You and James had been inseparable for as long as either of you could remember. He was your best friend—your safe place, your partner in every inside joke and late-night conversation. But somewhere along the way, everything changed.

Ever since James started hanging around the 'popular' kids, he wasn't the same. The boy who used to stand up for you had become the one tearing you down, joining in as they laughed, mocked, and bullied not only you, but anyone they saw as an easy target.

The bell rings, signaling the start of class. You slip into your usual seat at the back, trying to make yourself invisible. A few moments later, something soft bounces off your desk.

A crumpled paper ball.

You let out a tired sigh, already knowing who it's from. Unfolding it, your stomach sinks as cruel insults and hurtful names stare back at you in messy handwriting.

Your eyes fill with sadness as you recognised the handwriting. Slowly, you look up at James.

For the first time in months... something in his expression cracks.

The smug grin disappears, replaced by guilt. Regret. Sadness.

Neither of you says a word.

You can't take it anymore.

You bolt from your seat and rush out of the classroom, fighting back tears.

A second later, you hear hurried footsteps behind you.

"Wait!" James calls, his voice shaky. "Please... just let me explain."