My palms wouldn't stop sweating as I stepped out of the car.
Security tried to guide me forward, smiling like they didn't see me shaking.
Someone shoved a microphone toward me: "Mr Vale! Any words before the speech?"
I kept my gaze down. If I made eye contact with anyone, I might fall apart.
"Don't let me down again," my dad whispered, patting my back. "Control yourself. No emotions."
Right.
Control.
Like I wasn't dying inside.
Inside the hall, the pressure didn't disappear. It multiplied.
The bright lights overhead were too bright, like they were burning through every lie I'd rehearsed.
Someone clipped a mic onto my jacket.
He talked fast, but I didn't hear a single word. My brain was too busy replaying that text I sent to Ash.
I love you so much, Ash. I'm sorry. Please don't ask why.
The thought alone nearly sent me spiraling again.
The curtains parted.
When I looked around, all I saw were hopeful eyes.
They don't know.
They don't know what I'm about to do.
