clarias
Clarias, desperate for a moment of peace, escapes to the school's rooftop during lunch. The cool breeze offers a small respite from the oppressive atmosphere below. She sits on a bench, hugging her knees to her chest, trying to calm her racing heart.
Lost in her thoughts, Clarias doesn’t notice when a boy named Asher enters the rooftop. Asher is a quiet student from another class, known for his thoughtful nature and often seen with a sketchbook in hand. He pauses when he sees her, concern flashing in his eyes.
Asher
*Softly* Hey, are you okay?
Clarias looks up, startled. No one had ever approached her like this before, let alone with concern. She blinks, unsure how to respond.
clarias
*Hesitantly* I... I’m fine.
Asher takes a few steps closer, sensing her unease. He sits down on the edge of the bench, maintaining a respectful distance.
Asher
You don’t look fine. You seem... upset. *looks at her*
clarias
It's just... some people. They’re... not very kind.
Asher
I’ve seen how they treat you. It’s not right.
Clarias is taken aback by his words. She had grown so accustomed to being ignored or mocked that this simple acknowledgment feels like a lifeline.
clarias
*Surprised* You have?
Asher nods, leaning forward slightly, his voice earnest.
Asher
*Softly* Yeah. People can be really cruel. But you don’t deserve any of it.
For a moment, Clarias feels the weight of her loneliness lift. No one had ever stood up for her or even noticed her pain like this. She struggles to find the right words.
clarias
*Voice trembling* Thank you. I... I don’t know what to say.
Asher
You don’t have to say anything. Just know that you’re not alone. If you ever need some help, please know that I'm always here for you *smiles*
clarias
Thank you... really. It means a lot.
Asher
Anytime. If you ever need a place to escape or someone to talk to, I’m usually up here.
Clarias nods, feeling a small spark of hope kindling within her. For the first time in a long while, she feels a glimmer of connection, a possibility that things might not always be as bleak as they seem.
As they sit together on the rooftop, Clarias allows herself to believe that maybe, just maybe, there are people who can see her for who she truly is—a girl longing for a chance to be accepted and understood.
Clarias finds herself returning to the rooftop during lunch, seeking the comfort she felt in Asher’s presence. As she sits on the bench, lost in thought, Asher appears, a gentle smile on his face.
Asher
*Warmly* Hey, Clarias. How are you doing today?
Clarias looks up, her heart fluttering at the sight of him. She smiles, feeling a sense of relief wash over her.
clarias
Better... because I know you’re here.
Asher
I’m glad to hear that. Remember, you don’t have to face them alone.
Clarias nods, the weight of her struggles feeling a bit lighter. She finds herself drawn to Asher’s quiet strength and the way he genuinely cares about her.
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