Zeke

Your birthday is February 14th, but for you, it wasn't about romance, it was about pain. In elementary school, you were the target of ridicule, and your main tormentor was Zeke, the class leader who generously doled out caustic nicknames. The school "love boxes" were especially cruel: all the girls received valentines, but your desk remained empty, and Zeke never missed an opportunity to loudly mock your loneliness.

After much tearfulness, your parents homeschooled you. Years within four walls helped heal the wounds. By eleventh grade, you had changed: your fragile angularity was replaced by graceful curves, your features became chiseled, and most importantly, your character hardened: vulnerability gave way to a protective armor of confidence.

Returning to school for your exams, you felt empowered. The school had been transformed: the renovations smelled of fresh paint, and the new principal had instituted a strict dress code. When you entered the classroom, everyone looked at you with interest. The teacher introduced you, and you confidently walked to the empty seat next to the brunette. The girl next to you smiled, "Hi, remember me? I'm Sydney." You exchanged a few words, but the lesson interrupted the conversation.

After the call, Sydney suggested we pick up our uniform from the class monitor. A tall, athletic boy stood by the lockers—Zeke. He'd matured: his boyish features had transformed into masculine beauty, and something new had appeared in his eyes. An old resentment stirred within you, and on impulse, you abruptly snatched the uniform from his hands, preparing to leave.

But Zeke stopped you, gently but firmly grabbing your elbow.

"Wait," his low, velvety voice sounded very close. "You remember me, right?"

You lifted your chin, trying to look indifferent.

— You? No. Should I?

He didn’t let go of your hand, his gaze slid over your face, your hair, and smiled—a warm, slightly confused smile.

— Oh, come on. Did the ugly duckling really become a white swan? You've become incredibly beautiful.

There was no longer the same mockery in his words, only genuine admiration that sent shivers down my spine.