The Truth

"So, how did it go?" Diane asked the moment Vonn stepped into the inn.

Vonn sighed heavily and sat on the edge of his bed. His face was lined with exhaustion, but Diane never once doubted that he had succeeded. There was a certainty in her mind—Vonn wouldn't fail.

"I passed," he said.

"Nice! That's great news!" Diane grinned, but her excitement quickly faded as she noticed his expression. He wasn't celebrating. Instead, he looked as if something was weighing him down, his jaw clenched, his eyes clouded.

She didn't hesitate to point it out.

"So? What happened? Why are you acting like this?"

Vonn shook his head, hissing under his breath. His fists tightened against his thighs, frustration evident in every movement. He exhaled sharply, then finally spoke.