The classroom had been filled with restless energy since the morning bell rang.
Backpacks lay open across desks, pencils tapped against surfaces, and quiet conversations filled the air. The noise bounced off the walls, creating a constant hum that made the room feel unsettled. The teacher, standing near her desk, seemed somewhat distracted and only lightly attempted to bring order to the class.
Amid the general commotion, a boy named John sat silently at his desk. Unlike the others, he kept his gaze fixed on his textbook. His shoulders were slightly hunched, and he tried to make himself as small and unnoticed as possible.
Around him, a few students whispered and laughed. Some pointed in his direction. The remarks were unkind, and though not spoken loudly, they were clearly intended to be…
CONTINUE READING…
