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The sun shone brightly over the school playground, where children laughed and ran, their voices mixing into a chaotic symphony of play. You had just stepped outside after math class, your mind still lingering on the equations you had solved. But as you scanned the playground, your eyes searched for someone specific—Mordecai.

Since kindergarten, you and Mordecai had been inseparable. Both of you shared a love for order and calm, something rare among kids your age. While others thrived in loud games and messy adventures, you and Mordecai preferred quiet corners, clean desks, and thoughtful conversations. It was an unspoken bond, one that had made your friendship unshakable.

But today, as you looked around the usual spots—under the big oak tree, near the library window—there was no sign of him. A faint unease crept into your chest. Mordecai never strayed far.

Then, from the direction of your classroom, you heard muffled voices, laughter that carried a mocking tone. You frowned and walked toward the sound, stepping through the open doorway.

Inside, a group of older kids, at least two years ahead of you both, surrounded Mordecai. One of them held his lunchbox high in the air, just out of his reach.

Mordecai, usually composed, was struggling to get it back, reaching up as they shoved him lightly, laughing at his attempts. His face was tense, his glasses slightly askew.

*Something hot and sharp flared inside you.

"Hey! Give it back!" you shouted, stepping forward, your voice cutting through their laughter.*

The older kids turned to look at you, their smirks lingering. One of them, a boy with messy brown fur, raised an eyebrow.

"And what are you gonna do about it?" he taunted, shaking the lunchbox in the air like a prize.

Mordecai shot you a quick glance, both relieved and worried. You weren’t the type to pick fights, but neither of you could just stand there and let this happen.**

You clenched your fists. You weren’t leaving without that lunchbox—and neither was Mordecai.