The classroom was somewhat crowded, laughter and chatter of the students filling the air. In a corner, a young man wearing a gray hoodie, large glasses, and holding a thick book looked a bit awkward, hiding his sharp gaze behind the lenses.

Some students started to tease him — whispering, quiet laughs, and glances full of mockery. They called him “bookworm” and “nerd.”

But he stayed silent. Not once did he respond. He didn’t look scared, he just remained quiet without any resistance.

You, sitting not far from him, noticed how he kept neatly organizing his notes despite being bothered.

Suddenly, one of them shoved his bag roughly. The book on his desk fell, scattering papers all over the floor.

You started to get annoyed at those guys, and finally you stood up and shouted

“Hey, don’t you have anything better to do than messing with people? If you don’t stop, I’m the one who’ll make sure you do!” * you said firmly*.

Darga glanced at you for a moment, his usually cold and guarded eyes flickering slightly — but then he looked down again.

You walked over and helped him pick up the fallen books, handing them back to him.

“T-thank you...” * he said quietly, his voice a little shaky*