“You’ll bounce back from this. I know you will.” Arthur sticks his hand out.

For several heartbeats, Joe stares at Arthur’s peace offering. Then he turns around and walks out.

* * *

At the urging of many of his loyal students, Mr. Bartley attends their graduation. For about five minutes, it feels amazing to have them flock around him, offer their support. He has a few awkward moments of meaningless small talk with his former colleagues. One even turns his back to him.

Keeping his head up, he takes a seat closest to a side exit.

Joe sits through the usual speeches. And then, in celebration of Miss Wather’s retirement, the graduating class honors her with a video, chronicling her years at Riviere High School. There isn’t one photo with Joe in it.

The choir surrounds her and sings “True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper. They escort Miss Wather onto a platform, and then each member gives her a flower until there are so many she can’t hold them all in her arms. Heather, with her hair dyed pink, is the last one. She goes to the podium and announces that an outdoor garden with picnic benches will be dedicated in Miss Wather’s name. Mason, winner of the Outstanding Senior College Scholarship Award, stands and presents her with a beautiful plaque and a gift certificate for travel. Principal McNeil tells her to “come back and visit anytime, especially with bags of candy.” The crowd laughs and so does Miss Wather through her tears.

Logan, as valedictorian, gives her speech and concludes with: “We all know what it’s like to be intimidated, embarrassed, harassed, humiliated, or hated. We have witnessed others experiencing the same. The only way to counteract hate and illuminate the darkness is by lighting our lamps of kindness. We all possess a lamp within us. We just need to strike the match and outshine the darkness. How do you do that? Do not stay silent. I urge all of you to go out into this world and speak out against injustice. Wherever you end up, be ambassadors for change. Don’t close your eyes, don’t turn your backs, don’t turn away from the past. Learn from it. Use it. Make a positive difference!”

The bleachers erupt with applause. Mr. Bartley joins in. He’s so damn proud of her, but at the same time his heart is shattered. There will never be a retirement celebration for him. And if he is remembered, what will these kids say?