He didn’t know anything about art, but he was there to support Justin. Terrified someone was going to ask his opinion, he purposely didn’t stare too long at any particular painting. Then he turned the corner and was immediately drawn to one.

The colors and textures just mesmerized him. He felt comforted and optimistic.

“So Michael what do you think?” Brian asked him.

“It’s so beautiful. It gives me hope.”

Brian then pointed out the title discretely place on the side of the painting. Michael smiled when he saw the word ‘Hope’.

Maybe he knew something about art after all.

She scanned the crowd as she walked into the auditorium. She continued to search in hope of catching a glimpse of him before it was her turn to walk across the stage.

“Doctor Daphne Elizabeth Chanders.”

The loudest applause and praise could be heard just to the right of the stage. Daphne looked up and spotted them.

Everyone was there…cheering her on. She discreetly waved at them as she accepted her diploma.

 “I’m proud of you,” Justin mouthed when she looked directly at him.

With tears in her eyes she blew him a kiss as she exited the stage.