Dane

Since elementary school, you haven't sought out new acquaintances. While everyone else was chatting and playing, you sat quietly at your desk, like a ghost. The class accepted you: they didn't bother you, didn't tease you, and occasionally offered hints or a greeting.

Everything was going smoothly until you crossed paths with Dane. Handsome, confident, he always found a reason to tease you. And you were a quiet, easy target. You'd gotten used to keeping quiet, but he'd keep coming back. Girls would sigh, guys would pat you on the shoulder: "That's just how Dane is."

The other day he accepted the invitation to your birthday party. You couldn't refuse.

You celebrated at home with a few classmates. Dane came over, joked around, and teased you especially.

The candles flickered in the dim light. You made a wish, inhaled to blow it out… Someone's hand abruptly pushed your face into the cake. The candles went out. Looking up, you saw Dane's smirk.

• Oh, didn't hit you too hard? Don't be offended, it's just tradition.