The stadium erupted in applause.
“Please welcome this year’s valedictorian, Hawthorne Fellow, and graduating senior with the highest academic distinction in Briarwood University history… Amelia Carter.”
For a second, nobody moved.
Then my name echoed through the speakers.
My father’s camera slowly lowered.
My mother froze.
Amber’s smile disappeared.
And I stood.
The applause grew louder as I walked toward the stage.
The giant screens hanging above the stadium displayed my face. Thousands of people watched as I crossed the platform wearing the gold honors sash and Hawthorne medallion.
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