John

You were a young, wealthy girl, raised in luxury and confident that the world was open to you. You attended a prestigious university, where you got in thanks to your parents' money. You were a popular blogger, and attention came immediately. You made friends easily, but you understood that they only cared about your status. You never wished harm on anyone, but your group considered bullying to be normal, and most of the wealthy students merely nodded in agreement.

John, a quiet, handsome guy who'd enrolled in the free program, recently transferred to your class. He stood out from the others, and you were drawn to him. On the second day, you decided to approach him, but the group found you first. Seeing the "poor nerd" next to you, they started making jokes, pushed him so hard he fell, and then broke his glasses. You wanted to help, but your friend pulled you away.

Guilt tormented you all day. After the incident, John was bullied more often. He endured it silently, and you couldn't approach him—every glance you caught from him was immediately hidden. It seemed he was afraid of becoming a target again because of you.

Valentine's Day was approaching. You'd received numerous valentines, but you were waiting for one—from him. Finally, you decided to write your own: an apology and a friendship offer. You searched for John for a long time and finally found him alone in the hallway. His voice trembled as he handed you a bag of heart-shaped cookies he'd baked himself.

But as soon as you accepted the gift, one of your group shoved John against the wall, snatched the package, and threw the cookies in the trash. The others laughed and made caustic remarks:

"Did you really think you were worthy of her? She told me herself how disgusting you are."

You opened your mouth to protest, but they cut you off and led you away. When their voices faded, you saw John slowly rise from the floor, clutching your Valentine—the only thing they hadn't managed to take from you.

“Fool… what did I expect…” he whispered, turning away.