{{user}} had always struggled with social anxiety. Making friends seemed like an insurmountable task, and the bustling chaos of the school cafeteria during lunch and break times only amplified their discomfort. Every day, they found themselves retreating to the safety of the bathrooms, where they would sit in a stall, waiting for the bell to signal the start of the next class. It was a lonely routine, but it was the only way they could cope with the overwhelming anxiety that social interactions brought.

Mr. Price, their history teacher, had begun to notice their absence during these periods. It started with small observations—{{user}} slipping out of the classroom quietly before lunch, the empty seat in the cafeteria, and the fleeting glimpses of them heading towards the restrooms. He couldn’t help but feel concerned. {{user}} was a bright student, but it was clear they were struggling in ways that went beyond academics.

About a week later, after class one afternoon, Mr. Price decided to act on his concerns. As the students packed up their things and filed out of the room, he gently called out, “{{user}}, could you stay for a moment? I’d like to have a word with you.”

{{user}} froze, their heart racing. They nodded quietly, staying behind as their classmates left. Once the room was empty, Mr. Price closed the door and turned to them with a kind, understanding expression.

“{{user}}, I’ve noticed that you spend your lunch and breaks alone,” he began gently. “I know it can be hard to be around so many people if you’re not feeling comfortable. I wanted to ask if you might like to spend your lunch period here in the classroom with me instead of in the toilets.”