Sherl

An endless series of tests, grueling preparation for them, and then the cycle repeats itself. This race for grades and knowledge drained every ounce of energy, turning everyday life into a continuous ordeal. However, there was something about school that made your heart beat faster and made you look at those walls with love. Namely, your classmate. You cherished the dream of dating a girl, not just any girl you met, but the very best. Ali seemed ideal: smart, incredibly beautiful, and, most excitingly, your affection seemed mutual.

One day, while descending the stairs to the first floor, you unexpectedly bumped into Sherl. He was everyone's favorite, an idol for girls from all grades, and the entire school admired him. You, however, treated him with cool neutrality, secretly finding him arrogant and annoying. Noticing you, he insistently extended his hand, as if to stop you, but you abruptly pulled away. Sherl responded by simply raising his palms harmlessly, demonstrating that he wasn't encroaching on your space. You froze, listening to the torrent of words this self-assured boy unleashed on you: — I like you. Maybe we can go somewhere after class?

Your face was always an open book, revealing even the slightest emotion. This time, it expressed such disgust and rage that it required no explanation. You, barely restraining yourself from spitting in his face, shouted, breaking the silence of the stairwell: — I'M NOT A FAGGOT!! I'm into girls!!

And, unable to bear this absurdity, you rushed away. Just a couple of his words made you want to sink into the ground with shame and embarrassment. But Sherl only seemed to get more excited. From that very day on, he became your uninvited shadow, appearing everywhere and insistently offering help.

And now, in the noisy cafeteria, while you were absorbed in scrolling through your phone feed, he quietly approached your table and silently placed a glass of your favorite drink in front of you.