A/N: The song on top will be referenced later on. There are 3 more but I can't put them because Wattpad is stupid. Why that one specifically and not another one? Simple, the mod it comes from is underrated and I want you to knowledge it. Now enjoy!
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Day 3

Another day passes and it's time for the club meeting already. I've gotten a little more comfortable over a couple of days. Entering the clubroom, the usual scene greets me

Bandu: Howdy, Y/N!

You: Hey Bandu, looks like you're in a good mood today

Bandu: Hehe, I'm still not used to you being in the club. That's all

You: I see...it's pretty simple to get you in a good mood. I guess it's always the simple things with you anyway

Bandu: Speaking of which, I'm kinda hungry...will you come with me to buy some candies?

Hell no, I'm not gonna fall for this again!

You: No thanks...

Bandu: Huh?! But you always want to get candies with me!

You: I have my reasons. Why don't we take a look at your wallet?

Bandu: Why that?

You: I just want to look at it

Bandu: ...

Bandu nervously takes his wallet. He opens it and turns it upside-down, letting the content fall on the desk. Only two small coins fall out

Bandu: Uhm hehehe...

You: I knew it

Bandu: How did you know?

You: It's simple: if you had enough money in the first place you would have bought some candies before coming to the clubroom. So either you're not hungry and wanted an excuse to float around, or you planned to forget that you spent all of your money so that I would lend you some. But there's one more thing: you ALWAYS crave for candies! And that leaves one option

Bandu: Hmph! Don't make me feel guityyy!

You: If you feel guilty it means you deserve to

Dave: Hehehe...

Dave suddenly giggles. Was he listening at us all the time?! His face has always been in his book...

Dave: E-eh?! I wasn't listening! It was just...something in my book!

Bandu: Daveee...tell Y/N to borrow me some money...

Dave: What-?! Don't get me involved like that, Bandu...besides...you should only buy what you can afford and frankly...after pulling out a mischievous trick like that, your suffering is fair enough retribution

...his suffering is what?! ...Dave might be shy but when he speaks up he's intimidating...

You: ...

Dave: Uhm-! I didn't mean that! I got too absorbed in my book! Er...

Bandu: Hahaha! I like it when you speak your mind, Dave! It doesn't happen often but it's a cool side of you!

Dave: T-...there's no way you could think that...

Bandu: You were right though, I did something bad and now I have to pay the revolution

Dave: It's retribution...

Bandu: Yeah, that!

Dave: Still coming from you, Bandu. I guess there's a little devil inside all of us, isn't there?

Bandu: Hehehe...

You: Don't let him fool you! Bandu knows exactly what he's doing. Hell, he even told you guys he was bringing me to the club before telling me!

Bandu: B-but! You wouldn't have come if it wasn't for the corn...so I had to trick Bambi into making it!

You: Oh come on! Give me more credit than that!

Bandu: Hehehe...

Pwap!

Bandu: Ow!

Something flies and smacks Bandu in the face and fumbles to the desk

Bandu: What was...huh?!! Licorice!!!

Sure enough, long strings of licorice wrapped in paper. Bandu glances around

Bandu: Is this a miracle?!! It's because I paid my restitution?!!

You: It's retribution...

Dave: Actually, that one almost worked...

Bambi: Hahahaha! I was just gonna give it to you then I heard you blabbering about the corn. It was worth seeing your reaction!

Bandu: B-bambi! That's so nice of you!!!

Bandu hugs the licorice

You: Jeez, just eat it

He rapidly tears the wrapper open and bites the first string

Bandu: So good!

He says with dreamy eyes

Bandu: Hng! ...I bit my tongue...

Bambi: Hehe you're going through a lot over just some licorice

Bambi takes a bite on his own treat

Bandu: Yours looks really good too, Bambi! Can I try it?

Bambi: Beggars can't be choosers!

Bandu: But yours is a milk chocolate bar...

Bambi: Yeah, why do you think I gave you licorice?

Bandu: Fine, but I'm still happy you shared it with me

Then he goes behind Bambi and wraps his arms...or better hands around him

Bandu: Hehehe

Bambi: What are you doing?!

With the bar still in hand, Bambi tries to shoo Bandu away

Bandu: Nom!

Bandu leans down and bites Bambi's chocolate

Bambi: Hey!! Did you just do that?!

Bandu: Hmh-hmh

With his mouth full, Bandu floats away to safety. Me and Dave laugh

Bambi: Come here you little bitchass! Ugh, he's such a kid sometimes! Expunged, can you tell Bandu- ...Expunged...?

Bambi glances around, Expunged isn't in the clubroom

Bambi: Where's Expunged?

Dave: Have you heard anything about him being late today?

Bandu: Nope

You: Me neither

Bambi: What do you think he's doing?

Bandu: He's probably doing autographs. I mean, he's pretty popular after all

You: Don't you think he has a girlfriend?

Dave: Heh, I wouldn't be surprised. He's more desirable than all of us combined

Bandu: Yeah that's true

Bambi: What?!!!

Suddenly the door swings open

Expunged: Sorry!

You: Ah, there you are

Bandu: Yayyyy!!! My bro chose the club over his girlfriend!!!

Expunged: Girlfriend? The heck are you talking about?

He looks quizzically at me

You: Nevermind...what held you up?

Expunged: Ah...well my last period was music classroom and I hadn't heard the bell ring because I was practicing singing...hehe...

Dave: Singing? I wasn't aware you liked karaoke as well, Expunged

Expunged: I don't really...I kind of started recently

Bandu: That's so cool! You should sing in front of us sometime!

Expunged: That's...

Expunged looks at me for a moment

Expunged: Once I get a bit better I will

Bandu: YAY!!!

You: I can't wait to hear you!

Expunged: Oh...then I won't let you down!

Expunged smiles sweetly

You: Uh I didn't mean to pressure you or anything...

Expunged: Nah don't worry! I've been practicing a lot and I'll share a song when I'm ready!

You: In that case, good luck

Expunged: Thanks! Anyway, did I miss something?

You: Bandu pulled up a trick to make me buy candies for him but I didn't fall for it. Bambi will complain to you about it

Expunged: So everything normal, basically

...I'm not gonna ask

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BANDU'S ROUTE

Bandu: Y/N, Y/N!

Bandu suddenly runs up to me

Bandu: I'm gonna go get supplies from another classroom. Wanna go with me?

You: Supplies? For what?

Bandu: The school festival is coming! Me and my bro are gonna make some posters and stuff so I need to find some crayons, makers and glue sticks...

You: Sure, I'll come with you

Bandu: Yayyy!!! Ok Exp, we'll be right back!

Expunged: Are you going with Y/N to get the supplies? There's no need to trouble yourself, I can go with her

Bandu: Aw but I wanted to go! I love exploring empty classrooms!

Expunged: Hehe ok, it was just a suggestion. See if you can find poster paper, ok?

Bandu: Ok! Let's go, Y/N!

You: Let's go

Bandu and I exit the clubroom. I follow behind as he hums his favourite tune and floats around the hallway. Honestly...it feels like I'm taking a kid to the mall. Seriously, how does he manage to find pleasure in the simplest of things and why does he always float?!

You: Hey Bandu...what are we doing for the festival exactly?

Bandu: Hehe, me and Expunged have it all planned out!

You: Are you sure? I don't know how you would make an event of literature...

Bandu: We're gonna do a poetry performance!

You: A performance? Of what kind?

Bandu: Everyone is gonna take turns on stage and recite their favourite poems!

You: That sounds...kinda boring

Bandu: Y/N! You're not thinking about it in the right way! It's not just about reading poems, it's about performing them! Like, you say the first lines of the poem like...

Bandu : I reach into my chest and pull my core out...
                 It's the culmination of my being, a light green sphere...
                There are cords in there, my dreams...
                 I reach one with my fingers and pull it out, it's when I met you...

Bandu: ...like that!

You: I don't know if it's just me but I can't take you seriously when you talk like that

Bandu pouts

Bandu: Hey! I'm working super hard on this, you know!

You: I know, it's that it's an unusual contrast to your cute self

Bandu: It means I'm doing a good job!

He says while giggling

You: I guess so...

Bandu: I'm so excited! The festival is going to be so much fuuuuun!!!

He dashes in the air

Bandu: Hey, this classroom is empty! Let the "supplies operation" begins!

You: Supplies operation? Heh...

I laugh and go along. Despite the fact it's been a long time since I last have spent time with Bandu like this he hadn't changed a little. He's such a bundle of sunshine. I really missed going on adventures with him...
The two of us enter the classroom. Bandu heads straight in the closet and I follow

Bandu: Let's see what we have here...crayons!!!

He pulls out a box of crayons

Bandu: And they're the best brand too!

He starts pulling them out and reading the color names

You: Don't get distracted we still need to find-

Bandu: Wait, I'm looking for my favourite colour...

You: Fine, at least move aside so I can search the poster paper

Bandu: Ack! I dropped one!

He quickly bends over and-

SMACK!

Bandu: OW!

-and smacks his forehead right into the shelf. He falls on the floor and the crayons spill all over his lap

Bandu: Owww...

You: You ok?

Bandu: My forehead...

Bandu clutches his forehead

You: Let me see...you have to move your hands

Bandu: But it hurts...

You: Just do it for a second

He slowly releases his hands from his forehead. I slowly take his hat off to see the hit zone better. There's a huge red mark on the center of his forehead and a bump is starting to form as well

You: That's gonna swell up, I should find you some ice

Bandu: Y/N...

You: Where would I even find some ice around this time?! I guess a cold drink would do...

Bandu: You don't have to-! I'm fine with...looking like a unicorn

Even when wincing from pain he makes a silly joke

You: I'll be right back, ok?

Bandu: Ok...

I pat Bandu on the shoulder and run into the hallway. I reach the nearest vending machine, I buy an apple juice bottle and run back in the classroom. He has one hand in his forehead and is using the other to scoop the crayons up

You: Bandu, here!

I hand him the bottle of apple juice

Bandu: ...nice and cold...

He opens the cap and starts drinking from it

You: It's for your forehead, you dumbass!

Bandu: Oh, I forgot. Sorry...

You: Bro, how hard did you hit your head?

Bandu places the bottle on his forehead

Bandu: Hard enough to form a bump

You: It'll feel better soon

Bandu: this kind of things reminds me of our childhood

You: What do you mean?

Bandu: You know how we used to play outside all the time...you loved climbing while I had trouble with it. I wanted to keep up with you at all costs and it almost always lead me to hurt myself...mostly falling and scraping myself. I would start crying and you would rush over as quick as you could to make me stop crying. It was as if you blamed yourself...though it wasn't your fault at all

You: Oh now I remember it! I was so focused on playing that I didn't pay attention to you so yeah, it was kinda my fault. Just like now, if I hadn't force you away from the closet you wouldn't have hit your head

Bandu: Hehe you always care about people!

You: No, not always!

Bandu: But when it comes to me you always rush to help me even though I'm just being clumsy. You're super sweet!

He says making...the most enthusiastic and cutest smile he could ever make. Bandu, why are you like this?

You: C'mon it's a natural thing when it comes to you. That's what best friends do

Bandu: Best friends forever?

Bandu says getting up from the ground

You: Best friends forever

I don't know what will happen after high school but this is a promise that locations can't break!

Bandu: Forever...I'm so happy

He says in a dreamy voice

Bandu: I think we should go back. My bro will be worried

You: But he will end up seeing the bump

Bandu: Not if I put my hat in a way that it covers it

We go out if the classroom. While we walk Bandu tries to cover the bump with his hat, but without much success. In a moment we make it back to the clubroom

Expunged: Ah, you're back! And right on time! I was just about ready to start with sharing our poems. Huh? Bandu...your forehead

You: He's fine, don't worry about-

Bandu: I was playing with crayons and smacked my forehead on the shelf!

He said it like that?! With nonchalance?!

You: ...

Expunged: ...well anyway, did you find everything we needed?

Bandu: Yes! I have everything right he- ...oh no...I forgot all the stuff...

Bandu blushes in embarrassment

You: Don't worry, I have it all right here. I found the poster paper too

Expunged: You really ended up doing all the work!

Expunged says while laughing

You: Well let's say that Bandu-

Bandu: I made it an adventure!

You: Yeah, like that

Expunged: In that case, good work! Me and Bandu will start working on the posters tonight

Bandu: Yayyy!

Expunged: Ok, everyone! Are you ready to share your poems?

You: I'm gonna grab mine...

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BAMBI'S ROUTE

Bambi comes to me and looks deeply in my eyes

Bambi: ...

You: Do you want to read your swear dictionary again?

Bambi puffs his cheeks a bit, trying to say "no" but then he simply sighs and nods

Bambi: Yes...

A smile is forming on my face

Bambi: What? I don't often share my dictionary...

I can't help but relate to him. I don't often share my passion for fanfictions but when I do I can't stop "bothering" people with it

You: It makes sense

Bambi: Good, now let's get it

He makes his way to the closet and I follow

Bambi: I hope you came to terms with your creativity because we'll need a lot of it

You: I'm ready for the challenge! I came up with some-

Bambi: EXPUNGED!!!

Bambi's voice echoes inside the closet. I peer in, all of his boxes are on the top shelf

Bambi: Why did you move my stuff again?!

Expunged: Ah sorry. The teacher got mad at me for taking so much space in her closet so I had to move things around and clean up a bit. It's all still there though!

Bambi: Ugh...

The top shelf is very far above Bambi. He looks up at his archive, completely unable to reach it

Bambi: God fucking damn it. How the fuck am I supposed to reach my stuff now?! It looked so good in the bottom shelf! Besides there's a plenty of space in this closet!

You: Um Bambi, there's a stool there

I point a collapsible stool hanging on the wall

You: I can reach up and hand everything to you

Bambi: I can get them myself!

Bambi grabs the stool and unfolds it

Bambi: You think I'm too short or something?!

You: I mean-

Bambi: I knew it! Well you know what?! Just watch this!

He hops on the stool which ends up being a little wobbly due to collapsible design

Bambi: W-woah...

You: Be careful...

Bambi: I know what I'm doing!

Standing on the stool, Bambi barely reaches the top shelf with his fingertips. I would have reached it easily but you know how it goes with stubborn people...

Bambi: Hmm...

He uses his fingers to scoot one of the smaller boxes to the edge of the shelf

Bambi: See...? Ugh!

The box tips and Bambi catches it before it falls. The stool wobbles

Bambi: W-woah...

Almost losing balance, Bambi jumps off the stool and fortunately lands on his non-existent feet. He holds the box triumphantly

Bambi: There!

Having almost fell, he's a bit shaken up

You: Jeez...no need to prove yourself to me. There's no way you'll be able to take the bigger boxes like that. I can reach them, so just-

Bambi: I said I can do it! I don't want your help, ok?

I sigh

Bambi: Hang on, I'm gonna get a chair

He runs out of the closet and goes to the classroom

Bambi: Let's see...

The chairs have the desks attached, they're too big to fit in the closet

Bambi: Haha!

He spots the teacher's desk which has a computer chair behind it. He rolls it back to the closet

You: Uh...

That chair is dangerous, it swivels and rolls but he won't listen to me anyway so I keep my mouth shut

Bambi: Ok...

Bambi climbs onto the chair and slowly balances his non-existent feet. I just sit against the wall and watch

Bambi: There we go! See? I can simply do it now!

Bambi grabs a box of folders and bends over to put it on the bottom shelf

Bambi: W-woah...

The chair swivels. He catches himself on the shelf

Bambi: Can you at least hold the chair instead of sitting and doing nothing?!

You: (Yet you told me to not help) Ok ok, I got you

I hold the chair while Bambi reaches back up.
...huh?! Bambi is...is...
...he's thicc!
I have to turn away, I have to be respectful! If he finds out I'll be screwed!

Bambi: Huh!

Bambi holds the box of Top 10s, the largest box in the closet

Bambi: Too...heavy...hey Y/N, I don't think I can bend over without falling...! Hurry up and take this one!

You: But then I have to let go off the chair...

Bambi: That's fine...! Just for a second! Hurry up...

You: Alright, let me just stand up

I slowly release my grip from the chair

Bambi: What do you mean by "stand up"?

He looks down at me

Bambi: Why are you all the way back- ...

Shit, he realized

You: Bambi, the box-

Bambi: What are you looking at?!!

You: -!

Bambi: Were you looking at my ass?!!

His legs shake. He'll lose balance if he moves

You: I'm not! I was just- Bambi, don't move! Just give me the box!

Bambi: You pervert! Get the fuck out!

You: But-

Bambi: I'll do it myself!! A-ah...

The chair swivels under Bambi's non-existent feet

You: Bambi-!

Bambi: AAAAAAH!!!

What was a normal operation now is complete chaos: the chair flies from his non-existent feet and frantically, I try to catch him. The box topples out of his hands and the content goes flying

You: I got you-!

Crash!

Thanks to his small and lightweight body I manage to catch Bambi on the fly. A book falls on my head while Bambi remains completely doesn't move a muscle and shakes like a leaf due to have been on a flight.

You: Are you ok?

Bambi: ...

He slowly comes to his senses and realizes to be near my chest

Bambi: Ewww!

He quickly jumps out of my hands

Bambi: Tits are gross!!!

Expunged suddenly peers in

Expunged: Are you ok? I heard a loud thud...

Bambi: This is what happens when you put my stuff on the top shelf!!! Are you trying to fucking kill us or what?!

Expunged: Sorry...

Bambi: Oh and one more thing: Y/N is a pervert

You: But I-!

Explaining is impossible

You: I didn't do anything, I swear!

Expunged: I know, don't worry

Expunged says quietly to me, good thing he believes me...

Bambi: Oh no...! My...my...

You: ?

I look down and see Bambi kneeling on the floor holding his swear dictionary

Bambi: My dictionary...

There's a large diagonal crease along the page that he's desperately trying to smooth out

You: It must have landed on the page...

He tries a bit more to smooth the crease but can't get it out and gives up. He puts the big book on the floor and lowers his head...

Bambi: *sob*

You: Bambi...are you

Bambi: I'm fine!

His voice squeals in a higher pitch than usual, tears rolling down from his eyes

You: I'll help you remove the crease

Bambi simply turns around still looking down

Bambi: No...i don't even give a damn anyway. I'm just...having a bad day. I didn't mean to take it out on you...

You: It's completely fine if you want to talk about it, I'm here and I'll listen to you

He sobs again

Bambi: Just...every day...is...so hard. I just want to...come to the club and...

He falls silent. I can't force him to talk, he'll let out only what he wants to let out. The best thing I can do right now is this

You: Well I'll help you clean this up and I'll move the rest of your stuff for you. Oh!

I pick up the dictionary of insults

You: Let's put this one aside, we'll take a look at it once we're done here. What do you think?

Bambi looks up with his tear-glossed eyes, his lip quivers for a moment

Bambi: You're...so nice to me

You: That's what friends do!

I would have expected it coming from Bambi but it's nice to hear

Bambi lowers his head and stifles another sob. I don't know what happened to him today but being nice is the least I could do. The next couple minutes are signed by a cold silence between us as I began gathering the scattered stuff. I make sure to slip the folders and their content in their correct order. After a little bit, Bambi stands up and starts helping. It's a short job, so short that we're already done

You: And here we are!

Bambi: Thanks...

You: Haha, it's nothin'! Now, are we ready for the F-words?

He nods with his head and takes the dictionary I set aside. We sit in the same spot like last time and he opens the book everyone needs in life. I show him some creative swears I came up after writing my poem

Bambi: I haven't thought about those before, you're a fucking genius!

His mood improved quickly, now he has a cute happy face

You: I had a plenty of time to think about them and thinking about the people you hate helps a lot

Bambi: I should try it!

And I thought he was the kind of guy who would literally hate everything and everyone, guess he only needed to find the right person to share his interests with. After some time Expunged gets our attention as usual, it's time to share our poems again

You: I'll come up with some french-sounding terms next time!

Bambi: Yes! We can make them pass as elegant words!

Bambi slips the dictionary inside the closet and I take my poem

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DAVE'S ROUTE

You: Hey Dave!

Dave: Huh?

I notice that Dave is reading a book different from the one we've been reading together

You: Sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt...

Dave: Ah, no...I was kind of waiting for you...

You: If that's the case, why don't we go ahead and get started?

Dave: Yes, let's-! Actually I have a request

You: Shoot it!

Dave: ...do you mind if I make some tea first?

You: Not at all!

Dave: Thanks, if there's one thing that can make any reading time better, it's a nice cup of tea. Not to mention for yourself as well

Dave rolls his way to the closet. I follow and watch as he retrieves a small water pitcher from the shelf

Dave: Can you hold this for a second?

You: Sure

He hands me the water pitcher and fetches an electric kettle

Dave: I'll plug this in at the teacher's desk and then we'll go get some water

He rolls past me and sets the kettle down on the teacher's desk. I simply watch his movements: to my surprise, despite being incapacitated to walk, Dave moves in a very elegant way...is it even possible to move daintily when you're on a wheelchair? I wonder what terrible event stole his legs

Dave: Ok, may I have the water pitcher?

I give it to him

Dave: Thanks, I'll be right back

You: Can I go with you?

Dave: Yeah, why not?

We get on our way. As we exit the clubroom

Expunged: Hey, where are you two off to?

You: Dave was going to make some tea so we're filling the water pitcher

Expunged: Oh, ok! I was curious. That's...a one-person job though...

It's in this moment I finally knew it's a weird thing to explain...

You: That's-

Dave: Expunged, please mind your own business for once. Or do you want to tell me there's something wrong with helping involve Y/N in club activities?

Expunged: H-huh?

You: !!!

Holy shit! That was unexpected from him!

Expunged: I suppose there's nothing wrong with that...

Dave: Then let's go, Y/N

Dave quickly rolls away and I follow. Once we're far enough from the clubroom he suddenly does a facewall, ya know, when a facepalm isn't enough and there are no tables to do a facetable

Dave: I spoke without thinking...how could I say something like that?

You: Dave...

Dave: It's just...something in the way he said that made me feel irritated. What's wrong with me...?

You: No, Dave. I think you did the right thing! I wasn't expecting it but it's also not right for Expunged to judge people like that

Dave: Y/N...how can you be so nice to me even I do something bad?

You: Because nothing you do is as bad as you think it is. Nobody's perfect, we have emotions and we can't always hide them or block them

Even though I always bottle up the negative ones, especially anger

Dave: ...really?

You: Yeah! I can't hate you for having emotions, those bastards always amplify themselves in our heads. Also, what kind of friend would I be if I hated you for such a thing?

I hear Dave giggling a little

Dave: Friend...you say?

He lifts up his head

Dave: Y/N...I really like...being friends with you!

You: Haha...thanks, Dave. I like being friends with you too

It's very awkward to say but I'm doing my best to help him

You: Anyway...!

Dave: Ah- yeah! Shall we go?

You: Yeah

We approach the nearest fountain. Once we fill the water pitcher, we return to the clubroom

Dave: Y/N, do you like green tea?

You: Anything is fine for me

Dave: Very well

He sets the temperature to 200 degrees

Dave: Now it's time to get the teapot

You: You really do this properly, don't you?

Dave: Of course, I must do my best when I'm making tea for others

You: Even if I'm not an expert on tea or anything...?

Dave: In that case...you'll only be even more impressed

You: Perhaps I will

Dave fetches the teapot and starts measuring the tea leaves. He also starts humming a surprinsingly familiar tune. I've probably heard that in my house

You: You must be in a good mood

Dave: Yes, I decided to try expressing myself a bit more. It's not that hard for me to do...when it's you who's around

You: That's great! I bet you'll fully open up to people in a no time if you keep up like this!

Dave: Do you think so?

You: Yes! You're making progress, just don't push yourself too much while you're at it

Dave: That's very...endearing of you

You: Eh-

He's right, I don't know if I can keep up with this...or better if I can keep up with him! I feel my cheeks heat up, I hope he doesn't notice...

Dave: Oh and I have another request. Do you mind if we sit on the floor?

He says while pouring two cups of tea

You: On the floor? Why?

Dave: It's that...

He gazes away

Dave: ...I liked how we were close to eachother yesterday and I was thinking to read on the floor to be closer...

That's...I can't deny the fact I liked it too but it was so hard reading like that yet a part of me wants to do it again

Dave: I know you probably think I'm weird now...

You: Let's do it

After hearing that phrase Dave jolts and looks at me with a shocked face. I swear his wheelchair jumped too

Dave: Really?!

You: Really

I retrieve the book from my bag

You: And I have some chocolate as well

Some chocolates I carefully kept away from Bandu's candy radar since I've never forgiven him for what he did to my Halloween treats. I help Dave sit against the wall and I sit near him. We assume the same reading position as yesterday: I turn the page, he catches it. But unlike yesterday we are even closer...

Dave: I can't see well...

You: --!

Dave slides closer until our shoulders and legs are touching. How am I supposed to focus on reading like this?! I mean, Dave has always been kind of cute but now it's too much for me to handle!

Dave: Your teacup...

He hands me my teacup. Holding it with me free hand, I end up in a more uncomfortable position. Now I have to make sure I don't accidentally pour it on the floor. Meanwhile Dave hasn't noticed anything, he wears the intense reading expression from yesterday, reality is already disappeared for him. C'mon Y/N, you can do it just use your willpower...

...

After a few minutes, I relax a little. I put my teacup between my legs and start opening the chocolate wrapper

You: You can have as much as you want

Dave: Oh...thanks

Dave says without turning his head to look at me. How can he be so concentrated? Though I saw his eyes glancing at me. He has probably I'm having a hard time reading because he takes the book and holds it. As a result his left arm is resting on top of my leg. Well in that case...i take a chocolate candy and pop it in my mouth. I take another one and look at Dave, his lips are slightly parted...was he always like this? Who cares, it means I can do it! I place the chocolate in his mouth.

Dave: Eh?!

His reading expression disintegrates

Dave: Did...did I just...

He looks at me while trying to process what just happened

Dave: U-uhm...Y/N...

You: I-I'm sorry...!

Dave: T-that's...what...friends do, right...?

You: Uhm...not really, uhm maybe?

Dave: Then...you don't need to stop or anything...if you don't want to

You: I got it...

If i was tensed up before now I'm literally exploding internally. Dave tries to return to the book but I can clearly see he can't focus anymore. My chest feels like it's being hammered, my shaky hand takes another chocolate. This time Dave is looking at me, he's waiting for me move. 

Dave: ...

He doesn't seem to avert his eyes, clearly waiting intensely. I raise my arm

Dave: ...

He parts his lips, I place the chocolate in his mouth feeling his hot breath on my fingers...

Expunged: Ok, everyone!

Expunged suddenly beams

You: Aaah!

Dave: Aaah!

Both me and Dave jolt and scream in unison

Expunged: It's time to share poems!

You: You scared us to death!

Expunged: Sorry

He giggles

Expunged: Anyway, you can help Dave put away the tea stuff, right?

You: Yeah...

Expunged: Ok thanks!

Dave: I'll take care of the cups...

You: Ok...

We hastily clean up without saying a word. I get the feeling this is something neither of us will have the courage to bring

-----------------------------------------------------------

POEM SHARING

Like yesterday I'll start from Bandu

You: Hey Bandu!

Bandu: Here I am, now let me see!

He's clearly excited to read my poem

{Insert your poem here}

Bandu: *reads it* Wow...it's-

You: Not bad

Bandu: No! It's great like yesterday's one! You have a hidden talent!

You: Let's just say that it's easier to write while thinking about you

Bandu: Eh?!

His face becomes red and he starts giggling while gazing at the floor

You: I didn't mean it like that!

I'm also starting to feel flustered as well...

You: I meant that you're a very expressive person, you make everything in your life an adventure. Even the little things

Bandu: Like getting supplies!

You: Yeah

I gently tap him on his forehead where the bump is. Bandu gives me a very wholesome smile

You: Looks like your forehead feels better now

Bandu: Yes, a lot! Hehe

I smile back while looking at his eyes

Bandu: Anyway, now you have to read my poem!

You: Ok

He hands me his sheet

You: The ending was unexpected...

Bandu: Really?!

You: I mean I'm used to you being cheerful then you write a poem with an ending like this. That's kind of...

Bandu: It means I made a good job!

You: It definitely surprised me

Bandu: It's all thanks to my bro, he taught me a lotta things and now I can understand my feelings better! Writing is like a spell, it's magic!

You: Heh, I hope you keep the passion and the hype up

Bandu: Of course, I'm gonna keep writing until I die!

You: But you're a deity, you can't die

Bandu: That's the point!

Ok, let's go to the next one of my list...

You: Bambi!

Bambi: Hm?

You: Can you read my poem?

Bambi: Whatev

{Insert your poem here}

Bambi: *reads it* ...

He keeps glancing at the poem, I can swear he read it more than once...

Bambi: ...marvelous

I can't help but smile

Bambi: ...did I say that out loud?

You: Yes

Bambi: Goddamn it...

He sighs

Bambi: Ok ok your poem is good, it's very good. There, I said it! Ugh, this isn't fucking fair!

You: You mean?

Bambi: My poems are supposed to impress you, not the other way round!

You: Wait, are you trying to impress me?

Bambi: Of course I am! I can't let you think Dave's poems are better than mines!

I've never said I have preferences in terms of writing...

You: What makes you think I prefer Dave's poems over yours?

Bambi: By the way you stared at him yesterday and by how you were amazed by his sophisticated manners!

WHAT?!

You: You've been observing me this whole time?!

His expression freezes

Bambi: ...maybe

You: Why?!

Bambi: ...

Bambi remains silent for some seconds before speaking

Bambi: Read my poem

You: Don't change subject!

Bambi: Read my poem

He hands me his sheet, I sigh and take it

You: You really made it long this time, huh?

Bambi: Yesterday was just a warm-up, I can do way better than that!

You: I see

Bambi: Anyway, the situation is very straightforward. I wanted to write about the nicknaming my middle school classmates used to do

You: From the looks of it they had a hard time finding the perfect nickname for you

Bambi: Hell yeah! They couldn't find anything that resumes all of me in one word, from Unhuman to Furiosity, from Troubler to Slurrer but nothing worked!

He laughs to himself while reminiscing. Wait...did he say Slurrer?! I'm not gonna ask that...

You: That's a great piece of writing, well done

Bambi: I'm glad you appreciate my style and if I have to be honest...I've been enjoying sharing it with you

I can't help but grin

You: Thanks for your honesty. I'm looking forward to tomorrow, Shredding

Bambi: I am

He realizes what I said

Bambi: Did you just call me-?! Did you?!

I giggle a bit

Bambi: Wait, don't go!

I head towards Dave and catch his attention

You: Can you read my poem?

Dave: Sure

{Insert your poem here}

Dave: *reads it* ...

You: So?

Dave: You're improving a lot! Just yesterday I was telling you what to work on

You: You explained them well, that's why I picked up quickly. You should become a literature teacher just for that

Dave looks away

Dave: But I didn't do anything, I only write for myself...

He seems agitated

You: But it works and it's high-leveled so-

Dave: H-high-leveled?!

...I have to stop or else I break him

You: So can I read your poem now?

Dave: Ok

He takes a deep breath to calm himself down before handing me his poem

Dave: This time I wanted to show two images: the first is saving the weak and the second is a depiction of an unusual hobby of mine

You: Unusual you said? What is it?

Dave: I'd rather not say it...

You: Oh why not?

Dave: It's embarrassing...and you would make fun of me

You: No, I would never!

Dave: I don't find myself sharing it with others, it makes me feel very judged

I relate a lot with that statement, I would never admit I read a certain type of fanfiction...

Dave: I know everyone has an awkward side, the best we can do is respect eachother no matter what they like

You: I wish everyone was so open-minded like you

Now onto the last one

Expunged: Hey Y/N

You: Hi

Expunged: Guess it's my turn, huh?

You: Yeah

{Insert your poem here}

Expunged: Hehe you're so focused on impressing him, aren't you?

You: I am not and what makes you think I wrote for him!

Expunged: The style reminds me of him, just like yesterday but this time is better. You're improving!

It's so nice seeing that everyone noticed I'm putting effort

Expunged: Same technique as yesterday? Half hour of searching around and write down

You: Yes that!

Don't say it...

You: You also kind of rhymed when stating that

Expunged: Oh I tend to do that when I speak sometimes

He smiles...as always

Expunged: But when I want to write rhyming becomes impossible

You: Same bro

I'm so glad I'm not alone

You: Anyway, can I read yours?

Expunged: Sure, here is it

You: This is more abstract than yesterday's one...

Expunged: It's the way I write. Some symbols here, some oxymorons there and here we are

You: Also a thing I've been noticing since yesterday is that your handwriting kinda looks like a computer's writing

Expunged: Yeah, I worked hard to make it look like that. It has a nice touch with abstractism, don't you think?

You: It indeed does, though it's hard for me to understand the message...

Expunged: Hahaha it's not important what it talks about, it's important the fact you express yourself

You: It makes sense

Expunged: Anyway, here's Expunged's writing tip of the day!

Like yesterday, take. notes.

Expunged: Sometimes you'll see yourself facing a difficult decision

Ok, noted

Expunged: When that happens, don't forget to save your game!

What...?

Expunged: You never know when you might change your mind or when something unexpected may happen!

You: This tip isn't about writing

Expunged: Oh...

You: The heck were you talking about?

Expunged: I don't know

He shrugs

Expunged: Thanks for listening anyway

You: You're welcome I guess...

And after him the sharing thing is all done

Expunged: Ok, everyone! I have something extra planned for today!

Bambi: Is it about the festival?

Expunged: Yes!

Bambi: What do you think we're gonna do for the festival within a few days?! We'll only make a terrible impression

Dave: That's a concern of mine as well, I'm not great when it comes to last-minute preparations...

Expunged: Don't worry, guys! We're keeping it simple, nothing more than a few decorations. Bandu has been working on the posters and I designed some pamphlets we can give ot during the event. As for activities we're going to be performing

Bambi: Performing?

Dave: Uhm Expunged...

Expunged: Yeah! We're going to have a poetry performance. Each of us are going to choose a poem to recite during the even, but the best part is that we're also going to let anyone else come up and recite poems too! Bandu is writing it all on the posters in case anyone wants to prepare ahead of time

Bandu: Hehehe

Bandu holds up a poster he's been colouring for us to see

Bambi: You didn't start putting those posters up, did you?!

Expunged: I did...is that a bad idea...?

Bambi: It's not a bad idea...but i didn't sign up for this! There is no way I'm gonna be performing in front of a group of people!

Dave: ...I agree with Bambi! I could never in my life do something like that...

Imagining it, Dave lows his gaze and hugs himself in fear

Bandu: Guys...

Expunged: No, Bandu...I understand what they mean. Dave and Bambi have never shared their poems until a couple of days ago. Reciting poems out loud in a room full of people is too much for them to ask. I'm sorry...

Bambi: ...

Dave: ...

Expunged: ...but! I think we should do our best! If we put on a good performance we'll inspire others to do the same! And the more people who perform, the better we'll be able to show everyone what literature is all about!

Bandu: Yeah! It's about expressing your feelings, being intimate with yourself, finding new horizons...and having fun!

Expunged: That's correct! And it's all those reasons that we're all in this club today. Don't you want to share that with the others?

Bambi: ...

Dave: ...

Dave and Bambi remain silent and Bandu looks worried. That leaves me no choice, I have to save the situation...

You: I agree...I don't think it's too much to ask. Bandu and Expunged are trying really hard to get new members, the least we can do is helping them out a bit

Bambi: Well...maybe, but...

Looks like he doesn't have any arguments left

Bambi: Ok, fine! I'll get over it!

Bandu: Alright!

Expunged: Phew...thanks Bambi. What about you, Dave?

Dave: ...

Dave remains silent for a moment while we stare at him then he sighs

Dave: I guess I don't have a choice...

Bandu: Yay! That's everyone! You're the best, Dave!

Dave: This club is seriously going to be the death of me...

Expunged: You'll be fine, Dave. Anyway, I want you to choose a poem to recite

Bambi: WHAT?!

Expunged: We need to practice

Dave: Expunged...! This is too sudden...!

Expunged: If you can't recite your poem in front of your club, how do you expect it to do it in front of strangers?

Dave: ...!

Dave has realized something

Dave: Oh no...

Expunged: Don't worry, I'll go first so you'll be a little more comfortable

Bandu: Can I go next??

Expunged: Of course! Now let's see...

Expunged flips through his notebook, looking for the poem he has in mind. After finding it he stands at the centre of the clubroom

Expunged: The title of this poem is Epitome. Ahem...

He starts reciting the poem. His loud and clear voice fills the room, more than that he puts the right emphasis where needed. He knows how to put the perfect intonations in each syllable. Has he done this before or is he a natural? After two minutes, he finishes reciting. The four of us applaud, I'm seriously amazed. Expunged takes a deep breath and smiles

Bandu: That was great, brother!

Expunged: Thanks Bandu. I hope I've been a good example. Are you ready to go, Bandu?

Dave: I'll go next!

Bandu: Woah! Dave is radiating energy!

Dave clutches a sheet of paper and slowly rolls towards the centre of the clubroom

Dave: This poem is called-

He anxiously glances at each of us

Bandu: You can do it, Dave...

Dave: It's called...Interdimentional

His voice shakes as he starts reading the poem. He refused to do this just a moment ago, what has given him courage? If only I could be like him, school interrogations would have been easier for me. Wait...his voice is changing. His trembling words are becoming the sharp speaking of a man full of confidence and furiosity. The poem builds a deep and mysterious world that collides and slowly destroys ours. Suddenly he's finished, everyone is stunned. Dave glances around him, as if he had blacked out during the whole performance

Dave: I...

Oh right, what an idiot. I'm the first to start applauding, everyone joins me afterwards and we give Dave the recognition he deserves. We were so caught off-guard we have forgotten. As we applaud Dave hides his face with the poem

Expunged: Dave, that was really good. Thank you for sharing

Dave: ...

Bandu: Now it's my turn!

He hops off the chair and floats towards the centre

Bandu: This one's called...Sugar rush. ...ha...hahaha! Sorry, I giggled...hehehe

You: C'mon Bandu!

Bandu: It's a lot harder than I thought! How did you guys do it so easily?

Expunged: Try to think of it like you're reciting it to yourself, like in front of a mirror

Bandu: Ok then

He begins his poem, I said I couldn't take him seriously with that voice but I think I have to take everything back. It's as if a soap opera singer hit only medium notes and that made the poem sound serious despite the fact it talks about candies and sugar. As he finishes, we applaud

Bandu: Yay, I did it!

You: Good job, dude

Expunged: It came out nicely, Bandu

Bandu: Thanks, guys!

Expunged: Now who's next? Bambi?

Bambi: Nope, I'll go after Y/N!

You: Welp might as well get it over with. I don't have much to read so I'll go with what I wrote for today

I walk towards the centre of the clubroom holding my poem. God, I hate having all of those eyes on me...I sigh and start reciting. It's hard to put emotion or emphasis like they did due to not being comfortable with my writing. Despite my mediocre performance I receive applause anyway. I low my gaze

You: I wish I was good like you...

Expunged: Don't worry, you only need to gain confidence of your writing. It'll improve over time

You: Maybe...

Expunged: Alright, then! That leaves you, Bambi!

Bambi: Ok ok, I'm going

He reluctantly gets out of his seat and heads towards the centre

Bambi: This poem is called...

His always furrowed eyebrows start to lean upwards

Bambi: It's called...

His voice becomes a little quieter

Bambi: Why are you all looking at me?!

You: Because you're presenting, duh

Bambi: Ugh! Anyway...the poem is called Fuming

Bambi takes a deep breath. Once he starts reciting his angry demeanor disappears a little. Despite being annoyed, his poem has a fast rhythm and the meaning is very obvious. That's his main goal and it really takes your breath away when spoken out loud. He finishes and everyone applauds. Bambi walks back to his seat

Expunged: That wasn't so bad, was it?

After hearing that sentence me, Dave and Bambi throw intense dirty looks at Expunged

Expunged: What...?

Bambi: You'd better not make us do that again

You: You don't know how awkward it was!

Dave nods silently

Expunged: Do you...at least feel prepared enough to recite in front of other people?

Bambi: It will be easier! I can put on whatever face I want for them, but not here! Not in front of my friends!

Dave: That's pretty...unusual but I don't judge

Bambi: That's just how it is

Expunged: Well in that case...you won't have much to worry about the festival. That said, I want to thank everyone for coming through. It might be hard but I hope you all have an idea of what it's like now. Make sure to pick a poem and get enough practice for the presentation, ok? I'll be making pamphlets so let me know ahead of time what you'll be reciting

You: I should find some other poem to recite...

Expunged: That's fine, too! It doesn't have to be your own. I'm already glad you're putting effort in this

You: Only the best I can do

Expunged: Ok, everyone! I think that's about it for today. I know the festival is coming up, but let's try writing poems for tomorrow as well. It's turning out fine so I'd like to continue that. As for the festival, we finish planning tomorrow than we'll have the weekend to prepare. Monday's the big day!

Bandu: I can't wait! I can't wait! I can't wait!!!!

Dave: I can do this...I can do this...

You: Alright...

I'm not enthusiastic like Bandu and Expunged but I'll do my best. It's for the shake of the club...and impressing Expunged *cough*

You: Ready to go, Bandu?

Bandu: Yep!

Bambi: Look at you two, always going home like that!

Expunged: It's adorable, isn't it?

They say while laughing. Bandu blushes slightly

Bandu: Hehehe...

You: C'mon, we're just two besties going home. Is that a big deal?

Dave: It must be a little nice, though...

You: Eh...uhm...

How am I supposed to respond to that?

Bandu: It's ok, Y/N. You don't have to say it

You: Whatever, let's go...

Outside the school...

I walk home with Bandu once more. Even though it's only been a few days, a lot of things changed already...but today Bandu is weirdly quiet

You: Hey Bandu

Bandu: Huh?!

He snaps back to reality

Bandu: Sorry, I was spacing out!

You: I noticed

Bandu: Uhm...I was just thinking about something from earlier

You: What is it?

Bandu: So...let's just say that one day Dave and Bambi asked to walk home with you. What would you do? And with who will you go?

You: What kind of question is that...?

Bandu: Hehehe...

You: How do you even come up with such awkward things?

Bandu: Awww I'm curious

He does puppy dog eyes

Bandu: Please answer

You: Well...I would still walk home with you

Bandu: But-

You: What makes you think I'll ditch you for them?

Bandu: But Dave is so handsome and smart and Bambi is so cute and fun to be around...

You: I already see them in the clu- wait what?

Bandu: What what?

You: Handsome...cute...

Why do I feel my heart pounding at those words...?

Bandu: ?

You: Did you really have to make it weird like that?

Bandu: Eh...hehe sorry, it's that...you think about me too much sometimes and they deserve it if they wanted...

You: Bandu, I've already decided

Bandu: Oh

You: Also it's not true I think too much about you, what I'm doing is having fun with you and making you happy

Bandu: ...thanks

The conversation ends. I swear, Bandu worries too much about silly things. Then again, the festival is only a few days away...who knows what will happen in that time?

Day 4

Expunged: Aw, man...I'm the last one here again!

You: That's ok, I'm also kinda late

Dave: Were you practicing singing again?

Expunged: Haha yeah...

Dave: You must have a lot of determination. Starting this club and now picking up singing

Expunged: I wouldn't say determination, more like passion. Also this club wouldn't be here if it wasn't for all of you and I'm super happy you're willing to help for the festival!

Bambi: I can't wait for the festival!

Bambi says while his...non-existent arms

Bambi: It's gonna be trouble!

Bandu: And make it double!

Both of them laugh at the joke

Expunged: Weren't you complaining about it yesterday?

Bambi: I did but I'm not talking about our part of the festival this time. It's a whole day of school where we get to play and eat all kinds of food!

You: You sound like Bandu all of a sudden...

Bambi: What do you mean?

You: I mean that you have a secret happy child inside you!

I say smiling while he remains a bit confused by my statement

You: What? Aren't you a child?

Bambi: The fu- can't you see I'm 18?!

You: Awww but it's written in your name!

Bambi: ?

You: Bambino!

Silence fills the room, everyone is staring at me with blank expressions 

You: Don't you get it? ...no?

Bambi: Out of all the names in existence my mother picked this one. She could have called me something else, like Marcello but no

Bambi lets out an exasperated sigh

You: I hoped Bandu had laughed...wait where is he?

He was here a moment ago

You: Oh there you are

Bandu is sitting at a desk in the corner of the room, looking down at nothing

You: Hey Bandu

He doesn't answer

You: Bandu?

I wave my hand in front of his face

Bandu: Eh?!

You: You're spacing out again

Bandu: Ah...hehe sorry, don't mind me. Go talk with the others

You: Is everything alright?

Bandu: Of course! Never been better!

You: It's just that I'm so used to you being happy and bubbly. Seeing you like this feels off...

Bandu: You worry too much about me, I'm fine

He shows me a big smile

Bandu: Don't let me distract you from having fun with the others

You: If you say so...

I give Bandu a last worried glance before turning around. Everyone is back at their usual activities. I should ask Expunged if he noticed anything about Bandu recently. He's his brother, he must have saw something! I approach Expunged with a gloomy face, I see he's shuffling through some papers at his desk

Expunged: Y/N! What's up?

You: This may sound strange but...have you noticed anything with Bandu recently?

Expunged takes a quick look at Bandu who's idly dragging an eraser up and down the desk

Expunged: There is...I don't know what but there is something on his mind

You: He's never been like this, he has always talked to me about the things that bothered him. But this time he's been dissmissive...

Expunged: ...I'll try talking with him myself

You: Are you sure about that? He looked like he wanted to be left alone

Expunged: I'll make an attempt, wait here while I'm at it

You: Alright...

Expunged stands up and walks towards Bandu. I watch him kneel down next to Bandu and gently talk to him. He's keeping his voice quiet, so quiet I can't hear anything. I know Bandu told me to not worry about him but I really care about him and seeing him like this makes me concern. Now all I can do is waiting for Expunged. Though I feel like I'm being watched...oh it's him, my new friend! Though my mood is not at its finest right now...

You: I know there isn't much time but I can't stop thinking about Bandu...

He tilts his head, confused

You: He seems down today and doesn't want to tell me what's wrong...

He looks at me with a slightly sad face, telling me if Bandu wanted to talk about it he would have run to me. It's true...

You: I guess you're right...let's go now

We start with our now daily hobby

...

Expunged: Ok, everyone!

After some time passes, Expunged calls out to the clubroom

Expunged: Why don't we share our poems now?

Looks like everything is back to normal? Everyone gets their poems and I do the same while still wondering what was Expunged talking about with Bandu

-----------------------------------------------------------

POEM SHARING

I'm gonna start with Bandu, I hope my poem will cheer him up

You: Hey Bandu

Bandu: Am I the first to read it?

You: You're always the first

Bandu: Cool...

I hand him my page

Bandu: *reads it* ...this...is your best one so far. It's really really good, Y/N

You: Uhm thanks...

Bandu: Yep, it is

You: ...you've been a little quiet today, is everything alright?

Bandu: Of course I'm fine! I'm just...a little tired today hehe

You: You can take a nap here, I did it two days ago

Bandu chuckles a bit at the memory

Bandu: Don't worry about me, ok? I only want to see you smiling

You: Well...

I do my best to make a big smile

Bandu: See? you're doing it!

At least that brightens up his mood a little

Bandu: Also I'm surprised by the fact that you didn't try writing like Dave and Bambi do. You chose me...why? Don't you want to get closer to the others?

You: What the-?! Of course I do! But that doesn't mean I have to try so hard to impress them! You're the one I'm more comfortable with, you're the one I understand the most here. Sometimes I feel like you're the only exciting thing in my life and that's exactly what my poem is about

Bandu: N-no...

You: ...Bandu?

Bandu: Y/N...I don't deserve this...you're too nice to me...why? Why are you doing this...?

His starts to shake

Bandu: If you had fun with the others instead...this would be so much easier!

You: Bandu...! Please tell me what will cheer you up?

He shakes his head and puts on a smile

Bandu: It's nothing, just bitter feelings...like licorice. I promise it won't happen again. Go play with the others, I'm gonna go home early today-

You: Wait-!

Bandu: Tell my bro I wasn't feeling well, ok?

I don't have the time to say anything that he teleports...he also forgot to show me his poem. Whatever now it's Bambi's turn

You: Hey Bam-

Bambi: Lemme see, lemme see!

He jumps and takes the poem from my hand

You: Woah, what's gotten you so fired up?

Bambi: I like your writing

You: Yet you had trouble admitting that before...

Bambi: Hey, I had to put you in place first! It's not like I was shy...or jealous! Imagine being jealous because someone writes better than you, couldn't be me

You: You're not confident about your writing...?

Bambi: Obviously not! I love my writing! It's good...right?

Now everything has sense, Bambi acts so arrogant to cover his own insecurities. Someone must have made him so self-conscious about himself and I wonder who. I've been here for three days but I can clearly tell it's not his friends fault. He talked about his mother on the first day...no that can't be, it's impossible!

Bambi: Please, tell me you like my poems...no matter if you hate them, I just need to hear it...please...tell me I'm the best...

You: Bambi-

Bambi: Nobody ever takes me seriously!

You: What?!

Bambi: When I used to share my poems everyone has put them aside saying "Cute and indignated, just like you, Bambi!". It's not my fault I have anger issues and sometimes I don't want to be cute! Why can't anyone understand that?! I just want...

He stops, his fists are clenched really tightly

You: Hey Bambi, if you're not careful you might rip your own poem

I gently take it from his hand and set it on a desk. I strat smoothing out all the wrinkles he put into it

Bambi: Don't read it!

You: Why not?

Bambi: I know you won't like it, it's not good

You: It won't be, none of your poems were bad. They were all good

Bambi: !

You: I really mean it, the first time I read one of your poems I didn't look much into it because I wasn't so interested in writing and sharing but now I know this club better, I know you better. Your style isn't anything crazy like all styles and it's not a thing to judge. Now I understand that you aren't just cute or mad, you're more than that

Bambi looks at me in the eyes for some seconds then takes a look at the desk where I put his poem on

Bambi: You can read it...

You: Really?

Bambi: Yes you can...

You: W-wow...

This poem is actually kinda heartwarming

Bambi: So...what's that look?

You: I'm just...not used to hear such nice things to you

Bambi turns his head away

Bambi: ...you fucking idiot

We remain there for what it seemed a minute or so unsure of what to say

Bambi: ...are we done sharing?

You: I guess so...

I try giving his poem back but he pushes my hand away

Bambi: I don't want it

You: But you wrote it, why not?

Bambi: I just don't...

Now I realize, he can't be honest so he's trying to make me keep his poem in an alternative way

You: Ok, I'll keep it

Bambi: Good, or else I would have uhm...I would uhm...something! Now put it away before anyone sees it, ok?

You: Ok

I put the poem in my backpack and head to the next guy

You: Hey Dave

Dave: Hey

I hand him my poem

Dave: Let's see... *reads it* ...Y/N...you improved a lot in this few days. Every poem of yours is better than the previous. Are you a natural?

You: Not at all, I improved thanks to you. You're the one who explained well, you're the inspiration

Dave: R-really?

Dave gently smiles to himself

Dave: I'm so glad...I got the chance to share my writing

You: You said that yesterday, though it's a shame you're so good at something and you've never shared it with anyone though...

Dave: Maybe but...it's not like...I had a choice

You: Do you mean Expunged has forced you to share? He kinda did to everyone

Dave: I didn't mean that...

You: Oh what did you mean then?

Dave: Y/N, during breaks I'm all alone. Did you know that? It's a nice time to find a quiet spot do some reading

I can relate...even though I don't read much

Dave: Infact I always have some books with me. In one way I enjoy reading, and in the other...I find amazing and inspiring people in there, people I want to fall in love with, people who would make good friends, cheerful people and deep thinkers...I'm surrounded by friends every, day if you will! And those friends don't laugh at me, they don't tease me for spacing out all the time and...they don't think insult me because I'm disabled!

You: People say that about you?

It's impossible, he's the classiest person I know by now! Anyone would see him as an example to chase!

Dave: That's why I hide myself in books...all I've been doing is reading and writing but when I started sharing with you I realized what was missing all of this time, what I was missing all of this time: someone to trust

You: But I didn't do anything...

Dave: No, you did a lot just by being patient and respectful. You treat me like anyone else. It means so much to me...everytime I talk to you I feel comfortable with myself

You: I treat people how they deserve to be treated. Many don't see it that way so screw them, they're not worth our time and energy

Dave: ...I guess you're right

You: Do you want to show me your poem?

Dave: I do!

He hands me his poem

After finishing reading, I raise my gaze and notice Dave is looking away

Dave: Do you...scorn it?

You: No, I don't! I just...don't know how to respond

Unlike the other poems Dave made, this one wasn't too hard to figure out

Dave: I-i don't know if I'll be able to explain it...

You: That's fine, I think I understood it

Dave: ...

Dave is having a harder time speaking than usual

You: This one means a lot to you, doesn't it?

He nods

You: Thank you for sharing it with me. I'm not that good with words but I really mean it

I can see a faint smile forming on Dave's lips. I try to hand the poem back to him but instead he gently takes my hand and pushes it back slowly

Dave: Um you c-can...

He fails to complete the sentence

You: I see, I'd like to keep it

After hearing those words, Dave's head perks up

Dave: R-reallly?!

You: Yes, really. I'll make sure to treat it well

Dave: You're so nice. I hope I can return the favor sometimes...

You: Don't worry, you already do a good job

I gaze at the poem one last time and notice something

You: There is a spelling error here...

Dave: H-huh?! What do you mean?!

You: It's here

I point the error with my finger

Dave: H-how...how could I have been so stupid?!

Dave screams to himself

You: It's not a big deal, it happens to anyone

Dave: I...I-i

He wheels away at the speed of light

You: Dave, wait!

And he's gone...gotta head to Expunged

Expunged: Hi, Y/N. Have you thought about what you want to submit to perform at the festival?

You: I found a cool poem

Expunged: Really? You've been fast!

You: It's called Self-insert swingin'

Expunged: Weird...it sounds like a song title

You: It may be but it's not a song and I find it very nice and relatable

Expunged: Hehe whatever it is it'll turn out great. Anyway, let's take a look at today's poem

I hand him my sheet

Expunged: Hmh you're sticking with his style again, huh? You really like him, don't you?

You: Uhm yes but, he's just a friend, ok?

Expunged: Woah I was kidding about the last part. Anyway you've been spending a lot of time with him lately, I guess that's why you're so in sync with him

You: You can say that

Expunged: I also noticed you improved a lot! He's been giving you some good advices, hasn't he?

You: Only from the best!

Expunged: ...

Now I feel weird, I shouldn't have said that. Expunged frowns for a moment before regaining his signature smile back

Expunged: Anyway...I'll share my poem with you now, alright?

You: Alright

I really love the title...

Expunged: You know...I got tired of the Only in Ohio meme so I decided to write about an angel of knowledge

You: FINALLY A GODDAMN SANE PERSON!!!

My sudden screaming startled Expunged

You: COME HERE, YOU MIGHTY ONE!

I hug Expunged. Unsure of how to react, he remains still for a moment before slowly hugging me back. After releasing my grip I realize what I just did

You: ...

Can't pass one week without embarrassing myself, can I?

Expunged: Ook...

Expunged tries to restore the conversation

Expunged: Uhm anyway...here's Expunged writing tip of the day

I don't know if I can follow what he says due to my mind racing at that moment again and again

Expunged: Are you ever too shy to share your writing because you're afraid it's not that good? It can be really disheartening to get a lukewarm response to something you put effort on. But if you find other people who enjoy writing then sharing becomes a lot easier! Because instead of telling you your writing is good, bad or ok they'll want to focus more on everything that went into it and the things you can work on. It's much more encouraging that way and it will make you want to continue improving

You: I have never thought about it, thanks

Expunged: You're welcome and thanks for listening

And that's all for today's sharing.

Expunged: Ok, you three! We're all done sharing poems, right? Why don't we start figuring out-

Bambi: Wait a second! Is it me or did just say something strage?

Expunged: Huh?

Dave: You deviated from your catchphrase when addressing the club. It sounded unusual to me too...

Expunged: Catchphrase? What catchphrase? I don't have one...

You: Normally you say "Ok, everyone"

Expunged: ...

Bambi: Why is the mood so weird today? Even Dave isn't unfazed by that!

Dave: ...stagnating air is common foreshadowing that something terrible is about to happen

You: Don't exaggerate, the only different thing here is the absence of Bandu

Dave: Ah...

Expunged: He always lighten up the mood, doesn't he? It's almost like as if he was a balacer for the club...

Bambi: Where the heck did he run off, anyway? I thought he just went to pee

Dave: Please show some decency...

Bambi: Oh, come on!

You: He wasn't feeling too well and went home early...

Dave: I hope he's alright...

Bambi: Of all the time to not go home with him you pick the time he's not feeling well? So mushy

You: What?! No! Stop misunderstanding my friendship with Bandu! Also he's been kind of avoiding me so I didn't want to force it

Dave: Ooooh?

Dave is making a curious expression...why him of all people?!

Expunged: Calm down, guys...! I talked to him earlier and everything's fine

You: What did he say?

Expunged: Anyway, we need to figure out the rest of the festival preparations so...

He didn't answer my question...

Expunged: Let's decide what everyone will be doing this weekend

Bambi: I already know what I'm doing!

Expunged: That's correct, Bambi will be making corn. But we need a lot of it and different toppings...are you sure you can handle that?

Bambi: Bambi never gives up, Bambi finds a way!

I hear Expunged and Dave giggling a little under their breaths. I mean, how can you not find that cute?

Bambi: What?

Expunged: Nothing...

Dave: ...

Expunged: Anyway, as for myself I'm going to be printing and assembling all the poetry pamphlets. Bandu will be helping me design them. And as for Dave...

Dave: ...

Expunged: You have a beautiful handwriting so you should make some banners and decorations to set the atmosphere

Dave: Atmosphere...? I...I love atmosphere!

Dave expression suddenly lights up as he stares at the floor nodding to himself. Looks like his mind is already racing

Expunged: That just leaves you, Y/N

You: I'm pretty useless though...

Expunged: Don't say that! In fact both Dave and Bambi have some tough tasks to handle, you can give one of them a hand. Or you could help me out as well

You: Ah...that's a good idea?

I'm pretty unsure myself, not much on my skills but on how the others would respond

Dave: I...wouldn't mind a bit of help...

Bambi: Well, even if you don't know how to cook, there's always some dirty work I could give you. It's not like Expunged is gonna give me a choice and you shouldn't be sitting on your ass anyway...

Bambi tries to mumble a bunch of excuses like that

Dave: If I'm not mistaken, Bambi...you said you can handle the cooking on your own. Y/N may not like to be around if you make her nothing but a nuisance so therefore...she may be more suited to assisting with the decorations

Bambi: Huh?! How hard could it be to make a few decorations, anyway? Sounds like you're just making excuses for Y/N to-

Dave: W-what are you saying?? It will be extremely meticulous work...!

Bambi: And cooking isn't? Just what do you think-

Expunged: Guys, guys! Calm down, it's up to Y/N to decide who to help after all. Besides she hasn't gotten a chance to spend time with me, you know? So, I'm sure she's interested in-

Bambi: You literally just said-

Dave: I'm surprised as well!

Expunged: I was just saying...

Bambi: Can we just settle this already?

Expunged: Yeah...Y/N, it's up to you. Who do you want to help?

Everyone looks straight at me. I'll go with...

You: ...Bandu. If it's going to be anyone then I prefer helping Bandu. I mean, we're neighbors and he's been down to-

Dave: But Expunged said-

Bambi: Expunged said that Bandu was helping him! Do you hate us that much?

You: N-no!

Expunged lets out an exasperated sigh

Expunged: Retry...

I can't go with Bandu and I can't with Expunged either. This is a lot harder than I thought...how is it possible to not be able to choose?! Am I retarded?

You: I...don't know

Bambi: What?!

Dave: H-huh?!

You: It's not like I don't want to help, it's that I can't decide who to help...

Bambi: Are you really that-

Expunged: Stop it, Bambi. I know you're about to say something mean

Bambi: No...I was just saying...nevermind!

You: Let's try like this, I'll take the phone numbers of both of you so I can contact you and choose who to help

Dave: Uh...

Bambi: ...

Expunged: That can work

Me, Dave and Bambi exchange phone numbers

Expunged: Be quick to decide, ok?

You: Ok

Expunged: And with this I guess there's nothing more for today. It's time for us to head out

Everyone packs their things. Dave and Bambi stare at me one last time before going out of the door, they surely said "Remember to choose" in a non-verbal way. I walk out of the classroom after them

Outside the school...

I can't believe it, I'm going to see one of them out of school! But what would happen with them? I'm pretty used to both of them by now but I don't know how they act outside the school walls...come on, Y/N, don't be dumb. Everything is going to be alright, you'll learn a bit of their skills and get the chance to improve your friendship. It's a double win situation, right? ...right?

Be different and be yourself!