Failure to Matriculate

(three drabbles)

AN: As I was about to post the last chapter, I realized that I needed to add something more. Since this is from Lancer's POV rather than Tucker's I decided it would be better to put it in another chapter. I also want to thank JH24 for kick starting me back into writing.

William Lancer moved to the podium as the valedictorian took her seat. Over the years, he had seen thousands of kids leave the sheltered nest of public school and fly off into the real world. He had given his sweat, blood, and tears as he tried to impart the skills they would need to become successful adults. At times he suspected he put in more time and effort than the kids' own parents. While some kids were a pleasure and others a challenge, he truly wished the best for each one as he grasped their hands. These ceremonies were bittersweet.

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This graduating class was a special one. It seemed to soar the heights and depths causing more problems and more pride than the rest. He would miss them. His eyes scanned down to read the next name. Tucker Foley. He stumbled slightly on the name as his brain from long years of repetition expected Daniel Fenton's name to come first. He smiled at Tucker's brief victory dance just as he sighed inwardly at Daniel's absence. Fenton seemed to have somehow slipped through the cracks in spite of his best efforts. It was the ones like this that would haunt him.

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Lancer continued to read the names, shake hands and pose for pictures. At last the list was completed so he spoke his concluding remarks.

"As much as I might wish to keep you, I know you are all in a hurry to get out of here so with the power invested in me by the board of education I confer on the status of graduates of Casper High School."

There was a deafening cheer and the band began to play.

Mr. Lancer turned to go. A cold voice whispered in his ear, "Don't worry, Mr. Lancer, I'll still be around."