As we made our way back to the bus, Gerard and I hand in hand, Mikey said, "Looks like you're back to normal, V."

"I guess so," I replied, "And thanks for everything, guys."

"No problem," said Ray. We boarded the bus, all of us still soaking wet and caked with sand.

"I call first shower!" I said.

"Fuck! I was gonna say that…" Frank trailed off. I snickered as I walked into the bathroom. I showered fairly quickly, compared to how long I usually take. I didn't want to use up all the hot water. As I got out, I realized I had forgotten to bring a change of clothes. I wrapped a towel around myself and opened the door a crack.

"Everyone close your eyes; I'm coming out in just a towel for a second!" I called. The guys mumbled a reply from the kitchen, and when I peeked out they all had their eyes closed. I scurried over to my suitcase, grabbed the first clean clothes I saw, and then ran back to the bathroom. Once I was inside with the door open just a crack, I yelled, "All clear!"

After I finished up, Frank took his turn. I sat at the kitchen table with the rest of the guys, who were debating about some video game. I stared off into space and just thought. I remembered it was June 21st and… oh shit, my birthday was in two days. I hoped the guys didn't know. I didn't want them making a fuss over it, and I definitely didn't want any presents. Well, I'd never told them and they'd never asked, so I figured they didn't know.

Then I heard someone mention Mario Kart, so I joined the debate. Frank came out of the bathroom soon after, and the rest of the guys took turns. We spent the rest of the evening talking about anything and everything, not going to bet until around 1 AM. All things considered, it was a pretty awesome day.