Avery's POV
As the graduation ceremony at Sierra Heights began, the excitement in the air was palpable. Tyler and I had to separate as we lined up with our respective courses. I took my place among my classmates, while Tyler joined his group, our parents following closely behind.
The school's reputation attracted media attention, and numerous press members and photographers surrounded the venue, capturing every moment.
As the procession started, we slowly made our way into the grand hall, one by one. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and pride. I felt a rush of emotions as I entered the venue, the enormity of the moment sinking in. Ito na yung bunga ng ilang taon kong hard work and perseverance.
I scanned the audience, my eyes catching sight of Secretary KC sitting at the side, holding Tyrone on her lap. Despite the facemask and cap, I could see Tyrone's eyes peeking out, watching the proceedings with curiosity.
My heart swelled with both pride and a tinge of sadness, wishing he could be more openly involved in this special day.
The ceremony proceeded with speeches from the school principal and guest speakers, their words blending into a tapestry of encouragement and inspiration. The graduates were called to the stage one by one to receive their diplomas.
When it was my turn, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement. As I walked across the stage, I could hear the cheers and applause from my family and friends. I accepted my diploma with a beaming smile, glancing towards the side where Tyrone and Secretary KC sat. Tyrone's eyes crinkled with what I knew was a proud smile.
Returning to my seat, I watched as Tyler's turn came. He walked confidently across the stage, receiving his diploma with the same pride and joy that I felt. The cheers from our family echoed through the hall once again.
The ceremony continued smoothly, and before long, it was time for the closing speech for the representative of each course na nakakuha ng summa cumlaude. Isa isa na nagsalita ang pinakamataas na nakakuha ng average bawat course. Si Ruth ang representative ng nursing at nagsasalita na ito ngayon. Nakakaproud siyang panuorin dahil nagbunga na rin sa wakas ang lahat ng pinaghirapan niya.
Habang pinapanuod kong magspeech si Ruth, my phone vibrated. I saw a message from an unknown number. I opened it and read.
Unknown Number
*Ready for my surprise? Hintayin mo matapos ang speech ni Tyler mamaya. That's when I'll reveal all of your secrets. If I were you, I'd go to the backstage to try and stop it now. Poor of you.*My heart raced as I read the message. I knew it was from Analea. I glanced at the stage where Ruth was still speaking. There was no way I could get to the backstage with all the students in front.
I stood up, unsure of where to go. Hindi ko alam kung saan ako dadaan sa dami ng tao at laki ng grandhall. Natapos ng magspeech si Ruth at nagpalakpakan na ang mga estudyante.
Next, Tyler's name was called, so I hurriedly walked along the side towards the front. It was difficult to squeeze sa dami ng press at media na nakatayo sa gilid.
Tyler started his speech and with every step I made, my anxiety grew.
Anong kagagahan na naman ba 'to, Analea?
I got stuck among the photographers, forcing me to stop. Some of the press and media noticed me, puzzled by why I was pushing my way through.
I was stuck there for several minutes, and Tyler's speech was nearing its end. I had to find a way to get through, so I started pushing past them.
"Excuse me, excuse me," I said to the photographers. Some of them even took photos of me.
Habang nahihirapan pa din akong makadaan, I couldn't hold back my tears. Tyler's speech was almost over, and I might not make it in time.
BINABASA MO ANG
A Journey Through Love and Loss
RomanceAvery Sandoval, a spirited and determined woman, faces a devastating diagnosis that threatens to upend her life and the future she envisioned with her husband, Tyler. As they navigate the emotional and physical challenges of her illness, their love...