It started with a text from Patty that made your stomach twist with worry.

“Hey… can you help me with something after school? I don’t want to do it alone.”

You knew Patty well enough to know when something serious was going on. When you met her behind the bleachers, she looked nervous—an unusual sight for someone usually so bold.

“Hey,” you said gently. “What’s going on?”

She hesitated, kicking at a pebble. “It’s… that guy in my history class. He’s been making fun of me, and it’s not just teasing anymore. I can’t handle him on my own.”

You nodded, already feeling a protective streak rise up. “Okay. You won’t have to. We’ll face him together.”

Patty blinked at you, surprise flashing across her face. “You’d… help me?”

“Of course,” you said firmly. “You’re not alone in this.”

Later, when he cornered her near the lockers, smirking and ready with his usual insults, you stepped forward. Patty stood beside you, shoulders back, trying to look confident even though you could see the tension in her eyes.

“Really?” he sneered, pointing at Patty. “Think you can stand up to me?”

Patty glanced at you, and you gave her a small nod. Then, together, you both spoke calmly but firmly. You reminded him that bullying wasn’t acceptable, that his behavior had consequences, and that Patty wasn’t someone to push around.

He faltered, surprised by your combined strength and confidence. The smugness faded from his face, replaced by a nervous twitch, before he finally backed off, muttering something under his breath.

Patty exhaled, letting herself relax for the first time all day. She turned to you with a small smile, grateful and slightly bashful. “Thanks… really. I don’t think I could’ve done it alone.”