Bound by Fate (QTOEY)

Chapter 3: A New Target

The next morning, Toey arrived at school with a heavy heart, dreading another day of Q's torment. He walked through the halls, his eyes downcast, hoping to avoid any attention. However, Q had made it clear that he wasn't going to let up. As Toey reached his locker, he found his books scattered on the floor, covered in scribbles and torn pages. He sighed deeply and began to gather his belongings, trying to remain calm.

As he bent down to pick up his books, Q and his gang approached, their footsteps echoing in the empty hallway. Q leaned against a locker, arms crossed, watching Toey with a smirk. "Having trouble, Toey?" he asked, his voice dripping with mockery.

Toey didn't respond, focusing on picking up his books. Q's gang members laughed, enjoying the show. "Come on, Toey. Don't be shy. Tell us how you're feeling," one of them taunted.

Just as Toey was about to stand up, Q kicked one of the books out of his hand, sending it skidding across the floor. "Oops," Q said with a chuckle. "Guess you're going to have to work a little harder."

Toey clenched his fists, his frustration growing. He knew he couldn't fight back physically, but he couldn't let Q walk all over him either. "Why are you doing this?" he asked, his voice shaking with a mix of anger and fear. "I haven't done anything to you."

Q's smirk widened. "Because it's fun," he said simply. "And because I can." He leaned in closer, his expression turning serious. "Remember, Toey, you're in my world now. And in my world, you follow my rules."

Toey took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. He picked up his last book and stood up, facing Q. "I won't let you break me," he said quietly but firmly.

Q raised an eyebrow, surprised by Toey's defiance. "We'll see about that," he replied, stepping back. "But I have to admit, I admire your spirit. It's going to be fun breaking it."

The bell rang, signaling the start of the first class. Toey walked away, his heart pounding. He knew the day would be long and challenging, but he was determined to endure. He couldn't let Q see how much he was affecting him.

Throughout the day, Q continued his torment. He knocked Toey's books off his desk in class, tripped him in the hallway, and spread more false rumors about him. Toey's classmates avoided him, not wanting to become targets themselves. The isolation was suffocating, but Toey tried to focus on his studies, finding solace in the familiar routine of schoolwork.

During lunch, Toey found a quiet corner in the library, hoping to escape Q's attention. As he sat down to eat, he noticed a girl watching him from a nearby table. She had kind eyes and a gentle smile. "Hi," she said softly, walking over to him. "Mind if I sit here?"

Toey looked up, surprised by her friendliness. "Sure," he replied, grateful for the company. "I'm Toey."

"I'm Mai," she introduced herself, sitting down. "I've seen what Q and his gang have been doing to you. I'm sorry you have to go through that."

Toey shrugged, trying to downplay his feelings. "It's okay. I'll manage."

Mai shook her head. "No, it's not okay. But you're strong for enduring it." She smiled encouragingly. "If you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here."

For the first time since he arrived at the school, Toey felt a glimmer of hope. He wasn't completely alone. He thanked Mai and they talked for a while, sharing stories and getting to know each other. The connection was a small but significant comfort in the midst of his turmoil.

The rest of the day passed in a blur of classes and Q's relentless bullying. But Toey held onto the brief moment of kindness he had experienced with Mai, using it as a source of strength. As he walked home, he reminded himself that he wasn't entirely alone. He had found a friend, and that made all the difference.

As the sun set, Toey prepared for the challenges that awaited him. He knew Q wouldn't stop, but he was determined to stand his ground. With a renewed sense of determination, he vowed to endure whatever came his way.