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Part One – "Wait for Me"
The loud cheers echoed through the stadium, confetti raining down like pastel snow as graduates tossed their caps high into the sky. David stood among them, beaming in his cap and gown, pride swelling in his chest as he looked over the crowd.
But his smile faltered slightly as he caught sight of Darrian.
His boyfriend was standing just off to the side, eyes wide, bottom lip trembling. Darrian, still in his junior-year hoodie, looked so small in the sea of proud parents and excited students. When David finally approached him, diploma in hand, Darrian didn't wait. He launched forward and wrapped his arms around David, burying his face into his chest.
And then... he broke.
Hot tears soaked David's gown as Darrian's shoulders shook.
"I-I'm sorry," Darrian hiccuped. "I just... I thought I could handle it, but I'm not ready for this. You graduated... and I didn't. We didn't do it together."
David's heart ached as he tightened his arms around him, resting his chin gently on Darrian's messy curls.
"Hey bae... look at me."
Darrian hesitated, then tilted his tear-streaked face up to meet David's warm gaze.
"I waited for you this whole time, didn't I? Just 'cause we didn't walk together doesn't mean we're not still us." David smiled softly. "You're next. I'll be there. I promise, baby"
Darrian sniffled. "What if you're too busy? What if—college changes everything?"
David kissed his forehead, slowly, tenderly.
"Nothing's changing how much I love you. Not a diploma. Not college. I'm always gonna be there when it counts."
Part Two – "Your Turn" (One year later)
The roar of the crowd was back, the air electric with celebration. This time, it was Darrian's name being called.
He walked across the stage with trembling hands and a wide, proud smile. He'd done it. He was graduating. But as he walked out into the sun-drenched lawn afterward, his chest tightened with worry.
He'd scanned every face twice.
No David.
Maybe college had changed things. Maybe the distance was just too—
"DAR—RIAN!"
Darrian froze.
That voice.
He spun around.
There he was.
David.
Standing by the steps, out of breath, still in his college hoodie and jeans, his hair windswept like he'd been running. In his hands: a bright bouquet of sunflowers and blue hydrangeas. His smile—shaky and full of emotion—was aimed only at Darrian.
Time stopped.
Darrian bolted.
He ran so fast, people turned to watch, gasping and laughing. He collided into David with a force that knocked the flowers from his hands, wrapping his arms and legs around him in a tight koala grip.
"You came!" Darrian choked out, laughing through fresh tears. "You actually came!"
David staggered but caught him easily, arms wrapping around Darrian like they were the most natural thing in the world. "I told you," he whispered. "I waited for this."
Darrian pulled back just enough to crash their lips together in a messy, joy-filled kiss that had people clapping and cheering nearby. David kissed back like it was the only thing he'd wanted all day.
The flowers lay forgotten at their feet.
But neither of them cared.
They had each other.
And this time, they walked away—together.
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graduation special since I'm graduating!!
feel free to request!!
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