Ray and Otto just stared at each other while finishing the rest of their food and drinks. It didn't seem anything would work. Tito just stepped in to clean things up. "So how was the meal guys?" Tito asked. No answer. "Look, I know you cuzzes are mad at each other, but you've been close to each other over the years. Otto, I know your dad has repressed you for the last few years, and you have a right to be angry. Now that you have your big chance, don't blow it Otto. Ray is here for you." "A father should be there always for his son," Otto said. "Not to humiliate me." Tito said, "Look, he was just worried for your safety, like any other parent. Since your mom left you, he was the only one that could 'nurture' you, taking on the role of father and mother at the same time. And raising
you wasn't easy either."

Ray said, "Otto, I'm sorry I controlled you. I guess I had the same expectations for you as I did with Reggie. You didn't grow up as fast, and I should have been more patient with you. I'm sorry I let you down, but I'm here if you need me, Otto." Otto was moved to tears and all he did was hug
him. "Dad, I'm sorry I was a pain in the ass all these years to you, I didn't think you understood me, but now that you do, it means a lot to me." "And for my part," Ray continued, "I'm pleased that you understand a little better what general direction you want your life to take. I'll always love you and be proud of you, and of your big sister here, first of all because
you're my kids. And while I'm proud of anything each of you manages to
accomplish by honest effort, that'll be secondary." Ray further said, "Otto, I'm willing to let you do what you want. I should let you do what makes you happy. Fly like the seagull and be free! Whatever
you do, I'm right behind you." Reggie saw this moment and she started weeping tears in joy. This was the first time Ray and Otto actually talked
in almost 4 years. Lars was skating by the Shack and said "Am I seeing things?!" Reggie said, "No, you're not, Lars." "This is about the best gift I could get." "Let's leave them alone," Lars said. "Movie on me." They went
to the Ortega together. It was an unbelievable scene.
Meanwhile, Twister and Sam were right there skating at Mad Town, and Sam was just doing 360's, ollies, and kick flips. Twister was catching it all
on film. Just like the old days. "Hey, Squid...look over there!" Sam and Twister's jaws just dropped. Ray and Otto were talking to each other? This
must be some kind of dream?
The whole gang next morning joined up at the college. It was a Saturday to remember. Otto was the main attraction at the play, "Othello" He played the part of Iago, a character not unlike himself. He was a natural at it. Ray saw this play when he was in high school. In fact he was in the play, and
he tripped on a cord, knocking down all of the actors. The gang just laughed when they heard that story. "Dad, we've heard that, like 30 times,"
Reggie laughed.
Twister was recording Otto before the play. And as usual, Otto stuck out his tongue, just being a goofball. Ray just laughed. Some things never get old, he thought. He'll grow up in time, but right now all he wanted to do
is appreciate the moment, because you never know when it is up.
The play lasted for 3 hours. Otto didn't miss a single line at all. In fact, Otto got a bouquet of roses, from Clio?! Clio was at the play too, Otto just blushed. Sam teased, "Otto's got a girlfriend!" "Squid, you're embarrassing me," said Otto. Then he just laughed. "Thanks guys, thanks for supporting me. I know it's going to be a long four years, but I know I'll
make it because of you."
Later that night, Otto and Clio went out to have a romantic dinner at the Shack. Wilbur didn't miss a beat, and had extracted linen tablecloths and
candles from some corner of the back room nobody had touched in some time.....The auburn-haired young man, and the purple haired Latina girl, kissed under the moonlight, how romantic can it get? And how lucky can one guy get? It was the start of something big. A new beginning and a new life. Reggie couldn't help but shed a tear, "My brother is growing to be a fine
person, and I made a difference."

Epilogue: Twister and Reggie got married during the summer and are happily
married. They're expecting a child sometime in a year. Sam is currently going for his masters in computer programming and is working in Ocean Shore Tech Labs, making $90,000 a year. Otto never had to abandon what he was, which might have been one of his inhibiting fears to begin with. He's still as good a skater and surfer as ever, and between his studies still takes quality time with his friends and his sister. As for him and Clio...they're
still dating to this day and have plans on getting married. Credits: A big thanks to Scott Sanchez and Wendy for helping out with the
story. They were truly an inspiration for writing this story.