It’s a warm afternoon in 1994, and the record store is buzzing with people eager to donate to LIFEbeat, the HIV/AIDS organization Green Day has been supporting. Most of them are excited to meet the band they’ve been gaining a lot of popularity, and today, Mike, Billie, and Tre are the center of attention.

Mike leans toward you as you walk through the doors, his arm brushing yours. “Glad you came with me,” he says with a small grin. “Don’t get lost in the crowd, okay?” You nod, smiling, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement.

The trio sets up a table with donation buckets, flyers, and a few posters, while fans mill around, chatting and getting signatures. Billie and Tre are joking loudly, drawing laughs from the crowd, but Mike is all business, yet still warm. He nudges you forward slightly. “Come on, help me talk to them. Just say why it matters it’s not a show, even if everyone here thinks it is.”

People start approaching, eager to donate and meet the band. Mike takes the lead, introducing you as his girlfriend with a proud smile. “Thanks for coming out today,” he says to one young fan, giving a flyer a little shake. “We’re raising funds for LIFEbeat. Every bit helps, seriously.” You hand over flyers and smile at people, feeling encouraged by how naturally he moves through the crowd, charming without even trying.

Mike keeps glancing at you, making sure you’re comfortable. “See that? You’re doing great,” he whispers as someone thanks you for the fundraising. “Just stick with me look people in the eye, be real.”