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Maia
“Let’s hear it for your Ida Warrior graduating seniors!”
After what has been alonggraduation ceremony, they’re finally handing out our diplomas. With a graduating class of just under one hundred and fifty, it’s still going to take some time. Since it’s alphabetical order, we don’t get to sit with our friends, which sucks, though I am in the same row as Vince at the opposite end, and we keep glancing at each other. But I’m excited for what’s coming.
When Braden first came home, his parents decided it was best for him not to come back to school for the end of the year. Sitting and moving around would be too much. Given all that, he wasn’t sure what would happen with graduation. But he got all his work in and is set to graduate with us. What no one else knows is that he’s here. And he’s going to walk—well, hobble with his crutches—up to get his diploma when they call his name.
I know he made a really shitty decision, but I’m so grateful he’s still able to have this milestone. I think he needs it now more than ever. A promise for a better future.
Our row stands as they call the first name. And then Vince’s. And I cheer like a maniac. Before I know it, I’m walking up to get my diploma as my family and friends clap and cheer. I glance over at Vince, who gives me a deliciously sexy smile. Looking around as I walk off the stage, I take in the moment. High school is done. When I was a freshman, everything I thought my life would be is nothing like what my life is, but I love it anyway.
This chapter ending ties in with so many other things ending and changing in my life, leaving me feeling like I’m truly starting the next part of my life in every way.
“Braden Hale.”
The stadium falls silent. Most people in town know about Braden’s accident, though most people don’t know about the drunk driving part, thankfully. And I don’t think anyone is expecting him to be here today. Originally, they were going to say his name at the end and give a little note about him, but now all eyes are drawn to the back row of chairs as Braden stands, leans on his crutches, and makes his way toward the stage.
Vince looks at me, shocked, but I just smile. Then I stand and start clapping. A second later, I hear applause from the bleachers as well, as Nick starts loudly clapping. Then I see all of our families join in. Vince stands and claps, as does Leigh, and soon the entire class is on their feet, clapping as he makes his way up the aisle. I give him a wink as he walks by, then watch proudly as he makes his way up to the stage and accepts his diploma to even more cheers.
Some people might like big cities, but I’ll keep my small town where everyone knows everyone else and they all support each other.
After the ceremony, we all stand together, taking a thousand pictures. As we walk toward our cars, I look back at the football field and then the school.
High school is over, time for real life to begin.
Ha. Just kidding.
My life is already plentyreal, but I am excited for whatever comes next.
