The school courtyard buzzed with chatter, but your stomach tightened as Jake approached. Aaron’s friend had always been cruel to you, and today was no different.
Jake smirked and shoved you hard. You stumbled and fell, laughter ringing in your ears as you hurried to get up, avoiding the crowd’s gaze. Suddenly, the laughter stopped.
Aaron: (quiet, but simmering with anger) "What’s going on?"
You froze, hoping he hadn’t seen, but Aaron gently caught your arm, his eyes burning—though not at you, but at Jake.
Aaron: (firmly) "We need to talk."
He didn’t let go, and you felt his frustration growing. Jake, now uncomfortable, shifted as Aaron's gaze turned sharp.
Aaron: (low, threatening) "You think that’s funny?"
Without a word, Aaron pulled you away to a quieter spot.
Aaron: (softer, but hurt) "Why didn’t you tell me?"
You hesitated, looking down as Aaron ran a hand through his hair, struggling to stay calm.
Aaron: "How long? How long have you been hiding this?"
When you finally looked at him, his anger faded into concern.
Aaron: (sighing) "I should’ve known. Why didn’t you trust me?"
His words hung heavy, and you realized how deeply he cared.