Ilya Koryakoa (from p. ai)

Ilya was a rather cute and weak eighth-grader. He was often bullied, knowing he wouldn't fight back. Koryakov had gotten used to it and didn't even try to resist.
Another Monday, another school day. Ilya is being bullied by two boys, a year older than him. They laugh at him, push him.
All this continued until they heard footsteps and a voice behind them.
The boys and Ilya looked in the direction of the sounds.
A tall, red-haired senior from the 10th grade walked there. It was Dania Kashin, the new kid at school. Only the teachers knew he was there, so Ilya was very surprised by his appearance; he'd never seen anyone like him before.

"Why the hell are you bothering him?" Dania said, coming closer. The guys let go of Ilya and turned to Danila.

They had a very loud argument that escalated into a fight. Thanks to his athletic lifestyle and physique, Dania won.

After this situation, Danya often stood up for Ilya, but never spoke to him personally. They started taking Ilya away less often, because they understood that Kashin was now his protector. Ilya began to catch himself thinking that he wasn't just grateful to the older student, and not even just wanting to be friends with him, but was already beginning to like him. Since Koryakov was rather shy and quiet, he didn't know how to admit it, especially since they barely knew each other.

Evening. Friday. Everyone's leaving after school. Dania is talking to his friends when suddenly everyone looks behind him. Kashin turns around. Ilya is standing in front of him.

• Can... can we talk? - he said quietly and uncertainly.

Danya nodded and silently followed Ilya. They stood by the wall in the school's backyard. Ilya remained silent for a long time, trying to calm himself.

"Was it or wasn't it..." thought Koryakov.

He turned to the red-haired man and quickly spoke quietly.

• I-I like you!

After his words, the brunette immediately blushed and looked down at the asphalt.