."  she compliments, as if it is not bold to be effectively wearing a suit.

Tomas shook his head at his brother.   "You're more husky."  he tells him as he finds another video for them to watch.  His battery is doing pretty well, so it isn't likely they will have to leave too soon.

Angel kept clapping and laughing until the song and dance were done and then scooped Ziggy back into his arms for the next one which started out nice and slow so Mateo could dance his way back over with Maria and then take over the guitar and sing.

Samuel did the intro for the next song but as his father came to take over he offered his hand to his mother to ask her for a mother son dance. He was not the dancer his father was. Angel was the closest of all of them to their parent’s skills.

Lydia smiles up at Arthur “I’m glad too. There is a little outdoor balcony area over the library but I don’t think it’s open in this season. And not as tall as the old building.” She laughs “But I’m good with this reveal, especially after Simon calmed down. I worry for him. I think he’s a bit lonely.”

Mateo had taken over for Samuel but had to adjust the mic, which he did before stopping to give a little intro. “This song is for Ziggy and the Alvin family who I’m told are fans of Bob Marley…” He wiggles his brows and starts into his version of covering Bob Marley’s famous One Love “One Love….One heart...Let’s get together and feel alright…..”

Stone nodded at Elle and jumped from his chair and behind it but the song was slow so he danced at twice the tempo and a little wildly trying to sway Elle by the arms and spin her around like it was a game.

Gareth and Simon both knew every song by Bob Marley from growing up in the Alvin house so they stood together and sang along, grooving a bit and smiling. 

Mina smooths her hair and smiles “Oh...thank you...I just did it. Those bitchy twins kept calling me Cupcake with the pink.” She looks down at her dress “Thrift Store find. It was with the Halloween stuff but really every day could be Halloween for me. I like your style too Laia. Do you tie your own ties?” She laughs “Dante can’t...he gets Gen to. It’s amusing to me.” She takes another bite of the fritter and nods at it “Mmmm.” She gives a thumbs up.

Miguel puffs up “Husky! Yes! Not quite fluffy.” He tunes in for the next video as he scarfs down a few cheese puffs and leans in to look at Tomas’s phone.

Ziggy is swooped into Angel's arms laughing loudly.  When Mateo sings One Love, she both sings along and cries softly.  She wasn't sure if her father could see her now or not, but she wanted him to know how happy she was and this song about summed it up.

Arthur chuckles.  "I suppose the job is well done."  he admits.  He nods about Simon.  "He can be so serious sometimes.  The pressures of being the oldest son, perhaps?  I know in school he was a very serious student.  I know because I never saw him in my office."

Maria beamed when Samuel offered a dance.  She loved dancing with all of her sons, and even her daughters when they were smaller.  Now she dances with him and beams up at him.  "One day ofr you.  One love.'' It is far more declarative than a question.

  

Ellie laughed as she danced with her brother.  She even let him 'lead' which meant he held her hands and tried to pull them out of their sockets.

Laia huffs.  "Those twins ... I don't even know what to think of them."  she scoffs.  "Maybe someone should tell Father O'Keeffe about them.  He surely can drive the demons out of them."  she then smiles at the place she gets her outfits.  "It looks wonderful.  And wonderful on you, so who cares if it matches a holiday."  then she nods and straightens her tie.  "I do."  she proclaims with pride.  "And Tomas's and Miguel's.  My mother finally taught the older ones."  she grins clearly fond of her brothers.  She watches the dance and then Mina, but looks very hesitant to ask ... or be seen dancing with another girl.

Tomas keeps playing his brother Fluffy videos, so he won't get bored and in trouble.  The comedian is big like Miguel and he wants his brother to know that is OK, while at the same time worrying about his health and weight.

Miguel happily eats and watches the videos. He’s engaged and laughing and hanging with his bro and life is good. Food is good. The family is happy.

Mina laughs about Father O’Keefe and demons with the twins “I would pay to see that exorcism!” she blushes a little at all the compliments. Then she sets down her food plate and head juts at the coat room, feeling bold. If Laia comes with her she’ll shyly take her hand and try to pull her into a dance confessing as she does “I’ve never danced with anyone...so if I get it wrong…”

Samuel chuckles at his mother’s saying one day for him “Si Mama...one day.” Although he sounds doubtful himself about finding love. So far he’d been better at finding Miss Right Now than Mrs. Right.

Stone was like a force of nature and Elle was being a  very good sport. He let her go at one point and then fell right over on his behind which made him laugh and laugh.

Lydia nods “He was always my serious boy. Serious and a little quiet. But brooding...oh the moods when he was a teenager.” She laughs. “I really tried not to pressure him but once you get a few it’s hard not to delegate for survival.” She smiles at Arthur “You’ve always been so good with all my kids….I know we had no idea for quite some time.”

Mateo continued to sing and play, back to the more traditional Puerto Rican songs again after his Bob Marley cover.

Angel kisses his wife’s tears. He knew about the music and her father and was so glad his own father included the song that had so much meaning to her “Maybe that was our song.” He offers to Ziggy “I like Bob Marley too, even more now.” He looks into her eyes with adoration.

Ziggy looks up at Angel with absolute love.  "I'd like that."  and then her voice cracks a bit.  "I think Dad would like that.  I .. don't remember him much but ..."  she sniffs and holds on to him.  "Thank you.  I love you so much."

Arthur listens and nods.  "Well, I've been a teacher for a long time ... or was until I became the vice and finally the man in charge."  he chuckles.  "You named SImon well .. the smart one and not very athletic ... I remember from my teaching days he didn't care for the sports."

Maria nods in complete confidence.  She worried the most for Samuel who was always flirting and not ... spending time with good girls.  Instead he was seen with ... looser girls.

  

Ellie can't help but giggle when Stone falls on his butt.  She reaches out to help him up.

Laia laughs, but falls silent when Mina tries to lead her into the coat room, even though she doesn't protest at all.  Nor does she protest being pulled into the dance.  "That's ok ..."  she whispers.  "I know how, but I've never danced with anyone but my brothers ... and sometimes my moher, but that's different ..."  she stammers a bit looking at Mina with a slight blush.

Mina nods shyly “Different…..yeah.” She steps in a bit closer to Laia and sways with her almost cheek to cheek. Mina’s a little shorter so it might be almost cheek to chin. She had seen the blush and it made her blush too but now she couldn’t keep a smile off her face “This is nice…” She half whispered. One song ends and she doesn’t let go, waiting for the next.

Stone lets Elle pull him up and then bows like it was all a  show “The great and fabulous Stone!”

Samuel does step back from his mother as the song ends and gives her a smile “I’m going to take a little walk.” And his mother may figure out that his little walks sometimes involve sneaking a cigarette. It’s a recent habit he’s gotten a little hooked on through partying with Brooke Martin and friends. But his smokes are in his jacket so he casually heads for the coatroom.

Lydia laughs “No we’re not a sports family by nature. We like walking but we’re more creative and thinkers than competitive. Just how it worked out. Do you ever miss teaching Arthur?” She asks.

Angel snuggles into Ziggy “I’d like it too. I love you too and whether you remember him well or not you do carry your father. It’s just how it goes. I’m sure he’d be proud of you. All the beauty you bring to the world, to this town. Your brilliant creativity.”

Mateo starts in on another English song, an oldie but a goodie “Blue moon….you saw me standing alone….without a dream in my heart. Without  a love of my own.” His version is slow, not like the lively original from the Marcels. More like the mellow meandering version sung by the Cowboy Junkies.

Ziggy beams and holds Angel, swaying back and forth.  She is lost in him ... she isn't even aware what song is playing ... or being sung?

Arthur grins.  "It's not for everyone."  he knows this.  "And I sometimes miss teaching.  I taught gym and health, so depending on who you talk to, I never was a teacher, unless recess is an actual class.

Maria nods and watches Samuel head towards the coat room a moment before heading back to her seat.  She sits with a sigh.  "You're not as young as you used to be, chicka."  she tells herself.

  

Ellie applauds for Stone as if he were a long loved and missed band at their smash reunion concert.

Laia rests her head on Minas a bit.  "Very nice..."  she murmurs and while they wait for the next song, she moves even closer to Mina.  Intimately close ... or ... invasively.

Mina felt Laia’s head on hers and started tilting her head up a bit as Laia moved closer. Her lips inches from Laia’s and as they almost touched she had the sudden awareness of someone walking in on them and reacting.

Samuel sauntered into the coat room swatting at his coat pockets but then stopped short seeing his sister and their blue haired neighbour girl looking like they were either about to kiss or just had “Dios mio…” He muttered in surprise and then laughed “Shit...sorry….” He grabbed the jacket and cigarettes and shook the box of them as he purposefully looked away and started to walk back out. “That's what’s up with the ties….” He snickered.

Stone fans himself and keeps hamming it up for Elle loving the attention and the game. As Mateo starts to singa  new song he begins pretending to lip sync but he doesn’t know the song at all so it’s way off between the words and his movements….but he keeps going.

Simon and Gareth have long since found the corner of a table to sit down and and sit and talk about their upcoming movie night plan. They’re both on their phone looking at the theatre’s calendar of options.

Gareth points at his phone “How about When Harry Met Sally?”

Simon shrugs “Never seen it actually.”

Gareth slaps the table “What? It’s Billy Crystal….ok that’s our plan….Meg Ryan’s good too…”

Simon agrees “Sure I’m game.”

Lydia frowns “You had to teach health...so sex ed….to teenagers and preteens. That’s tougher than a lot of subjects and it’s a lot of science. And all the rules to every sport…..and making all those snot nosed brats run when they just want to sit on their asses. That’s no recess.” She laughs.

Angel loves everything about this day and Ziggy and twirls her and dances like they’re the only people in the room.

Arthur nods slowly.  "And believe me, I heard no end of it from some in our little community.  I've been called all kinds of things and of course out and out forbidden to teach too much sex ed.  Because our girls must remain virtuous to the marital bedroom."  he sighs.  "Sorry ... I didn't see that soapbox..."

  

Ellie hops up and down like a nearly crazed fan as the lip sync.  Stone can have all of her attention ... anytime he wants it.

Laia pulled back when she realized someone was walking in, and gasped when it was Samuel.  But he only grabbed his jacket and left.  She breathed out a relieved breath and realized her heart was thumping so hard, she wouldn't be surprised if Mina could hear it.  Hand to her heart she swallows hard and looks at Mina.  "I'm sorry.  I just ... never kissed a girl before ... or ... anyone ... for that matter..."  she stammers.  But then she bites her lip.  “I’d like to...”  she begins, but seems a little shy or afraid to go on.  

Mina’s eyes went wide at Samuel and then he left as quickly as he walked in and she exhaled. She knew Laia’s family was a bit traditional but she realized this brother wasn’t such a big deal. She sees Laia put her hand to her heart and then say she’d never kissed a girl before or anyone...but she’d like to. Mina blushes and nods “Me too….” and then bravely she tilts her head up and presses her lips to Laia’s and just lets them stay there. She’s not really sure how to do any of this but the lips are warm and soft and it feels nice.

Stone keeps it up until the end of the song and it seems at some point Mateo notices him and beckons him over. He looks a little awkward for a minute and then grabs Elle’s hand and if he can will pulls her to where he’s being summoned with her.

Mateo finishes Blue Moon and then readjusts the mic to Stone and Elle’s height “We have some extra singers…..what songs do you know kids?” He looks between them and casually strums on his guitar.

Stone knows a lot of songs from life at Lydia’s house, but the one that pops into his head is one their mom used to sing….a long time ago. He’s asked Lydia to play it for him many times too. And he knows every word by heart “Fireflies by Owl City?”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytBR7ET_6uU

((That one has the lyrics but if you don’t know this one, the original video is amazing:) 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psuRGfAaju4

Mateo sings a few bars to make sure “That song? Oh I wish we still had Pedro on the keyboard….but I think I can do it...I like that one too.” He smiles and begins but really encourages the kids to take the lead with the singing and Stone knows the words better than he does for the verses.

Angel changes up his dance tempo a bit as the song changes but looks delighted that the kids are singing now and beams at Ziggy.

Gareth grins and chuckles “Stone plays this song all the time….it’s one of my favourite too.” And since it’s a faster song he joins in the dancing on the fringes of the couples and just does his own thing.

Simon sees Gareth go to dance and waves at him but stays leaning against the bar, smiling but just bobbing his head and giving Elle and Stone a thumbs up.

Lydia laughs “Well that’s the thing about soapboxes isn’t it? It’s all good.” And then it seems her foster kids are being pulled up to sing and she gives them a little cheer. “Fireflies...course.” She keeps dancing with Arthur but it’s more of a fast song so she changes up her style a bit and makes sure she can watch the kids and smile at them.

Ziggy watches the fosters and beams at Angel, changing the tempo of the dance with him. 

Arthur grins and as they step back, he changes his own style of dance.  He's not a bad dancer.

  

Ellie blinks when she and her brother are suddenly in the spotlight, so to speak.  But she doesn't object when Stone pulls her forward and begins to sing the song their mother loved ... before ... before she was killed.  She sings it for her brother and her mother.

Maria sees Mateo bring the little children into the act and claps watching the kids.

Laia sees the blush and when Mina's lips press to hers, she doesn't move at first, but then she presses closer and moves her tongue out of her mouth as she's seen with her parents and

 Angel with Ziggy when they think no one's watching.  It sounds like a new song has begun ... Fireflies.

Mina feels Laia’s tongue and it surprises her for a minute but then she moves to accommodate it, alternating between open and closed eyes as kissing is both intoxicating and fascinating to her. She closes her mouth around Laia’s tongue a bit and lets her own explore it and then finds her mouth moving instinctually and the song Fireflies kind of just washes over in the moment like it’s surrounding them even though it’s two kids and Mateao singing. She knows it’s Stone and Elle and it’s all a bit off tempo but somehow all still sweet.

Mateo is delighted to sing with the two kids and plays along on the guitar joining in mostly on the chorus.

Stone sings his heart out a little too loudly as he’s inclined to do. Partway through the song he grabs his sister’s hand and gives it a squeeze.

Lydia is touched by Elle and Stone singing together and holds up a  finger to Arthur as she makes a dash for her phone to take a picture of them with Mateo. It’s too adorable not to capture. Then she keeps dancing and smiling at them.

Arthur chuckles and watches Lydia take pictures.  She is such a mother.  He reaches for her hand as their dancing continues.

  

Ellie sings, but not as loudly as Stone and with a nicer voice overall.  She squeezes his hand back and suddenly forces back a sob.  No way she is going to cry when Stone is so happy.

Maria keeps watching, and half waits for Samuel to return from smoking and walking or whatever he was actually doing.

Laia peeks a bit, but when she does, Mina's eyes are closed.  She keeps toing it ... kissing ... and she opens her mouth a bit more, letting her tongue in deeper.  It's probably a little sloppy but .. if she ever gets the chance, she will practice more.

Samuel had snuck out on the balcony area and was stamping the butt of his cigarette under his foot before heading back in. He considered hanging his coat again but as he stepped towards the coatroom he could see Laia and Mina were fully kissing now so he snickered and dropped his coat over a chair on his way back to the music area. But then his father seemed to be finishing up a song with two of the foster kids and everyone was loving it so he went to sit down beside his mother in his father’s empty seat and clapped for the kids “Papa up to his usual show with some new singers.” He commented.

Mina is trying to match Laia but she feels like she’s awkward at it. It feels nice but it’s also weird. Kissing is weird and nice. Go figure. But Laia is nice. She pulls back from her and spontaneously gives her a little hug, giggling a bit. “OK...so that’s kissing. Thank you.”

Stone can hear Elle singing but then another noise and looks sideways at her. Was she sad? He was trying to figure it out as the song ended and people started clapping for them.

Mateo didn’t catch the sob as he didn’t know these kids very well “My wonderful singers! Elle and Stone! Give them another round of applause!”

Lydia is smiling and dancing but gets a worried look on her face watching Elle at one point. As the song finishes she breaks from Arthur and claps but also walks forward towards Elle and Stone looking kindly at them and especially Elle. She knew the song came from their time with their parents, before she fostered them. “Hey….you both did great….you ok?” She reached out a hand to Elle.

Angel claps heartily as the song finishes and then puts his arm around Ziggy.

Gareth disappears behind the bar and immediately Simon is holding out his glass for a refill.

Ziggy just hugs Angel hard.  This is a day she will never forget and never wants to forget.

Arthur takes a half step then the dance ends and lets Lydia go tend the smaller children.  He had almost gone, but remembered this wasn't work.  This was a good day off.

  

Ellie hadn't expected to be overheard and blinks, trying to cover some.  But lying to Lydia was almost impossible, so she settled on a half truth.  "Just ... thinking about ... you know.  Our mom ... and ... stuff."  she doesn't want to make Stone sad.  He was so happy today and everything was perfect for a change.  She was his sister again.

Maria mock huffs in annoyance when Samuel comes back and mentions Mateo singing with the young children.  "We have to be on the lookout."  she tells him.  "All of my babies are growing up on me.  Angel and you and Pedro will be n  she sighs dramatically.  "Leaving me with your father and Luis."

Laia pulls back as well and nods.  "Yea ... that's kissing.  And thank YOU .. I don't think I am very good at it.  I'd ..."  she blushes a little.  "I'd have to practice more."  she admits.

Mina pulls back and smiles, blushing too “No….it was nice. I need more practice too…..” Now she’s not sure where to go. “Should we ...hang out sometime maybe?” Is she asking Laia out? This is completely new territory.

Samuel snorts “Luis……..well, he’s eternal Mama. At least we have Duncan now to redirect…” He looks out across the crowd and notices Fernanda and Duncan are not there. Samuel assumes they found some quiet corner of the community centre to do whatever they snuck off to do in and shrugs. “I’m in no hurry Mama.”

Stone isn’t broken by Elle’s words but he does hear them. His processing at his age and stage is different “I know Mom liked Fireflies.” He gives Elle a little hug “It’s ok Elle.”

Lydia watches the siblings and marvels at how resilient they are and how they support each other. “It’s ok...like Stone says….to talk about her. To feel whatever you feel Elle. It’s all ok.” She says gently.

Mateo decides to take a little break but switches the music to a playlist Pedro made up in an iPod ready to go. He gives Lydia and the kids a nod and wanders over to chat with Arthur who is standing alone. Mateo hated to see people who looked like they ended company without someone to talk to. He was a social creature “So Arthur. You and Lydia eh? Congratulations. How long have you been together? You look like an old married couple...like my Maria and I.” He teases.

Simon tips his drink back and sips and then blinks “Don Q…..holy shit…”

Gareth laughs “The Puerto Ricans know their rum.”

Angel surveys the room and looks at Ziggy “This has been a perfect day. And you are a perfect wife Ziggy Negron. Should we….uh….make our exit while the musicians are on break?” He grins with a twinkle in his eyes.

Laia looks at Mina and nods a little bit.  Her brother had caught them and it was okay, even though she wasn't sure what he thought he saw but ... if he was okay and her parents had accepted Duncan ... maybe this would be ok?  "Yea .. we should."  she agrees.  "Coffee ... or a movie?  Even just a walk?"  she nods.  All of those sounded like good options.  "Lets trade numbers..."

Maria grins at Samuel.  The kids understood her long suffering over Luis Gusman.  "We do at that."  she had noticed that Feranda and Duncan weren't anywhere to be seen and assumed they had snuck off for some loving.  She smiles.  "Then you're better than your brothers.  Luis is one thing ... having to share a pull out with your brothers is another."  she smirks, teasing.

Ellie lets Stone and the adults think what they want and hugs Stone back.  "I know."  she replies vaguely.  Then she looks at Stone.  "So did you have fun with me?"  she asks, because with Dante home they didn't spend as much time together as when he'd been away.  And she hated thinking of Dante being away as a good thing.

Arthur smiles at Mateo when he comes over.  He laughs at the old married couple comment and shrugs.  "Oh ... around the summer of 2018."  he explains.  "During the fog."  he assumed this man understood the odd nature of the island.

Ziggy looks up at her husband with a grin.  "Let's go, perfect husband."  she winks at him and looks around to see that they weren't the first with the idea to cut out early.  And she was done being social.

Angel takes Ziggy’s hand and kisses it as he nods. He surveys the room as they sneak to their coats. Mina and Laia had scooted out of the coat room just as they got to it but they looked like they had their own secret. He hoped his little sister wasn’t drinking underage and eyed the pair but no bottle shaped bulges being concealed as far as he could tell. They were just giggling and looking at their phones together so he gave the pair a grin and held out Ziggy’s coat like a gentleman for her to slip into before he gets his own on. His father was in a big chat with Arthur, his boss. He still marveled at the idea of his boss and his new mother in law. Small towns. Lydia was leaned down talking to Stone and Elle. Gareth and Simon were toasting one another at the bar. Theo and Tara were still dancing and looked content in their own moment. A few had left before them. He noticed no Dante and Gen and no Duncan and Fernanda. Ah well...young love. Just as they were going the mother radars went off and Maria looked up from her conversation with Samuel and Lydia turned from the kids. And with knowing smiles and blown kisses they sent off the happy couple on their discrete exit. Mr and Mrs Negron were leaving the building for their first night of love as husband and wife.