Michael had no hesitation in following the guy with the phone. If he wanted to be the leader that was his gig Michael wasn't looking to usurp any kind of given or implied title from anyone. At this moment Michael was just grateful to still be alive, and even though he didn't really know the group Michael felt almost comfortable with them. Mainly because it seemed like no one really knew anyone that well. Michael had a feeling that dynamic was going to change over the next few hours. 

Once the tents were set up Michael walked over to one of them and just stared at it for a moment. He felt around his jacket and pulled out a ticket stub from a Bruce Springsteen concert in L-A that was about two years ago. It was one of the best birthday surprises he ever got from his older brother Eric. Eric paid for a hotel room and for a shot at the front row for the two of them. Eric was far from a Bruce fan but he knew what it would mean to Michael so he made it happen for his little brother. Not only did they enjoy the show from the front row, but Bruce actually looked at Michael at one point and sang to him. Eric would never admit it to Michael but the look on Michael's face that night was something he would always cherish. Now though it was just a memory that would remind Michael of what he had lost. Michael dropped the ticket stub in the tent and said, "I claim this land for Spain."

Michael saw that a campfire was getting underway and that others were gathering around it. Except for one guy who was trying to hit on two of the young ladies. Michael just rolled his eyes and shook his head. Michael said, "I'll go get some more firewood. Looks like we're gonna be hanging around here for a while might as well make the most of it," 

Michael walked away and began to gather a few more pieces. When he returned he set them off to the side and joined the others at the campfire. There was an uneasiness in air as the smell of the place they all called home was in smoking ruins now. Michael said, "This evening at home finally makes sense."

He looked around and said, "My name is Michael DeLorenzo and my father is..." that is when it hit Michael like a thunderbolt. Michael closed his eyes for a second and took a deep breath as he said, "or was I should say the Sheriff, and yes my mom was Principal DeLorenzo. Anyway he came home tonight and usually the first thing he does when he gets home is get his uniform and into a t-shirt and shorts. Well this evening he just sat on the couch in his uniform with a shotgun on his lap and staring at a family portrait done about two years ago. I was going out and he told me not to worry about a curfew tonight." 

Michael shook his head slowly and said, "The way he talked to me. It's like he knew something was gonna happen tonight and that this was his and my mom's last night on Earth. Whatever he knew or suspected he took it to the grave with him."

Michael closed his eyes again and said a silent prayer. When he was done Michael crossed himself and said, "Amen. Anyone else wanna share their first name? We appear to have plenty of time to get to know one another."