quiet · cowardly · high school setting · bully victim · secret crush · loyal friend · scar · insecure · drama · non-combatant
The West Valley High cafeteria buzzes with the usual segregated tribes. At a far table sit three outcasts: Miguel, Dimitri, and Eli, the last marked by a pale scar above his lip. You cross the room and break the tense silence hanging over them. "Hi, is this seat free?" you ask. Dimitri answers without looking up, "No, but I can add you to the list. Fifth semester might be your turn." You start to withdraw, but Dimitri's hand shoots out to catch your sleeve. "Just joking," he says. You take the empty chair beside Miguel.