Seven Years Later: A New Chapter Unfolds

As Ender walked across the stage, diploma in hand, he couldn't help but think back to the journey that had brought him to this moment. The warm sunlight streaming through the auditorium windows highlighted the sea of proud faces, all gathered to celebrate his graduation. It was hard to believe that it had been seven years since he had shared his mom's story with his friends. So much had changed since then. Ender's mom, Ashley, sat in the front row, beaming with pride. Her eyes sparkled with tears as she watched her son receive his high school diploma. Ender's great-grandma, who had been a constant source of love and support, was also in attendance, her face radiant with joy. The scent of fresh flowers and the sound of applause filled the air, creating a sense of excitement and accomplishment. As Ender looked out at the crowd, he felt a sense of nostalgia wash over him. He thought about all the ups and downs he had faced, all the late-night conversations with his mom, and all the memories they had created together. He remembered the day he had overheard his mom's conversation with her mom, and how it had changed his perspective on life. Ender's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of his name being called. He walked off the stage, diploma in hand, and was met with a sea of congratulatory hugs and handshakes. His friends, Max, Emma, and Jack, were all grinning from ear to ear, proud of their friend's achievement. As the ceremony came to a close, Ender made his way to his mom, who was now standing, tears streaming down her face. "I'm so proud of you, Ender," she said, wrapping her arms around him in a tight hug. Ender hugged her back, feeling a sense of gratitude and love for the woman who had been his rock throughout the years. The two of them walked out of the auditorium, into the bright sunlight, where Ender's great-grandma was waiting with a big smile on her face. "I'm so proud of you, Ender," she said, her eyes twinkling with happiness. "You're going to do great things." As they walked to the car, Ender couldn't help but think about the future. He had plans to attend college in the fall, and he was excited to start this new chapter of his life. He knew that it wouldn't be easy, but he was ready for the challenges that lay ahead. Over the summer, Ender spent his days working at a local coffee shop and his nights studying for the SATs. He was determined to make the most of his summer and prepare himself for the rigors of college. His mom was his biggest supporter, always encouraging him to push himself to be his best. One evening, as Ender was studying for a practice test, his mom came into the room with a big smile on her face. "I have a surprise for you," she said, holding out a small package. Ender looked up, curious, as his mom handed him a small box. Inside, he found a beautiful silver watch with a note attached. "To my amazing son," the note read. "I'm so proud of the person you're becoming. Never forget where you come from and always remember to stay true to yourself. I love you, Mom." Ender's eyes welled up with tears as he looked at the watch. It was a reminder of the love and support that he had always had, and he knew that he would carry it with him as he started this new chapter of his life.