those who've lost a friend,

a brother,

a sister,

a boyfriend,

a girlfriend,

or even a secret fuck buddy.

But tonight they want to forget.

Those who aren't drinking,

and some who are,

take part in Ocean City's

"Play It Safe" activities-

free fun in the form of

midnight bowling,

rock climbing,

volleyball,

karaoke,

laser tag,

etc.,

etc.,

etc.

Things that won't get you arrested

or pregnant

or killed.

Three girls walk straight toward me,

platform flip-flops thunking the boardwalk.

The one on the right,

with a dark ponytail and glasses,

suddenly lags behind,

pretends to focus on her

giant tub of Thrasher's fries.

I pretend too,

stepping aside,

then,

at the last second,