The campus buzzed with activity as families in their Sunday best navigated between buildings, consulting maps and taking photos. At the student assembly area, graduates in black robes clustered like elegant crows, adjusting caps and comparing honors cords. I spotted Lily instantly, her blonde hair visible even from a distance…
She rushed over when she saw me, embracing me with unexpected emotion. Can you believe we made it? She asked, straightening my cap. Though I barely scraped by while you conquered the world, her humility was still new enough to surprise me.
We both made it our own way, I replied diplomatically. The ceremony coordinator began arranging us in alphabetical order, which would place Lily and me close together in the processional. As we found our positions, I noticed Dean Rodriguez approaching, with purpose.
Ms. Wilson, she said, pulling me gently aside, just confirming our arrangement. After the conferring of degrees, the president will announce special recognitions. You’ll be called up first for your address.
And then, she lowered her voice. We have a few additional acknowledgements planned. When I asked for details, she smiled mysteriously.