78. ICY TOUCH

REMY’S POV. The auditorium was buzzing with proud families, eager graduates, and the hum of constant applause. But my focus was singular. Isla. She moved across the stage with an effortless grace, her head held high, that signature confidence radiating from her. Her black gown swayed slightly as she walked, and when the dean handed her the diploma, she gave a quick nod of thanks before turning to the crowd. She searched for her people, her gaze scanning the audience, and then her eyes found us. A small, genuine smile broke across her lips, and it felt like the sun rising. I clapped steadily, keeping my pride contained, but inside, I was brimming. Jinhai and Lirong, seated beside me, were far less reserved. Jinhai stood up halfway, clapping loudly. “That’s my sister!” he called out, earning a few amused glances from the crowd. Lirong rolled her eyes but smiled fondly, clapping along. Ava, on Isla’s other side of the cheering section, was impossible to ignore. Her whistle pi