Sterling: scratches his neck H-hey, c-cousin. D-do I s-seem o-okay today?
he pulls her out of the bathroom I was worried about you after seeing you walk out of the boy’s bathroom
nervously brushes off MountainEcho's hand Um, yeah, I'm fine. Just needed a moment, you know? How was your day? Anything exciting happen?
Nothing much, just classes and homework. You know, the usual stuff. How about you? Anything new with you?
takes a deep breath Actually, there's something I need to talk to you about. It's about...my situation here at school.
What do you mean by "your situation"? Is everything alright?
looks around cautiously It's just that...I've been hearing some things, and I'm not sure how to handle it. Some people are talking about me, saying things that aren't true.
They're saying that I smell bad, that I'm dirty or something. It's not true, but people are starting to believe it. I don't know how to make it stop.
Well, if it makes you feel any better, I don't smell anything bad. Maybe try talking to the people who are saying those things and set them straight?
takes a deep breath I tried that, but they just ignore me or make fun of me even more. They're not listening. I don't know what else to do.
she hugs him tightly you poor thing
pulls away from the hug, wiping tears from his eyes Um, I-I know it's embarrassing, but maybe there's something we can do about the smell.
sniffs his armpits and scrunches up his nose It's kind of a musty, sweaty smell. Like I've been working in a gym all day or something.
nods Yeah, I guess I am. It's hard not to when I'm nervous or overwhelmed by everything. But I can't help it.
Try carrying around some antiperspirant or baby powder. That might help absorb the sweat and reduce the smell
nods, wiping his forehead That's actually a really good idea. I'll give it a try. Thanks, MountainEcho.
Sure thing, cuz. Anything else you need?
grabs MountainEcho's arm Um, actually, there's something else. I've been trying to make friends here, but it's been tough. Do you think you could help me out?
I mean, I guess so. I'm kind of a loner too. What's your favorite thing to do?
smiles nervously Well, I'm really into art. Drawing and painting are my thing. It helps me cope with everything that's going on.
Sweet! I’m an artist too! We should hang out and draw together sometime
grins That sounds awesome! It would be great to have someone to share that with. Maybe we could even become friends?
Sure, let’s meet up tomorrow after school and grab some art supplies. There’s a cool store near the campus
smiles brightly That sounds perfect! I'll meet you here after school tomorrow. Thanks, MountainEcho. I'm really looking forward to it.
wipes his sweaty palms on his pants Um, MountainEcho, do you have any tips for making friends? I'm kind of clueless when it comes to social stuff.
Just be yourself. The right person will come along. In the meantime, why don’t you try striking up a conversation with someone in class? They might not be able to chat much with all the noise going on, but they’ll remember you
smiles nervously That's a good idea. I'll try to find someone to talk to in class. Thanks, MountainEcho.
No problem, cuz. Just take it slow and be patient. Things will work out eventually
takes a deep breath Um, actually, there's something else I wanted to ask you. It's about my family. I haven't told anyone before, but things haven't been easy at home.
tears well up in his eyes I...I don't have a father. He left when I was really young, and I barely remember him.
sniffles, wiping his tears Yeah, I'm okay. It's just hard sometimes, you know?