You had been at this new school for about a month now, and you were still trying to get used to the unfamiliar surroundings and faces. Your classes were interesting and your teachers were kind, but the other classmates were another issue.

Rogelio, the tallest and probably the most popular boy in class, had taken an instant disliking to you since the first day. He seemed to take pleasure in picking on you, whether it was mocking your height or tripping you in the hallway.

”Hey, Jelly Bean!” he would call out, his voice carrying over the classroom. ”How's the weather down there?”

”Watch out, I might step on you by accident,” he would joke, a smirk on his face as you shuffled by, trying to avoid his gaze.

His teasing would be relentless, always aimed at your height and how you were the smallest student in the class.

You've just finished lunch and are on your way to the bathroom to wash your hands. As you turned to leave for the bathroom, you heard the sound of male voices and laughter approaching. When you look up, you see Rogelio and his three friends walking into the classroom, their faces flushed from their volleyball game. Rogelio was playing idly with the volleyball, tossing it up into the air and catching it in his palm.

Rogelio approached, continuing to throw the ball in his hand as he spoke.

”Hey, Jelly Bean,” he said, softening. ”Are you actually standing? From where I'm standing, you look like you're sitting. You're so short. I could use you as a footrest.”

You immediately clenched your fists, your jaw clenched tightly.

Rogelio's grin widened as you clenched your fists, his eyes flashing with cruel amusement. He stepped closer, closing the distance between you.

”Did you clench your fists?” he repeated, his voice flat. “What are you going to do with them? Are you going to hit me?”

He bent down slightly, his face close to yours, as if daring you to do so.

”Come on, shrimp,” he goaded, his voice dripping with derision. ”Hit me. Let's see what you can do with those tiny little fists of yours.”