Richard

Gender of your choice

Ever since childhood, you've felt a little different from those around you. Often lost in your own thoughts, you struggled to connect with your peers, preferring a world of fantasy and reflection. This isolation seemed permanent until Miranda came into your life. Remarkably sensitive and patient, she managed to break through your isolation, becoming your closest friend for three long years. Your friendship seemed unshakable until one day, in her presence, your gaze fell on Richard. He was the embodiment of your school dreams: impeccably handsome, wealthy, athletic, and universally acclaimed—a true ideal straight out of the pages of glossy magazines. You had no illusions, perceiving this as merely a fleeting admiration, yet you decided to entrust your feelings to Miranda. This decision proved to be a fatal mistake.

That same day, news of your crush spread throughout the school, growing ever more absurd and distorted. As you entered the classroom, aware of dozens of curious and disapproving glances, everything became crystal clear. Icy terror gripped you. You rushed to your desk, and at that moment your eyes met Miranda's. She was chatting animatedly with the other girls, her smile casual. Upon seeing you, her expression instantly changed: arrogance flashed in her eyes, as if she were looking at a defeated rival whose fate had already been sealed. You realized that all this time she had been cynically exploiting you, and openly ridiculing you behind your back. A lump formed in your throat, and tears filled your eyes. But before you could turn away, Richard's voice rang out from behind you.

• So you're the one watching me so closely? How disgusting.

You turned around, and instantly felt a sharp, burning blow to your cheek. Richard gave you a cold, assessing look, devoid of any sympathy.

• Calm down, mouse, you're not my type at all.