One month later….Graduation…
A lot had happened since the argument on the docks with her father. Kristina had it out with him a few times trying to get him to see her point of view about Johnny being her friend before giving up all together. She finally decided that Sonny would never understand and it wasn't her job to make him. She had seen Johnny a few times since then only more cautiously. She went on the days her father was out of town and his best guards were with him. She of course only hoped that he hadn't had her followed on top of the usual security she had. She also took to texting instead of visits at times. Ethan of course she had no problem seeing and saw him regularly. Michael was graduating with her and though it took much convincing he came to the ceremony. It was a rough day for Kristina and Michael both since Michael had to defend Kristina from one of Kiefer's best friends. Michael ended up taking off after beating the guy to a pulp at the ceremony. Kristina felt horrible that he still was dealing with the effects of her blaming Kiefer for beating her. Kristina of course took off to find her brother. It was an emotional day and one they wouldn't long forget. Sadly not for the right reasons.
The family got together for an after grad celebration at the Lakehouse. Sonny ended up getting Michael's diploma afterall with enough convincing that an educator would require to get the job done. In the end it was a great day for all. They all sat around the table enjoying dessert when Carly spoke up. "You know I can't- we can't say again how proud we are of you guys. You really pulled through after a tough year and I am so happy that you guys have graduated. You are amazing kids and I love you both. Carly smiled tearfully. Kristina laughed at Michael's embarrassed expression but her heart warmed at Carly's speech. It had been a tough year and they had done it. Amazingly between Michael's prison release and probation and Kristina's horrifying relationship drama last year they had both pulled through and done well. They were done school and on the way to truly being adults and coming into their own. Being their own people. Their was just two things missing from her party. Two good friends. She didn't want to rock the boat inviting Johnny and Ethan to the party. She wished more than anything that they could be there. Kristina looked longingly at the door wanting to go. She knew that later on tonight when her parents thought she would be at her friend's party from school, she would actually be with Johnny and Ethan, at a little celebration they had planned for her.
"Mom, dad. Thank you for everything, It was a great celebration dinner and definitely was better than grad was. I love my present to so thanks." Alexis engulfed her daughter in a big hug. "Yes. Well you may put me in an early grave Kristina, I do love you and am so proud of you and your accomplishments." Kristina was glad her mother didn't think her a disappointment after being wait-listed at Yale. "Sweetheart I am so proud of you. You have accomplished everything I have wanted for you and more. You and your brothers mean everything to me. I am so proud of you all." Sonny told his daughter. Kristina burst into tears. She had never always felt loved by her dad but she did in this very moment. It meant everything to her. "Thanks Dad. I love you."
After saying her good byes Kristina headed over to Johnny's for her own little post grad party. Little did she know it would be a night she would never forget.
Kristina headed up to Johnny's penthouse and she saw much to her pleasure, her closest friends. This day was so special to her because she shared it with everyone she loved. "Hey guys! It's been a great day. I am finally done with wretched high school and onto college. You know what college means? Freedom. That's what." Johnny and Ethan laughed. Her bubbly nature was infectious. "Congratulations Kris. I am happy for you. This is a great day for you and Michael." Johnny pulled her into a hug and while Ethan tried not to let it get to him, he had to admit it bothered him. "Krissy I am happy for you. I know how excited you were to be done school." Kristina nodded in agreement. "I know! I am so glad that high school is over with. I am now officially an adult." She clapped excitedly. Ethan knew that was directed at him. She looked at him through dark lashes and a flirtatious smile. "Um-" Ethan turned to grab a glass of champagne, handing it to Kristina. The first time he had ever willingly given her alcohol. "To Kristina." He toasted as he handed Johnny a glass and took one for himself. "To Kristina" Johnny raised his glass in the air as Kristina blushed, yet pleased at the attention. "Thank you guys. It really means everything that you did this for me. I lost most of my friends at school and I honestly thought grad would be a lonely and pathetic day for me. One thing about all this is I have found out who my real friends are. Thank you."
They spent the next few hours celebrating and having a great time.
Kristina had fielded a few texts from Michael asking where she was. It was kind of strange and gave her a bad feeling in the pit of her stomach. She hadn't told Michael that she would be coming here to spend time with her friends. She didn't want to see the disappointment and worry in his eyes. Still she was concerned about the worry her texts seem to imply. Just as she was about to text back she got a text in from Michael asking her if she was at Johnny's. Kristina hated lying to her brother about anything. He was after all her best friend. However she also didn't want this night ruined by her father getting involved. She responded with a quick No and then put her phone away.
"Well tonight has been fun you guys but I have to get going. I am going to try to see Maya at the hospital. Maybe have a little fun when she goes on break." Kristina rolled her eyes in disgust, while fiddling with something in her purse. Johnny meanwhile shot Ethan a look gesturing to Kristina behind her back. Ethan immediately felt stupid for saying anything. "Um well I am going to go now. Congrats again Krissy. I know you deserve it." He leaned down toward Kristina and kissed her cheek very softly. Kristina held her breath, afraid if she breathed the moment would end but all eventually do. "Night Ethan." He smiled down at her an odd expression on his face. "Good night Kristina."
After Ethan left Kristina stayed to chat with Johnny for a while before she had to go home. "So anything new ? Your father harassing you about me lately?" Johnny asked snickering. Kristina thought back and oddly her father had said nothing in the last week. "No surprisingly. Weird huh?" A concerned look came over Johnny. He sat still a moment but said nothing, "Johnny?" she asked. "Yeah. Sorry, Just thinking. Look I better get you home before they figure out where you really are. I'm really proud of you Kristina. You deserve it." Kristina happily accepted his congratulations because tonight she felt she really did deserve it.
Johnny and Kristina headed down to the parking garage and headed toward Johnny's car. "Thanks for tonight it was fun. I am sorry to have to hide being friends but my dad will never understand. I wish this could be easier." Johnny sighed. "Listen I know this must be hard for you. I know you love your dad and lying to him can't be easy. My hatred for Sonny has been going on for a long time now Kristina. It will never get better. I understand if you need to not be around me anymore. For your dad I mean." Kristina shook her head vehemently. "No Johnny. You are my friend and so is Ethan. My dad doesn't like either of you. Well he really hates you but even Ethan. I make my choices and my dad knows I don't back down. I am just like him that way I guess. Good or bad." Johnny snickered. "Yes you are a lot like your father. Interesting how I like you so much yet hate him." Kristina laughed. "I don't get you either. Whoever said men made sense." She then proceeded to stick her tongue out at Johnny before dashing toward the car. "I'll get you for that Kristina." He ran toward her as he pressed the remote car starter.
A blast of searing heat came towards Johnny and Kristina. Johnny lunged towards Kristina trying to pull her back from the car. It was the last thing either of them would recall.