I'm The CEO's Bedwarmer (ENGLISH)

“She inspires others to live a life that matters—one with purpose beyond self. Ladies and gentlemen, to give the response on behalf of the graduating class—” Nicole felt like she was about to burst with excitement as she waited for the university administrator to call her name. He was currently delivering his speech at their graduation ceremony. This was the day Nicole had been waiting for—the moment all her sleepless nights, hard work, and sacrifices finally paid off. “Our university’s summa c*m laude, from the College of Aeronautical Engineering—Natalia Nicolette Lorenzo.” A wave of applause echoed through the auditorium—from professors, fellow graduates, and guests alike. Nicole rose from her seat, her black graduation gown swaying with every step as she made her way to the stage. One of her favorite professors greeted her with a warm smile—the same professor who had guided and believed in her from the beginning. “That’s quite the achievement, Miss Lorenzo. But… why do you look so down?” Professor Dela Fuente’s eyes were kind. Nicole returned a tight smile, and just before accepting the medal and diploma she’d worked so hard for, she scanned the audience one more time. As expected, the seats she reserved for her family were still empty. It seemed her family had meant it when they said they had no intention of wasting their time watching her accept the university’s highest honor. She took a shaky breath and nodded politely at the professor. The applause still roared, but deep inside, she felt hollow. Professor Dela Fuente had hit the mark—despite the recognition, she couldn’t feel truly happy. No matter how hard she worked or how high she reached, there was no one there to say, “We’re proud of you.” “Congratulations, dear.” The university administrator shook her hand, placing the gleaming gold medal in her palm—one that symbolized she was the sole graduate that year to earn summa c*m laude honors. She blinked away the sting in her eyes as she took the medal. Unlike her classmates—many of whom had proud parents join them on stage to drape the medal and hand over the diploma—Nicole had no one. So she would do it herself. But before she could, Professor Dela Fuente stepped forward with a soft smile and took the medal from the administrator’s hand. Nicole’s composure cracked. She lowered her eyes, tears slipping free as the professor gently placed the medal around her neck—quietly telling her she wasn’t alone. She quickly took off her graduation cap and gave the professor a deep, respectful bow. “Th-thank you, ma’am.” Her voice trembled. The professor smiled, adjusted the cap back on her head, and said with a teasing grin, “You’ve still got a speech to deliver. Now, dry those tears.” Nicole let out a laugh and gave the professor a tight hug, which she warmly returned. A few moments later, the professor gently nudged her toward the podium. Nicole’s heart pounded as she walked up, her hands slightly shaking. “G-good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Two weeks ago, one of my professors asked me to write an inspiring speech for tonight. I spent night after night trying to figure out what to say… and honestly? I came up with nothing. Standing up here feels like facing a pack of angry dinosaurs—completely terrifying.” Laughter rippled through the audience. Nicole cracked a nervous smile and took a deep breath. “I realized something. Instead of trying to sound clever tonight, I just want to be real and say thank you. Thank you to our professors who not only expanded our minds, but also helped shape who we are. Thank you to the parents who came today to support their kids. Which reminds me… Mama, Papa, this one’s for you.” Nicole held up her gold medal toward the sky, where the stars seemed to wink back at her. She blinked back tears and smiled through them. “I also want to thank Montefalco Spinfluence Aircraft Corporation for helping me reach this point. Your support for scholars like me changed my life. My name is Natalia Nicolette Lorenzo—proud summa c*m laude, and now, a graduate of aeronautical engineering. Thank you all, and good evening.” Thunderous applause followed as Nicole stepped down from the stage and was instantly embraced by her friends. “Nicole! Congratulations! We’re so proud of you!” Leah beamed as she hugged her. Nicole hugged her back just as tightly. “I’m proud of you too, Leah. Thank you—for everything.” “What? Me? I didn’t do anything.” Leah playfully rolled her eyes, prompting Nicole to do the same, making them both laugh. In truth, Nicole owed Leah a lot. She’d been there every time Nicole couldn’t cover her expenses—transportation, meals, school projects—when her paychecks from her fast-food shift or tutoring gig came in late. “You’re crazy. I should be thanking you. I swear, if it weren’t for your help in class, I wouldn’t have made it to graduation.” Leah laughed. She wasn’t wrong. Nicole didn’t like calling Leah “slow,” but she definitely pulled her weight tutoring her friend—even with her chaotic schedule. She always made time to help Leah prep for tests and exams. “By the way, I want you to come over tonight. My dad and siblings are throwing a party.” Nicole hesitated, calculating the time. It was just past 8 PM. Maybe her Aunt Norma wouldn’t be too upset. It was her graduation, after all. “Nicole, sweetheart! Congratulations!” Nicole turned just in time to be swept into a tight hug by Leah’s mom. She smiled, especially when she felt Leah gently squeeze her shoulder in support. “Thank you so much, ma’am.” “Oh, come on—how many times do I have to tell you to call me Auntie?” Leah’s mom pouted jokingly. Nicole scratched her head and gave an awkward laugh. “Sorry, Auntie. I’m still not used to it.” “That’s alright, hon. Did Leah mention the party?” Nicole gave a shy nod. “You better come! Oh, and where’s your family?” Nicole felt her heart drop. She scratched her head again, unsure how to answer. She wanted to say, They never cared enough to show up, but instead she replied with a smile, “T-they’re busy. They couldn’t make it.” Leah gave her a look—she clearly didn’t buy it. Nicole just smiled faintly, hoping it was enough to end the conversation. “Well, alright. Just promise you’ll be there, okay?” Leah’s mom added warmly. Nicole nodded again. She wasn’t sure it was the best idea—if she went, she might catch heat when she got home. But maybe… just this once, it was worth it. When they arrived at Leah’s house, Nicole’s jaw practically dropped. The whole place was lit up with twinkling lights and whimsical butterfly decor—it looked like something out of a fairytale. Pink and purple were the theme colors. “Are you sure this isn’t your debut?” Nicole whispered, wide-eyed. Leah just laughed and tugged her toward the back entrance. They went to Leah’s room, where two beautiful gowns—one pink and one purple—were laid out. Nicole froze as Leah handed her the purple one. “Take off the gown and put this on.” “Huh? Why? This is your party. I’ll look like I’m trying to upstage you.” Leah giggled. “Mom and my sister insisted. And I want you to, too. You’re like family to me, and we’ve been through so much together. You deserve this celebration as much as I do. Now stop arguing and get changed!” Laughing, Leah helped her take off her robe. “Doesn’t your neck hurt from all these medals?” Leah joked, carefully setting them aside. “Nope!” Nicole chuckled. Despite her nerves, Nicole started to relax. She let Leah help her change, and even though the dresses and decor made it feel like they were in high school again, she couldn’t help but feel excited. As they descended the staircase, Leah’s father greeted her with a warm smile. “Chin up, Nicole. Everyone here knows this party’s for both of you. Enjoy it.” Nicole smiled shyly, then looked up at the stage—and froze again. In beautiful calligraphy, the banner read: “HAPPY GRADUATION, LEAH AND NICOLE!”