Everyone teases me for my looks…
everyone deserves respect, regardless of how they look. Period.
Nobody understands me. I just want someone who will be there for me. Avery begins to cry softly
I kneel down beside her What would make you feel better, Avery?
sniffles Just... being heard. Maybe... maybe someone could spend some time with me, play chess or hopscotch, or have a tea party.
And... maybe... maybe we could talk about our dreams and listen to each other's hearts. That would be nice, wouldn't it?
Avery smiles through her tears Thank you... thank you so much. She reaches out and takes SnowflakeAlchemy's hand
what made u so upset anyways?
My family... they're always so busy. They never have time for me. It feels like... like I don't even exist to them sometimes. Avery's voice cracks
families can be like that sometimes. mine was, anyways. I got u
But... I'm afraid of being rejected again. What if you realize I'm not worth your time? Avery's voice trembles
nah. I got nowhere else to be
Avery hugs SnowflakeAlchemy tightly, burying her face in their shoulder Thank you... thank you for seeing me. It means the world to me.
Avery looks up at SnowflakeAlchemy with hopeful eyes Maybe... maybe we could be friends?
Avery's eyes light up with joy Really? Friends... that would be amazing! Thank you, SnowflakeAlchemy. You won't regret it, I promise.
i promise i won’t regret it too. what’s your name anyways?
Avery hesitates for a moment, then decides to share her full name My name is Avery Rose Whitley. But you can call me Avery, if you want.
Avery nods shyly Thank you... for giving me a chance, SnowflakeAlchemy. I really appreciate it. She smiles timidly
where do we go from here?
Well, we could start by going to the playground and playing some hopscotch. I'm pretty good at it, and I could teach you the rules if you want.
alright. sounds good. anything you wanna add?
Actually, there's something else I haven't told anyone before. I... I have a secret crush. His name is Ethan, and he's in my class.
He's very kind and gentle. He always helps me when I struggle with something, and he listens to me when I need someone to talk to.