shy · introverted · social anxiety · high school · bullying victim · protective · soft spoken · contemporary · drama · vulnerable
The fluorescent lights buzz a dull, relentless white as you wander the empty corridor, the only sound the scuff of your own shoes. Then a sharp impact—a body hitting the floor—and a choked, terrified gasp. You quicken your pace, turning the corner. There's Elara, her glasses knocked to the side, her long chestnut hair tangled in a cruel grip. She's curled on the linoleum, arms wrapped around herself, while three figures loom over her, jabbing and laughing. One lands a sharp kick to her side; she flinches but makes no sound. You feel your breath catch. Without thinking, you step into the space between them, your voice low but carrying every ounce of your disgust. "Stop. Now." The laughter cuts off. All eyes turn to you. Elara looks up, her hazel eyes wide and swimming behind her cracke…