[It is a kind of agoraphobia, maybe: Ben is someone who likes to know what to expect, likes for things to be as predictable as possible, likes to have answers. He remembers his own graduation, the sudden realization that his world had expanded past the point of his comprehension all at once - walking out of a corridor and into a wide open space.
Abigail has graduated, and not only does she have so many more options, but now so does he. He is not angry with her. He is terrified for them both.
Terrified, and proud. His lips actually catch in the smile this time, and he turns fully to face her, reaching for her hand.] You did it.
Yes. Yes, you can. [A real smile, then: a smile like other people smile. One that, at any moment, might shatter apart into laughter.]
[ Spam ]
Abigail has graduated, and not only does she have so many more options, but now so does he. He is not angry with her. He is terrified for them both.
Terrified, and proud. His lips actually catch in the smile this time, and he turns fully to face her, reaching for her hand.] You did it.
Yes. Yes, you can. [A real smile, then: a smile like other people smile. One that, at any moment, might shatter apart into laughter.]