Willow sat in silence. Her eyes were turned to her notebook, closed shut on the table. Listening to everyone give her advice and support was somewhat a shock. It was strange, to be someone so unnoticed for her whole life. The first time she started getting attention was when she began expressing herself through fashion and poetry. And it was all negative, stares and whispers as if she wouldn’t hear. So many people refused to look past the goth label and get to know her, and Willow, being reserved, never got much of a chance to show her personality. But now, she was surrounded by many people who gave her affirmation, support, even acknowledged her problems. And she never even planned to open up to them. She smiled faintly, listening to everyone speak.
She looked at Jennifer, who encouraged her to follow her dreams despite her parents. Then Alissa, who chimed in in agreement. But then there was Reece, who gave her different advice. One that considered both sides. Her eyes widened as he called the group out, telling them they’re acting like her parents. She wanted to disagree, really, but she felt like she was being pressured again. But she couldn’t say that, could she? That Reece was right, even if she didn’t want to admit it. They were just trying to help her, because even though she wanted to please her parents and avoid argument, deep down she wanted to hear someone support her dream. A lawyer wasn’t a path she could see herself taking.
“Thank you, everyone,” she looked down. “I’ll think about it.” Maybe it was just a way to avoid the conversation and take attention off her. But truly, she was having second thoughts. She sighed. It wasn’t the time to be thinking about her future, when she might not even make it out alive that day.
And then, just when she thought she could avoid talking about it, Fern spoke up. Willow turned her head towards her, wide-eyed. She felt her heart speed up, her hands beginning to shake. Though she tried to convince Fern, she knew she couldn’t keep her from talking. It was her choice. Yet, Willow felt like she was to blame.
As she made eye contact with Fern, she quickly looked away. Willow took a deep breath, putting her hands under the table so they’re out of sight. She turned to Jenny, making sure she didn’t notice anything. She seemed to be looking at Fern, as she continued to speak. Willow could barely focus on the words, her heartbeat drumming in her ear.
Yet Fern seemed unaffected by fear. She came out without hesitation, in front of so many people. Alissa was the first to come out, she likely gave Fern the confidence. Or did she? Because regardless of everyone’s reactions and support, Willow still kept her mouth shut. She couldn’t make a sound. She looked at Fern, then back at Jennifer, before scanning the classroom for everyone’s reactions. Some surprised, some curious, and then everything proceeded as normal. Except for Willow, who sat frozen in her seat. She had to speak up. Staying silent would only draw suspicion to her. But what could she say?
“I agree,” she turned to Fern for a second, before darting her eyes away. “Cliques can’t define a person. They are nice to find a group of like-minded people, to bond over your similarities and interests,” Willow spoke with a cold, factual tone. Her words flowed like they were automated. She almost felt like she wasn’t present in the room. “But in the end, a label like that is limiting. Others assume without knowing you. I’m sorry you’re dealing with social anxiety. You’re so much more than people’s unfair beliefs…”
And then what? Could she really lie and say her usual, “You can talk to me if you need”? Because truly, when Fern gathered the courage to come out despite the consequences, Willow stayed silent. She said she would protect her, take the attention off Fern and let herself be a target. But now, when the time came, Willow only sat frozen and observed.
Did she really want to protect Fern, or was she just scared herself? One thing was for sure, Willow didn’t want anyone to find out it was her who Fern fell for.
@Tina.G × Jennifer Avery Boyd
@Kristi × Alissa Brian
@LunaticLeviTheSecond × Reece Saige
@Jass × Fernanda Briggs