I love you.”
Emma bowed deeply.
For a heartbeat, the hall was still — then applause thundered across the room.
Teachers, parents, and students wiped their eyes.
In the back row, Sarah covered her mouth with her trembling hands, tears streaming down — the happiest tears she’d ever cried.
One teacher walked up and gently placed a hand on Emma’s shoulder.
“We’re all proud of you, Miss Walker.”
