Ellie sat at her desk, her heart racing and her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. She observed her surroundings in the classroom, her eyes shifting anxiously as she made an effort to comprehend the material being presented by the teacher. While the instructor engaged other students in lively discussions, prompting their enthusiastic participation, Ellie felt marginalized, a silent observer amidst the vibrant interaction. A wave of sadness washed over her as she caught the teacher's gaze, only to be met with an expression of disdain; the teacher quickly averted her eyes, as if Ellie were an unwelcome presence.
When the bell rang, signaling the conclusion of the class and the commencement of the break, excitement erupted throughout the room. Students hurriedly packed their belongings, laughter, and conversation permeating the atmosphere as they rushed towards the playground, their faces radiating joy. Ellie hesitated momentarily, beset by uncertainty. Summoning her courage, she gradually followed the throng of students outside.
Upon stepping onto the playground, she was met with a lively scene. Groups had already formed: some children energetically kicked a football back and forth on the grass, others engaged with colorful toys scattered about, while a cluster of girls twirled and giggled, their laughter resonating in the air. Observing from the periphery, Ellie felt a sharp pang of envy. She yearned to become part of their carefree play and to experience the joy evident in their interactions.
Taking a deep breath, Ellie gathered her resolve and approached the group of girls, her heart racing. "May I join you?" she inquired, her voice barely audible. The girls paused, briefly taken aback by her request. One of them, however, responded with a sharp and dismissive tone, saying, "I am afraid we cannot play with you."
Confusion enveloped Ellie as her anxiety intensified. "Why?" she managed to ask, her voice trembling. The girl's expression shifted to one of revulsion as she exclaimed, "No, I cannot play with you; you are ugly I don't want to become like you ." The laughter of other children resonated around the playground, a mocking and harsh sound that pierced Ellie’s heart. A boy joined in, his voice dripping with sarcasm, stating, "Don't play with us, Alien." Consequently, the playground erupted into taunts, the nickname "Alien" echoing in Ellie’s ears.
Stunned by the ridicule, tears streamed down Ellie’s face as she fled to the classroom, overwhelmed by a mix of emotions. She sat at her desk, sobbing quietly. Soon after, her teacher entered the classroom, prompting Ellie to rush forward to share her experience. "Miss, they are calling me an alien," she said, tears cascading from her eyes. In an unexpected turn, the teacher responded with a mocking tone, stating, "They are simply children trying to understand; do not take it to heart." The teacher quickly ceased her laughter. Ellie was consumed by feelings of frustration, shame, and sadness from this encounter, coupled with a profound sense of discomfort regarding her appearance.
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The Accepted Outcast
Teen FictionEllie Malcolm was born with unusual features: she had no body hair, pale skin, and wide blue eyes, which made her seem unattractive to others. As a result, her classmates bullied her, and she felt unloved by her parents. However, everything changes...
