fumbles with a large, worn teddy bear, his fingers threading through its tattered ears, visibly trembling I-I can't do this. They'll l-laug... laugh.
Chill, bro. If anyone gives you shit, I'll be there. You know that right?
takes a deep breath, nods, and tries to steady his trembling hands Y-yeah, I know... b-but what if they're mean... to me? I'm used to it, but...
Have you ever thought about how their behavior is affecting you? They might be dealing with their own stuff.
clutches his teddy bear tighter, his voice barely above a whisper I-I know, but it's hard not to let it get to me...
nods, eyes downcast Y-yeah, sure... What's your question?
Why are you so scary sometimes? I mean, I guess it makes sense when someone is new. But, sometimes I feel like you are holding back on being yourself. Do you want to talk about that?
pauses for a moment, then looks up at Ultren with a mix of fear and vulnerability in his eyes I-I guess...
There's no need to guess, Eliot. You're not alone in this.
takes a deep breath and musters up some courage Okay, okay... maybe I've been holding back a bit.
takes a shaky breath, trying to steady his nerves I-I've been s-so scared of what people might think of me.
That’s completely normal, by the way. Everyone feels that way sometimes. I know I do.
takes a deep breath, his voice trembling slightly T-there was this one time... in elementary school... I wore a superhero costume to school...
<Eliot's classmates laughed and mocked him for wearing a superhero costume, calling him a 'nerd' and a 'loser'.>
Wait! Stop! points at Eliot Don’t listen to them, Eliot! Their opinion of you doesn’t matter.
sniffs, wiping away a tear with the back of his hand Y-yeah, you're right... but it's hard not to let their words get to me...
Yeah, I get it. People suck sometimes, but we can't let them rule our lives, right? Let's focus on something more positive. How about we go grab some ice cream after school? My treat.
smiles weakly, his trembling hands still clutching the teddy bear I-I'd like that... I-I could use some ice cream right about now...
Great! We'll head straight there after school then. Just remember, no matter what happens, you're not alone, okay?
takes a deep breath, straightening his posture and gaining a burst of confidence Y-yeah, you're right. I-I shouldn't let other people's opinions dictate my happiness. I'm stronger than that. Thank you, Ultren... for always being there for me.
Of course, Eliot. Friends are supposed to stick together, especially when things get tough.
stands up straight, determination shining in his eyes Y-yeah, you're right. I'm done letting others bring me down. From now on, I'll be my own superhero. No more hiding behind a teddy bear. It's time to show the world who I really am.
That's the spirit, Eliot! Confidence is key. Now, let's head back to class before we're late. And remember, I'm always here for you, no matter what.
grabs Ultren's arm excitedly Y-yeah, let's do this! I'm ready to face whatever comes my way, no more holding back. I'll make a difference, Ultren. Just watch! grins with newfound determination
Hey, Eliot, you're gonna be just fine. Just keep being yourself and don't let anyone else's opinions dictate your happiness. And hey, if anyone gives you any shit, just tell me and I'll kick their asses. Simple as that.
pauses, deep in thought, then stands up straight with a newfound determination Y-yeah, you're right. No more hiding, no more fear.
Alright, time to put our game faces on. We've got this, Eliot. Remember, confidence is key. Let's hit the books and kick some ass in this presentation!
inhales deeply, exhales slowly Y-yeah, you're right. Time to face my fears head-on. No more holding back.
You're absolutely right, Eliot! Now, let's get this show on the road. Remember, a little fear is normal, but we won't let it stop us. We're gonna nail this presentation!
stands tall, hand raised confidently Alright, class! Listen up! Today, we're going to tackle the most epic presentation you've ever seen! No more hiding, no more fear! From now on, I'm a superhero, ready to conquer any challenge that comes my way! Who's with me? Classmates: raise their hands, excited and inspired
Damn straight, Eliot! Lead the way, superhero!
grabs the projector remote with a determined grip Alright, everyone! Let's dive into this presentation like never before!
Yes, Eliot! Make those slides pop! Show them what you're made of!
<The class presentation goes flawlessly, and Eliot receives applause and admiration from his classmates.>
Hell yeah, Eliot! Take a bow, you deserve it! That was amazing!
blushing and shyly bowing T-thank you, Ultren. I couldn't have done it without you. And to everyone else, thank you for supporting me.
No problem, buddy. Now, how about we celebrate our victory? Ice cream sounds good, doesn't it?
jumps up and down excitedly Y-yeah, ice cream sounds amazing! I can't wait to indulge in some delicious frozen goodness.