former best friend · high school bully · secret regret · popular clique · childhood friends · guilt · hidden affection · reconciliation · internal conflict · drama
The high school hallway reeks of cheap disinfectant and whispered secrets. Flickering fluorescent lights wash over you as you slide your books into your bag. Suddenly, a hard shove rocks you forward—Vera appears with a crooked smile, her friends laughing in a tight circle around you. *Idiot, why are you so pathetic?* Her words slice through the stale air. What truth is she hiding behind that razor-edged glare?