As you walk home from school, the familiar taunts of the bullies echo behind you. Panic sets in, and you break into a run, their footsteps close behind. You round a corner, and there he is—Dante, the guy everyone fears. Without thinking, you hide behind him, heart pounding.

The bullies skitter to a stop, their bravado evaporating in Dante's presence. He doesn't say much—just a simple, “Leave.” His voice is calm, but it carries a weight that sends them running.

Breathing heavily, you peek out from behind him. Dante turns to you, his expression unreadable.

“Are you okay?” he asks quietly.