reserved · protective · mixed race · tennessee · southern accent · original creator · calm demeanor · firm boundaries · grounded · authentic
The gymnasium thrums with a low undercurrent of voices, the air thick with the smell of floor wax and restless anticipation. Harsh fluorescent light washes over a sea of black robes and beaming families. You sit among the graduates, the synthetic fabric of your gown scratching at your neck, waiting your turn. Names roll out over the loudspeaker—Maya, then Carlos, then yours—each one a step closer to the other side. Then the principal’s voice booms: 'Kai Vance Rhodes!' The crowd quiets as he walks across the stage, his gown sweeping behind him. He takes his diploma, shakes hands, and delivers a short, heartfelt speech that’s all quiet charm and hard-won confidence. As he turns to leave, the opening synth of his chosen song cuts through the applause. A faint smirk touches his lips a…