Lost in Paradise

Chapter 17

7 years ago

[Taesan University 27th Commencement Exercise]

Wearing their black academic regalia, Teasan University graduates are being called on stage to receive their diplomas. Their names are being called alphabetically per department. Nadia Nunley from the College of Liberal Arts already got her diploma and just sitting comfortably beside the other graduates in her department. Joshua Dioson and Rebecca Conrad who are both from the College of Business Administration also sitting next to each other already got their diplomas as well. Nadia’s sit is far away from Joshua’s and Rebecca’s but luckily they can still see each other.

Nadia looked at the two and they did the same. She showed them her diploma. Joshua and Rebecca muttered “Congratulations” in return.

It took hours before they finished all the graduates. It’s now time for the valedictory address from the most awarded student.

“Let’s give him a round of applause!... Joshua Dioson from College of Business Administration!” the master of ceremony announced

Joshua was the most awarded student of the night. He’s a com laude, a member of student council, and an athlete. He excels not just in academics but also in extracurricular activities. No wonder he was chosen to give valedictory address among all the students.

Joshua walked quickly to the stage. He was being acknowledged by the deafening applause from fellow graduates. As it settled, he then started his speech. Joshua has done this many times before so he appeared confident on stage. He stands and speaks so well that all students are too focused on him. He’s been humorous while delivering his speech that’s why it didn’t become boring.

“He’s so cool”

Nadia murmured in her sit while watching Joshua on stage. She has been close with Joshua since freshman but his individuality never ceases to stun her.

Joshua was about to finish his speech as he is now giving thanks to everyone who has been part of his journey.

The audience thought Joshua was done so they gave him a round of applause however it surprised everyone when Joshua went back to the mic and started talking.

“Before I leave the stage, there’s one person I really wanted to thank for giving me inspiration and truthful concern all throughout my journey in the university. She’s been a good friend of mine since freshman. She is strong-willed, warm, and genuine. I’ve been working hard because I promised myself that I will make this girl feel at ease when she accepts me. She’s been through a lot that she deserves solace and prosperity”

Nadia who was extremely clueless about what is happening knew that it was her Joshua was talking about. She was so moved that she doesn’t know what to react to. She just stayed in her chair pretending that she’s not aware of anything.

“I’ve been courting her for 3 years but there’s never a moment that made me hold back. She kept on surprising me every single day and that excites me for the future. So, Nadia Nunley... can you be my girlfriend?”

Nadia almost fell down from her chair. That’s so unpredictable. She’s now getting a mix of emotions. She knew what Joshua feels about her but hearing those words in this kind of setup is brave and effortful.

It’s been 3 years since the man asked if he can court her. She prohibited him but he did it anyway. She said she has priorities and relationships might get on her way. He didn’t mind that and said he will just do nothing but support her. Apparently, he became her inspiration, support system, and source of happiness.

Students’ eyes turned to Nadia. It’s late when she realized she’s being displayed on the live screen. A group of students came to give her a bouquet of flowers and a microphone.

“So, he planned all this” she thought

Nadia turned her gaze to Rebecca. And Rebecca gave her an “i-have-no-idea” look.

Nervous, shy, and overwhelm, Nadia’s mixed emotions are killing her. He’s expecting her answer... no, everyone’s expecting. 

It’s been 3 years, why she hasn’t given him an answer yet? That’s practically enough to know someone and tell if you’re comfortable with each other. She thought about it that very moment and realized that maybe because she knew, she’s not enough for him. Joshua possessed everything a woman would ask for. He’s the ideal one... no, he’s almost the perfect one. And she’s just a nobody who loves art, busy with her part-time jobs to support her study and independence. The man deserves better, she heard that several times. But why would she listen to them? They know nothing about her. They know nothing about him either. Who’s the right person for him? Only he can say. And this man chooses her among all the girls who are much better than her. He’s been courting her for 3 years and he never did anything disappointing. Joshua never made her feel like she’s not enough. He values Nadia like she’s everything he needed.

Everyone is anticipating her answer. She stood up and looked at him and their gaze met. Everyone is shouting “say yes” but she’s not hearing anything, she’s seeing no one else either. It feels like it’s only her and him intimately looking at each other. She tightened her grip on the mic, tears ran down her cheeks as she uttered “YES”.