To Capture A Heart

2.

TW: bullying, assault, fat shaming, mentions of death and suicide.

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Lisa approached the podium with trepidation. No one could have predicted that she'd have this opportunity. No, she's not the one this happens to. How was it even possible? Something within her grasp. Something that may have a noticeable impact on, everything. 

Gazing out over the sea of faces, everyone looked bored and would probably choose to be anywhere else, but they were there nonetheless. She was standing on a stage in front of the entire student body, and she felt like puking. That would be a spectacle, she was sure most of the crowd would enjoy watching her make an ass of herself. Her crisp white button up felt a little too tight around her neck. Her black slacks were digging into her waist, and the new shoes her mother bought her had caused blisters on the back of her ankles. She was starting to sweat under the heavy lights, her hair beginning to curl at her temples because of it. Lisa knew she looked terrible, and she felt stupid.

Maybe this wasn't such a good idea...

Principal Moon stepped forward and called everyone's attention. "Welcome to the final round of Wayside High's Student Council Presidential Election." The crowd gave a very lack luster cheer. 

They really took this student council thing serious. Where most schools just chose the cabinet after having the school vote, Wayside held actual debates. You had to prove yourself in front of everyone as to why you are the best for the position. 

Honestly, it was just a popularity pissing contest to establish the hierarchy. 

Lisa was at the bottom of that hierarchy. See, throughout school, she'd been bullied mercilessly. Mostly for being overweight. She had been tormented everyday since elementary school, the worst being from Irene Bae and her group of flunkies. They'd made the most noise when Lisa had advanced to the top two picks for Student Council President, beating Irene by three points. 

It was down to her, a nobody, and Im Nayeon, the acting Student Council President who wanted to continue her reign. She was acquainted with Irene's crew so Lisa knew this wouldn't be easy. When she'd applied for the role, she knew it wouldn't be a walk in the park. They had definitely made it hard for her.

After introductions and some useless talk about nothing, Principal Moon began the question and answer portion of the debate. 

"Ms. Im, if you are re-elected, what are some of your goals?" 

Nayeon stood prim at her podium with an air of confidence. Looking out over the crowd, she plastered on a megawatt smile. "As your current and future Student Council President, I will continue to lead by example. Our current members and myself have a high success rate in assisting with activities at Wayside and its surrounding community. Under our belt we have completed a variety of community service activities such as the food and book drive which had a great turn out. We organized the Under the Stars school dance that got rave reviews from the student body, and assisted with running the concession stands during home volleyball, football and basketball games. My popcorn mix recipe always sold out, making a considerable about of money for our school to make upgrades, including the installation of the new LED screen for the gymnasium. I feel that my contributions to this school and the student body have been considerable."

Loud applause rang out over the gymnasium. Lisa's stomach seized. Of course they loved her.

"Alright, now to Lisa Manobal. Lisa, if you are elected for Student Council President, what are some of your goals?"