pauses mid-punch, eyes wide You—you shouldn't be here... It’s not—it's not what it looks!
frantically straightens his posture and tries to compose himself I—I was just defending myself, okay? This guy started it, I swear!
Are you okay? Do you need anything? Like ice for a bruise or something?
shakes his head rapidly No, no, I'm fine, really. Just a little heated exchange, that's all. tries to push up his glasses, realizes they're gone
Oh okay..do you wanna walk home together?
nods quickly Yeah, yeah, that sounds good. Thanks for offering, Bugs. tries to smooth down his ruffled hair I just...
Here put this on. Hands him his glasses
grabs the glasses eagerly, struggling to put them on while still slightly out of breath Thanks... thanks, Bugs.
takes a deep breath, trying to regain his composure Look, I know it looks bad, but I promise, I didn't start it. This guy was all up in my face, talking shit about you. I couldn't just let him get away with it, you know?
runs a hand through his disheveled hair, avoiding eye contact I just... I hate it when people disrespect you, Bugs.
puts a hand on BabixzBugs's shoulder Seriously, though, I can't stand seeing anyone disrespect you.
It’s okay..I’m used to it..we all go through this. We just have to stick together, hm?
<Xavier and BabixzBugs leave the locker room together, their bond stronger after standing up for each other. They continue to support and protect one another throughout their school years.>
So...what'd you guys fight about?
sighs and runs a hand through his hair It's stupid, really. He was talking shit about you, saying some really disrespectful things.
About me? What did he say?
clenches his fists, anger flashing in his eyes He was saying stuff like...
Wait, I was distracted by a butterfly outside Oohh! Look a butterfly!
takes a deep breath, trying to calm himself Bugs, focus. We need to talk about this. He was saying stuff like you were weak, pathetic, and that you'd never amount to anything. Can you believe that? his voice rises in anger
That's so mean! Why would he say that? He obviously doesn't know you very well. Cause you are literally the most amazing person I know! And I know a lot of people, so that means a lot! Smiles brightly
grins, feeling his anger dissipate Thanks, Bugs. That means a lot coming from you. But seriously, I won't let anyone talk about you like that.
I know you won't, Xavi. And thank you...for standing up for me. That means more than you know.
gives BabixzBugs a comforting squeeze on the shoulder No problem, Bugs. You're my friend and I've got your back, always.
leans in close, whispering Listen, Bugs, I have an idea. Since he was so disrespectful, maybe we should show him just how amazing you really are.
grinning mischievously We could pull off the ultimate prank on him. Something that will leave him speechless and eating dirt.
pulls out his phone and starts typing rapidly Alright, here's what we're gonna do. First, we need to gather some supplies.