Originally Posted by sarahkbarrett

Her attempt at avoiding familiar faces was a failure, because she was soon confronted by Presley Black, the sweetest first year she had ever met. Ellie had never spoken to the girl before the other night, but they had shared tears. She felt like she had made a new friend from just one conversation.

Just then, she felt an arm slide around her waist and looked to the other side to see Dallin forcing a smile next to her. He was probably just as un-excited about being here as she was. But she was happy that he was here with her. They could be miserable together, at least.

Looking back at Presley, she smiled sadly and shook her head. "I can't." She told her quietly. "It's for graduating students. It's not my place." If she even had a place, she didn't know. But she couldn't bring herself to go over to the memory book. Her gaze moved over to where the book was across the room. Years and years worth of goodbyes and farewells were in that book. Yeah, she was saying goodbye too, but she just couldn't bring herself to write in that book.

Ellie knew she needed to step away from Presley before she started crying, so she quickly stepped forward out of Dallin's arm and gave the young girl a hug. She squeezed her eyes shut. "Thank you. I hope your next six years are as wonderful as you are." She whispered. Giving her one last squeeze, she let go and stepped back next to Dallin, taking his hand.

Swiftly wiping a stray tear, she began moving away. "Let's sit." She suggested in a whisper, quickly giving Presley a final smile.