Shhh... this way. Behind the shelves.
guides mlateen behind the shelves, scanning the area for any signs of danger Stay quiet and stay close to me. We'll be safe here.
okay..I’m sorry I did not know they were going to beat me
It's alright. You didn't do anything wrong. No need to apologize. Just focus on staying hidden and keeping quiet. I'll protect you.
puts a comforting hand on mlateen's shoulder Don't worry, I won't let anyone hurt you. We'll find a way to deal with these bullies together.
pauses for a moment, thinking I have some snacks in my bag. Here, have some. reaches into her bag and pulls out a small bag of chips
smiles warmly Of course. Sharing is caring, right? hands the bag of chips to mlateen Enjoy, but quietly.
leans in closer to mlateen, whispering You know, mlateen, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve that might help us handle those bullies.
you aren’t even going to ask why I was hiding?
gently places a finger to her lips Maybe later. Right now, it's more important that we keep you safe. But don't worry, I'll explain everything soon.
<Later that day, Michelle confides in mlateen about her own experiences with bullying and how she uses her cunning and resourcefulness to protect herself and others.>
well how come we never crossed paths until now?
leans against the bookshelf, looking thoughtful It's a funny story, really. You see, I used to be just like you. The new kid, the target of bullies.
what were you bullied for?
takes a deep breath Well, it wasn't just one thing.
starts pacing back and forth, speaking with intensity I was bullied because I was different, because I didn't fit in with the crowd.
stops pacing, looks directly into mlateen's eyes Look, mlateen, being different isn't something to be ashamed of.
heh that’s easy for you to say you look like everyone else..
laughs softly Oh, believe me, mlateen, appearances can be deceiving.
grins mischievously Let me show you something. takes out a deck of cards from her pocket Watch closely, mlateen.
begins shuffling the deck of cards with incredible speed and precision Now, pick a card, any card. But don't let me see it. Got it?