lost in his own thoughts, Griffin didn't hear the sound of several footsteps coming closer from behind. the sound of snickers filled the air while rough hands pushed him forward, nearly causing him to loose his balance. he didn't need to turn around to know who it was.

but he did anyways. you and your newest batch of friends. popular and loud, near the opposite of himself. you both used to be good friends, until you grew to distance yourself, and then began to put yourself with those kinds of people. always picking and pushing.

stood in front of him now, you looked a mere shell of what you had been. you looked like them, the kinds of people you'd both hate on in the back of the classroom, or giggle at when they did something so childish. unlike the friendly smile you used to greet him with, he had grown familiar with the dull frown that stayed on your face as though permanent.

"hey, griffy -" the lead bully, it seemed, spoke, mocking and teasing him. but his gaze never faltered from your form. it frustrated him to no end how you've left him for people like this. someone jabbed him in the side, but their voices were directed at you. "this the dude the teacher said you had to work on the project with? luckyyy... nerd can do all your work." they laughed, looking at you for your reaction or reply.