(FPE)Fundamental Paper Education x Reader

『••13.5: Engel••』

Manipulation can be seen if you try harder enough to see lol
Short Chapter:3

『••✎••』

[Y]'s Pov

The next class is History, and the atmosphere feels heavy with the weight of unspoken words. I try to focus on the lesson, but my mind keeps wandering back to Engel and the secrets Claire is keeping. I glance at Claire, hoping for some silent reassurance, but she's lost in her own thoughts.

As the bell rings, signaling the end of the period, I gather my things and head towards the cafeteria. The usual chatter of students fills the air, but I can't shake the feeling of unease. I spot Bubble at a table near the window, animatedly discussing something with Ms. Sasha.

"Hey, Bubble!" I call out, making my way over to them.

Bubble turns to me, a bright smile on her face. "Hey, [Y]! Come join us."

I slide into a seat, glancing at Ms. Sasha, who gives me a warm nod. "How's it going?" I ask, trying to sound casual.

"Good! Ms. Sasha was just helping me with some math problems," Bubble explains.

Ms. Sasha gives me a knowing look. "How are you holding up, [Y]? I heard about Engel."

I sigh, feeling the weight of the situation settle on my shoulders again. "It's tough. I wish I knew what happened."

Ms. Sasha places a comforting hand on my shoulder. "Sometimes, people need time to process things on their own. But remember, being there for your friend, even if you don't know all the details, is just as important."

I nod, appreciating her words. As we finish lunch, I decide to visit Engel at home after school. Maybe seeing a friendly face will help him open up.

The rest of the day drags on, each class feeling longer than the last. Finally, the final bell rings, and I make my way to Engel's house, my heart pounding with anticipation.

When I arrive, I take a deep breath and knock on the door. After a few moments, Engel's mother opens it, her face lighting up when she sees me.

"Hello, [Y]! Engel's in his room. He'll be glad to see you," she says, stepping aside to let me in.

I make my way upstairs, pausing outside Engel's door before knocking lightly. "Engel? It's [Y]. Can I come in?"

There's a brief silence before I hear his voice, quieter than usual. "Yeah, come in."

I open the door and step inside. Engel is sitting on his bed, his arm in a sling and a bruise visible on his cheek. He looks up at me, his expression a mix of relief and guilt.

"Hey," I say softly, closing the door behind me. "How are you feeling?"

Engel shrugs, avoiding my gaze. "I've been better."

I sit down beside him, trying to read his emotions. "Engel, I'm worried about you. Claire said you made her promise not to tell me what happened. But we're friends. You can trust me."

He sighs, his shoulders slumping. "It's complicated, [Y]. I got into a fight, but it's not something I want to drag you into."

I place a hand on his good shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "You don't have to go through this alone. Whatever it is, we can face it together."

Engel finally meets my gaze, his eyes filled with a mixture of fear and gratitude. "I got into a fight with someone... someone dangerous. They threatened me, and I didn't want to put you or Claire at risk."

My heart aches for him, understanding the weight he's been carrying alone. "We're already at risk by not knowing what's going on. Let us help you."

He hesitates for a moment before nodding, tears welling up in his eyes. "Okay. I'll tell you everything."

As Engel begins to recount the events leading up to his injury, I listen intently, my resolve to help him growing stronger with every word. No matter what, we'll get through this together.

『••✎••』

Gloom ain't a love interest no more, let's pretend that she broke up with Lana and Abbie. Lana and Abbie are still a love interest 💅