Oakley stood on the stage, wearing his graduation gown and cap. He looked out at the sea of faces in the audience, feeling a mix of emotions. Pride at his accomplishment, sadness at the absence of his family, and a tinge of guilt for what he had done.
As he received his diploma and walked off the stage, he felt a chill run down his spine. He couldn't shake the feeling that someone was watching him. He turned to his side, and to his surprise, he saw Billy's ghost standing right next to him.
"Hey, Oakley," Billy said, smiling at him.
"Billy?" Oakley whispered, stunned.
"Yeah, it's me. Congratulations on making it this far," Billy said, his voice warm.
"I...I don't know what to say," Oakley stammered, still in disbelief.
"Say thank you," Billy said, nudging him gently.
"Thank you," Oakley said, feeling a wave of emotion wash over him.
"I just wanted to say that I'm proud of you, Oakley. You've come a long way," Billy said, his eyes shining.
"I wish you were here, Billy," Oakley said, tears welling up in his eyes.
"I am here, Oakley. In spirit," Billy replied, placing a hand on Oakley's shoulder.
Suddenly, Billy's expression turned serious.
"But listen, Oakley. I need to warn you. There are creatures coming for this town. They're dangerous and they're powerful. You need to be careful," Billy said, his voice urgent.
"Creatures? What kind of creatures?" Oakley asked, his heart racing.
"I don't know, Oakley. But I can feel them. They're coming, and they're not here for anything good," Billy said, his eyes darkening.
"Okay, I'll be careful," Oakley said, feeling a sense of foreboding.
"Good. And one more thing," Billy said, leaning in close.
"What is it?" Oakley asked, leaning in to hear him better.
"Take care of Mia, Oakley. She needs you now more than ever," Billy said, Oakley said "..She's dead.". Billy looked at him and said "Not her." He pointed at his sketchbook before fading away into the ether.
Oakley stood there, stunned, as the graduation ceremony continued around him. He couldn't believe what had just happened, but he knew that he had to take Billy's warning seriously. And he knew that he had to protect Mia, no matter what.
