25
UNEXPECTED
CLAUDIA
Smiling I pulled up John’s chin. He neared for a kiss, but a voice from behind broke our connection.
“Hey, John! You ready, dude? We are graduating, man! Yeah!” George exclaimed.
John looked at him, frustrated that our kiss had been interrupted.
“Come on, kids, move in.”
I recognized the voice of Mr. Claypool. He caught sight of me and came in for a hug.
“Congratulations, sweetheart! We are so proud of you,” he whispered into my ear.
Mr. Vasquez did the same.
The line seemed silent for a moment. I felt strange that others knew I was sort of a mascot for Milton.
They both waved and ushered us into the auditorium entrance. Before we were sent in different directions by one of the other teachers, John looked at me again. “Claudia, are you still joining me this
