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【𝐒𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐎𝐍 𝟏 𝐄𝐏𝐈𝐒𝐎𝐃𝐄 𝟑】
"Cyberbullying is no laughing matter. Sending a cruel message to someone online can be just as hurtful as saying it to their face. I'm not gonna name names, but the other day, a mother called me up because her son was crying after some kids online made fun of his facial deformity."
Julianna internally winced and shut her eyes at the feeling of everyone watching her group. From under the table, she slowly reached for Eli's hand, squeezing it softly which he instantly returned.
"But today, our goal here is to make this a safe space for all students."
"You know, if you're sick of getting bullied, my karate dojo's looking for recruits." Miguel said, turning in his seat to face Eli and Julianna instantly perked up. "Oh yeah! Lexi, would you want to join?"
Before Lexi could open her mouth, Demetri spoke up sarcastically. "Oh come on. A little karate training, and you're gonna kick some major ass." Julianna rolled her eyes, leaning over the the table to face him. "We're serious, 'Metri."
"Jules is right. Our sensei's the real deal I'm sure Jules could get you all discounts." Miguel said and Julianna nodded her head.
"As enticing as that sounds, I think we'd rather spend our afternoons playing Crucible Control than getting hit in the face." Demetri said again but Lexi shook her head. "I'll join." She cheered, making both Julianna and Miguel smile and Demetri's face dropped. "Lexi!"
"Oh, and one last thing... While we're all looking forward to the Halloween dance, let's make sure our costumes are culturally sensitive. For example, instead of 'sexy nurse', maybe try 'gender-neutral hospital employee.'" The guidance counselor said, making Julianna rolled her eyes.
"Why are you mad, Jules? Gonna dress as a sexy nurse?" Demetri joked. "No, asshat. I'm going as Scarlet Witch." Demetri put a offended hand to his chest before pointing at her with his fork. "Watch the foul language my fair maiden."
"I think you'd be a good Scarlet Witch." Eli mumbled, looking to Julianna, making the girl smile widely, looking down at her plate at the feeling of her cheeks growing red.
Lexi looked up to Demetri, both of them silently cheering. Miguel grew confused, leaning over to Demetri beside him. "Why are you two cheering exactly?"
"Eli and Jules here have like each other since they were about 10. Neither of them will admit it to each other but it's pretty obvious." Demetri whispered back, quiet enough so only Miguel could hear. "Eli told me about his crush while Jules told Lexi. Lexi and I have discussed the situation at hand but never knew how to push them together."
