"Yes… if Eleanor really loves Mateo, maybe Olivia is being too harsh," another student said uncertainly.
But Olivia did not panic. She let her sobs grow louder, clutching her pen tightly in her hand. She stood up suddenly, her chair scraping loudly against the floor.
"I cannot take this bullying anymore!" Olivia cried, her voice breaking, yet strong enough to fill the room.
The class flinched at her words, and Eleanor froze, her mouth half open.
Olivia pointed at Eleanor, her hand trembling.
"When did I ever say you cannot date Mateo? When did I ever stop you? I only asked you why you did not tell me about it. I only asked why my best friend hid it from me. Is that too much to ask? Is it bullying if I expect honesty from you?"
Her voice cracked again, and her sobs grew harsher. The entire classroom felt their hearts twist. Many lowered their heads, unable to look at her red eyes.
