She couldn't believe it. For so long, she was the kid no one messed with, but now, she was the kid everyone messed with. All because they heard she couldn't get into a fight or else.

Alex looked up as she was cornered by bullies.

"What's up with you lately," one shoved her. "You've had your nose in homework all week!"

"Not her fault," another snickered. "Her current family came up with an excuse to kick her out." She then smirked at Alex. "Aw, poor baby, no where you go your wanted."

"Maybe that's why you always hang around those nerds, to make up for the family you don't have."

"Lay off," a low growl came from behind him.

The three went wide eyed. "Claude!"

"We didn't mean any of it pal!"

"We swear!"

"Just fun joking!"

"I said lay off!" And with that, the three ran.

"Thanks," Alex told Claude.