Olivia (Logan 5)

Belinda accepting her diploma. When I graduated, he

relied on the professional group photographer and

never moved from his seat. Belinda took her diploma

with her usual flair, practically spinning completely to

beam a smile in his direction.

"Thank heavens," Mother muttered beside me.

"I had my fears."

Afterward, we celebrated at the Clam and

Claw, a seafood restaurant near the Point. Daddy

invited some of his business associates to join us and

pretty quickly into the celebration, I saw that Belinda

was getting bored. She exploded with happiness as

soon as Peter Wilkes appeared at the restaurant. "Oh, good," she said as he approached. "I

thought I would die of boredom."

"What's this?" Daddy said interrupting his

conversation to look up at Peter.

"I guess I'm a little early," Peter said. "That's all right. Isn't it, Daddy?" Belinda

followed with exuberance.

Daddy smiled with embarrassment at his

guests. "Well . . . you haven't finished your meal yet,

Belinda."

"Oh, I can't eat anymore, Daddy."

"Where are you going?" I asked when she

stood.

"To the beach party, silly. Remember? Daddy

said it was all right," she added.

I looked at Daddy. His eyes met mine and then

slipped away quickly.

"Well, now you get home early, Belinda.

Graduation or no graduation . ."