His parents tried to help—changing family meals, encouraging clubs and activities—but nothing worked. By high school, food was more than comfort. It was his only friend.
Lucas tried to blend into the background, but at his size, it was impossible. The cycle of bullying and binge eating continued, trapping him in an identity he neither wanted nor could escape. That was, until the day Ariel spoke to him again.
It was an ordinary Thursday. As Lucas trudged through the crowded hallway, Ariel appeared before him with a smile. Ariel—the most popular girl in school, his secret crush since first grade. With her auburn hair and forest-green eyes, she was the image of a storybook princess.
They had once been close, back when they were little. Recess was their world, filled with games, laughter, and shared secrets. Ariel had always been kind, always seen Lucas for who he was. But middle school had changed everything. She had blossomed into popularity while Lucas fell deeper into isolation. By high school, they lived in completely different worlds.