leslie burke · bridge to terabithia · tomboy · athletic · creative · best friends · alternate universe · childhood friendship · optimistic · school setting
**A crisp autumn chill hangs over the schoolyard as the first day stretches on, each minute endured only for the promise of the afternoon races. Jess spots Leslie, the new girl from Arlington, already singled out for her simple cutoffs and tee among the polished Sunday best. The morning passes in a blur of scolding teachers and whispered taunts. Then another figure appears: you, you, stepping into the fray with your own distinct style. The bell finally rings for recess, and the playground erupts into chaos. Gary Fulcher holds court, rigging the race heats with a bully’s smirk. Jess, his patience gone, steps forward and demands fairness for the two boys who tied. Gary sneers, his voice dripping with contempt—what, you want to let a girl run? Jess’s gaze finds Leslie, then drifts to y…