Broken then Healed (REWRITTEN)

CHAPTER 9

A New Normal

The week passed in a blur of classes and quiet conversations, but one thing remained constant: Eric's presence. He was there every day, a steady anchor amidst the storm of whispers and rumors swirling around me.

We started to sit together during lunch, our conversations flowing easily as if we had known each other for years. He made me laugh, telling stories about his own experiences in high school—how he once got lost on a school trip and ended up exploring a local zoo instead of going to the museum. I couldn't help but appreciate his ability to turn the mundane into something entertaining.

By Thursday, I felt a sense of comfort wash over me that I hadn't felt in a long time. Eric and I spent time together between classes, and he even helped me with my homework, patiently explaining math problems that seemed to twist my mind in knots.

"Okay, so if you have this equation, you want to isolate x first," he said, leaning over my desk. His arm brushed against mine, sending a spark of warmth through me. "Remember, whatever you do to one side, you have to do to the other."

I nodded, focusing on his words. His explanations were clear, and soon, I was solving problems on my own. "I think I'm getting it!" I said, feeling a surge of accomplishment.

"See? You're a natural. Just needed a little confidence boost," he replied with that signature grin that made my heart flutter.

As the day wore on, I noticed how Eric was becoming more than just a friend; he was becoming someone I relied on. Each time I felt the weight of the rumors pressing down on me, Eric would appear, pulling me back to solid ground.

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Friday afternoon rolled around, and the sun cast a warm glow over the school as we stepped outside. Eric suggested we walk to a nearby coffee shop, and I eagerly agreed, craving some fresh air away from the stares and whispers.

"Are you ready for the weekend?" Eric asked as we strolled side by side, our footsteps falling into a comfortable rhythm.

"I think so. I'm looking forward to some time away from school," I replied, glancing at him. "What about you?"

"Same here. I was thinking of going to see that new action movie. You in?" he asked casually.

"Absolutely! I could use a good laugh and some popcorn," I said, grinning.

As we entered the coffee shop, the rich aroma of roasted beans filled the air. We ordered our drinks, and I felt a thrill when he insisted on paying for my latte.

"You really didn't have to," I protested, but he waved it off with a smile.

"I want to. Consider it a thank-you for being awesome," he said, and my cheeks flushed.

We found a cozy table by the window, and as we sipped our drinks, our conversation turned deeper. I found myself sharing more about my life—my dreams of studying art, my love for music, and how I wished I could escape the weight of my circumstances.

"You're really passionate about it," Eric observed, leaning back in his chair. "What's stopping you from pursuing art?"

I hesitated, feeling a rush of vulnerability. "I guess... I'm scared. What if I'm not good enough? What if everyone is right and I'm just the outcast?"

He leaned forward, his gaze steady. "Jane, you are so much more than that. Just because some people can't see your worth doesn't mean it isn't there. You're talented, and you deserve to chase your dreams."

His words settled over me like a warm blanket, and for the first time, I felt a flicker of hope.

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