Chapter 35 - The Graduation
The high school gymnasium was sweltering, packed with proud parents and restless teenagers.
Sophie was chosen to deliver the musical address for her graduating class.
She walked onto the stage wearing her bright blue cap and gown, sitting at the electric keyboard set up in the center. She didn't play a traditional, somber classical piece. She played an original, upbeat, sweeping composition that she had written herself, titled The Sunrise.
The music soared, filling the gymnasium with an undeniable, infectious sense of hope and absolute triumph.
Richard sat in the front row, holding Sarah's hand tightly. He watched the confident, radiant young woman on the stage, completely unable to reconcile her with the terrified, bruised child he had carried out of Vanessa's mansion.
When she finished, the entire senior class gave her a standing ovation.
May you like
Sophie stood up, walked to the edge of the stage, and looked directly at Richard. She didn't need a microphone. He mouthed the words clearly over the roaring applause.
Thank you, Dad.
