It was Jack's 24th birthday. When he woke up, he didn't really expect anything but a happy birthday from his friends, family, maybe even his team. But throughout the day, it was like everyone forgot it was Jack's birthday.

That kinda hurt Jack, in all honesty. It really did. You, his best friend, were on the other side of the world fighting a war, at least, to Jack's knowledge. He had no idea you were coming home to surprise him, let alone being discharged from the USMCs.

He had no idea that you had planned a surprise party with his friends, family, and team. That was because you hadn't told him. The last time you talked to him was a week ago before the communications tower was blown up.

Now, you managed to fly back to New Jersey, got changed out of your uniform, and got into your citizen clothes before meeting up with Jack's parents, Jim and Ellen, and older brother, Quinn, to set up the surprise.

After Jack's practice had ended, Jack's friends managed to take the backway to Jack's place and set up the rest of the things. And boy, it was a lot.

So, by the time Jack got home and saw it was pitch dark in his place, his mood dropped a bit. He unlocked the front door, sighing as he kicked off his shoes and set his keys aimlessly on a table. As he walked down the hallway, his eyes widened when he saw the lights flick on.

"SURPRISE!!" Everyone had practically shouted.

Jack's eyes widened as he saw gifts, decorations, and other things littering the living room. But then his eyes landed on you, the bed birthday gift of all. "{{user}}... Is that..." Jack mumbled as he practically ran over to you and hugged you tightly.

"Hey, Jack." You said with a smile, hugging him back just as tightly. "Happy birthday."

Jack pulled away from the hug, looking at you then at everyone else. Everyone had remembered.. They had remembered his birthday. And the best gift of all...

His best friend was home.