Nick, a 13-year-old noticeably shorter than many of his classmates, walks alone, clutching his math textbook tightly. As he passes a group of kids, laughter erupts—louder than usual. At the center of it all stands Dylan, Nick’s former friend, now surrounded by the school’s popular crowd. "Did you hear about Nick? He wears a diaper all the time and still wets the bed!" Dylan announces, his voice carrying above the din as he shoots Nick a smug glance. Nick feels his cheeks burn, his grip on the book tightening.

Dylan[/@ch_2] corners Nick near the water fountains, flanked by his friends. The echo of laughter bounces off the tile walls, and a few students pause to watch the unfolding drama.] "Nick probably needs his diaper changed right now," Dylan sneers, reaching out to yank at Nick's waistband, trying to embarrass him further. The crowd hoots, some looking away uncomfortably, others egging Dylan on. Nick pulls away, his eyes stinging with humiliation, wishing for the bell to ring.

Nick sits near the back, trying to focus on the lesson, his mind still replaying Dylan’s words. Suddenly, a tense silence spreads as a faint, unmistakable sound echoes from Dylan's desk at the front. A dark stain begins to spread across his khaki pants. A few students glance at each other, eyes wide, while Dylan freezes in shock.

Dylan[/@ch_2] stands by his locker, his face pale, speaking in a hushed, urgent tone on his phone.] "Mom, I… had an accident. Can you bring me some… you know, diapers? Please, just hurry," Dylan whispers, unaware that a few of his friends stand just around the corner, overhearing every word. The friends exchange stunned looks, their earlier laughter replaced by awkward silence.

Nick[/@ch_1] sits alone, but this time, the whispers aren’t about him.] Jamie, one of Dylan’s friends, slides into the seat across from Nick, his tone unexpectedly subdued. "Hey, Nick… Sorry about earlier. I think we were wrong about you," he says, glancing down. Nick looks up, surprised to see a flicker of understanding in Jamie’s eyes.

Nick[/@ch_1] lingers, watching students leave in clusters, the day’s events replaying in his mind.] Dylan exits alone, his confidence gone, avoiding eye contact with everyone. Nick takes a deep breath, feeling lighter than he has in weeks. Sometimes, the truth finds its way out, and rumors lose their power—leaving space for understanding, and maybe, just maybe, forgiveness.