#eiy

Alena and Angel’s brunch date never happened.

He was going to confess, let everything out.

But Angel got sick.

For the next few days, Angel was fighting off the flu and Alena refused to leave his side. She kept Cruz at Felipe’s and her mother’s just so she could take care of Angel and assure Cruz wouldn’t get sick. But Angel was being stubborn and wouldn't let Alena take care of him since he didn’t want to get her sick.

It was endearing, but she knew Angel was usually a whiner when he was sick. She wasn’t exactly sure why he wouldn’t let her take care of him.

Alena poured soup into a bowl, placing Angel’s second dose of Motrin and Tylenol. She also placed a few lozenges to help with his cough and a glass of orange juice and a bottle of water. Angel insisted she texted him when his food was ready so he could just go get the food himself. She had him believing that she left at night to go to Felipe’s to sleep, but in reality, she’s been sleeping on the couch or Cruz’s room.

Turning the television on, she placed a pillow on one end of the couch and laid down. She hasn’t slept much since she was worried for Angel. She knew it was just the flu, but being sick was the worst, at least she hated it.

Angel

‘Food is ready.’

She placed her cell phone down beside her resting one hand under her cheek laying against the pillow. She put on some HGTV show and let out a yawn.

Angel came out of the room, muscle shirt and basketball shorts hanging low. He still felt congested and the fevers still gave him the chills. But he felt stronger than last night that was for sure. He heard the television on and knew Alena stayed till he went to sleep at night. His nights were a blur since his fevers seem the worst then. He hoped she went to his pops at night, but he knew her. He was almost sure she slept on Cruz’s bed or the couch. 

Picking up the tray of food, he felt bad leaving Alena alone especially since she made the food for him. This was killing him since he had an elaborate plan to confess to her, but instead, she was taking care of him. He began eating the soup, glancing at Alena ever so often. Once he was done, he drank the medication and popped a lozenge in his mouth. Making his way over to the couch, he realized Alena fell asleep. 

His heart fluttered, seeing the peaceful state Alena was in. He loved it when she took care of him, but he also didn’t want her to get sick since the flu took such a toll on her due to her asthma.

“You’re so stubborn cielo.” He coughed, covering his mouth, shaking his head. Pushing the coffee table away from her. He placed pillows right beside the couch in case Alena fell. The sun’s rays reflected on her ring, making Angel smile. He was going to put a new ring around her finger, but first, he was going to confess to her and go from there.

Angel went back to bed, wanting to recover quicker so he could have Cruz and Alena back in his arms. 

“Angel,” he heard Alena breathily say as he stood up. 

For a moment he thought she woke up, but her eyes were closed.

“I love you.”

Angel’s smile widened if that was possible. He couldn’t wait to tell her how he felt. 

Later that night, it was around midnight when Alena went to check on Angel. The lights were all off and she knew Angel preferred to sleep with everything off, but he kept things on for her. She hated the dark ever since she was a child. Her imagination always ran wild and she hated going in a dark room. But she had to tough it out since she didn’t want to wake Angel.

She had a small night light near her side of the bed that provided some lighting. She also used her flashlight in her phone, which was dimmed down so it wasn’t too bright. She sat at the armchair at the corner of their room, which Angel placed for her to read when she didn’t want to go to bed yet. She had a throw blanket on there. Sitting down she placed the blanket on her, extending her legs on the footrest in front of the armchair. 

The humidifier was on, definitely helping Angel out with this congestion. He texted her that he was beginning to feel better, but still preferred for her to stay away. Which was fine, she just wanted to make sure he was okay then she would sleep in Cruz's room.

Laying her head against the armchair, she watched Angel’s sleeping figure. She missed his touch and constant kisses. She’s not sure why he was more physical than usual, but she wasn’t complaining. With him being sick, Angel kept to himself, which wasn’t like him.

He most likely didn’t want to take care of her when she became ill, which she didn’t blame him. She always tried to go to her mother’s house when she was sick since her mother knew best, but Angel insisted he took care of her.

Maybe it was due to him thinking she would hold it against him, but she wouldn’t. She understood that he couldn’t always take care of her and that was okay.

Can’t always rely on Angel.

Before Alena knew it, sleep overtook her.

Angel jolted awake, breathing heavily. 

Nightmares were a bitch, especially when it involved Alena and Marvin. Even though he killed the bastard, the revelation that he touched Alena haunted Angel. He made excuses by using him for Alena’s nightmares and he couldn’t get over that. His nightmares ranged from watching Alena be touched by him or hearing Alena cry out for Angel. 

It was awful.

He became more oriented and shook his head. The feeling of congestion was not as strong as before, his headache was gone. His eyes were adjusting to the darkness and finally honed it on Alena who was sleeping on the armchair. Angel frowned, sighing at the sight. His cielo was too stubborn.

Quickly, he used the bathroom before coming back out and walking over to Alena. He picked her up in his arms, careful to not wake her and placed her on their bed. He placed the blanket over her and himself, letting Alena lay her head on his chest. Angel felt more at ease having Alena in his arms after that nightmare.

Marvin wouldn’t touch his cielo ever again.

“I know you can’t hear me right now Alena, but I love you so much.” Angel spoke to Alena often when she was asleep. He’s done it more times than he’s proud of, but he would tell her about all the things he had no courage to do so while she was awake. He rubbed her arm softly, up and down. “I got rid of Marvin for you, he’ll never bother you again. Why do you have to be so stubborn? You’re going to end up sick and I would have to take care of you.” He chuckled. “I don’t mind though, I love how cuddly you are when you’re sick and the red nose you have due to the irritation of the tissue on your nose. It’s okay, I’ll take care of you even though you’re not going to want me to because I can never pass up a chance to be with you cielo.”

Angel slept soundly for the first time in days.

When Alena woke up, she didn’t want to move since the armchair was so warm, so soft, and hard. She snuggled her face deeper and Angel’s familiar scent hit her. She sat up, startling Angel awake as well. 

“Oh no, did I go in bed with you?” Alena didn’t remember going to bed with Angel. The last thing she remembered was resting her eyes for a few hours, but she meant to wake up.

“Absolutely cielo, you almost had your way with me, but I resisted.” Angel teased Alena.

She blushed. Alena got out of bed and went to their bathroom. She heard Angel laughing. 

When she came out, Angel was still laying in bed. He looked at her and reached out to her.

“Come here cielo.” 

Alena bit her lower lip. “No it’s okay, I’m sorry I slept next to you. I know you didn’t want me near you.”

“Yes, well I hate seeing you sick, but at this point, since you don’t care, then I want all the loving, let’s go.” He patted the space beside him.

“I should cook breakfast.” Alena grabbed her phone that Angel placed at her bedside table. She quickly made her exit and thought of what to make. 

Angel got up begrudgingly and followed after Alena. He found her in the kitchen starting breakfast.

“I’m feeling better.” Angel announced.

And he sounded better too.

“You’re not as congested.” Alena turned to face him and was surprised how close he was to her. “Angel, you’re too close.”

“Alena, you were literally draped over me last night, this isn’t close enough.” Angel chuckled, biting his lower lip as he looked down at Alena. “Can I kiss you?”

Alena was at a daze, Angel biting his lip was always so fucking hot. Then he ran his tongue over his lips too? There was just so much she could do.

She nodded her head making Angel groan. He cupped her face and kissed her. Alena wrapped her arms around his neck and deepened their kiss. He made a rule then, he didn’t care if she was sick or he was sick, he would kiss her regardless. He missed her lips far too much.

Angel pulled away, placing quick pecks on her lips to let Alena breathe. She wasn’t sure how she felt about this, but she already made up her mind that she would enjoy this for as long as she had it. Angel was too addicting and this was what she always imagined it would be when she was with Angel, but this was still something else.

“I missed you.” Angel wrapped his arms around Alena who mimicked his actions. “Go sit down, I’ll cook breakfast.”

“You’re still recovering.”

“Come on Alena, I’ve been down for four days, I can make a meal.” He kissed her again, Alena pulled away this time so she could put space between them. 

“Okay, I’ll call Victor back then since he called me this morning.” She stepped away and grabbed her phone before Angel could pull her back.

“I fucking hate that guy.”

===================

Angel was sitting on the couch with Cruz, waiting for Alena to call him since she was on a girls trip with her mother, Vicki and Carla. They went to Vegas to visit Michelle’s younger sister. It was an impromptu trip and it made Angel antsy, but he was glad Alena could enjoy herself.

His phone rang and it was Coco. He sighed, wishing it was Alena instead.

“What’s up man?” Angel greeted, looking down at Cruz who looked up at him knowing it wasn’t his mother since his father wasn’t smiling like he did when his mother called.

“Hey, hermano, fuck.” Coco took a deep breath, not knowing how to tell Angel. “I didn’t, Alena didn’t tell me that you didn’t know. I thought, I don’t even fucking know.” Coco knew Alena wasn’t supposed to be in town. But Letty called him in a panic asking if he could meet them at Alena’s place in San Diego. Alena became really sick and her inhalers along with her nebulizers were no longer working. “Alena is being admitted to the hospital. They said she has pneumonia.”

Angel almost dropped his phone. “What? No, she’s in Vegas with her mom.”

“No, fuck, see I knew she didn’t tell you.” Coco watched as Alena slept, with Letty sitting beside her bed. “She got really sick a few days ago. We’re in San Diego.”

“No, come on man, what do you really want?”

“Angel, do you think I would lie to you about this? Alena said you knew she was in the hospital, but no one could take care of Cruz. She said that she told you to stay put, which I don’t know why I believed.” Coco shook his head. “I know things are weird between you and EZ, but I called him, told him to come to your place so he could take care of Cruz.”

This wasn’t happening. Alena would tell him if she got sick, especially if she got this bad. Why didn’t she call him? Why did she call Letty and Coco? Angel wasn’t even angry he was just hurt. They spoke yesterday and she seemed fine, she didn’t want to FaceTime which was weird, but she mostly requested to talk to Cruz. They had a brief conversation but otherwise, she was mostly talking to Cruz.

How could she have gotten this bad in the span of four days.

“Cruz wouldn’t want to be away from her.” Angel stood up, Cruz watching him. 

“Alena wouldn’t want him here.”

“Apparently she didn’t want me there either.” He walked out the front door, yelling out a few expletives. Alena would do this shit to him. How could she keep him in the dark? He felt his heart race as nervousness filled him. He knew pneumonia could be deadly, especially with Alena’s history. 

“Right now isn’t the time to be upset about petty shit like this Angel.”

“You think it’s petty for me to be upset that my wife didn’t tell me that she’s sick?” Angel scoffed. “She at Kaiser?”

“Yeah man, just cool it. The last thing she needs is for you to give her shit. You know how she is, she doesn’t like worrying you.”

“Oppose to this?”

“Just get your ass here. If you’re going to give her shit, don’t bother coming.”

Angel sat down on the couch in Alena’s room, Cruz sleeping on his lap, head resting just below his chest. 

This was always hard for Angel.

He’s only seen Alena in the hospital twice. The one prior episode today was when she had another terrible asthma attack and that was difficult. Seeing these machines around her, the beeping, the medications, it was absolutely difficult.

He couldn’t take his eyes off of her because he was afraid she would disappear. She had the nasal cannula on her nose, her vitals looked stable. Carla came to visit and was pleased that Alena seemed to be responding to the antibiotics well. 

Angel closed his eyes, just wanting to rest it for a few minutes. He heard the door open and cracked one of his eyes open. Bryan walked in, taking off his jacket and sitting beside his sister’s beside.

“Alena, why do you do this to yourself?” Bryan sighed. “I told you Angel could take care of himself.”

“Can you tell Angel to leave in the morning? I don’t want Cruz to get sick.” Angel was surprised to hear Alena speak. He thought she was sleeping. 

“That’s not the main reason you want him to leave.” Bryan received a text message from his sister, requesting for him to come up once Angel and Cruz were asleep. Coco, Letty, and Bryan were downstairs, waiting to switch with Angel. They knew it wouldn’t happen, so they took turns going up to accompany Angel. “Come on Alena, let Angel be there for you, he always has been there for you. Fuck, even more than me.”

“Don’t be so hard on yourself, you’re making up for it.” Angel hated hearing Alena just pushing everything aside. Like her brother didn’t escort her out of their home and to the streets. Angel has never fully forgiven Bryan and he hasn’t forgiven himself either. 

“You’re too nice, baby sister.”

Angel tried his best to remain calm and keep to himself. But he knew he would be able to stay quiet for long.

“You’re going to keep pushing him away?”

“Yes, it’d be easier for both of us. He didn’t want me anywhere near him when he was sick.” Angel almost shook his head. His wife was too ridiculous at times.

“Do you ever think that Angel does things for you?” 

“Yes, of course, but I know it gets tiring taking care of me. He’s been worrying about me for 15 years. You got tired. Umma got tired. Appa got tired.” Her tone sounded defeated. “He’ll get tired.”

He wasn’t going to let this happen. 

“Can you leave us?” Angel’s voice startled the siblings. 

Bryan looked at Angel. He saw Angel’s eye cracked open, it was the reason he prompted Alena to talk. Air out these grievances so they could fuckinhr make up already.

“Of course.” Bryan stood up and took Cruz from Angel. Turning back to Alena, he gave her a small smile. “Has father reached out to you?” 

“Yes.” 

Well, this was a revelation.

“He wants to come see you.”

“No.”

“Of course, I just wanted to see if he truly did reach out to you.” Bryan kissed the top of his sister’s head before leaving her with Angel.

Angel stood up, Alena refusing to look at him and just looked at her hands that were folded over her phone that rested on her lap.

“How you feeling?” Angel took Bryan’s previous seat, moving closer his arm was on her bed. 

“I’m okay, how are you? How’s Cruz? You shouldn’t have come, Cruz could get sick.” Alena looked up at Angel then, where she expected to see anger and annoyance, all she saw was concern and hurt. “I’m sorry Angel, I just didn’t want to worry you. I was fine and I don’t know. I’m sorry you had to come here. I’m sorry I troubled you. Just go home and I’ll be home as soon as I’m discharged.”

“I didn’t know this is how badly I’ve hurt you. That you think I wouldn’t want to take care of you? I’ve never once walked away from you Alena, why can’t you trust me and not push me away?”

“It’s not on purpose.”

“But it is, you’re pushing me away. You think this is better? Me finding out from Coco that you got sick? I was pushing you away while I was sick because I can’t stand the sight of you being sick. You think I was pushing you away cause I didn’t want to take care of you?” Angel felt the tears welling up, the frustration and sadness overtaking him. “You’re the best thing in my life Alena, I would spend the rest of my life taking care of you. But seeing you sick? With all these machines and medications connected to you? It’s painful and I fucking hate seeing it. So if I have to push you away for a few days no matter how much I wanted to hold you, that’s fine, as long as we didn’t get here.”

Alena watched as the tears fell from Angel’s eyes, her heart clenching as they did. She placed her hand on top of his, Angel immediately intertwining their hands. He leaned forward resting their hands against his lips then his forehead.

Angel was always good at keeping his emotions in check, Alena knew that. But he knew under that rough exterior was a good hearted man who always wanted the best for the people he loves. He loves fiercely and it was the main reason she fell for him.

“I can’t live without you Alena, I don’t know how to.” Angel sobbed out.

Alena began to cry as well. She hated watching Angel cry, it was far too painful for her.

“I can’t either.” She confessed.

“Then stop this craziness. There’s no point in life will I ever walk away from you and the same goes for you. It’s always been you and me against the world with Cruz.” Angel sniffled, wiping his eyes. “Let me in Alena.”

“My father texted me last night, he told me that it’s been five years since we got married and that he would pay for our divorce.” Alena saw Angel’s eyes darkened, the tears no longer an issue. 

“What?” The audacity of that asshole to meddle in their relationship. He hasn’t contacted Alena in four years. No happy birthdays, merry Christmas, how are yous, nothing. And now he had the audacity to tell her to divorce him and would provide the money for it? “Are you fucking kidding me?”

“No, he said he’ll pay you a hefty amount if you sign it.” Alena sighed. “I said no.”

Angel internally thanked the heavens, but nodded his head outwardly.

“I thought you blocked his number and why does your brother still work for the motherfucker?”

“Bryan’s an adult, he can make his choices.” Alena coughed away from Angel, covering her mouth. “I did, guess he changed it. He also said he wanted to make amends.”

“How do you feel about that?” It was a no for Angel, but he knew how kind his wife was, he didn’t want to influence her decision.

“Nothing, there’s nothing to make amends.” Alena gave him a small smile. “I never needed my father when I felt alone, I don’t need him now.”

Angel nodded his head. “I support whatever you want cielo.” He kisses the back of her hand. “Once you get better, you want to grab that brunch we’ve been talking about?”

“I would love that.”

===================

A week later, Angel and Alena finally had their brunch.

Mr. Johnson gave Alena another 2 weeks off to recover and just work from home. It made things much easier on Alena especially with Cruz starting school.

Angel watched as Alena walked ahead of him on the dirt road that led to a cliff that overlooked Santo Padre. There was a bench under a tree at the top, it was a nice place to just hang out and enjoy people’s company.

He was doing it today. He was going to tell Alena how he felt.

This morning, he took her out for brunch at the diner she loves right at the entrance of town. He wasn’t sure why she liked it so much since the food was subpar, but Alena loved it. 

So he had to ask her why she did. There were so many better places to eat breakfast in town.

===================

“Why do you like this place so much?” Angel shook the ketchup bottle, squeezing the bottle to get some on his scrambled eggs.

“I don’t know, I’ve always liked their omelettes.” She shrugged. She wasn’t sure she wanted to tell him that this diner held memories for them. The first time she ever cried about a boy, Angel brought her to this diner and got her a milkshake. The second time she came here with Angel, her father just left her family and he took her out for milkshakes again at two in the morning. The third time she came here with Angel, she just got her heart broken for the first time by a boyfriend who dated her since she was smart and he needed someone to do his work for him. The fourth time was when they had a celebratory milkshake cause she got her job with Mr. Johnson.

The last time prior to this one, she and Angel brought Cruz home from the orphanage.

The diner held so many memories for her, ones she shared with Angel, that she always just had a soft spot for it.

“I know that’s a lie because half of their egg dishes are fucking terrible.” Angel passed the ketchup to her so Alena could put some on the side for her hash browns.

“Angel, don’t be mean.” Alena scolded. “You always go here.”

“Because you fucking like it here.”

“You don’t like it here?” Alena frowned.

“No, I mean, I can eat anywhere you know this. I bring you here cause you love coming here.” Angel didn’t want her to think that he didn’t want to be here. He did, whatever she wanted, he was okay with. “Why do you like it here?”

“Um, I’m embarrassed to say.”

“Why? We tell each other everything.” And he did tell her everything, well maybe till recently he didn’t tell her how he truly felt, but now he did. He told her he loved her the other day, but it didn’t seem to register, but he was going to make sure it did now. “Is it sexual?” He teased.

“No.” She laughed. God, he loved her laugh. “You brought me here when I was crying about that one guy I had an awful crush on. And after that you always brought me here when I was feeling down. Guess it just held a special place to me.” She shrugged.

Angel was surprised by her admission. The only reason he brought her here then was due to the fact it was the only thing he could afford that wasn’t fast food. Then afterwards, he brought her here cause she always suggested it when they would go out.

“Damn cielo, so sentimental.”

“Angel, don’t be mean. I honestly thought this was your spot.” Alena blushed, stuffing her mouth with some omelette.

“Hey, you know every place in this town holds memories for us. Most important part is that we’re together and we can keep creating memories together.” He gave her this playful smirk making Alena blush further.

She hated the effect Angel had on her. 

===================

Angel watched as Alena did her victory dance when she reached the top. She looked down at him, smiling as she waited. God, he really loved her smile. With everything going on with Ezekiel and his father, he was glad he had Alena and Cruz. They were his family and he only needed them. 

Once he got to the top, he wrapped an arm around her shoulders and pulled her against him. He cupped her face and kissed her. Leaving quick pecks on her lips after pulling away, she giggled and walked away from him. She looked down at Santo Padre, enjoying the nice breeze that was currently passing through.

“You don’t mind if I scream right?” Alena turned back to face Angel.

He shook his head. “That’s why I brought you here.”

Whenever Alena felt frustrated, Angel brought her in the middle of nowhere so she could scream. He liked seeing Alena letting her frustrations out.

Alena screamed, Angel laughing as she continued to yell. 

“Don’t overdo it baby.” Angel yelled out to her.

Alena took a deep breath and smiled. She felt like a weight was lifted off her shoulders.

“Where do you see yourself in five years?” She heard Angel ask.

She turned to face him and he was seated at the bench below the tree, providing an ample amount of shade. His arms spread out on the top of the bench, legs stretched out in front of him.

“I don’t know, you know me, I never have a plan.” Alena shrugged. Angel was acting odd today. He’s been asking her of her future plans, what she wanted to do for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day. Maybe he was just preparing how holidays would work since they would be separating soon. She understood, but it sucked that it still hurt when she thought about it. She should have walked away a long time ago, but how could she? “Crying maybe because Cruz is gonna be ten.”

He was also very public with his display of affection. He would hold her hand, kiss her, wrap his arms around her, it was really hard on her today. It was like he was preparing her for the heartache. 

“You wanna know mine?” 

He was done wasting time.

“Sure.” She walked over to him, sitting on the other end of the bench, keeping the distance between them. 

“Why are you sitting so far away?” Angel pulled her against him, wrapping an arm around her middle. He intertwined their hands, placing it on his lap. “In five years, I want us to have at least two more kids with one more in the way. Then I hope by then we can all just live together and we can get rid of your apartment in San Diego. We should get a bigger place too, maybe one with a casita so that mom can stay there. I just want us to be together in 5 years.”

Alena froze hearing his plan. Them? To be together? 

“What?” She pulled away from him. 

Angel kept a hold on her hand, not letting her run away. “I was serious when I told you Alena, I love you. I’ve always loved you. This has nothing to do with Cruz or whatever fucking excuse you could think about, but you’re the love of my life and I can’t let you go.” Angel paused, kissing the back of her hand. “I don’t care if you kissed Victor. I know you feel something for him, but if you give me a chance, I can show you that it’s worth staying with me, just give me a chance cielo.”

“Um, I, but you never liked me, not in this way.” Alena took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. “What are you doing?”

“What do you mean what am I doing? I’m fucking confessing to you.” Angel knew he fucked up due to his constant back and forth with Alena, but he really wanted a chance to prove to her that he was worthy. “I would never force you Alena, but I don’t know what I would do without you.”

Alena took her hand and walked away from Angel. He frowned, unsure of what to make of her reaction. He wanted to hold her, reassure her, but he figured that wasn’t what she needed. 

“You can’t do this!” Alena was frustrated. How could Angel do this now? She wasn’t sure what this was, but there was no way Angel was in love with her. 

“What do you mean I can’t do this? You think I can control what I feel about you? You have me going crazy Alena! I’ve been in love with you, but every time I get the courage to confess, something gets in the way.” Angel stood up, walking over to her. “I’m not going to let Victor get in the way.”

“Why did you keep saying that you didn’t feel anything for me?”

“Because it was easier than having to deal with what I feel for you. I never thought I deserved you Alena and people constantly remind me of that. But I honestly don’t care because I realized that I can’t live without you, I rather live with my insecurities than let you go.” Angel watched as she wrapped her arms around herself, unsure of what to do. “I know you love me. After everything we’ve been through I know some part of you loves me. Everything you’ve done for me, given up for me.” Angel paused, remembering Alena’s confession. “Why didn’t you tell me about Paris?”

Alena sighed. She wanted to tell Angel, she did. Well, she technically told him that she was rejected from the program, but it was just a small lie.

“Who told you?” She breathed out, he was lucky it was quiet cause he wouldn’t have heard her otherwise.

“You didn’t.” Well she didn’t technically.

Alena sighed. “I don’t know, I wasn’t sure if I was going.” She wasn’t exactly sure why she was lying. It was a thing of the past and she didn’t leave. She wanted to tell Angel, but she knew if he requested for her to stay put, she would do it no questions asked.

“But you were going.”

“I was, I wanted to start fresh and move on from you. I couldn’t keep waiting for something that was never going to come.” Alena turned away from him then. She hated conversations like this, confessing, telling someone things that you never meant for them to hear. Well, she always wanted to tell Angel, but it just was never the right time. “But then Cruz came and I couldn’t leave.”

“Why?” Angel wanted her to say it, to tell him that she was in love with him too, just like she did a few nights ago.

“Because you needed me and I could never walk away from you. I love you far too much to do so. When we got married, it felt so real and great. I’ve always wanted to marry you and when it finally happened, it wasn’t my ideal scenario, but it happened.” Alena remembered how happy she was to marry Angel. Even though the reasons were not the reasons she wanted, she didn’t care since she was  a Reyes. She could enjoy having Angel at any capacity. “I know we had a timeline and you most likely would be with other people while we were married, but knowing we could raise Cruz together was enough for me. That I can be there for you in any way I can be. You’ve always saved me and for once, I could repay you.”

Angel felt his heart clench as he listened to Alena. He knew that’s how she felt. That she did everything for him knowing she would get hurt. How could she be so naive and stupid? And the fact she thought he stepped out on her and swallowed it since she knew what she was signing up for, it upset him further.

“I know all the women at the clubhouse want you, hell half of Santo Padre wants you. All of these women befriended me to get close to you and I couldn’t blame them. I know they all thought I was stupid for taking on this role but when I met Cruz, all I could think of was you and how much you deserve to be a father to this child who looked just like you.” Alena wiped the tears falling from her eyes. “Meeting you has been the best thing that happened to me. You saved me from that coach, from losing myself when my parents separated, when my father kicked me out and they turned their back on me. I don’t know what’s going on, but you don’t have to do this. This may be some guilt cause I gave up Paris or whatever, but it’s okay. I’m sure you're antsy to get out of this marriage.” Alena forced herself to laugh. “I hope I wasn’t that much of a pain while we were married with all my appointments and medication stuff. I’ll still be here for you and Cruz, but can you just do me a favor? Tell me when you meet someone so I can mentally prepare myself.” She wanted to disappear, to go back to her car and just recollect herself. Being so vulnerable was difficult for her.

Angel hated hearing Alena talk in that way. How could she think that she didn’t matter to him? That he could even walk away from her? That this whole thing was his guilt about Paris? The fuck? This woman drove him fucking crazy, but he loves her, so he’ll fight her demons for her.

“Alena, there’s no one else I want to be with than you. I told you I haven’t been with anyone since we got married. Can you stop pushing yourself to the side and let me love you? I’m not your father, I’m not going to leave you. I’m not going to hurt you if I can prevent it.” Angel wrapped his arms around her from behind. “I’m all in Alena, just give me a chance to prove it and I’ll give you the world.” He leaned his forehead against the back of her head, praying to god she would give him that chance.

Alena placed her hand over her mouth, the tears freely falling. This had to be a dream. Angel Ignacio Reyes was confessing to her and she couldn’t even believe it. She took a deep breath, trying to compose herself at such an unbelievable moment. 

“I would never sign those papers Alena, unless you want me to. Do you want me to sign those papers?” Alena hasn’t served him the papers, but he didn’t want to get there. It would break him if she ever handed him divorce papers. 

Alena’s shoulders were shaking so he knew she was crying. He didn’t want her to cry. 

He opened his mouth to further convince her, but she turned around wrapping her arms around him. 

She shook her head, “no, I don’t want you to. Please don’t leave me.”

“Fuck cielo, I never will if I can help it.” Angel looked up, thanking god. He really didn’t know who he saved or who he fucking killed in a past life, but thank fucking god.

“Are you sure this is what you want?” He heard her ask.

He pulled away from her and kissed her. He knew it would take some time, but after all the shit he put her through, he would do anything for her.

“Yes, I want you and only you.” Angel chuckled. “God, I can’t even tell you how happy I am.”

Alena wiped her tears. “So what are we?”

“We’re husband and wife. We’re not going to fucking regressed, you’re my wife, I’m your husband, no ifs, maybes, or but’s. Just you and me.” 

Alena nodded her head. “Okay, that’s good with me.” 

“No more secret dates with Victor.”

“No more secret dates.” Alena laughed. 

“Did you really have feelings for him?”

“Yes, but they’re not as strong as what I feel for you.”

Angel figured since they were getting everything out in the open, he might as well bring up what she told him while she was intoxicated.

“Why didn’t you tell me about the coach?”

“I did tell you.” She was confused by his statement since he was one of the few people that she told.

“No, you never told me that he threatened me which was why you let him touch you in the first place.” 

Alena frowned, she never told anyone else that except Coco. How did Angel find out? Her eyes closed then. Her dream wasn’t a dream, Angel was really there. “No, oh my god, you were there, it wasn’t a dream.” Alena pulled away from him, a pressure in her chest appearing as her breathing slightly quickened. She never wanted Angel to find out. No one needed to know that. She was never drinking again and if she was, she would go to a place with no reception.

“Alena, how could you not have told me?” He wanted to start fresh with Alena, no secrets.

“Because you would have been ridden with guilt. You always protected me and I had to protect you.” Alena wrapped her arms around herself, hating this conversation. She didn’t mean to withheld information from Angel. She just didn’t want to upset him. 

“Baby, I just, you didn’t have to go through that for me. I’m not worth it.”

Alena frowned. “To me you were, still are.”

“Alena, how long did he abuse you?”

“I told you three months.” Ailee looked up at Angel, his hands on his hips as he shook his head. “It was.”

“Alena, don’t lie, please.” Angel pleaded.

“Nine months.”

Angel turned away from her, yelling out fuck. Alena watched him, frowning at his reaction. She wasn’t afraid, she just felt terrible for keeping it from him.

“Alena, nine months?” Angel felt his heart clench as he imagined what Alena had to endure due to her need to protect him. “Nine months? Cielo,” Angel walked over to her, wrapping his arms around her. He let out a breath that was mixed with a sob. “Fuck, Alena, why didn’t you tell me sooner?”

“It wasn’t bad at first, I know it’s not an excuse but, I don’t know.” Alena frowned, holding on to Angel’s shirt that was under his kutte. “I didn’t want to trouble you, I thought he would stop after the first time, but he didn’t.” She felt her tears well up. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to keep it from you.”

Angel pulled away from her, cupping her face. He wiped the tears falling from her eyes. “No more secrets, okay? We’re a fucking team baby, don’t keep anything from me so you can hurt on your own. I love you Alena, please trust me and be honest with me. I tell you everything, it might hurt you, but I want you to know cause we’re a team.”

Alena nodded, sniffling as the tears kept coming. She was terrible at sharing, she was used to sitting in her own pain. But she should know Angel was here for her, he always has been.

She just didn’t want to burden him any further.

“Listen, I’m going to take care of you, Cruz and our future children till I take my last breath. Alena, you haven’t been alone since you were eleven years old. I’m always going to be here, you’re not a burden and even if you were I will carry you.” Angel knew full disclosure was full disclosure. “I killed him.”

“What?” Alena looked up at him.

“He came back here, I ran into him at the grocery store the day after you got drunk.” Angel sighed, caressing her face with his thumb. “The anger I felt, it was, I can’t even explain it. He used me as some sort of excuse for your nightmare and I couldn’t forgive that. I couldn’t let him continue on while you relieved your nightmare over and over again. I had to make sure he wouldn’t hurt you again, that he won’t be able to hurt anyone else again.”

“You didn’t have to kill him for me Angel, I wouldn’t want you to do that.” Alena frowned, but she knew why Angel had to do it. She wasn’t celebrating his death, but she wasn’t upset either.

“I would do anything to keep you safe Alena.” Angel pulled her against him again.

This was the start of their new chapter. No more secret looks or feelings, everything was out in the open. 

Angel never felt more relieved than he did now.

It was him and Alena against the world, just like it’s always been.

===================

Myrna watched as Cruz ran back inside from the backyard, Riz following after him. She smirked. She knew how she could win Cruz over, comfort him when he got hurt. She stuck her leg out, causing Cruz to fall, landing on his forearm. He turned, sitting down, and held his right arm. He let out a loud cry, causing all of the girls to come in, with the exception of Maxine who saw the entire exchange.

“Oh no Cruz,” Myrna crouched down, taking the young boy in her arms. She had to admit, this might have been a mistake since he was obnoxious as hell. She picked him up, standing up and tapping his back in an attempt to comfort him. “Are you okay?”

“The fuck you mean is he okay?” Riz took Cruz from Myrna, shaking his head. “You tripped him.”

“I did not, it was an accident.” Myrna argued. 

“Mommy!” He cried out, still holding his arm. 

Maxine stood up and was about to take Cruz from Riz when Alena and Angel walked in, Angel’s arm wrapped around her shoulders, the biggest smiles on their faces. 

“Baby?” Alena immediately frowned, making her way towards Riz who was rubbing Cruz’s back to soothe him. He was glaring at Myrna, who looked like she wanted to disappear.

Cruz immediately turned to Alena, reaching for her with his uninjured arm. Alena quickly took him, soothingly rubbing his back and whispering, ‘its okay’, into his ear. Angel narrowed his eyes at Myrna who looked like a deer caught in headlights. Maxine shook her head, in disbelief that Myrna would stoop this low. 

“Myrna tripped Cruz.” 

Fuck that bitch.

“What?!” Myrna exclaimed, quickly turning to Maxine. “You fucking bitch, I did not.”

“Myrna, I fucking saw it too.” Riz stepped beside Maxine, glaring at the young woman before him. “I was right behind him.” 

Angel’s eyes darkened, he was about to walk over to her when Alena stuck her arm out, handing Cruz over to Angel. Without any words, Angel took Cruz who was sobbing softly, burying his face at the crook of Angel’s neck. Before anyone could even register what happened, Alena punched Myrna right on the nose, causing her to fall back, holding her nose in shock. 

“Listen here, I don’t care if you have a problem with me. You want to be a bitch to me? That’s fine. But don’t you ever hurt my son again or I wouldn’t think twice of doing more damage to you.” Alena warned. “Stay the fuck away from my son, if you even come anywhere near him, I’ll break your nose again. While we’re at it stay the fuck away from my husband too.”

Myrna nodded her head, slightly terrified by the frightening tone Alena had. Maybe she pushed it to the limit this time. Vicky, who saw the whole exchange clapped. 

“Get the fuck out of my house, pack your shit and be out before the end of the night.” Vicky added, wrapping her arm around Alena and leading her away so she couldn’t do anymore damage. 

Angel watched the whole scene before him and he wasn’t even ashamed to say that it turned him on. Assertive Alena was something else. Whenever she went to mama bear mode protecting their kid, it did something to him. 

Did she just say stay the fuck away from her husband?

Was his cielo protecting him? Was she being possessive over him?

Fuck, he had to have her. 

He felt like a teenager. He was always able to be celibate for months, but a month of not having any sexual interactions with Alena was too fucking much for him. This was just the icing on the cake. 

“Damn baby, that was hot.” Angel told her when she took Cruz back. 

“Shut up Angel.”

“Yes ma’am.” 

“Let's take him to urgent care, so we can get an X-ray or something.” Alena turned back to face the girls. She glared at Myrna before looking up to her godmother. “Thank you for taking care of Cruz, we’ll be going now.” Angel was impressed that Alena could still be so courteous after what Myrna did, but that’s how his wife was, a fucking Saint, his fucking Saint. 

Alena sat in the back with Cruz, who was still holding his arm. He leaned his head on his car seat, towards the side where Alena was. She placed her hand on his leg, letting him know she was there. It didn’t take them long to arrive at the urgent care and it was thankfully empty. 

The provider who saw them immediately diagnosed him with a nursemaid's elbow, which could occur during a fall. His elbow was basically displaced. The doctor on duty reduced it, moving his arm in a certain maneuver that slid it back in place. After a few minutes, the pain had subsided as Cruz stopped crying. He was sniffling but he was now moving his arm. 

“Alright little man, you’re all better.” The doctor smiled down at him as he took something out of his pocket. “Look, I got you something.” He handed Cruz stickers and a lollipop. The young boy’s eyes lit up upon seeing this and thanked the doctor. “You’re very welcome. We’ll give him a sling just for comfort, but otherwise you guys are good to go.”

“Thanks doc.” Angel watched as Alena held Cruz close to her, letting him place stickers all over her. He liked watching Cruz and Alena. They may not be blood, but nothing could break their bond.

“No problem Angel, tell Bishop thanks again for the car part he obtained for me.”

“I’ll let him know.”

Once they got their discharge paper, Alena and Angel made their way to his truck. He had an arm wrapped around Alena while Cruz walked in front of them, admiring the Mickey Mouse stickers he got.

“Let’s drop Cruz off at pops.” Angel whispered into Alena’s ear.

“What? Why?” Alena thought they talked it out earlier and had nothing else to discuss.

“I really want to fuck you right now. That display with Myrna got me fucking hard, baby.” Angel pulled her against him, letting Alena feel his erection that was being suppressed by his jeans. “Come on cielo, I really want to fucking worship you.” 

“No, come on Angel, Cruz just hurt himself.” She blushed at how forward Angel could be.

She saw the glint of mischief in his eyes. She knew he wouldn’t let this go.

When they arrived home, Alena ordered some pizza and wings, inviting Gilly and Coco over. She figured they would be a good distraction for Angel. When they came in through the door, Angel gave Alena an odd look before a smirk spread across his lips. He cornered her in the kitchen as she cooked some dumplings which she was craving for.

“I see what you’re doing,” he shook his head, amused by her methods. “Aren’t you off for another week baby?”

Alena’s boss went on a mini vacation with his brothers and sisters, along with his nieces and nephews, so he gave her the week off as well even after he gave her the last week off. He invited her to come along, but she chose to stay back, just to get some time away from her boss. 

“Yes?” Alena gave him a questioning look.

“By the end of the night, you won’t be able to walk for at least half the week.” He kissed her before going back to the living room to sit with Gilly, Cruz and Coco.

===================

Alena threw her head back as Angel nipped at her neck, leaving hickeys all over. His fingers went in and out of her, Alena’s hips thrusting down to meet his fingers.

“Look at you baby, sucking me in. Fuck.” They were on their bed, with Alena sitting in between his legs. Angel’s other hand was under his shirt that she was wearing, tweaking her nipples with his fingers. “Mi cielo, you look so beautiful and you’re all mine.”

She threw her head back, laying it on Angel’s shoulder. Biting down on her lip, her breathing increased as she tried to chase that euphoric feeling Angel was always able to provide for her. 

“Angel.” She mewled out. She was clenching around him, causing Angel to go faster with his ministrations. He whispered ‘I love yous’ into her ear, how much he adored her, and Alena came, her juices being caught by Angel’s palm as he continued to move his fingers in and out of her.

“You’re so wet baby, remember when you were teasing me, not letting me touch you?” She felt his hot breath on her ear, Alena held the hand that was covered with her juices. She turned around, kneeling in front of Angel. She took his fingers into her mouth, sucking her juices out of it. His eyes darkened, whatever punishment he thought he would give Alena was completely out of his mind.

“Fuck baby, you taste good right? You’re my favorite meal of the day.”

She moved closer to him, connecting their lips. Straddling his lap, her knees were on either side of him, cupping his face. 

“I love you Angel.” Her lips hovering over his. 

“I love you mi cielo.” He looked down as he watched her hand go down his chest, his abdomen, and into his boxers. Her hand wrapped around his cock, his hands resting on her hips. “Baby girl,” he breathed out as she took his precum, spreading it for lubrication. “You’re driving me crazy Alena.”

“Yeah daddy? Do you want my mouth on you?” Alena has never been so forward and Angel didn’t know where this was coming from, but he was a big fan.

“You know I do mami, always.” 

Alena moved so she was kneeling in front of him again. She moved his boxers down and was about to put her mouth on him, but the knocking brought them out of their haze.

“Mommy!” They heard Cruz wail out.

Alena immediately got out of bed, picking up her discarded underwear and shorts. Angel ran to the bathroom to clean himself up while Alena went over to the door. She took a deep breath before opening the door.

Cruz immediately ran to Alena, wrapping his arms around her legs. Cruz’s bunny was with him, Cruz holding him tightly. 

“What’s wrong baby?” Alena picked him up, his face immediately buried at the crook of her neck. She closed the door, locking it and made her way back on the bed. She threw the blanket on the floor, not wanting Cruz to lay down where she and Angel were fooling around. 

Cruz continued to cry, not talking and just clutching Alena’s shirt. Angel came out of the bathroom and she mouthed blanket to him, which he got one from the closet down the hall. He came back and laid the blanket down. Alena was holding Cruz, rubbing his back.

“What’s wrong Cruzito?” Angel wrapped his arms around Aena and Cruz who were laying down. Angel was laying on his side, his head right next to Alena. “Did you have a nightmare?”

Cruz nodded his head, turning his head to face Angel.

“I had a dream that mommy left.”

Angel’s heart clenched hearing that since he’s had the same nightmare. It made him sad that Cruz had the same nightmare, but he knew Alena would never walk away from Cruz. From him it was possible. From Cruz? Not possible at all.

Alena turned her head to face Angel and she had tears welling up in her eyes. 

“Baby, mommy would never leave you.” Alena assured him, kissing the top of her head.

“You promise?” Cruz held on tighter to Alena’s shirt.

Angel caressed Cruz’s head, trying to comfort his son. He wasn’t surprised that Cruz’s biggest fear was that Alena would leave. During the first few years of this arrangement, he was worried that Alena would get overwhelmed and walk away. Which he felt stupid for thinking since it was Alena. She stuck by him and was the best mother to Cruz. She was his best friend, partner, wife, and the love of his life.

He couldn’t imagine a world without her.

“I promise.”

Her words made Angel feel at ease, but he knew he had to prove to her that he wasn’t like everyone else. That he would always be there for her. 

Everyone else might walk away, but he would never do so.

In their history, Alena was the one who has been able to walk away from him, to close him off. It was the reason he kept his feelings to himself. Alena has never rejected him and never put him second. He was always number one. Admitting that he had feelings for her would be handing her the reins and this uncertainty frightened him. 

But after facing a possibility of losing her.

He couldn’t deal with that. 

Alena groaned as she heard her phone rang for the umpteenth time. 

It was a Saturday.

She was allowed to sleep in.

Her eyes opened wide then when the day sunk in. Picking up her cell phone, she sat up and saw multiple missed calls from Angel, EZ and Felipe.

She clicked on Angel’s name, cursing under her breath. 

“Where the fuck are you?” Angel growled out.

“I’m so sorry Angel,” Alena groaned as she laid back on her bed. “I had a late night at work and I missed my alarm earlier.” She looked at the clock beside her bed and it read ‘10:35am’.

He sighed. “It’s fine, I was just worried. You didn’t even text me querida.” 

“I,” she bit her lip, internally groaning for forgetting to do such a simple task. “I thought I did. Sorry my-“

Angel cut her off. “Your co-workers took advantage of your kindness yet again and you did their work while they went out to party.” 

Alena hated how well Angel knew her. But she nodded her head meekly as if Angel could see her. 

“Cruz is looking for mama.” 

She smiled thinking of her son. Well, technically, Cruz wasn’t her son. Cruz was Angel’s son with his ex-girlfriend, Valeria. The woman didn’t want Cruz so she put him up for adoption without even telling Angel. She told him that she would rather he be in the system than have a father like him. That she wanted no reminder of him in her life. When Angel went to the orphanage to retrieve his child, they gave him a difficult time due to his criminal background along with his history with the Mayans. They told him he didn’t have enough stability to care for a child. 

Typical systemic bullshit. 

Alena had a good job, or well, a respectable job that people would see as stable. Being Angel’s friend, she offered to pose as his fiancé so that Angel could get his son. It was a fight, but eventually they were able to bring Cruz home and Alena has been taking care of Cruz with Angel ever since. On his birth certificate, it was Alena’s name that was on there along with Angel’s.

One may wonder why would Alena even adopt a child that wasn’t hers? 

Many people, including her family, have called her insane and too kind to help Angel out the way she has been doing for the last few years. They were never together and were only friends, yet, they were co-parenting.

But Angel saved her all those years ago when she was merely sixteen years old. Things would have been different if Angel wasn’t there.

Alena moved to Santo Padre with her mother when she was eleven years old. She lived in the apartment building down the street Angel’s home. She was EZ’s age, so she ended up being in the same class as him. For lack of a better term, she was EZ’s rival when it came to academics. She hardly participated in any clubs, sports or any activities, but when it came to academics, she definitely rivaled EZ. Angel always teased EZ that not even his spooky gift could beat Alena. Due to living in the same neighborhood, they always seemed to walk home together and she eventually befriended EZ then Angel. 

They weren’t her best friends, but she definitely considered them good friends. Her best friend, Carla, was EZ’s current girlfriend. Carla moved to Santo Padre at the age of fifteen and became a part of the triplet with EZ and Alena. Once EZ was out of jail, their feelings became more apparent especially since Carla stuck by EZ. Though, they couldn’t lay blame in Emily since EZ did push her away. 

She adopted Cruz four years ago and now, she was his mother and she wouldn’t do a thing to change it. Her and Angel co-parented well. Their schedule never veered from the usual, but she usually was in San Diego during the week and from time to time Cruz came with her. Mostly, he was in Santo Padre since Felipe could watch him when Angel was working. Angel insisted that she didn’t have to take care of Cruz, her helping him get his child was enough, but she grew fond of the child. 

She would do anything for Angel and now she would do anything for Cruz. They might not be blood, but he was her son.

“Shit, okay, let me just change into some clothes and I’ll head over.” Alena maneuvered out of bed. The guilt seeping in that she didn’t come home last night as she intended to do so. 

Well, she didn’t go over to Angel’s.

“Don’t bother,” her room door opened and the giggle that flooded the air made her smile.

“Mama!” Cruz greeted her, jumping on her bed. 

“Baby!” She opened her arms as Cruz jumped into them. Looking up at Angel, he leaned against the door frame and smiled at her. “I’m really sorry.” She pouted. 

Angel groaned. “Please don’t do that, you know that pout makes me powerless.” Alena laughed at his words. “I know, it’s fine, I know how you are.” Angel sighed walking over to sit at the edge of her bed. “Really wish you wouldn’t let them walk all over you.” 

“It’s not a big deal, I was staying late anyway and they didn’t anticipate it to be busy yesterday.” Alena’s eyes were focused on Cruz who was cuddled into her arms.

“That’s not the point Lenny.” Angel hated how kind she was, it was the reason she was stuck in California in the first place. She was going to Europe, Paris specifically, to become a curator for the Louvre, an opportunity that came once in a lifetime, but she stayed in Santo Padre, and was doing scut work. It upset Angel, but she wouldn’t leave, because if she did, Angel wouldn’t be able to have Cruz and she didn’t want that. It was Angel’s chance to be a father, to have a family.

“How was last night?” Alena knew how difficult it was for Cruz to sleep when he knew she was coming home.

“Awful.” Alena noticed the dark bags under Angel’s eyes. “He wouldn’t stop calling for you. And I tried calling you but your phone was off.”

“Sorry, I forgot to charge it and I just,” she kissed the top of Cruz’s head as she felt his breathing even out indicating he was asleep. “I’m really sorry Angel.”

“Stop apologizing, you didn’t do anything wrong.” Angel moved so he was sitting right beside her. “I’m going to have to either buy you another phone or those power banks.” He chuckled, shaking his head. “You have to start saying no querida, you’re not getting paid enough to handle everyone’s load.”

“I just want to help.” Alena laid down with Cruz in her arms. 

Angel followed suit, resting his hand behind his head. Even though they didn’t start off tangled in one another, eventually when he woke up, he knew Alena would be wrapped around him with Cruz in between them. They had a weird dynamic, Angel could recognize that, but he wouldn’t trade it for the world. 

“Baby, just say no next time. It was their work to do, not yours.” Angel turned and wrapped an arm around Alena and Cruz. “We’ll just take a nap then we can head over to Pops, family dinner.”

“Isn’t family dinner usually tomorrow?” 

“Two nights of family dinner, didn’t want to argue with the old man.” 

Alena laughed. “Okay, we got to stop by the pharmacy, Cruz needs a refill on his inhaler.”

“I already got it.” Angel closed his eyes. “Go to sleep, I know you’re tired, sleep in for once.”

Alena closed her eyes, kissing Cruz on the forehead one last time before her world went dark. 

=============

Later on that night, Alena was relaxing on the recliner at Felipe’s as Angel and Felipe grilled outside. She knew their relationship had been tense, however she knew they were trying to work it out. With EZ out of jail, she knew the dynamic would change. Angel always felt second best to EZ, but not to her. 

He was number one and he knew that. 

“Mama, do you have my crayons?” Cruz came up beside her, EZ following behind.

“Yes bubba, they’re in your bag remember? We packed it together.” She ruffled his hair, kissing his cheek.

“Oh yeah! I’ll go get it tio!” Cruz ran to Angel’s old bedroom where you had dropped off his things. 

EZ looked down at Alena and smiled. “Nice to see you relaxing for once.”

“Your father and brother won’t let me do anything.”

“Well you do everything for everyone else, hard not to spoil you.” EZ was still in awe that Alena took the mantle of mother for Cruz. He was always close to Alena and remained close to her while he was in jail. Besides Carla, she was the only woman in his life that he didn’t push away like he did Emily. He felt terrible for doing so, but he didn’t want to make her wait. When his father informed him that Valeria left Angel after informing him she was pregnant and that she was giving the child up for adoption, it broke EZ’s heart for his brother. He knew for a fact that Angel would be a great father. From what Felipe reported to him, Valeria was a grade A bitch. But then Felipe told him that Alena adopted Cruz to help Angel and that she was going to be Cruz’s mom.

EZ would say he was surprised, but he wasn’t. Alena had always placed Angel on some pedestal after he saved her all those years ago. He understood why she did, but he just didn’t think her gratitude would be this great. When he got out of prison and saw their dynamic, he was in awe. Cruz may like Alena a little more than Angel and it was slightly laughable. Not in a malicious way, but Alena wasn’t his biological parent, but he was so attached to her.

“Is Carla coming?”

“No, she’s working a late shift at the hospital.” EZ wished Carla was here, but he knew how short staffed it was and she had a four day break after this stretch of days. 

“Mommy, do you want to draw with me and tio?” Cruz cake running back, his bag in his hands. 

“Mommy is resting little man, we talked about this.” Angel answered for her. She looked up and found Angel walking in from the kitchen, trying to shoo Cruz and EZ away.

“No! I haven’t seen mommy and I want to play with mommy.” 

“Cruz,” Angel sternly called out his name. “Do you want mommy to get sick?”

Cruz looked up at Alena, a pout on his cute face, and shook his head. “No daddy.” Alena got sick easily and Angel tried to make sure she didn’t over exert herself. She tried to give her all to Cruz, but he knew how exhausted she was even though she didn’t complain.

“It’s okay, I don’t mind. It’s just coloring Angel.” She hated seeing Cruz pout. 

“EZ take Cruz.” Angel waited till they were outside before he crouched down beside Alena. “Listen I get it, you want to do everything with Cruz and you suck at saying no, but you can’t let Cruz have everything. I’m tired of being the bad cop.” He teased her.

Alena laughed. “I play the bad cop during bed time especially when you want him to stay up with you. We take equal amounts of sternness.” And they did. They were a team and sometimes, Cruz needed a stern answer from both of them. They tried to assure Cruz’s happiness, but they didn’t want him to not have boundaries or manners when it came to certain things. Bedtime was bedtime. Playtime was playtime.

“You okay? You want something to drink?” Angel asked as he stood up. 

“No, I’m okay. Can I bake the brownies now?”

“Nope, keep that cute ass of yours on that seat.” He winked at her. “I’ll bake the brownies.”

“No, Angel you literally don’t know how to bake.” Alena countered.

“It’s just following instructions.”

“My exact point.”

“Oh, you think you’re funny.” Angel chuckled. “It’ll be fine mi dulce.”

“Hey, wait, did you submit the application for Cruz’s school?” Alena called out since Angel went inside the kitchen.

“Lenny, would you stop? I got it, remember? You literally told everyone at the club to make sure I didn’t forget the deadline.” Angel found it annoying, but Alena knew him best. Every fucking turn he made, he had one of his brothers reminding him to submit Cruz’s application. Then his pops would text him. Then EZ would bug him, it was hard to miss the deadline. At the same time, he chuckled at the thought because no one knew him like Alena did. 

“Okay, I just, maybe we shouldn’t start school. Cruz is five, maybe it’s better for him to stay home for now.” Alena bit her bottom lip, unsure if she truly wanted to enroll Cruz to school.

Angel chuckled, helping Alena up so he could sit on the armchair. He pulled her to him, letting her sit on his lap sideways. “We talked about this, it’s gonna be hard, but Cruz needs to go to school. It’ll make it so much easier for us when it comes to childcare and he can meet kids his age.” He thought how insane it was that Alena was so involved in Cruz’s life but he wouldn’t have it any other way. Cruz was Alena’s son, even though he hears how the people around town slightly mocked Alena for her choices, there were more people who supported her. He always referred to her as his partner because in all intents and purposes, she was his partner. 

“You’re right.” She sighed, leaning her head against his shoulder. “I just, what if he gets bullied? Or he doesn’t have friends?”

“Have you met our kid? He’s too cool to not have any friends.” Angel scoffed. “Don’t be ridiculous, he’s going to be fine.”

“Okay, but if he comes home crying even once, heads are rolling.”

“Okay mama bear, calm down.” Angel kissed the top of her head, laughing against her head.

Felipe called the two to come out, finding Alena sleeping in Angel’s arms. He gestured for Angel to come out, which he did after waking Alena. Once Alena was awake, they both made their way outside with Cruz already seated, Angel and Alena sitting on either side of him. EZ and Felipe sat across from them. 

EZ always found it fascinating when they all ate together. If there were carrots, Angel would put the carrots in the salad on Alena’s plate, not liking carrots since he was a kid. But Cruz would then put his little carrots on Angel’s plate, thinking they were just exchanging carrots. 

“Cruz, that’s for you.” Angel placed the carrots back on his plate.

“You put your carrots on mama’s plate.”

Angel looked over at EZ and Felipe who both had an amused smile on their faces. Angel grumbled as he took some carrots back. Alena laughed at the two, shaking her head. Her boys were too much at times. 

“Alena,” Alena looked over at Felipe. “Your mother came by the other day, she said you haven’t seen her. Are you avoiding her?”

She smiled sheepishly, letting out a nervous laugh. “Yeah, she just,” she looked over at Angel who was waiting for her to answer as well. He had gotten a few teasing text messages from Michelle, questioning as to why her daughter hasn’t come to see her the last four months. “My mom has been trying to set me up on dates with her friends' sons and I just don’t want to deal with it is all.”

Angel almost choked on the carne asada he had shoved in his mouth while EZ smirked. Felipe tried to hide a smirk, his eldest obviously bothered by the possibilities.

“And has she found a rightful match for you?” EZ loved watching Angel squirm. He missed this. He never thought he would miss his obnoxious older brother and Alena, he missed her too. He missed their academic competitions and how much she pushed him. He missed cooking with her on Friday nights, the Korean cuisines she would make were amazing. But mostly, he missed just being around both of them. He wasn’t exactly incredibly shocked that Alena stepped up to the plate. Her and Angel always had a connection, ever since she was eleven years old. The younger sister they never had, well, for EZ at least she was. With Angel, the lines blurred so long ago. “I’m sure your mother at least has fifteen candidates for you.”

“Cielo, don’t leave us hanging, how many candidates does she have?” Angel’s smile was tight, which made EZ even more amused to tease his brother. 

Angel only called her cielo, sky in Spanish, whenever he was trying to tease her or when he wanted something from her. Sunshine was reserved for when he was secretly annoyed with her, which she deciphered over the years. Lenny when he was frustrated and Alena for everyday things. She liked it when he gave her a Spanish nickname cause he just sounds so good speaking Spanish. 

“Um,” Alena opened her mouth to reply when Cruz got her attention.

“Mr. Vic is calling you.” Cruz held her phone up, which he had in his hands.

Angel raised an eyebrow at his son’s words and Alena excused herself.

“Who’s Mr. Vic?” Angel asked Cruz.

Cruz looked up at his father. “Mama’s best friend. He takes care of me whenever mama has to go to work.”

Angel looked at EZ and his father, who shared the same look as him.

“Is he nice?”

Cruz nodded his head, shoving a carrot in his mouth. “He makes mama laugh.”

Angel had never heard of Vic before. Tonight was a night of revelations.

And he was not liking it one bit.

Alena sat back down, apologizing for taking the phone call.

“Who was that?” Angel questioned.

“Just a friend, he takes care of Cruz. Remember, I told you about him, Victor. He was just checking if we were still going to this museum next Saturday with Cruz.” Alena was certain she mentioned Victor to Angel before, but with so much going on, he most likely forgot. 

“The museum?” Angel knew that Alena absolutely loved art, just like him. It’s what made them bond as strongly as they did. They would borrow one another’s materials, paint together. The third bedroom at their house was an art studio because she wasn’t sleeping in that room alone, it would be confusing for Cruz. But he did remember her mentioning Victor. He wasn’t even sure why he would think Alena would bring anyone around their child without checking with him.

“Yes museum, we’ve been planning for a while. You have a run to Vegas then right?” Alena wasn’t sure why she was nervous or she felt that she had to ask permission. It was mostly for Cruz since in all technicality, he was Angel’s son. She was like a glorified babysitter. Well, she was more than that, but at times she couldn’t help and feel that. People would always ask her who’s cute kid Cruz was whenever she was in San Diego and in Santo Padre, people would always come up to her saying how they admired her for stepping up to the plate. And of course there were the ones who gave her the oddest look, like she committed a crime by helping Angel. 

It was hard to push those looks aside at times because there were so many times she wished Cruz was truly hers. But she didn’t want to dwell on that.

“I do, I just thought we would spend the day together before I left.” Angel knew he was being a dick, but he did intend on doing that.

“Oh, we can do that, not a problem.” Alena enthusiastically agreed. “I can reschedule for Sunday.” She quickly shot Victor a text before continuing to eat.

EZ looked at the victorious smile on Angel’s face. He chuckled at his brother’s reaction, shaking his head. “So how many has your mother found for you?”

“Ten.” She murmured.

“What was that?” Angel asked. He heard, but he wanted to make sure he heard correctly. 

“Mommy said ten.” Cruz answered.

Felipe and EZ laughed while Angel rolled his eyes.

“And how have you been keeping your mother at bay?” Felipe knew how pushy Michelle could be, especially with Alena since she was too kind for her own good.

“She’s been ignoring her.” EZ cackled. “Alena, your mother is going to ambush you soon.”

“No actually,” Alena looked over at Angel. “I told her I was dating someone, which I’m not. But it’s keeping her at bay. I’m almost sure she set up a dating profile for me.”

EZ laughed harder. This situation was too funny. He loved Alena’s mother. She was tough as nails, but was also the sweetest woman he’s met.

“Why doesn’t she busy herself with your brother?” Angel wiped Cruz’s cheek. 

“My brother is, well, he’s been with Mina for years. I’m technically the only one without a commitment.” Alena knew her mother meant well, but she didn’t exactly have time for dates with Cruz and Angel taking up her time. 

“You do, it’s me and Cruz.” Angel stood up. “Anyone want a drink?” Felipe raised his beer indicating he wanted another while Alena just requested for water.

“I’ll come with.” EZ stood up, following his brother in the kitchen.

The two brothers entered the kitchen, Angel grabbing a beer for himself and his father.

“Hey, if you’re not happy with Alena being set up, why not just ask her out?” EZ grabbed a beer as well.

“Ask her out? For what?” Angel gave his brother a questioning look, making his way back out, but EZ stopped him.

EZ made a face, chuckling at his brother. “Oh, we’re still in denial. Haven’t you been in denial for like seven years?”

“Drop it Ezekiel.”

“Look, I know you don’t think you’re worthy of her, but you are. Alena is playing mommy to your son, no questions asked or expecting anything in return. You’ve protected her since she was fifteen years old, kept men away from her and kept her safe. Don’t let the voices get to you Angel, you obviously like her.”

“Well, you’re wrong, I don’t.” Angel pushed pass EZ, halting his movement when his eyes landed on Alena. 

She gave them a small smile, and moved past Angel. “Sorry, I’m going to the bathroom.”

“Did you,” Angel wasn’t sure what to say. He didn’t mean for Alena to hear any of that. “Did you hear any of that?”

“Any of what?” She gave him a questioning look. “You two are so weird.” She laughed, making her way to the bathroom.

But she did hear. She always knew Angel wasn’t interested in her but hearing it was definitely much more hurtful. It was okay, she knew her role in this whole situation and she was fine with that.

Anything for Cruz.

=============

Alena finished her skin routine, putting on her glasses as she walked out of the bathroom. Angel was already on the bed, Netflix ready to go. Cruz was knocked out in his room after a fun night with abuelito and tio.

She slipped in on her side of the bed, keeping her distance from Angel. The lines blurred between them time to time since Angel was very affectionate. He loved cuddling, but after what she heard, to protect her own heart, she wanted to keep a distance between them.

Angel knew Alena heard him. After she returned from the bathroom, he could tell that she was distancing herself. Her attention was solely focused on Cruz and rarely acknowledged him unless he specifically called her name. He hated it when she closed him off but would still smile at him and be very polite. He wanted her to lose it one time, but at the same time he didn’t.

They always said it was the quiet ones.

“Hey, about earlier,” Angel scratched the back of his neck, unsure of how to start.

“You don’t have to explain anything.” Alena cut him off before he could speak further. “It’s fine, we’re a good team Angel, we’re both here for Cruz.”

“It’s more than that, you’re one of the most important people to me.” And it was true, she was. He’s known her for quite some time and it was hard not to be overprotective over her. Alena always wanted to help everyone with no questions asked. She was a genuinely kind person and people walked all over her often. He tried not to, and he was successful most of the time, but sometimes, she pushed him to let her do things for him and he just didn’t want to argue with her.

She wouldn't even look his way and it upset him.

“It’s okay, don’t worry about it.” She placed her hand on top of his, giving it a squeeze. “I don’t expect for you to have feelings for me and we’re friends. Things can get blurry at times because of the dynamic we have. You don’t have to explain anything, we’re good.”

“Alena, don’t brush this off. It’s not that I can’t have feelings for you, our situation is just complicated.” Alena was a beautiful girl, he just, he doesn’t even know what he wanted.

“Angel, don’t worry about it, we’re good.” She gave him a reassuring smile.

Angel didn’t want to push her, so he let it go and just returned her smile. “What are we watching?”

“Lucifer?”

Angel put Lucifer on, Alena situating herself against the headboard. Looking over at her, he knew their situation was highly ideal, and complicated as fuck, but he wouldn’t trade it in the world.