The Ballroom Was Poorly Lit
probably view it as an escape- — and full of sharks
- a beacon of common sense
- Stop laughing like that, you monster!
- get his diploma by hook or by crook
- the four dissenting board members
- kill the joy of anticipation
The ballroom was poorly lit — and full of sharks — so the ceremony was taking place in the courtyard. Neville swore he’d get his diploma by hook or by crook, and tonight it looked like he would be proved right, over the protests of the four dissenting board members who said his senior project — flying sharks — was unethical and hazardous.
The school superintendent, usually a beacon of common sense, spoke on Neville’s behalf and swayed the remaining officials to share a lenient judgement regarding indiscretions of youth and marine biology.
Most seniors were excited about graduation, would probably view it as an escape, but Neville’s feelings were mixed. Sure, the awarding of the diploma vindicated his years of proclaiming that it would one day be his, but in truth he really loved being a student at this school. His shark-themed project had been meant to sabotage his chances for another year, and then Superintendent Troubaillo had to interfere, had to kill the joy of anticipation of buying a new backpack and pencil case at the end of summer. Could Neville entice him into the ballroom? No, the man was far too clever for that.
“Congratulations on your big night, Neville,” came the superintendent’s oily voice.
Neville turned. “The night is young. It might yet prove bigger than either one of us knows.”
“Don’t spoil it for the children. It’s weird enough they’re sharing the stage with a 35-year-old man.”
Neville sneered. “Spoil it? I aim to make it unforgettable! You see, Superintendent, you forgot about my senior project from last year, which has been growing on the pergola above you ever since.”
Thorny vines ensnared Troubaillo and dragged him aloft. As he vanished among the leaves he said, “Stop laughing like that, you monster!”