The Words

Chapter 4

"Welcome," Dr. Hardy, the principal, says as he speaks into the microphone. "Today we are all gathered here to witness the accomplishments of these students before me. When they leave today, they will no longer be 'the next generation' but our future in the making.

"Students, by now you have all received your Words, whether almost a year ago or just a few hours ago."

I silently roll my eyes.

"This not only means that you have officially assimilated into society, but also that you are now an adult. As each and every one of you receives your graduation diploma in a few moments, I hope you are thoroughly prepared to step into the world of adulthood.

"Good luck to you all, and may your Words lead you true."

Parents, teachers, and students abrupt into applause, hooting and hollering as Dr. hardy exists the stage. Almost immediately the Assistant Princple, Dr. Vicki, stands up and smooths her tight, pencil skirt as she makes her way to the podium. She begins to read the names of all the students, pausing only for applause as the student receives his or her diploma.

It feels like hours have passed till my name is called, but I somehow muster enough strength to stand up and walk onto the stage. I shake Dr. Hardy and Dr. Vicki's hands as I receive my diploma and then walk off the stage.

A smile begins to creep on my face as I walk farther and farther away from my school. I've finally done it.

I'm officially an adult.

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2 weeks later

I sit on my bed, attempting to read some fashion magazine Katie gave to me. I've been laying here since midnight, and so far I've learned that navy blue and black don't go together and you should never ever mix secondary colors.

Oops. Sorry Katie.

All of a sudden a knock bangs on my window, causing me to jump. I quickly look to see who's intruding and am left speechless.

It's Cayden. He came back.

I open the window, careful to be quiet so I don't wake up my parents, and help him into my room.

"What are you doing here?" I whisper. "I thought you ran away."

Cayden takes my hand in his. It's surprisingly soft, not rough. His brows are tense and dark blue bags have formed under his eyes. He looks terrible.

"Come with me," he whispers.

"Where?"

"Run away with me, please Alaska."

"You want me to run away with you?" I ask in disbelief.

"I wouldn't be here if I didn't want you to."

For some reason I don't hesitate to shake my head yes. A small smile falls on Cayden's face, and he seems to relax a little bit.

I run into my closet and grab a duffel bag, stuffing as many clothes into it as I possibly can. I grab a piece of paper and scribble a message to Auby, letting him know that I've gone away, and I place it behind my desk where I know he'll eventually find it.

"Ready?" Cayden asks.

I nod my head. Cayden quickly climbs out of my window, sliding down a tree. I copy his actions. Grabbing my hand again, he leads me through the backyard and to a series of trees where his car is hidden. He opens the door for me and I slide in.

"You sure about this?" He asks.

"I've always been sure," I whisper back.

Cayden smirks, looking towards the road. Then he starts the car and begins to drive off.

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It's been a while since I've updated, but life gets in the way haha.

I should be updating a little more regularly since summer is coming, and I'll more free time :)

Please vote and comment, for I will greatly appreciate it! Thanks for reading this far. You have no idea how much it means to me.

Also, things are about to heat up...