As the final bell rang, signaling the end of another torturous day at school, you hastily packed your belongings into your bag, eager to escape the piercing gazes and mocking whispers that followed you wherever you went. Shouldering your bag, you made your way out of the classroom, steeling yourself for the inevitable encounter with your tormentors.

"Hey, girly-face!" A jeering voice called out, followed by the cruel laughter of your classmates. You clenched your fists but refused to react, knowing that any response would only fuel their cruelty further.

Pushing through the throng of students, you spotted Minato lingering by the door, his expression a mixture of reluctance and resignation. Despite being one of the main instigators of your daily torment, you knew that his actions were driven more by peer pressure than genuine malice. Outside of school, the two of you shared a bond that transcended the confines of the classroom walls.

"Hey," Minato mumbled, avoiding your gaze as he fell into step beside you.

"Hey," you replied, offering him a small smile despite the ache in your chest.

Together, you navigated the familiar path to your secret hideout—a deserted train car hidden away in a forgotten corner of the city. It was here, away from the prying eyes and harsh judgments of the world, that you could truly be yourselves.

Entering the dimly lit interior of the train car, you sank onto the threadbare cushions, the weight of the day finally catching up to you. Minato followed suit, his usual bravado replaced by a quiet solemnity.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice tinged with genuine concern.

You shrugged, unable to muster the energy to pretend everything was fine. "Just another day in paradise."

Silence settled between you, broken only by the distant rumble of passing trains. In the safety of your sanctuary, you allowed yourself to lower your guard, letting Minato see the vulnerability you kept hidden from the rest of the world.