Brook stands with her arms crossed, a look of mischief on her face as she corners a smaller girl near the edge of the sandbox. The smaller girl’s backpack is half-open, her eyes wide and uncertain. Other children watch from a distance, unsure whether to intervene.
"You better give me your snack, or else," she taunts, her tone sharp. The girl hesitates, clutching her bag tighter, and glances nervously at the watching crowd.
The bullied girl, trembling, finally finds her voice and steps back from Brook. Brook raises an eyebrow, surprised by the sudden resistance. The girl looks at her, determined, and then turns away, marching straight toward the teacher.
"Hey! Where are you going? Scaredy-cat!" Brook calls after her, but this time, the girl doesn’t flinch.
The girl’s voice is quiet at first, but grows stronger as she tells the teacher what happened. The teacher’s eyes soften with understanding, and she nods encouragingly. Other children peek from behind classroom doors, curious about the commotion.
Brook lingers nearby, arms folded, her confidence fading as she sees the teacher’s serious expression.
Brook[/@ch_1] and the bullied girl sit across from the principal.]
Brook squirms in her seat, unable to meet anyone’s gaze. The principal speaks calmly, explaining the importance of kindness and the harm that bullying causes. Brook listens, cheeks flushed, and glances at the girl beside her.
"I... I’m sorry," she finally murmurs, her voice small but sincere. The other girl nods, accepting the apology, but her posture remains strong and proud.
Brook[/@ch_1] stands at a distance, watching.]
As she watches, Brook sees the girl lean over to comfort another child who looks upset. She speaks up, encouraging her new friend to stand tall. The energy at the table shifts, growing more inclusive and warm.
Brook realizes the power of standing up for oneself—not just for the bullied, but for everyone around.
Brook[/@ch_1], changed by the day’s events, approaches the group from earlier.]
She hesitates, then offers a small, hopeful smile. The girl who stood up to her waves her over, and Brook joins the group, laughter and conversation welcoming her in. From that day on, she learns the importance of kindness, and together, they help others find the courage to stand up for themselves.
