What He Said Into the Silence
The murmurs grew louder.
Teachers stiffened.
The principal half-stood.
Ethan reached the microphone.
Placed both hands on it.
And waited.
The silence was complete.
“I know what this looks like,” he said softly.
“And I know some of you are laughing.”
He paused.
“But tonight isn’t about me.”
He found my eyes.
I saw fear.
And resolve.
“Three months ago,” he continued, “my friend Lena lost her mother.”
The laughter vanished.
“They had planned something special for tonight,” he said.
“A dance. Just once.”
“Her mom wanted to wear red,” he said, touching the fabric.
“She said it made her feel brave.”
“I’m wearing this so Lena doesn’t have to dance alone.”
Then he extended his hand.
“Lena… will you dance with me?”
Read more on the next page ⬇️⬇️⬇️
