Joe was finally home after winning gold in Berlin—the people of Washington welcomed him with open arms and bright grins, swarming the station as he and the rest of the rowing team got off the train.

You launched yourself at him, arms around his shoulders. “Joe!” you exclaimed. Joe held you, kissing your head before digging in his pocket and holding up the one thing he’d brought back with him. The medal.

“I promised to let you wear it.” said Joe with a proud grin.