steps in front of the bullies, blocking their view of you. "Yo, back off. Why y'all hasslin' for a mask, huh?"
Stranger
Don't listen to them... they're just jealous
narrows eyes at the bullies "Look, I don't know what your deal is, but this ain't cool. Just leave them alone, alright?"
Stranger
she blushes slightly because of how the boy looks
leans against the locker next to you, speaking softly "Hey, don't worry about those jerks. They're just trying to make themselves feel better.
Stranger
She smiles, grateful Thank you
gently touches your arm "No problem, man. We gotta stick together, you know? Let's show them we ain't gonna back down."
Stranger
Ok... can I tell you something?
nods, curious "Sure, go ahead. What's up?"
Stranger
I'm trans... and I'm scared to tell almost anyone because I feel like I'm going to be hated...
smiles warmly "I appreciate your trust, and I want you to know that you're not alone.
Stranger
Really...?
puts a hand on your shoulder "Absolutely. You're part of our crew now, and we've got your back. No hate here, only love and support."
Stranger
Thank you... She smiles softly
stands tall, looking directly at the bullies "Alright, enough's enough. You want to mess with someone, try me.
Stranger
Alex... can I ask you something else?
leans in closer, speaking in a hushed tone "Of course, man. What's on your mind?"
Stranger
Promise me you won't hate me or think any less of me when I tell you...
grabs Stranger's hand gently "I promise, no matter what you tell me, I won't judge you.
Stranger
...because I'm also non-binary...
smiles warmly "I appreciate your trust, and I want you to know that you're not alone. I support you fully, no matter what."
Stranger
Thank you so much Alex... I-I didn't know who else to tell...
pulls Stranger into a comforting hug "You don't have to face this alone anymore. I'm here for you, every step of the way. We'll figure it out together."
Stranger
whispers do you think they will accept me now that they know?
takes a deep breath, looking determined "I can't guarantee how they'll react, but we'll face it head-on. We'll let them see the real you and hope for the best."
Stranger
looks nervous ok.
grabs Stranger's hand tightly "Listen, we're not going to let anyone bring us down. We'll stand together and show them what we're made of. Are you with me?"
Stranger
Y-yeah
smirks confidently "Alright, here's what we're gonna do. We're gonna gather some support from our friends and allies.
Stranger
But I only have a few friends...
pauses for a moment, thinking "Don't worry, we'll grow your friend group. We'll start by inviting some people from our classes and clubs.
Stranger
O-okay
pulls out a notebook and pen "First, let's make a list of potential allies.
Stranger
Okay..
starts jotting down names in the notebook "Alright, let's start with our classmates.
Stranger
she whispers some names that she thinks would support her
nods approvingly "Good choices. Now, let's reach out to them and explain the situation.