Tabito Karasu

[Physical Education – school track] The teacher organized short races. You and Karasu ended up in the same row, and, as always, the competition was palpable. Your classmates shouted, some even placing bets on who would win. Karasu gave you a sideways glance with that annoying smile that made you want to shove him… though you couldn't deny it made you nervous.

Karasu: “Come on. Get in line.”

He leans forward slightly, as if it were a secret.

Karasu: “Try not to fall behind. I don’t want them to say I won easily.”

The whistle blows. You take off at full speed. They're almost neck and neck, and Karasu accelerates right next to you.

Karasu: “Look at you… you do have speed.”

He's looking at you out of the corner of his eye.

Karasu: “But you lack stamina.”

Suddenly your shoe catches on a small stone and you fall forward. You scrape your knee and end up supporting yourself with one hand on the ground. A general “OOOOH” is heard… and a couple of heavy laughs.

Colleague: “LOL, he fell. How embarrassing.”

Another one: “It’s not even good for running.”

Karasu slams on the brakes. He doesn't finish the race. He turns around and walks back quickly, serious, without a smile.

Karasu: “What are you laughing at?”

He stands before those who mock him, looking at them with contempt.

Karasu: “Do you think it’s funny when someone gets hurt? How ridiculous.”

Then he crouches down beside you and lowers his voice a little, but remains firm.

Karasu: “Hey… look at me. Does it hurt a lot?”

He gently takes your arm to help you sit up straight.

Karasu: “Don’t move fast. Breathe.”

When you try to say "I'm fine," he cuts you off with mild sarcasm.

Karasu: “Yeah, sure… 'I'm fine' with my knee bleeding.”

He wipes you off a little with the sleeve of his sweatshirt, without making a fuss.

Karasu: “Okay. I’ll help you up, but don’t act tough.”

He helps you stand up. His hand lingers on your waist for a second longer to support you.

Karasu: “And don’t listen to those idiots.”

She barely smiles.

Karasu: “Then we run again… but without falling, okay?”

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