The days of vacation slipped away like sand through fingers, and soon, the academy's halls buzzed once again with familiar faces and conversations. Catherine and Maryam found themselves falling back into their routine, but there was an unspoken tension between them—one neither wanted to address directly.
The academy had announced the date for the result ceremony: January 3rd. The news spread quickly, filling the students with a mix of excitement and anxiety. Two days before the ceremony, Maryam's friends—Kate, Emma, Emily, and Fiona—returned to the church's academy, their reunion filled with warm embraces and excited chatter.
As they gathered in the common area, the conversation revolved around the ceremony, the guests, and their future plans. Maryam smiled, listening to them, but she remained quiet, her mind preoccupied. She hadn't told them the truth yet. She knew she had to, but the moment never seemed right.
That evening, after dinner, Maryam and Catherine sat alone in Maryam's room. The air was thick with anticipation as Maryam finally voiced what had been lingering in her mind.
"Catherine, I think I want to reveal the truth," Maryam said, her voice steady but firm.
Catherine's eyes widened. "Maryam, no. You know how strict Father Robert is. If you tell them, he might expel you."
Maryam leaned back, exhaling. "So what? Our studies are completed, Catherine. This degree doesn't mean much to me anymore. I have already chosen my path."
Catherine shook her head, frustration evident in her tone. "That's not the point. It's not just about the degree. There are consequences, Maryam. You need to think about this."
Maryam looked at her best friend, seeing the concern in her eyes. "I have thought about this. For months. I can't live a lie, Catherine. It's time they knew who I really am."
Catherine sighed, rubbing her temples. "You're being reckless. Do you know who's attending the ceremony? Father Leonard, Sister Susan, and Father David. They've come all the way from Portland. This isn't just a simple school event."
Maryam's expression remained unfazed. "I don't care. This is my truth, Catherine. And if they cannot accept it, then so be it."
Catherine groaned, standing up and pacing the small room. "Maryam, please. Just wait. Maybe after the ceremony, maybe when things settle down. Right now, it's too soon."
Maryam shook her head. "No. There will never be a perfect time, Catherine. If I keep waiting, I'll never be able to say it. I want to stand by my faith, openly and honestly."
Catherine sat back down, her voice softer now. "I understand that, Maryam. I do. But just think about it. You've worked so hard here, built friendships, earned respect. If you reveal this now, everything might change. Are you ready for that?"
Maryam smiled gently. "I am. Because this is who I am. And I won't hide anymore."
Catherine sighed, defeated but knowing there was no changing Maryam's mind. "Then at least promise me you'll be careful."
Maryam reached for her friend's hand, squeezing it reassuringly. "I promise. But I won't be silent anymore."
The conversation ended, but the weight of what was to come lingered between them. The ceremony was just around the corner, and Maryam knew it would be a turning point in her life—one she was prepared to face, no matter the consequences.