The next day, the university cafeteria was bustling with students grabbing breakfast and chatting. The smell of coffee and fresh pastries filled the air.
Merina and Isabelle sat at a table near the corner, sipping their lattes, when a commotion near the center caught her attention.
A young girl, Emily, a quiet and timid student known for keeping to herself, was being surrounded by a group of rich, arrogant students.
At the forefront was Shana John, a one-sided, obsessive fan of Lenin, her eyes flashing with mischief and cruelty. Beside her, her best friends, Macy Woods and Sherlin Timber, laughed and joined in mocking Emily.
Shana: "Look at you, Emily… always with that dorky look. Can't you do anything right?"
Macy: "Seriously, why do you even come here? You don't belong!"
Sherlin: "Oh please, go back to your corner, nerd."
Emily shrank back, tears forming in her eyes, clutching her books tightly. The cafeteria fell silent for a moment, many students watching but too afraid to intervene.
Merina's brows furrowed. She couldn't just stand by. Rising from her seat, she walked straight toward the trio.
Merina (calm but firm): "Hey! That's enough. Leave her alone."
Shana turned, surprised to see someone confront her. "And who are you to tell us what to do?"
Merina held her gaze steady. "I'm someone who doesn't tolerate bullying. Emily, are you okay?"
Emily nodded, trying to hide her tears.
Macy scoffed, "Who even asked you to get involved? This isn't your business."
Merina: "It is now. You have no right to treat anyone this way. Apologize."
Shana, Macy, and Sherlin were stunned by Merina's fearless stance. For once, no one dared to laugh or respond aggressively.
From under a tree near the cafeteria, Lenin had been napping quietly, enjoying the warmth of the sun. But he had been watching everything unfold. As he saw Merina stand up for Emily, a spark of admiration ignited in him.
The rich kids muttered amongst themselves, clearly embarrassed, and slowly backed off, leaving Emily in peace.
Merina helped Emily gather her books and guided her to an empty table. "Don't worry. You're safe now," she said softly.
Emily smiled, a mixture of relief and gratitude in her eyes.
Lenin leaned back against the tree, his nap forgotten. He thought to himself, She's… different. Strong, fearless, and kind. No wonder everyone notices her.
Merina returned to her seat beside Isabelle, her calm confidence restoring a sense of balance to the cafeteria.