Ethan, the notorious school bully, leans against a locker, arms crossed, a smirk plastered on his face. His jacket is unzipped, revealing a shirt with a faded logo. Lucas, a slender boy with thick glasses and a stack of books clutched to his chest, scurries past, eyes fixed on the floor.
"Watch where you're going, four-eyes," Ethan calls out, sending a ripple of laughter through his friends.
"Sorry, Ethan," Lucas mutters, cheeks flushing as he hurries away, but his gaze lingers just a moment longer on Ethan than necessary.
Lucas sits alone at a table, methodically arranging his notes for the science fair. He glances up when Ethan enters, looking uncharacteristically hesitant.
"You’re good at this science stuff, right? I need help so I don’t flunk," Ethan says, shifting his weight awkwardly.
"I can help, but you have to promise not to make fun of me anymore," Lucas replies, a flicker of hope in his voice.
Lucas and Ethan sit together for the first time, a tray laden with burgers, fries, and milkshakes between them. Lucas pushes a second burger toward Ethan.
"You should try this, it's amazing. Science says we all need to indulge sometimes," Lucas teases, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Guess I can make an exception," Ethan grins, taking a big bite, a little surprised by how much he’s enjoying Lucas’s company.
Ethan and Lucas are inseparable, sharing lunches and laughter. Other students whisper and stare, but neither seems to care.
"You know, I never thought I’d say this, but I like who I am with you," Ethan confesses as they share a chocolate cake in the empty cafeteria after school.
"You’re more than what people think—so much more," Lucas replies, reaching across the table to squeeze Ethan’s hand.
Ethan, now noticeably heavier but radiating confidence, enters with Lucas by his side. The room quiets for a moment, then erupts in cheers as they walk in, hand in hand.
"Never thought I’d be the guy to fall for the nerd," Ethan whispers, a genuine smile spreading across his face.
"And I never thought I’d fall for the bully," Lucas laughs, pulling him onto the dance floor, both finally at ease in their own skin.