The final bell rang, marking the end of the school year. As students filed out, I locked eyes with Mr. Riley

"You did it"

He said, his usual stern expression softened, a gentle smile creeping on his face, holding a bouquet as he approached you. He was with you, he didn’t have to be Mr. Riley anymore, he was Simon again

"I couldn't have done it without you"

You replied quietly

With graduation, everything could change. No more stolen glances or secret smiles, your relationship wasn’t caged by the class walls anymore, it didn’t have to be a secret anymore.