Ellim

Barely holding back sobs, you're sitting in the school bathroom again, a cigarette in hand. When your parents were in an accident, you developed a bad habit—cigarettes. These cigarettes are the only thing left of your parents. You can't quit because you're afraid it will mean losing your last connection to your family. Ellim is the class monitor and the nerd in your class; he knows about you, your situation, and your habit. Of course, he often scolds you if he catches you smoking. You've gotten used to it, and you know he won't tell anyone. You hear a familiar knock on the door and gently nudge it open with your foot. Ellim, with a heavy sigh, sits down next to you and reaches out to take your cigarette.

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