"I'm finally free!"
Amelia threw her hands up dramatically, earning a few confused glances from people around her.
"I survived!" she added, almost laughing.
"Four years of academic torture, emotional damage, fake friendships, and overpriced food—and I'm still alive!"
"Please lower your voice," Beth muttered beside her, though the smile tugging at her lips betrayed her.
The graduation hall was packed.
Parents. Cameras. Noise. Pride.
Everything felt overwhelming—and strangely unreal.
Amelia sat back in her chair, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of her gown.
Four years.
Four whole years of her life… gone just like that.
Memories flickered through her mind—late-night reading, stupid arguments, laughter, heartbreak, exhaustion.
It had been chaotic.
But it had also been hers.
"You're zoning out again," Beth said, nudging her.
"I'm thinking," Amelia replied.
"That's dangerous."
Amelia rolled her eyes.
Before she could reply, her name echoed through the hall.
"AMELIA WINTERS."
Her heart skipped.
"Oh my God, that's you," Beth hissed, gripping her hand tightly. "Go!"
"Why are you squeezing me like I owe you money?" Amelia whispered, trying to pull free.
"No time—GO!"
Amelia stood up, her legs suddenly unsure beneath her.
This was it.
The moment that proved everything she had gone through was real.
Each step toward the stage felt heavier than the last.
Her chest tightened.
Don't cry.
Do not cry.
But the moment she reached out and took the certificate—
That was it.
It hit her.
Everything.
The struggle. The growth. The survival.
She hugged Mrs. Charles tightly, surprising even herself.
"Thank you," she whispered.
"For not giving up on me."
When she stepped down, her vision blurred slightly.
But she smiled.
Because for once—
She had made it.