Mira adjusted her thin-framed glasses, weaving through the crowd with practiced ease, her long dark auburn hair catching hints of gold as she moved. Despite her popularity, a sense of detachment lingered—she smiled and waved, but her eyes often drifted, searching for something more genuine than the usual eager glances from boys. As she reached her locker, a small commotion caught her attention near the entrance, where a new student stepped inside with quiet confidence.
Mira watched as Kai calmly navigated the crowd, her posture straight and steps unhurried. When a boy tried to cut in front of her, Kai stopped, met his eyes, and waited silently until he moved aside. Mira felt a spark of admiration, realizing there was something different about the way Kai commanded respect without demanding attention.
"You really don’t let anyone push you around, do you?""I just believe in treating people the way I want to be treated. If someone wants my attention, they should show the same respect I give them," Kai replied, her voice gentle but firm. "It's so different from how most people act here. Sometimes guys just... assume things,""Then remind them what you’re worth. Hold them to a standard—it's not just about you, but about helping them grow up to be better people."
"It’s not about making guys do things for you," Kai explained as she opened the door for Mira. "It’s about showing that you deserve basic courtesy, just like anyone else.""But what if they think I’m being demanding?""If respect is too much to ask for, maybe they’re not the kind of friend or boyfriend you need."
"Guys still seem drawn to you, or to me. When they don't look past the surface, I don’t get it," Mira admitted, her green eyes searching. "It’s not just about self-respect. When you expect—and show—good behavior, it comes from a place of love and caring about helping others to become the best version of themselves, too. Maybe that kindness is what people are really drawn to," Kai answered, her eyes warm with understanding.
With Kai at her side, Mira greets her classmates, meeting eyes with a calm assurance. When a boy tries to cut in line or speak over her, she stands her ground, expecting courtesy—and receiving it. The atmosphere shifts, subtle but real, as others notice the change. "Thank you, Kai. I think I finally get it," Mira smiled, her voice steady. "You just had to remember what you’re worth all along," Kai replied, and together, they moved forward—wiser, stronger, and ready to demand the respect they deserved.
