Aria
One by one, I watch each of my friends walk across the stage in their caps and gowns. Beau, Griff, Daphne, Xander, Scarlett, Micah, Max, Lyla. And then, it’s my turn. I step up onto the stage and take a deep breath. We made it. As a group, my friends and I have endured parents who are abusive, absent, and drug-addicted. We’ve survived would-be rapists, devious cunts, homophobic assholes, jealous exes, dickheads, petty bitches, douche nuggets, and a disgusting pimp. We’ve braved being the scholarship kid, coming out, screwing up, and baring our truths. We’ve dealt with kidnappings, heinous trickery, a car accident, parents’ illnesses and death, assaults, and even murder.
And we’re leaving this place stronger than ever, ready to take on the world outside of River Rock and Rosehaven Academy.
It’s only a few short steps over to Headmaster Gilmore to accept my diploma, and then all of this will be over. It’s exciting. And scary. But I know who I am now. Taking a deep breath, I look up into the stands. My parents are there in special seating. Dad is looking at his phone. Mom is completely turned around talking to someone behind her. Go figure. They haven’t ever been present for me.
That’s okay. I know who really matters. Scanning over and up toward the back of the stadium, I see Nate with Brandon and Becca, flanked by Melinda and Franny. All of them are on their feet, clapping and waving at me. Nate has his phone up, no doubt FaceTiming Erin so she could still be part of my day. I smile big and wave back as I accept my diploma.
After the obligatory final speech and cap toss, my friends and I huddle together, arms around each other. Feeling sentimental, I blurt out, “I love you guys. I couldn’t have made it through without you.”
“Queen Aria, don’t tell me you’re getting soft on us.” Xander hooks an arm around me.
I simply shrug. “Love will do that to you.” I glance over my shoulder to find Nate behind me. My heart is now completely full. Xander releases his hold on me so I can welcome Nate into our circle. I press up onto my tiptoes, brushing my mouth over his in greeting.
“Congratulations, baby.” Nate kisses me softly. “I can’t wait to see what you conquer next.”
“Shadow River, here we come!” Lyla shouts.
I grin. She’s right. On to our next chapter.