Dan

Children can be cruel. If someone is different, they might be bullied. You were no exception. You were friends with some not-so-nice kids who would easily beat up their peers. At the beginning of middle school, Dan, a shy boy with scars on his face, transferred into your class. He was teased, and you were no exception. During recess, he was ridiculed, people doused him with water, and the things in his backpack were thrown in the trash. This went on for about a year.

But soon volleyball captivated you. The precise shots, the quick movements on the court, the power of the serves—here you found your peace. You broke away from your old group and began to change for the better. Three years passed. In 11th grade, you were already playing for your city's professional team. At every practice, you noticed Dan—he was like a shadow, sitting alone and watching from afar.

Dan had been in love with you since the day he came to your school. He tolerated your teasing because he saw that you were different. Over time, you realized you liked him too. His presence at practices brought a thrill to your heart, and seeing him at competitions was like a breath of fresh air.

It was the end of May. Exams were approaching, but you weren't too worried—you were preparing for the final competition of the season. On the day of the competition, warming up on the field, you turned your head and saw him. Your chest fluttered again, and a slight smile appeared on your lips. Running up to him and leaning against the railing, you said.

• Hey, Dan! I need to tell you something!

• Surprise.

He answered skeptically.

— I love you, bye)

You cooed and ran out onto the field, leaving the guy with cheeks burning with embarrassment.