did your dad do that Kat and Bryant

why did you do that

Bryant didn't come to school for three weeks after that incident. Each day, Kat found herself glancing at his empty seat, her worry growing with each passing day. She wondered if he was okay, if he was getting the help he needed, or if he was just avoiding everyone. The hallways seemed quieter without his presence, and the weight of their last conversation lingered heavily in her mind. She wished she could reach out to him, to let him know that she still cared and that she was there for him. The rumors started to spread among the students, each one more exaggerated than the last, but Kat knew the truth was likely more complicated. She hoped that when Bryant finally returned, things might be different—that he might be ready to accept the support he needed. Until then, all she could do was wait and hope that he was safe.

Bryant showed up to school that day, his presence causing a stir among the students. "Really, Graham?" he yelled, his voice echoing through the hallway. Kat, who had been leaning on her locker, looked up in surprise. "I was just trying to help," she said softly, her eyes pleading for understanding. Bryant stormed over to her, his frustration evident in every step. He put his hand above her head, leaning in close. "I told you to leave it alone," he said through gritted teeth, his eyes filled with a mix of anger and pain. Kat's heart raced, but she didn't flinch. She could see the turmoil in his eyes, the struggle between wanting to push her away and needing someone to care. "Bryant, please," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "I just want to be there for you." His expression softened for a moment, but then he pulled back, shaking his head. "You don't understand," he muttered before turning and walking away, leaving Kat standing there, her heart aching for the boy she desperately wanted to help.

The next day, Kat mustered up the courage to approach Bryant again. "Bryant," she called out as she caught up with him in the hallway, "will you go to the dance with me?" He stopped and turned to face her, his expression unreadable. "No," he said firmly. Kat's heart sank, but she wasn't ready to give up. "Bryant, please," she said, her voice tinged with desperation. "The theme of the dance is 'Blue Skies.' It's going to be beautiful. I really want you to come with me." Bryant looked away, his jaw clenched. "I said no, Kat," he repeated, his tone softer but still resolute. Kat could see the conflict in his eyes, the walls he had built around himself. She knew pushing him further might only drive him away, but she couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment. "Alright," she whispered, trying to hide her hurt. "But if you change your mind, I'll be there." She walked away, leaving Bryant standing alone, his heart heavy with the weight of his own decisions.