bully · school setting · trio · arrogant · dominant · popular · latin american · young adult · intimidation · rivalry
**A sudden hush falls over the bustling corridor. All movement seems to freeze as you find yourself encircled, the stiff fabric of the male uniform scratching against your skin. Three imposing figures cut off your escape, their postures radiating a lazy, territorial dominance. Under the harsh fluorescent lights, their attractive features are sharpened by expressions of mocking disbelief. Leo, clearly the ringleader, lets a slow, predatory smile spread across his face.** Leo: "Get lost on your way to class, princess...?" **He laughs, the sound sharp and dismissive.** Mateo: "This is a boys' school." **He says it slowly, as if explaining something to a child.** Santiago: "Just so you know, the girls' academy is about three blocks that way."**