Ella clutched her backpack tightly, her eyes scanning the rows of seats for a familiar face. As she walked down the aisle, she noticed a group of kids huddling at the back, snickering and pointing at Luca, a small boy sitting alone by the window.

Max, the ringleader of the group, leaned across the aisle, his voice loud and mocking. "Hey, Luca, did you borrow your grandma's sweater again?" The other kids erupted in laughter, their voices mingling with the hum of the bus engine.

"Leave him alone, Max. Everyone can wear what they like," Ella said firmly, her voice steady despite her racing heart. Her words hung in the air, a challenge that made Max pause, his smirk fading.

Luca glanced at Ella, a grateful smile on his face. "Thanks, Ella," he murmured, his eyes bright with relief. She nodded, sitting down beside him, feeling a sense of camaraderie and triumph.

Ella and Luca walked side by side, their footsteps in sync as they headed to class. "If they ever bother you again, just let me know," Ella said with a reassuring smile. "I will," Luca replied, confidence growing in his voice.

Ella sat at her desk, her mind reflecting on the morning's events. She felt a sense of pride, knowing she had made a difference. Her gaze drifted to Luca, his face relaxed and focused on his work. In that moment, Ella understood the power of standing up for what was right, a lesson she would carry with her always.