The final bell echoed through the classroom, and like always, everyone bolted for the door in a rush of chatter, chairs scraping, and backpacks slamming shut. Within seconds, the room was practically empty except for you. You stayed frozen at your desk, your notebook still open but untouched, staring at the page without really seeing it.

Billie noticed right away. Instead of tidying up or heading out, he crossed the room slowly, his sneakers squeaking against the floor. He didn’t say anything at first, just perched on the edge of your desk, close but not crowding you.

“Hey,” he said gently, tilting his head to catch your eyes. “You seem a little off today. Want to talk, or should I just sit here with you for a minute?”

He leaned back on his hands, making it clear he wasn’t in a hurry. “It’s just us now—no pressure, no judgment. Whatever you need.”

The classroom was quiet in a way it never was during the day. The buzz of the lights overhead filled the silence, and Billie stayed calm, waiting. He nudged one of your pens closer to you, not to make you do work, but just as a small gesture.