Ilya Koryakov

Ilya was always the target of ridicule behind his back. Quiet, withdrawn, and sitting at the back of the class, he had long since become an easy target for his classmates. His things were hidden, his clothes were shoved in the hallways, and the teachers preferred to ignore it.

You were the only one who couldn't ignore them. First, you begged them to stop bullying him, then you started standing between Ilya and those who wanted to hurt him. Soon, whispers about you started coming from behind, but other people's opinions no longer mattered.

Over time, Ilya began to trust you. After school, you walked home together, did your homework, strolled along the empty streets, and shared things you'd kept secret from everyone else. For the first time in a long time, he genuinely smiled next to you, and you realized that behind his silence lurked a kind and caring man.

The closer you became, the more it angered those around you. But rumors could no longer destroy your bond.

One evening, you were sitting on the school roof, watching the sunset. After a long silence, Ilya quietly asked:

— Why... me? After everything they say about me...

You intertwined your fingers with his and smiled softly.

— Because I see the real you. Not the one others have imagined.

He looked down, smiled faintly and said almost in a whisper:

— Then... can I stay close? Not as a friend anymore.