❝ esqueleto. ❞

━━━━━━━☆

    SINCE SCHOOL started a month ago, a lot has changed for Reina and her friends. One day, she decided to sit at Miguel's table instead of her usual spot, and her friends followed suit. This simple choice transformed their social circles into one big friend group of six. Miguel quickly bonded with Reina's friends, and she connected with his.

    Raegan has especially grown close to Eli, likely due to their shared quiet nature. Meanwhile, Demetri and Caridad often clash, with her sharp words sparking his sarcastic comebacks. Throughout it all, Reina and Miguel have remained the best of friends, solidifying the group's dynamic.

   "Cyberbullying is no laughing matter. Sending a cruel message to someone online can be just as hurtful as saying it to their face," Guidance Counselor Blatt announced during lunch. Reina watched as Raegan rolled her eyes before laying her head on Eli's shoulder, making him smile. Reina then looked at Caridad as a way to say, "You seeing what I'm seeing?" and Caridad's eyes immediately conveyed, "Oh, I'm definitely seeing what you're seeing."

    "I'm not going to name names, but the other day, a mother called me because her son was crying after some kids online made fun of his facial deformity," Blatt continued, causing Reina to look up, realizing she was talking about Eli. Reina glared at Counselor Blatt, frustrated by her obliviousness. Eli was the only student at school with a facial deformity, and he nervously glanced around, noticing everyone staring at him.

   "What the hell are you all looking at?" Raegan shouted at the crowd, forcing them to return to their previous conversations. Reina's eyes widened slightly at Raegan, as did Caridad's—she was usually the quiet one, always on her phone. But lately, she's been coming out of her comfort zone for the first time in years.

    "That's what I figured," she mumbled, leaning back against her friend.

   "Thanks," Eli whispered. While he appreciated having someone defend him, he felt a twinge of sadness for not being able to stand up for himself.

    "Ms. Torres, let's try to keep the language respectful," Counselor Blatt interjected, causing Raegan to roll her eyes. "Continuing on, our goal today is to create a safe space for everyone in this school."

    "You know, if you're sick of getting bullied, my karate dojo's looking for recruits," Miguel suggested. Reina slightly tensed up, which didn't go unnoticed by Caridad or Raegan; they both knew how she felt about martial arts but didn't say anything, simply being watchful of her.

    Eli softly nodded, taking it under consideration. "Yeah, right, you hear that, Eli?" Demetri remarked, "A little karate training and you're gonna kick some major ass." He spoke sarcastically, making Reina roll her eyes.

    "I'm serious, Demetri, all right? My sensei's the real deal, and I'm sure I could get you both discounts," Miguel voiced. "As enticing as that sounds, I think we'd rather spend our afternoons playing Crucible Control than getting hit in the face," Demetri replied. Reina noticed how Eli looked off to the side; she could tell that Eli didn't agree with what Demetri was saying.

    "What about you three? Would you join?" Miguel asked, hope in his question.

    "These nails do not be throwing hands unless it's necessary, Miguel. So it's a no for me," Caridad immediately shut down, while looking down at her daisy-styled acrylics.

    Miguel chuckled softly at Caridad's response, shaking his head slightly. He turned to Raegan and Reina, waiting for their answers. He could tell they were both hesitant for their own reasons, but he hoped they would give the offer a chance. "What about you two? You up for trying out karate?" he asked, his eyes meeting each of theirs in turn. Raegan and Reina exchanged a glance, their expressions a mix of curiosity and reluctance.

    "I'm not sure," Raegan eventually admitted, her voice thoughtful. "It does sound cool, but I'm not really a violent person."

    Reina's hesitation was clearer, her shoulders tensing slightly. She avoided eye contact with Miguel, her gaze fixed on her lunch tray. She tried to hide her discomfort, but her clenched jaw betrayed her.

    "Reina's not interested either," Caridad replied, covering for her best friend.

    Miguel frowned slightly at Caridad's quick response, sensing Reina's discomfort. "Are you sure? It could be fun," he pressed, his eyes still on Reina. "It's not just about fighting; it's about discipline, self-confidence, and learning self-defense."

    Reina kept her eyes down, her face carefully neutral. But Miguel could tell she was upset. He didn't understand her aversion to karate, and his persistence was only making her uncomfortable. Caridad, on the other hand, was watching the interaction closely, a knowing look in her eyes. She knew why Reina was so against the idea, but she also knew that Reina wasn't going to share that reason with anyone.

    "Oh, and one last thing. While we're all looking forward to the Halloween dance, let's make sure our costumes are culturally sensitive. For example, instead of 'sexy nurse,' maybe try 'gender-neutral hospital employee,'" Counselor Blatt advised, making everyone chuckle.

    "Reina, you're still going as Eleanor from the Chipettes, right?" Caridad asked, as a way to change the subject.

    Miguel's attention was pulled back to the conversation as Reina's planned costume was mentioned. He couldn't help but smile at the thought of her dressed as Eleanor. "You're going as Eleanor, she's the green one right?" he asked, sounding both amused and impressed.

    Reina, having calmed down a bit, managed a small nod, her own lips curving into a slight smile at his reaction. "Yeah. Caridad, Raegan and I are going as each of the chippettes." she explained with a shrug.

    "And I'm going as Brittany," Caridad revealed. "Raegan here is being Jeannette."

Miguel raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed by their choice. "That's actually a pretty solid idea," he said, grinning. "I didn't expect you all to go for something so... classic."

Raegan, who had been quieter than usual, smiled softly. "It was Caridad's idea. She said it'd be funny to see us all dressed like chipmunks."

"I mean, they are iconic," Caridad added with a smirk. "Plus, it'll be fun to see who can pull off the best impression of their voices."

Reina chuckled, feeling a little lighter. The thought of dressing up with her friends and having fun at the Halloween dance helped take her mind off the earlier conversation. For a moment, it almost felt like things were normal again—no awkwardness, no pressure, just a group of friends planning to have a good time.

But as the laughter settled, Reina couldn't shake the feeling that there was still an unspoken tension between her and Miguel. She noticed how he'd looked at her earlier, his eyes full of concern and confusion. She knew he was trying to understand why she was so hesitant about karate, but the truth was, she wasn't ready to open up about it—not yet.

Caridad's eyes flicked between her and Miguel, an understanding look in her gaze. She was probably the only one who knew the full story, and as usual, she didn't press. Instead, she gave Reina a quick, reassuring nod, as if to say, You don't have to explain yourself to anyone.

   Thirty minutes later, lunch was over.

    Reina exited the cafeteria heading towards her next class-study hall, which she unfortunately didn't share with Raegan or Caridad. She then felt a tap on her shoulder and looked back to see Miguel. "Hey. I was wondering, since we both have study hall next period, if you mind helping me with something?" he asked.

    Reina turned around, a slight hint of surprise on her face. She hadn't expected to be approached by Miguel, let alone be asked for help. She adjusted her backpack, mulling over his request. "Um, sure. What do you need help with?" she asked, curiosity piqued.

    "Do you know how to make a web page?" Miguel asked her. Reina's eyes widened slightly and a small smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. "Actually, I do," she replied, nodding. "I've taught myself some basic HTML and CSS. But let me guess, you need help with a web design project for computer class, right?"

    "Something like that... well, uh, it's really for my karate dojo. I wanna help my sensei gain more traction," Miguel explained.

    Reina nodded, impressed that Miguel was trying to help out his sensei. The fact that he asked her for help was a small ego boost for her, and she liked the idea of being able to contribute to his project. Sure, she feared doing martial arts, but that was just it. She did not mind making a webpage based on it. Two different things in Reina's mind.

    "Okay, I can definitely help with that. What kind of website are you looking to create? Like just an introduction page, or something a bit more involved?"

    "Like a homepage..." Miguel trailed off, not knowing exactly what more to say.

    Reina thought for a moment, considering the best approach. "Okay, for a simple homepage, we'll need some basic information like the name of the karate dojo, sensei's credentials, the address, and contact info. Oh, and a map would be a nice touch so people can find it easily." Reina continued walking alongside Miguel as they discussed the website, her mind already formulating ideas and plans. "And let's not forget a gallery of pictures-sensei, the members, maybe some cool karate moves. People always love visuals. We can even add a signup page, where people can register for classes without having to call or come in person."

    "Well, technically there's only one member, and that's me," he admitted, sheepishly.

    Reina chuckled softly at his sheepish confession, a small smirk playing at the corners of her lips. "One member so far," she teased gently. "But that just means we need to make the website extra appealing. We'll need to highlight your skills and achievements, maybe even a video or two. You gotta give people a reason to join, y'know?"

    She glanced sideways at him, her tone now more earnest. "But hey, I believe in you and your dojo. And I'm gonna make sure this website is the best one-member karate dojo site you've ever seen."

    "You're literally the best," Miguel said, sincerely.

    "So I've been told."

    _______________

    "ESTRELLA, how do I look?" Reina asked her twelve-year-old little sister while striking a pose in the center of the living room. Estrella, who was sprawled out on the couch with her iPad, glanced up, a teasing smile creeping across her face.

"You look super pretty," she replied, in awe.

   "Aw, thank you, bookie," Reina said, beaming with a playful wink.

    Reina was dressed in a Chipettes costume: she'd styled her hair into two messy pigtails (which was really just her putting her braids into two ponytails), and wore a green sequin skirt with a matching green crop top, mimicking Eleanor from The Chipmunks. Her headband was adorned with a cute set of faux chipmunk ears, completing the look. The costume was a little more fun and flirty than she usually went for, but she was excited for the Halloween dance. Why not have a little fun tonight?

   In the background, The Lodge played on the television, its eerie theme filling the room.

    "Thank goodness dad's not here," Reina muttered, adjusting the straps of her skirt. "He'd totally freak out if he saw me dressed like this."

    Estrella chuckled, her eyes dancing with mischief. "Yeah, he'd probably start going on about how it's 'too much' or something. But honestly, you look awesome. Just own it!"

    Reina twirled, the skirt flaring out slightly. "You really think so? I was worried it might be too... much."

   "Not at all! It's fun and totally you," Estrella replied, setting her iPad aside. "Plus, it's a party, not a family dinner."

   Reina grinned, feeling the wave of confidence wash over her. "Right! Just a bunch of kids, candy, and music. What could go wrong?"

    "Okay, now remember the rules," Reina recited. "Don't open the door for anyone, and if someone knocks, just turn down the TV and stay quiet. We aren't expecting anyone."

    Honestly, it felt like the Ten Commandments of their household, etched in her mind from years of reminders. Estrella rolled her eyes but smiled. "I'm twelve, not three. I get it."

    Reina adjusted her costume one more time, ensuring everything was in place, before giving her sister one last serious look. "Keep it down until I'm back, okay?"

   "Got it, Boss." Estrella gave a mock salute, still lounging on the couch. Reina grabbed her sweater from the back of the couch, pulling it over her costume as she prepared to leave. The sweater concealed just enough of her outfit to make her feel a little more comfortable, though she wasn't sure how long she'd keep it on once she arrived at the dance.

    "See you later, Estrella. Have fun with your iPad," Reina called out, already heading toward the door.

    The fact that Raegan's dad was driving her, Caridad, and Raegan to the dance meant she didn't have to worry about walking alone or dealing with transportation. It felt good to know that her friends had her back, and that she'd be part of their little group.

    _______________

"WASSUP, guys," Reina greeted Demetri, Eli, and Miguel as she, Caridad, and Raegan walked into the cafeteria the night of the Halloween party.

    "Eleanor and Jeannette, nice," Demetri complimented Reina and Raegan's Chipettes costumes, smiling as he took in their looks. He then turned his attention to Caridad, who was rocking a Brittany costume—complete with a pink sequin skirt, pink top, and the signature headband. "You could've made a better choice," he teased, eyeing her Brittany look from The Chipettes.

Caridad instantly shot him a playful glare. "Demetri, don't get beat the fuck up, I swear!" she warned, raising her hand, clearly ready to slap him. Reina and Miguel couldn't hold back their laughs, both of them thoroughly entertained by the ongoing antics between Demetri and Caridad.

"So, what type of surgeon are you?" Raegan asked Eli, eyeing his scrubs.

"Plastic surgeon. I fix lips," Eli replied with a small grin.

Raegan gave him a soft smile. "Well, I think you look great."

Eli blushed, mumbling a quiet "Thank you," and Raegan gave him a warm look. Miguel stifled a grin at the sight of Eli's red face. He caught Reina's eyes, and both of them shared a look of amusement, finding the whole situation pretty funny.

"What the hell are you supposed to be, Demetri?" Caridad asked with a raised eyebrow, eyeing his costume. "Didn't you see The Amulet?" Demetri responded confidently, acting like it was the most obvious reference.

"No, because I'm not into the nerdy shit you're into," Caridad smirked, crossing her arms. Reina and Raegan snickered at Caridad's snappy reply, while Miguel and Eli tried to suppress their laughs. Demetri, ever unfazed, rolled his eyes. "You guys are just jealous you didn't think of such a cool costume," he replied smugly, clearly proud of his outfit.

Miguel nodded toward Reina, signaling her to step aside for a private conversation. Once they were away from the group, Reina turned to him. "Hey, what's up?"

"Thanks again for helping me with the homepage. My sensei was really impressed," Miguel said gratefully.

"Of course! Always happy to help," Reina replied with a light nudge. Miguel rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly, smiling at her. "I'm just glad your sensei liked it. A good online presence really helps bring in new students." Reina says and before they could chat further, Reina saw Aisha standing by the snack table, munching on some cheese puffs so she went over to her. "Hey, Aisha," Reina greeted, grabbing a drink.

"Hey, Reina! Good to see you!" Aisha beamed, looking at Reina's costume. "Eleanor is such a cute choice."

"Thanks! But I really love your Sodium costume," Reina said, admiring Aisha's creativity.

"Thanks! Sam was supposed to be Chloride, but..." Aisha glanced at Moon and Yasmine nearby. "I get it. I'd pick sexy over funny any day," she said, grabbing more cheese puffs.

Reina chuckled. "Don't sell yourself short! You could totally pull off sexy if you wanted to. You look amazing, Aisha." As Aisha was about to respond, Yasmine began recording, laughing obnoxiously. Reina gave her the middle finger, and Yasmine rolled her eyes and turned away. Reina grabbed a Cobra Kai poster from the wall and handed it to Aisha. "You should join. Miguel says it's great for learning self-defense."

"Thanks, Reina. That's really sweet of you," Aisha said, flashing a small smile.

"No problem! I should go find my friends, but it was awesome seeing you. We should hang out soon," Reina said, before heading off.

Just as Reina stepped out of the snack area and into the center of the cafeteria, she was confronted by Demetri and Eli, both of them looking frantic. "What's going on?" Reina asked, immediately concerned.

"Miguel's getting jumped by Kyler in the locker room..." Demetri wheezed, clearly out of breath.

Reina's heart sank. Not again.

"Are you serious? And you just left him there? Some friends you two fucking are!" she snapped, hurrying toward the door. Caridad and Raegan, still standing by the fruit punch stand, noticed Reina's frantic movements.

"Rey, what's wrong?" Raegan called out, a worried expression on her face.

"I've gotta find Miguel!" Reina shouted over her shoulder, rushing out of the cafeteria. When she burst into the locker room, her stomach dropped at the sight of Miguel on the floor, bruised and struggling to breathe. "Oh my God, Miggy," she whispered, her hands flying to her mouth. Quickly, she grabbed tissues from her fannypack and started gently wiping the blood from his eye. "Can you sit up?" she asked, her voice shaky.

   Miguel groaned in pain, trying to move, and the sound caught the attention of a man who walked into the room. Reina looked up and immediately recognized him—the same man from the mini-mart, Miguel's neighbor, who had once defended him. "What are you doing here?" she demanded, her voice tense.

"I'm... I'm his sensei," the man said softly.

"Then do something! Don't just stand there!" Reina shouted at him, her panic growing as she turned back to Miguel, pressing the tissues to his eye. "Miguel, can you hear me? Just hold on, okay?"

Miguel winced but managed to open his eyes, his face a mix of pain and confusion. "Just breathe. You're going to be okay," Reina promised, her voice shaking. "What did they do to you?"

"I didn't even see it coming," he muttered, his breath shallow. "Kyler just... jumped me. I didn't think he'd actually do it."

Reina's fists clenched with anger, her blood boiling at the thought of Kyler. "That asshole. He's going to pay for this," she said, glancing at his sensei, whose face mirrored her fury.

"I thought I could handle it," Miguel said weakly, his voice barely above a whisper. "I didn't want to worry you."

   "Hey you! You're his sensei, right?" she asked, her voice sharp with urgency. "Are you good to take him home?"

   The man didn't hesitate. He lifted his student with practiced ease, then glanced at Reina, who still watched him warily. "Yeah," he replied, his voice calm but firm. "I'll take care of him." He adjusted his grip on Miguel, making sure the injured boy was stable in his arms.

Reina hesitated for a moment, her eyes still searching his face for any sign of doubt or hesitation. "You better," she warned, her voice low and tense.

The man met her gaze, his expression hardening. "I'm not here to fail him." He nodded towards the door, signaling that it was time to go.

Miguel let out a weak cough, his head resting against his sensei's shoulder. "Reina, I'll be fine... just—" He winced, his words cut short as he fought through the pain.

"Don't talk," Reina insisted, her eyes flicking from Miguel to the man. "Just get him home, alright?"

The man gave a short nod, turning toward the door, Miguel still in his arms. Reina stood frozen for a moment, her fists still clenched, her mind racing with thoughts of Kyler. The rage simmered inside her, but there was nothing she could do at that moment. With one last glance at Miguel, she turned, fighting the sting of worry that tugged at her chest.

As they left the locker room, the silence between her and the man hung in the air like a thick fog.