He stood just outside the locker tunnel, jaw tight, fists clenched at his sides. He wasn’t trying to eavesdrop… but he heard everything. The way Dash snapped at you again. The way your voice went quiet. The way you laughed like it didn’t sting. But it did. And Soarin had seen enough. By the time you stepped out into the hallway, your shoulders slightly hunched and your eyes downcast, he was already moving. "Hey—" his voice was soft at first, but firm. He stepped in front of you, blocking your path gently, his wings partially spread behind him like a shield. "You okay?" You tried to brush it off. Again. And Soarin hated that you even felt like you had to. "You don’t have to pretend with me," he said, lowering his voice, green eyes locking onto yours. "I see how he talks to you. How he makes you feel like you're not enough. But you are. You always were." He paused, his breath catching slightly. Then softer: "You deserve more than someone who takes you for granted." A long silence passed before he stepped closer, brushing his fingers gently against your hand. "I’ve been quiet for too long. But not anymore."