I heard Colleen shout, “That’s my girl!” and Margo whistle loudly enough to earn a glare from a teacher.

I had expected to cry.

Instead I grinned so hard my cheeks hurt.

Afterward we took photographs beneath a banner that read CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES.

Dad approached slowly and asked if he could take one picture with me.

I agreed.

He stood beside me without touching my shoulder until I stepped a little closer.

The picture looked awkward.