We were all sitting down at a fancy restaurant called The Steakhouse, enjoying our post-graduation dinner. “So Brook” Brian’s dad, whom we lovingly call Papa Gates, started, “now that you’ve graduated what are your plans? You staying in Huntington?” All eyes were on me. No one knew I had been accepted to college, other than Lily. “Well. I actually wanted to make this announcement at dinner, so this is the perfect time. Um, I got a full ride scholarship for business at the University of California Irvine.” I trailed off, pushing my food around on my plate. The entire table was silent, until Jimmy walked over to me with tears in his eyes and pulled me out of my chair, “Baby Bea, I am so proud of you. My business lady” he said as he hugged me and kissed my hair. “You and Lily are going to have the most amazing boutique in the world. Just wait and see” He sat back down and the entire table erupted into cheers and congratulations. “Congratulations Tiny Tim” Brian said as he kissed the side of my head. I smiled and thanked everyone and the conversation returned to normal, with Jimmy beaming with pride across from me. “Okay okay everyone be quiet” Matt said as he stood up. “Our graduates deserve a toast. To Lily and Brook, the dynamic duo who are going to rule the fashion world after college, and to Johnny, who I’m proud to announce is the new bassist for Avenged Sevenfold.” “Johnny! That’s so awesome! Now we’re all living our dreams!” I said excitedly, Lil nodding her head enthusiastically next to me. We quickly finished dinner and went home to change into party clothes.

The party was being held at Brian’s house, since he lived in a cul-de-sac he had the most room to park. I was the first person there, and parked right in front of Brian’s garage. I walked in the front door and he looked surprised “Tiny what are you doing here already? It’s your party, you’re not supposed to be the first one here” “Yeah I know that,” I started, “but I was so excited I wanted to come over early.” I explained as he smiled at me. “Well you look beautiful.” he said, gesturing to my outfit which consisted of ripped jeans, a black tube top, and sandals. “Why thank you Mr. Gates,” I smiled at him, “you don‘t look too bad yourself.” “So business school huh? I’m really proud of you Bea.” “Thanks. I’m really excited. Lil and I are already planning out boutique. It’s gonna be amazing.” I beamed. “I know it will be. You’re gonna sell A7X merch there right?” he asked. “Um duh. Like we wouldn’t promote our brothers’ band. You must be crazy.” I joked.

The house started filling up with people and pretty soon the party was in full swing. I was standing in a group with Val, Leana, Lacey, and Lily when I heard Val groan “Great. Just what we need to ruin a good party.” She said as she stalked toward the front door. I turned around and there she was, Michelle DiBenedetto, the biggest pain in my ass. “For real? What the fuck is she doing here?” Lily said, heading straight toward Val, who was arguing with Michelle. I sighed and headed over there, just in case Lil needed to be held back. “Look Michelle, this is the girls’ graduation party. Just go.” Val said calmly. “What? I wasn’t invited to their graduation party? I watched these little brats grow up to.” Michelle argued. “Yeah, there was a reason you weren’t invited Michelle. You couldn’t keep your legs closed the last time the guys were on tour, resulting in Brian dumping your sleazy ass. Now get the fuck out of my party.” Lily said angrily, stepping up to get in Michelle’s face. Michelle huffed, turned around and walked out. “Thank god,” I mumbled, “I thought I was gonna have to go find Matt and Zack.” “What a fuckin mood killer. I’m going to find a drink and my boyfriend” Lily said as she walked away. “Bea what the hell just happened” Jimmy said as he appeared behind me. “I have no idea, I need a drink.” I said, going straight to the bar and getting a rum and coke. “Don’t drink too many of those, I don’t need to carry your ass to bed again” Brian joked. “Whatever Haner, you could have left me on the sand” I smirked. “And have Jimmy kick my ass the next day? I think not. Besides, you could have frozen out there,” he said, “I saw Michelle show up. What did she want? She wasn’t mean to you was she?” he rambled. “No Bri, she wasn’t mean, damn slow down. She was pissed because she wasn’t invited, and then Lil put her in her place, like always” I chuckled. “Ah, that is why I love our Liliana.” he sighed. “Okay, let’s go party.”

We partied through the night, us girls dancing and singing along to all of our favorite songs while the guys did whatever it is the guys do. Last I saw of Jimmy he was running through the house without a shirt yelling something about jumping in the pool, with Brian right behind him yelling “NO!” I got tired of dancing and decided to take a breather on the beach. I walked out the back doors and through the fence and sat in one of the chairs that Brian always had set up there. “Whatcha doin out here B?” came the voice behind me. “Just relaxing, checking out the waves. Too loud in the house.” I replied. Brian sat down next to me and said “wanna tell me what’s really on your mind?” “I’m just kind of bummed. I know they can’t help it, but I really wish my parents would have been there today. Jimmy has been an amazing brother to me, and I can’t help but fell horrible for wishing that they were there too.” I said, tears falling down my face. “Hey, look at me Brook. It’s ok to feel like that. Jimmy feels the same way. It’s completely normal to miss your parents, but you can’t be crying. We’re celebrating. You graduated, and you’re going to college. You’re going to be a successful business woman, giving all of us silly musicians advice.” he said with a chuckle. “Dry those tears babe, I can’t say that it will get better, but I’ll be here for you whenever you need me.” he wiped the tears from my face and cradled my face in his hands. “I’ve been wanting to do this for months now.” he said as he leaned in and kissed me. My eyes grew wide and when I finally realized what was going on, I kissed him back, putting my arms around his neck. He ended the kiss and said “I’m crazy about you Tiny. You’re the best girl ever.” he said, kissing me lightly. “Wanna go back to the party? I’m sure the girls are looking for you.” “Sure Bri,” I said getting up, “And by the way, you’re the best guy ever.” I said with a grin as he took me by my and and led me back to the house.

It was getting close to 4 A.M., and Johnny was already passed out, but everyone else was getting tired as well. “Man, I’m beat,” I said, “I’m gonna go grab a guest room before everyone takes them all.” “Just go ahead and sleep in my room Tiny,” Brian offered, “I’ll sleep down here, or a guest room if there’s one available.” “Are you sure Brian? I don’t want to take your room from you.” I said. “I’m very sure, it’s your special day. Now go enjoy the fluffiness before I change my mind.” he chuckled. “Thanks Bri, for everything.” I said as I kissed his cheek. “Goodnight Brook.” I told everyone else goodnight and headed up the stairs. I got my pajamas out of my overnight bag and went into the bathroom. I did my business and got in the bed. Right before I fell asleep, I remember Brian coming in and kissing my head. “Goodnight beautiful girl, I’ll see you in the morning.” I smiled to myself and fell fast asleep.