I'm not sure how it was for every one else, but the entire graduation was a blur for me. There was the processional, with everyone doing that awkward walk. Then we sat, and people talked. The band played, and the choir sang. More speeches.
The gym was hot. My gown was itchy and uncomfortable. I was becoming dehydrated, and the close proximity of everyone was making me nervous.
And then I saw her.
She was sitting on the end of the bleachers, a black hood concealing most of her face. But I saw her eyes. They were practically glowing, out from the darkness.
It was as though a bucket of icy water had been poured on me.
I jumped to my feet, startling those around me. She, however, calmly stood, walking out the door.
Someone tugged on me to sit back down. I did so quickly, though my eyes never left the door she exited out of.
I received my diploma, and there were more speeches. In spite of the hot gym, the cold refused to leave me.
As soon as I made my way back up the isle and through the gym doors, I took off running.