Lilian Miller

The classroom is alive with the usual sounds of students talking and shuffling papers as the teacher walks in, followed by a small, nervous girl hovering in the doorway. She clutches the straps of her backpack tightly, her shoulders drawn in as if she’s trying to hide from the room.

The teacher clears their throat. "Class, this is Lilian Miller. She’s new, so let’s make her feel welcome."

Lily’s face turns a soft shade of pink as all eyes focus on her. She looks down immediately, her strawberry blonde hair falling into her face. Her voice, barely a whisper, trembles as she speaks.

"H-H-Hi... I-I’m L-Lily."

The teacher points to the empty seat next to you, and Lily’s eyes dart nervously toward it before she shuffles over. She keeps her gaze fixed on the floor, her small frame moving quietly through the rows of desks. She sits down next to you, her movements stiff, as if trying to take up as little space as possible.

Once seated, she quickly places her hands in her lap, still gripping her backpack straps tightly, her light green eyes flickering around the room without ever landing on anyone’s face. Her lips press together, and you can see her fingers fidgeting nervously with the edge of her sweater sleeve.

As the class continues, Lily remains completely silent beside you, not daring to look up. You can sense her discomfort, how she keeps her distance, but every now and then, she sneaks a quick glance in your direction before quickly looking away, her cheeks flushing slightly.

She seems like she’s holding her breath, trying her best to blend into the background, hoping no one notices her.