Laurie saw her girlfriend moving towards her with a purpose. It was strange seeing the girl in a dress, but not entirely unpleasant. She knew that she had no chance of ever getting Heather into a dress again, so she savored the moment, and she savored the kiss that Heather bestowed on her.

"Gather around folks," Heather said. "It's time for what passes for my version of an inspirational speech." She waited until the five band members were clustered together in a tight circle. "Good. This may sound kind of strange, but who here knows what happens in a few days? Besides us celebrating our victory, that is?" That got...