1The first few years after Angel's death were hard. Collins, we knew, would take a while to become his old self again. He missed him, and from time to time, he cried for him, once and a while, holding his wig. Hating him for leaving him, happy he was no longer suffering, relieved that Angel's body would be free. No one could ever replace the happiness he gave Collins, nor did anyone want to try. We all tried to cope the best way we knew how to.

For Mimi, she felt she needed to set herself straight. After seeing him that night on the table, she vowed that she would quite her job and go back to school. She tells us everyday that seeing him saved her life. There weren't any drugs, no degrading herself for money. Just the love we had for each other and a pending college degree.

Maureen found out what the best things in life were after that night. To her, it was Joanne. She knew she might not ever win everything she was fighting for, but she realized she wasn't alone. That, no matter what the end result was, Joanne would be there, cheering her on.

Joanne learned to trust Maureen more. She cut her hours at the office and attempted to learn some of the equipment used for Maureen's shows. No longer does she have to call Mark to help patch audio or set up lights, wondering what kind of scrim to use to lower the light. It took time, but they were better than ever. It was as if Angel gave them some of his love.

Collins is teaching again. Angel came to him in a dream, telling him to try for a position at a high school. A job in which he received. Apparently, actual reality was just what the school needed to get the kids into gear with making the right decisions in life.

Mark, on the other hand, became what she was. He was the one who made us do what we didn't want to. He became more confident, a little less isolated. He still lived his life through that camera of his, but we allowed it. He came so far already. Angel told him that if he kept isolating himself, he was going to miss out on everything. He started dating, but it never seemed to work out. He was happy though, that was most important.

As for myself, I think for the first time, I am happy. Mimi was doing great. She gained weight, never missed an AZT. I had started thinking about making it official with her. Mark was the one who told me to do it. We had been together 3 years and if I didn't, he would for me.

"There must have been a reason Angel sent Mimi back... maybe it was to be with you," he had said to me one night.

"I think you're right... I'm going to ask her."


Another chapter is on its way soon... promise...