As the sun began to set and the younger children were called inside for dinner, the five of them sat together on the bleachers, watching the golden light paint the sky. Mateo felt a profound sense of contentment wash over him. He was surrounded by people who loved him, who believed in him, who wanted the best for him.
Elena rested her head on his shoulder. "We're really proud of you, you know. Not just for the football. For everything. For who you've become."
Pablo nodded. "You're going to do great things, Mateo. We all know it."
Miguel said, "Just don't forget about us when you're famous."
Mateo looked at each of them in turn, his heart full. He signed slowly, deliberately, "I could never forget you. You're my family. You always will be."
Elena squeezed his hand. "Good. Because we're not going anywhere. And neither are you. No matter where life takes you, you'll always have a home here. With us."
