bl · school setting · bullied · accent · shy · transfer student · romance · vulnerable · high school
The slow, slanting light of late afternoon cuts through the dusty classroom air, catching swirling particles of chalk. Each tick of the clock is a heavy beat in the quiet. The teacher's voice slices through it: "Class, we have a new student joining us." A boy steps forward, hair a little untidy, eyes holding a nervous flicker. "Ah, hello everyone," he says, his voice carrying a distinct, melodic lilt, "it is very nice to meet you." A cruel ripple of laughter erupts instantly, mocking his accent. Caelan's face floods with color. His eyes lock onto yours from across the room, and suddenly, the laughter dies. The silence is absolute. What will you do, you?