Hello and happy Thursday! Thank you for all the love and support for this story! You guys are the best and I love you!

Sorry for the late update. Things have been crazy and I've been busy with school. But, I will try and update on a more regular basis. I also hope you all had a nice holiday and or winter break.

ALSO, THIS IS IMPORTANT! PLEASE, PLEASE READ! Bluedog270, who is an amazing writer and the author behind 'Brocken Cords' and 'Night Light' and I have teamed up to write a collaborated Kickin' It Story 'Willing To Risk It All' and will be posting it sometime this weekend UNDER A NEW SCREENNAME: struck by flash lightning, so please, check it out and let us know what you think!

who am i really: You'll just have to wait and see!

its all in the beat: Yes, it is…sorry. I bet you are and I hope you like it. Thank you so much for all the kind words and I'm glad you think so! That makes me so happy!

Kickfeaver: Thank you so much, you'll just have to wait and I don't know yet…

EVanvicky: Aw, you're too sweet. Thank you for the compliment and thank you for all the faith. We'll see what the future holds.

Maddyliza1234: Thank you and yeah, you're right. It's just jumping from story to story. You'll just have to wait and I like that idea. We'll have to see!

.it: Thank you so much!

Jade: Aw, thank you! You'll just have to wait and see. And, I like that idea. I'll see what I can do. Thanks!

Kicklover24: Aw, I'm sorry. But, you know me. I hope this makes it better! And, thank you so much!

Guest: You'll have to wait and see!

Lover: You and I so think alike. Thank you and I hope you like it!

kickinfan321: Sorry…you'll have to wait and see!

Shoutout: Sorry and thank you!

Guest: You'll just have to wait and see!

ProudlyUnique: Thank you for both reviews and I'm so glad you liked it all!

Guest: You know my writing so well…I totally understand and you'll just have to wait and see! Thank you.

Munira261: I'm glad you found it and thank you so much!

Sam! Hey, of course I remember you! How are you?

Enjoy!


Today was the day. The day I've been dreaming of and the day that is only the beginning to a new life, my new life. I take one last glance in the mirror before smiling and exiting my room a feeling as if this was some sort of dream. I'm greeted by parents who look the happiest I've ever seen them as it's been a long road to get to where we are, where I am today. All the hard work, long hours, sacrifice and love that's been shed and gained has made me feel like this was how my life was supposed to play out. To push me forward into the greater unknown. And, along the way I made new friends and got a boyfriend that have completely change my life, for the better of course. We all hop into the car and start driving, relishing in the moment that was all about me. Now, I feel like I may have lost a few of you. Confused? Sorry. Let me take you back to about five months ago when everything came together.

Flashback: "Have you made a decision?" Laura asks me.

"Thank you and thank you for this amazing offer. Yes, I have come to a decision," I reply, feeling my heart beating out of my chest. "I have decided that I will not be accepting your offer. I'm so sorry. But, please know that I really am grateful for the offer."

"We're sorry to hear that. If you don't mind me asking; what made your decision?" Laura inquires.

"A lot of factors went into my decision and when it came down to it, it was my own personal gut feeling. Though, like I said before, I'm beyond grateful that you took interest in me, I just felt like I couldn't leave just yet," I explain honestly.

"I understand completely. I remember from your personal statement that you overcame a lot with your help and knowing that you're a survivor is indescribable. That's one of the many reasons why we chose you in the first place. We knew that you would take this new opportunity and embrace it with all you have. To make your mark and become something great," Laura says sounding like a proud parent. "But, I also know how important finishing up what you started is too. I'm getting the sense that you want to graduate with your friends in June, correct? That that's one of the main factors?"

"Yes, I do. And yeah, I guess you can say that," I affirm amazed and shocked on how well she understands my situation.

"As you should Kim. You're a bright young lady," Laura complements.

"Thank you so much Mrs. Hastings. It meant a lot to hear that," I acknowledge.

"Of course. We see potential in you and that's why after talking with you, I have decided to extend your acceptance to the fall. Does that work for you?" Laura questions with hope in her voice.

"Oh my gosh. A-are yo-you serious?" I stutter out.

"Very serious. You'd be a great addition to the NYU family," Laura tells me.

"Yes!" I scream. "Yes, I accept. Thank you so much."

"You're welcome Kim," Laura chuckles. "We'll be sending out the forms shortly."

"Okay. And, thank you again," I repeat, feeling like I'm on cloud nine.

"This was all you Kim. And, thank you too for your interest in our school. Welcome aboard," Laura finishes in a happy tone.

End flashback.

And so, I'm not only going to my dream school, I got to check another thing off my list. We pull into the parking lot to see everyone decked out in their caps and gowns and it feels like everything is perfect. I quickly hug my parent's goodbye and take off to find my friends, excited for the ceremony. After saying a few hellos to my fellow classmates, I see Winny and Reagan standing against the gym wall in the shade. "Hey Winny, hey Reagan," I greet with a big smile.

"Hey Kim," Winny waves at me, giving me a hug. "You excited?"

"I'm more than excited," I correct with the grin.

"As you should be. You did amazing this year Kim," Reagan adds, also giving me a hug.

"Thank you Rea. That means a lot," I beam. "And, just know that the two of you are not only my best friends, you're family. I couldn't have done it without you."

"Aw Kim," Winny starts to cry. "Thank you. You really know how to make me cry. First it's with becoming our friend. Next it's with the amazing Christmas gifts. Then there was when you and Jack together and now this. You can't keep doing this to me."

"I'm not trying to," I defend myself as I can't help but smile.

"Don't worry Kim. It's not you, it's Winny. She's the emotional one in the group," Reagan teases. "But, in all seriousness, Winny's right. You say we're your best friends but it's definitely the other way around. You're one of the best people we know."

"Thank you Reagan," I cry, now feeling Winny's struggle to keep it together.

So, as the two of us are a crying mess, Viviana suddenly joins us and can't help but laugh at the situation. "Seriously, you two are already crying?"

"Hey, we can't help it. Today's a big day," Winny snaps.

"It is indeed my friend, it is indeed," Viviana nods. "I can't believe we survived four years here."

"Oh, tell me about it," Reagan agrees. "From our pranks to our fights. I'm surprised we never got suspended."

"I know right. You guys got lucky," Winny pipes in.

"But hey, that's all in the past. Today is the final step to the end and we can all say with pride that we did it," I move on.

"Yeah, Kim's right. We definitely kicked ass. Let's just enjoy it," Viviana grins as we all start to make our way inside for further instructions.

No more than twenty minutes later, the vice principal stands in front of us and says a short speech. "Congratulations graduates. We're all very proud of you and all you have accomplished. In about fifteen minutes, you will start to make your way down to the football stadium with staff members and then the ceremony will begin. Please, be respectful to all the speakers and your classmates. And most importantly, please pay attention to what's happening. I'll see you out there."

Once he leaves, everyone goes back to chatting with their friends and before we know it, teachers start silencing us and we're quickly making our way outside. The whole walk over, I feel butterflies in my stomach and my legs feel like jello. I suddenly feel a hand on upper arm and as I look over to my right, I see Viviana giving me a reassuring smile, telling me everything's okay. I slowly nod in return and then look out into the crowd as just when I'm about to turn the corner, I see the one person I needed to see. He sends me that oh so familiar wink and I instantly feel calmer.

Once we're all seated, the principal takes the podium and welcomes everyone to the ceremony. "Hello students, families, friends and other guests. Today is a joyous occasion for these amazing young adults in front of me. The ones we've all guided in their time of need. High school is their final step before the real world. When life becomes real and responsibilities are more important than ever. We've all taught these young adult the most important aspects of life and now, it's their turn to put them to use. But fear not graduates, because this is only the beginning, your beginning. You're going to make mistakes and that's okay, you're only human after all. That's how you know you're living and that's how you grow into a better person. You're going to follow your dreams and that's all we can ask for. Don't be afraid to reach for the impossible. We all believe in you. So, to you, your future and the unknown; congratulations and good luck."

Clapping fills the air as the superintendent came to the podium next and talked about how great our school is, probably what he tells every school but it's still nice to hear certain complements about the place I quickly come to love. Next up is the Salutatorian speaker, Jamie or at least I think that's her name as she's the second smartest person in the school. Her speech is short, but simple and profound. She talks about how our journey has just begun. How the real world is our playground and we're free to explore all the open doors. To be able to fall in love, to be successful and to be the person we all know we can be.

Finally, the Valedictorian, Amber takes the podium and she's already crying so we know it's going to be rough. But surprisingly, it isn't as she pulls herself together and says we speech like a pro. Like Jamie, Amber talks about how this is our new life in the adult world with college, work, military, whatever we choose to do. To finding new interest and hobbies but still keeping our old ones close to our hearts. To keeping and cherishing all the friendships and relationships you have but to also be open to new ones along the way. She also spoke candidly about not losing yourself in the change. "Because being the real you is the best you. Sure, there will be times when you want to fit in but, think long and hard about how much you'll be willing to sacrifice for people to like you; when you shouldn't have to sacrifice anything at all. Everyone should like the real you, no matter how desperate you might be. Your inner beauty and strength is what will help you succeed, no matter the obstacles in your way. And, in the famous words of the First Lady Michelle Obama, "You may not have a comfortable life and you will not always be able to solve all the world's problems at once, but don't ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown that courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own." So, to you, me and every other graduate who's making this change, go out strong with your head held high and embrace everything you can. Congrats to the graduating class of 2016."

All the speeches give me something to think about and something to remember as this moment, right here, right now will forever be one of my favorite and special memory I will cherish with all my heart. Finally, students are making their way across the stage, and as soon as I step on that stage I feel like I'm on top of the world. I shake hands with the superintendent, some councilman and the principal and as soon as that piece of paper is in my hand, I can't help but have the biggest smile on my face and a few tears rolling down my cheek. I take my seat once again as Viviana, Reagan and Winny are as giddy as can be and the smiles on their faces speak for themselves.

Within the next fifteen to twenty minutes, the last group of students are making their way to the stage as the countdown begins. And then, as the last person gets their diploma and takes their seat, the principal returns to the podium and concludes the ceremony as we all stand up and throw our caps into the air. As I look up to the sky and see all the caps floating around, all I can think is that I, Kim Crawford did it. I went to high school and graduated with my friends, just how I wanted to.

After a few minutes of cheering, we all take our positions to walk back out to meet up with our families and leave. During the walk, I hug friends and people I don't even know as no one really cares because we did it. High school is officially done. Winny and Reagan separate from Viviana and I as we all promise to meet up later to get our official diplomas. Kelly is surprisingly the first person to rush over and embrace me in a hug. "Congratulations Kim. I'm so proud of you," she screams happily over the noise.

"Thanks Kelly and thanks for coming," I smile back.

"Are you kidding me?" She yells back. "I wouldn't miss this for the world. And besides, you'll be at mine tomorrow. That was the promise we all made, remember?"

"Of course I remember," I sigh, thinking back to the promise Kelly, Jacob and I made with each other about being at one another's graduation as a sign that we can survive anything together. "And, you bet your butt I will. It's just different, you know."

"I know," Kelly mumbles. "But, he's here with us. I can feel it."

"I feel it too," I agree. "I know he's proud of us. Probably rolling his eyes at how stupid we are but, he's still proud."

"I know. And now, all we got to do is keep making him proud," Kelly reminds.

"Don't worry, we will," I smile.

Kelly nods and smiles in return as we're quickly greeted by my parents, Viviana's mother, Jack and Jerry. Kelly gives Viviana a hurried hug before Anastasia jumps in and embraces her daughter into the tightest hug ever. Both my parents are crying as a hug me, whispering how proud they are of me and how much they love me. The three of us and Kelly stand together as we watch Jack and Jerry gently loosening Anastasia hold on Viviana and we can't help but love the family moment. Anastasia finally gets the message and gives Viv one last hug before walking over to my parents and hugging my mother as they cry together. Kelly and I slip away to see Jack hugging Viviana and my heart melts at the sweet sibling moment. Since I'm so in the moment, I don't realize I'm being lifted off the ground until Jerry happily shrieks, "Congrats Kim," and is spinning me around.

I let out a shriek in surprise but then quickly laugh and hug Jerry back, thanking him. Once my feet on the ground come I feel arms wrapping around my waist and pulled me closer into them. I let out a sigh of content as a soft kiss is placed to my forehead. "Congrats Kimmy. You're rolling with the big dogs now," Jack says with a hint of teasing in his voice.

"Thank you Jack and heck yeah I am," I nod against his chest.

"I'm so proud of you and I love you so damn much," Jack continues, tightening his group and kissing me.

My arms make their way around Jack's neck as we don't care about the audience around us because nothing can ruin this moment. I give Jack one last kiss before mumbling, "I love you too and thanks so much," on his lips and pulling away from him to see amused expressions on everyone's faces.

"If you two love birds are done making out, Kim and I are going to go find Rea and Win so we can get our diplomas, alright?" Viviana states, trying to keep a straight face.

"No, we're not done but fine, I'll let her go," Jack grumbles, still holding me close to him.

I let out a girly giggle and I give him another kiss before slipping out and walking away with Viv. Thirty minutes later, after countless goodbyes and signing out, Viv and I finally catch back up with our families and friends and decide to grab a quick bite before our grad night.

OoOoOoOo

And grad night? Well, that night was freaking amazing. We were at the coolest place to hang out, The Zone. It was a miniature golf course that had an arcade, laser tag, bowling alley and a mini swimming area. How cool is that? There was an all you can eat pizza bar, nachos, sandwiches and soda galore. It was the most fun I've had in months as it was really nice to just kick back, have fun and relax. We felt like kids in a candy shop from ten at night till six in the morning and when my dad came to pick us up, we all literally passed out as soon as we were in the car.

I don't remember how we got into my bedroom but the sleep I got was perfect. Rolling over and shutting my eyes tighter from the bright light, woke me little more as I sat up and looked around my room to see Viviana kind of next to me and sprawled out on my left. Reagan was diagonally on my right, in an awkward position and Winny was curled up a ball by on my feet. It was quite a sight but it didn't really matter as sleep was the only thing on our mind and what we needed. I quickly stretched and I got up, taking a quick glance at my alarm clock that read '4:18' and am in shocked that we slept for most of the day. Slowly tiptoeing pass my friends, I make my way down the stairs to hear mumbled voices and light laughter coming from the kitchen. Increasing my pace, I enter the room to see my mom, Anastasia, Reagan's mom, Juliette and Winny's mom Veronica all busy prepping the food for tonight's party. "Hi mom," I happily greet.

"Good morning sunshine," she smiles back. "Did you sleep well?"

"Yeah, it was good I guess. I feel better," I chuckle.

"That's good honey," my mother replies, handing Juliette her bowl.

"So, you can either go back up to your room and rest for a little bit or you can see someone who has been waiting for you," signaling to the backyard as I see my dad, Jack, Jerry and a few neighbors setting up tables and everything else. And, it's also nice to see Jack shirtless because dang does that boy have a nice body.

"I'll go see Jack for a little bit," I tell her, trying not to blush.

My mother just nods and rejoins her friends as I slip out the back door and just stand on the top step, watching all the men work. My neighbor, Mr. Cranman sees me first and yells, "Graduate alert! Congrats Kim!" as now, all eyes are on me.

"Thank you Mr. C," I wave back as I see Jack drop the table he was carrying with Jerry and run over to me.

"Morning Kimmy," he grins.

"Hey Jack," I whisper. "Thank you for helping out."

"Of course. My girlfriend just graduate high school. It's the least I can do," he responds before leaning forward and kissing me.

We kiss for like two seconds before someone clears their throat behind us. "As much as I like the two of you together, making out isn't something I'm fond of. So, if you two can wrap it up, I'd appreciate it," my dad shares sternly.

"Yes sir," Jack quickly nods, kissing my cheek before running back over to Jerry who's sitting on the ground with the table in his lap.

"Sorry sweetie", my dad shrugs, not the slightest bit guilty as I just roll my eyes and shake my head, heading back inside.

Quietly making my way back to my room, I see you Winny close the door behind her and make her way to my bathroom. "Win," I whisper loud enough for her to hear but not loud enough to wake the other two still in my room.

"Hey Kim," Winny smiles. "I'm going to take a shower. Is that okay?"

"Yeah, of course. And when you're done, there is food downstairs," I reply, giving her a quick wave before entering my room.

Grabbing my personal items, I write a note to Viv and Reagan and then walk into my parent's room, getting ready for my shower also. Winny's done in about fifteen minutes as I immediately jump in, thankful for our water system and the endless amount of hot water.

Ten minutes later, I'm dressed and out the door, on my way to Kelly's graduation. I'm thankful I woke up on time as I make it just in time to see the graduates starting to make their way inside and take their seats. The class size is smaller than mine but the speeches are similar and still ring in truth as an hour and some later, the ceremony is almost over. The graduates rise and throw their caps with glee and I can't help but scream along with the cheering audience as I feel my eyes start to water.

All the guests exit the gym, waiting for their children and as I look around, I realize just how far we've all come. I see the smiles on the family member's faces and I can't wait to see and feel the euphoria of that again in the future. A few minutes later, I see Mr. and Mrs. Conley walking past me in search of their daughter as I swiftly follow them and call out their names. They both turn on their heels and intimately embrace me in the hug. "Kim, dear. It's so good to see you," Mrs. Conley says once we separate.

"It's great to see you too. And you as well Mr. Conley," I smile as he gives me a nod.

"You girls have grown-up so much," Mrs. Conley starts to sigh as her eyes are getting watery.

"We have. There's too much of the world we haven't seen yet," I reply softly.

"You got that right. You're two healthy girls now. Go, explore and most importantly, enjoy your life," Mr. Conley finishes as seconds later, Kelly is making her way over to us with a huge smile on her face.

Her parents don't waste a second as they're hugging and kissing their daughter, praising her for all her hard work and accomplishments.

OoOoOoOo

Later that evening, the party was in full swing as friends and family were over at my house, eating dad's delicious barbecue, having a great time with laughter and conversation being heard all around and enjoying one another's company. After eating and talking for a little bit, Reagan and Winny were off, chatting with some other friends as Viv, Jack, Jerry, Kelly and I were off to the side, having our own conversation. "So, how does it feel to be done with school?" Jerry wonders.

"It feels like freedom, though I don't think it's sunk in yet," Viviana answers, looking over at me.

"I agree. It hasn't really hit us yet. But, I do know it feels awesome to be done with this chapter of our life. I'm ready for another," I add, looking at everyone.

"I'm with Kim. I'm ready for whatever comes next," Kelly joins in giving me a subtle nod.

"Hey Kel, don't you have grad night tonight?" Viv questions, looking at her watch and noticing its close to 8 o'clock.

"No, we don't have a grad night. My class is really small but, we are going on a trip at the end of the week," Kelly explains.

"That sounds awesome! I want to go on a trip," Jerry whines.

"Aw, poor wittle Jerry doesn't like the grown-up world," Viv teases in a baby voice.

"Screw you Viv. You'd be amazed on how different your life is after high school," Jerry fires back with such seriousness in his voice. "It's definitely a wakeup call and I'm still trying to get my footing. Thank god for bigger breaks like this. I am definitely going to be putting every second to good use."

"Won't we all," Kelly cheers along.

I feel Jack's arm tighten around my upper body and brings me closer to him as he's definitely living in the moment right now. "To the summer," Jack finally speaks, raising his cup up.

"With friends," Viviana continues, following her brothers action.

"And to new beginnings," I finish as we all click our glasses together, ready to take on the summer.


And, there you go folks! Please R&R and let me know what you think.

Please, let's try for 330 before the next chapter!

Thanks and until next time,

Missy xx