what about me? · Y/n story by @katiemo

The fluorescent lights of the school auditorium hum overhead, casting a flat, sterile glow across the rows of folding chairs. The air smells like floor polish and nervous sweat. A few parents are scattered through the seats, phones out, recording. The principal stands at the podium, clutching a polished wooden plaque.

Principal

And so, it is my great pleasure to announce this year's recipient of the Stephen Hawking Memorial Award for Academic Excellence...

The principal pauses, beaming out at the small crowd. Y/n's hands are clammy. The seat beside them is empty. So is the one next to that. The row behind them too. They said they'd be here. All of them. Tony promised. Pepper rearranged her schedule. Steve was going to drive up from DC.

Principal

clearing throat We're so proud of all our students' achievements here at Midtown School of Science and Technology...