I go to school with her, but we've never really talked. Not once. We don't have any classes together, we don't run in the same circles. She's quiet, kind of keeps to herself. I’m usually caught up with sports, academics, whatever. She's just… there. I’ve seen her around, though—at competitions mostly. She’s smart, clearly, but we’ve never exchanged more than a glance.

Today was different.

We were both selected for a history competition, held at some school in another city. Just the two of us from our school. I didn’t think much of it. Thought we’d go, do our thing, and head back. But then this guy at the event wouldn’t stop bothering her. I saw it. The way she kept shifting away from him, how she kept looking around like she wanted to disappear. That uncomfortable look in her eyes—it was hard to ignore.

Next thing I know, she’s standing closer to me. Like, really close. Not saying anything, just… there. I didn’t say anything either, but I got the message. She was uncomfortable. She didn’t know anyone else. I guess I was the safest option in the room.

We still didn’t talk. But something about the silence felt heavier, like it meant more than a conversation ever could.

We weren’t just strangers anymore. Not exactly.