Graduation morning broke warm and gray, clouds hanging just shy of storm.
Ella stood in line, cap snug over her curls, tassel brushing her cheek.
From the stage, the dean read names in practiced cadence. Ella Mendoza stepped forward when called, nerves buzzing low beneath her skin.
She looked up and saw them in the crowd—Lucas in a crisp button-down, cane by his chair; Brandon waving like a proud parent; and Jessica in a stunning green blazer, clapping with unmistakable sincerity.
The diploma felt lighter than she expected.
After everything, it felt earned.
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That evening, the loft rooftop shimmered under fairy lights.
Friends filled mismatched chairs. Hope barked once and immediately got a belly rub from Brandon. Jessica poured sparkling cider into thrifted glasses, her laughter
