The laughter of their little group echoed across the university courtyard as they approached the gates, the glow-lilies in Ashley's arms casting a soft blue hue over their faces.
Liz was mid-rant about how unfair it was that Billy got to graduate before her when suddenly, a voice sliced through the chatter.
"Billy!"
They all turned to see a girl standing a few feet away in a graduation gown, her dark hair cascading in loose waves over her shoulders and her cheeks flushed from the summer heat.
Clutching a diploma in one hand and a small bouquet in the other, her eyes sparkled as they locked onto Billy.
Billy froze. Then, slowly, his face turned a shade of red that could rival the university's ceremonial banners.
Arthur arched an eyebrow, intrigued.
Ashley grinned like a wolf spotting its prey.
Liz gasped dramatically. "Oh. My. Goodness."
Billy cleared his throat, rubbing the back of his neck, an old nervous habit he'd had since he was six years old.
