2.04

“Nobody likes her,” Julia stated, initiating another round of insults aimed at me, Taylor. I was cornered by Emma, Madison, Sophia, and six other girls, a daily ritual of torment I’d endured for a year and a half. Their words, a mix of contradictions and cruelties, were designed to break me down. Mr. Gladly, my supposed advocate, walked away, leaving me to their mercy.

If this were a fight between guys, I might have stood a chance. But girls fought dirty, and Emma, the ringleader, was untouchable. Any retaliation would only make things worse. They were running out of steam until Emma stepped forward. “What’s the matter, Taylor? You look upset,” she said, her words a calculated blow. “So upset you’re going to cry yourself to sleep for a straight week?”

Her words struck a nerve, dredging up the memory of my mother’s death. Emma, once my best friend, had weaponized my vulnerability. A tear escaped, and Madison mocked me. Sophia snatched my backpack, but I didn’t fight back. I shoved through the crowd and fled, leaving behind my soaked textbook and art midterm.

My primary concern was escaping. I wouldn’t break my promise not to use my powers on them. That was a line I refused to cross. The long-term ramifications weren’t worth it. Besides, I needed to keep my two worlds separate. What was the point of escapism if my superhero life was tainted by these bullies?

As I ran, I wondered how I’d fill my afternoon, the thought of returning to school a distant concern.