While Christian went through the rehearsal and other procedures for the graduation, even taking a few pictures with a couple of female classmates before the actual ceremony started, his mind still remained on his sister.
He had a pressing question in his mind that he couldn't shake.
Will he ever come to know how deep his sister's emotions are toward him?
"As you embark on your next chapter, remember the importance of connections. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Collaboration and support from others can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Whether in your professional life or personal endeavors, building relationships will help you grow and expand your horizons. Don't hesitate to reach out, ask questions, and learn from others."
As Christian sat in the graduation venue with the other graduating students, listening to the speech from the school staff, or was it an alumni? He didn't pay much attention to it anyway. A speech about connections and relationships didn't interest him; such speeches were abundant online, after all, and his mind was still on his sister.
"We can't wait to see the incredible things you will accomplish. Thank you!"
Clap! Clap! Clap!
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But as his speech ended and applause erupted all around, creating a resonant wave of enthusiasm that filled the venue and uplifted the spirits of everyone present, Christian realized it was now time for the valedictorian's speech, followed by the presentation of degrees. So, he decided that he should at least try to be nicer to his sister later while focusing on the graduation ceremony for now.
After all, while the question about his sister could occupy Christian's thoughts for a lifetime, this graduation ceremony was a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. His sister was also filled with anticipation and excitement about it, so he should give it some attention, if not for anything else, then for her sake.
"Alright, I know my jokes are about as popular as a pop quiz on a Monday morning. But seriously, if all else fails, remember: I'm here for my valedictorian speech, not my comedy special! So let's all just pretend these jokes are as good as my GPA!"
'Wow.'
'Is he trying to be funny?'
As Christian listened to the top student, who had maintained his position as the top student throughout all four years of high school and was now giving his valedictorian speech, he first noticed the student's plain appearance. Then, after hearing his speech, he couldn't help but think that even the top student had something he wasn't good at.
'Or is the problem that he is trying to be funny? Which clearly, he is not suited for?'
While having many thoughts and seeing how some students surprisingly stifled their laughter, something he found even more astonishing, the top student's speech finally came to an end.
He saw her holding the camera in one hand while waving at him with the other, garnering a lot of attention from those around her because of her behavior, or is because of her appearance? Anyway, she was still quite noticeable.
But he only took a quick glance, knowing he couldn't stop and risk making a mistake here.
'Wait why I can't?'
While he suddenly questioned the authenticity of his thoughts, the assistant principal continued with the presentation.
"Christian has been a good student who made a transformation at the end of his school life, becoming more diligent in his studies, and we know he is destined for great things!"
Hearing the new evaluation the school was giving him this time, and how they went out of their way to highlight it unlike the other students, Christian couldn't help but wonder if they were being shameless or simply trying to make up for what they had done to him previously.
Still, he walked toward the principal holding the degree, who greeted him with a strange smile that he probably thought was warm. However, Christian found it creepy and felt an urge to punch him because of it.
But he held himself back and shook the principal's hand normally.
"Congratulations, Christian! We're so proud of you!"
"Thank you," he replied politely.
Then briefly took a pose for the photo, and finally returned to his seat, questioning why graduates couldn't just go to their family, relatives, friends, or others when receiving their diplomas. What was the point of returning to their seats?
Christian found himself questioning many things today, from the big to the small. Even so, the ceremony continued, with the presentation of degrees finally coming to an end and the principal preparing to deliver the closing speech.
"Take what you've learned here, both in and out of the classroom, and use it to shape the path ahead. Remember that setbacks are just steps toward growth, and your determination and character will guide you through whatever comes next."
But while it was brief, shorter than the speeches given by the top student and the alumni, Christian couldn't shake the strange feeling that the middle part of the principal's speech was directed at him. Or maybe, he was just overthinking it?
But as the assistant principal took over and declared the conclusion of the ceremony, followed by a burst of noise and music, Christian decided to brush aside his thoughts. He stood up and quietly made his way toward the exit, heading for his sister.
With his scores already known and his diploma now in hand, he wondered why he should stick around any longer. He didn't have any friends to gather with, and the formal recessional held no interest for him, after all.