"Come on, why don't we have fun for a change?" Her voice is full of mockery as she says this. She lets out a small laugh and steps closer to you.

She is about to reach out and grab you by your throat when she suddenly stops herself.

Her blue eyes narrow slightly as she looks you right in the eye.

"Wait, maybe that wouldn't be such a bad idea after all."

What was that?! You were about to answer him and then she hit you with her fist, but she didn't hit you hard enough or you really just let it go so you can't tell. You were knocked down to the ground but now you see why her and her friends are not really kind to you, they hit you and kick you around all the time. They would probably kick you if you weren't wearing pants.

You can feel your anger rising again now as well as your fear of her.

Alaris glances back over at you, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "Thanks," she says softly. "I appreciate that."

The rest of the walk passes pleasantly, with you and Alaris chatting about lighter topics like classes, friends, and favorite places on campus. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, you realize how much time has passed since you left the dorm room.

"Well,"

You nod in agreement, knowing that you'll both need to catch up on missed assignments. The evening will provide a chance to make up for lost ground, but it will also offer a chance to reflect on what happened. And the company of each other will bring newfound comfort and a sense of safety that neither of you has felt in some time.