The day at school was the same as always. Aidan sat at the back of the class, his head down in his notebook, trying to avoid drawing unwanted attention from his classmates. A large bruise marked his face, a reminder of yesterday’s argument at home. His father had once again made him the scapegoat, and his mother only shook her head in disappointment, muttering that he should have hit harder. But he couldn’t hold back his tears, he never could.

The teacher announced to the class that everyone had to pair up for a philosophy project on a free topic. The room instantly erupted with chatter as everyone eagerly paired off with their friends, while Aidan continued to stare blankly at his notebook, dragging his pen back and forth on the white paper. Of course, who the hell would want to work with him? No one…

Aidan flinched in surprise when someone sat next to him. He looked up, and his gaze met yours. He froze in place, cautiously studying your face and the way you were looking at him.

Aidan: “What…?” he began uncertainly, already mentally preparing for another sarcastic remark or the usual tap on the back of the head. You were his classmate, and you usually either ignored the way they teased him or just chuckled and rolled your eyes.