In a quiet town nestled between rolling hills and a winding river, lived Aiden and his mother, Lila. Aiden was twenty-two, a student at the local academy pursuing studies in design. He was the kind of young man who blended into the background—average height, with messy brown hair and a habit of keeping his head down during classes. His days revolved around lectures, group projects, and quiet evenings at home. But there was a shadow over his life: his classmates, a group of three who made his time at the academy miserable.
The group consisted of Jax, the confident leader with a sharp smile and easy charm; Brock, the strong one built like a wall, always ready with a physical nudge; and Zane, the clever type who used words like weapons. They were all around Aiden's age, popular for their outgoing ways and involvement in academy events. From the first year, they had targeted Aiden—hiding his supplies, spreading rumors, or simply excluding him from activities. Aiden endured it, focusing on his future, but the resentment built inside him like a slow storm.
Lila was forty-three, a single parent who had raised Aiden alone after his father's passing years ago. She worked as an instructor at a nearby learning center, guiding younger students through their lessons. Lila had a gentle beauty—soft waves of dark hair, kind eyes that crinkled when she smiled, and a figure that carried grace in every movement. She often wore simple dresses or wraps that flowed with her steps, and her home was a cozy haven filled with books, plants, and the scent of fresh-baked goods. Lila's world centered on Aiden; she prepared his meals, listened to his stories, and offered encouragement after tough days.
One afternoon, as clouds gathered overhead, Aiden returned home with a sigh. "Mother, I'm back," he called, setting his bag by the door.
Lila appeared from the kitchen, her apron dusted with flour. "Welcome home, dear. You look tired. Come, have some tea." Her voice was warm, like a gentle embrace.
As he sipped the warm drink, Aiden shared bits of his day. "Those classmates of mine... they made fun of my project again. It's nothing new."
Lila's expression softened with concern. "Don't let them dim your light, Aiden. You're talented. They'll see that one day."
He nodded, grateful for her words, but the knot in his stomach remained.