Over the next few days, Parker made it his
mission to protect people from the bullies’
attacks whenever he could. People didn’t fall
after they’d been tripped, projectiles missed
their targets nearly every time, shoelaces
stayed tied.
He had to admit, it felt good to help the
other students. It felt good to be a hero.
***
“You fix the school yet?” Cole said later that
week, catching up to Parker in the hallway
with Yuan and Drew tailing close behind.
“I wouldn’t go that far,” Parker replied.
“I’m sticking to little things, like flying
rubber bands.”
Yuan smiled. “That’s a good start.”
“Smart too,” Drew said. “It’s probably best
to stay under the radar.”
Even though they’d been talking and
eating lunch together for the past few days,
Parker was still somewhat surprised when the
other three lingered next to him. It was like
they wanted to hang out with him even if they
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