Whole Again

I had always been, and always will be, the laughing stock. Ever since I was a young boy, kids picked on me. I never knew why. Maybe it was because I wore thick black glasses. Or maybe it was because I prioritized my needs before making friends. Or maybe it was because I was ugly. All of these were valid reasons. But I never found out the truth until a few days ago.

I was walking through the halls when I tripped over my shoelace in the hallway. I landed on my nose. In an instant, laughs surrounded me. I felt cornered. Isolated. Alone.

“Are you okay?”

I look up to find the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. She had long brown curls and eyes greener than the grass. She holds out a hand and helps me up.

“Yeah, I’m okay.”

“Your nose is bleeding.”

“I know.”

She smiles a smile warmer than the sun and her eyes sparkle. “I’m Amanda.”

“I’m Adam.”

“Nice to meet you, Adam.”

Being from a childhood with no friends, I didn’t know what to think.

“You, too, Amanda.”

I glance around me to find everyone staring at us. Probably wondering why someone so cool was with such a loser.

“Want me to walk you to the nurse?”

I mean, was I dreaming?

“If you don’t mind.”

“Not at all.”

We walk in silence for a few moments. And then I can hear her sigh.

“I’m sorry, Adam.”

“For what?”

“Those kids are mean to you, aren’t they? They were laughing.”

We stop walking and face each other.

“They’re not that mean.”

“Adam.”

“Yeah?”

“From now on, you’re with me.”

I wanted to pump my fists in the air and scream in happiness. But I just smile a crooked smile and nod, and we continue walking.

When we get to the nurses office, Amanda follows me into the room.

“I’m gonna go now, okay? But you come find me during lunch and I’d love to sit with you.”

I purse my lips and nod.

She walks away, and for the first time in forever, my heart lets someone in.