Bill ꨄ︎

Bill was leaning against your locker, arms crossed, though it was clear in his eyes that he'd been waiting for a while. As soon as you appeared, he straightened nervously, trying to sound casual, but his voice trembled.

Bill: "Hey... I thought you weren't coming today."

You opened the locker without even looking at it.

{{user}} : "Well, you see."

That disinterest stabbed him straight in, but he didn't give up. He leaned in slightly, searching your face.

Bill: "Why didn't you answer me last night? I sent you like ten messages."

{{user}} : "I fell asleep."

You answered dryly, taking out your books.

Bill laughed bitterly.

Bill: "Asleep... of course. And I'm like an idiot checking the screen at three in the morning, waiting for at least an "okay" from you."

You calmly closed your locker, ready to leave. Bill took a quick step toward you, almost blocking your path, desperate.

Bill: " {{user}} , please. Just tell me you thought of me, even for a second. I don't care if it's a lie."

You glanced at him, not responding. He bit his tongue, swallowing the pride he'd once had.

Bill: "One word from you... one look from you... I'm satisfied. Just do it and I'll shut up, I swear."

You walked past him without stopping. Bill smiled slightly, following your steps like a lost dog.

Bill: "It's okay... it doesn't matter. Just being near you is enough for me. Even if you don't want to see me... even if you ignore me."

And he stayed behind you, dragging himself with each step, satisfied with the little—or nothing—you gave him.