The schoolyard was a battlefield, buzzing with anticipation. At the center stood two figures, Salish and Woods, both determined and ready to fight.

Their eyes locked, and without a word, the fight began. Woods launched at Salish, who swiftly dodged his attack.

She retaliated with a quick jab, but Woods blocked it, pushing her back. The crowd gasped as Salish stumbled.

However, Salish regained her footing. She charged at Woods, but he was ready and sidestepped her attack.

Woods responded with a swift kick, catching Salish off guard. She let out a yelp as she fell to the ground.

The crowd went silent as Salish tried to get up but winced in pain. She had injured her arm and ankle.

The teacher rushed over, ending the fight. Woods was declared the winner. Salish was taken to the nurse's office.

Salish's injuries were severe. She was told she wouldn't be able to return to school until the last day of 4th grade.

She was also advised to stay at home and rest. This meant Salish would miss out on a lot of school activities.

Salish was devastated. She loved school and her friends. The idea of staying at home was unbearable for her.

Her parents tried to cheer her up. They promised to get her favorite books and games to keep her occupied.

But Salish was not interested. She couldn't shake off the sadness. The days at home seemed to drag on endlessly.

Her friends visited her occasionally, bringing her homework and sharing school stories. But it wasn't the same.

The weeks turned into months. Salish's injuries were healing, but her spirit seemed to be broken.

One day, Salish's mom brought her a surprise. It was a diary. She encouraged Salish to write her feelings.

Salish began to write. She wrote about the fight, her injuries, her loneliness. And as she wrote, she started to feel better.

She wrote about her dreams, her hopes for the future. She wrote about the day she would return to school.

As Salish wrote, she discovered a new passion. She loved writing. It became her escape from the loneliness.

Finally, the day arrived. Salish was ready to return to school. She was excited but also a bit nervous.

As she entered the schoolyard, she was greeted by her friends. They were excited to see her. She was back!

Salish was happy to be back. She joined her friends, laughing and sharing stories. It felt like she had never left.

She saw Woods across the yard. He nodded at her, a silent acknowledgement. Salish returned the nod. The past was the past.

Salish was stronger now, not just physically but also emotionally. She had learned to face adversity and overcome it.

She had discovered a new passion in writing. And she had learned the value of resilience and determination.

And so, Salish returned to her normal life but with a stronger spirit and a new hobby. Her journey had just begun.