Daggers of Love

unprecedented Advocate

Peter’s Perspective

Over the course of the following days, I found myself subjected to a relentless stream of humiliation, a relentless barrage facilitated by Sean and his cohort of friends. Not a single day passed without them partaking in the merciless derision that was now my daily routine.

They even came up with a cruel nickname for me, "Peter Poorman," mocking my family's financial situation. Their actions impaired my ability to concentrate during class, inhibiting my capacity to exercise my true academic prowess. In their eyes, I had been reduced to a student devoid of any noteworthy qualities, one who seemed out of place in an institution as esteemed as our college.

I was profoundly isolated within the classroom, bereft of friends. Even my closest companion, Alex, maintained a deliberate distance from me in public settings to avoid being labeled an outcast by our peers.

Despite the agony I experienced, I clung to the hope that their childish behavior would eventually wane, and they would come to recognize me as a fellow human being. It was under these circumstances that I decided to return Alex's clothing and extend my gratitude for his unwavering friendship.

It was better to be myself and face humiliation than to pretend to be someone I'm not.

The relentless humiliation and derogation I endured were undeniable sources of suffering. Yet, I chose not to surrender my self-esteem. I embarked on a journey to fully embrace my background and everything it represented. My purpose for attending this institution was rooted in a pursuit of knowledge and future success.

I refused to give them the satisfaction of seeing me beg or break. I embraced my true self, flaws and all, and was determined to stand up to their cruelty. As my father used to say, "There is no progress or accomplishment without sacrifice and challenges." So, I was ready to face the challenges on my journey to success.

In class, I sat alone at the back, away from others. It was a choice I made because it spared me from the hurtful comments about my appearance or how I smelled, not giving them a reason to humiliate me more. They mostly ignored me unless they wanted to make me a subject of mockery. I felt like I was the class outcast, a pest in the class.

It pained me to see Angelica sometimes join in the laughter when they teased me, as it seemed to destroy any chance of us ever being more than acquaintances. But recently, a welcome change began to manifest when she ceased her laughter and refrained from participating in their jokes. It seemed like she was getting tired of their relentless teasing.

Then came the day when Sean, in a moment of cruelty, decided to reveal my secret crush on Angelica to the entire class, something I had only shared with Alex.

"Hey Guys, listen to this new revelation," he declared, seizing the attention of the entire class. "I have recently learned that our very own Peter Poorman harbors a gigantic crush on Angelica." His proclamation was met with an eruption of laughter.

"WHAT!" I heard a friend of Angelica exclaim in disbelief, sparking my concern about how this sensitive information had escaped confidentiality. I turned to Alex; whose apologetic gaze provided an answer.

"Sean, that was uncalled for. I never shared that information with you to humiliate him," Alex reproached.

"I apologize, buddy," Sean responded, his apology halfhearted. "I simply could not contain myself any longer," he added, punctuating his statement with laughter. My response was one of shame and embarrassment as the entire class joined in the mockery.

It was a moment of profound embarrassment that reduced me to bowing my head in shame as the class erupted in jeers.

Ella approached, “Is it true you have a crush on our friend?” she said and I could not meet her gaze or that of anyone else in the class, particularly Angelica. The humiliation was nearly unbearable.

"Indeed, even the most indolent and laziest dog aspires to savor the finest meat," Bella, one of Angelica's friends remarked with sarcasm. " Having it as a dream is irritating on its own. You’re too wretched to afford having her in your dreams." she added, precipitating further laughter.

"Why do you assume that Angelica would deign to befriend you, let alone consider a romantic entanglement?" another classmate inquired. "He should count himself fortunate if she consents to his employment as a household assistant."

As the class jeered, I wished to vanish from sight that very moment, my head bowed in a futile effort to escape the shame that engulfed me. Never had I envisioned enduring such a moment of vulnerability and despair in this academic environment.

“C’mon girls that’s enough. All this making me uncomfortable, let’s just sit down and leave the guy alone.” Angelica cautioned.

“No girl, we need to let him understand his place and not let his dirt stained us. A slave should know his place. I don’t blame him; I blame the school for allowing such people in our midst” Ella replied.

Throughout my high school years, I had been treated as a prince, a stark contrast to my current reality. Yet, it was the unexpected intervention from someone that altered the course of events.

“That’s a very harsh thing to say to anyone regardless of their class. You have no right to talk to anyone like that or treat them the way you all are treating this guy.” I heard the person as she rebuked them.

“And why would it be so bad? Huh?” the strange voice said and everyone turned to her. “Is he not a human being, just as we all are? Why should it be seen as a bad thing if they were to become friends or explore a deeper connection?” the voice said again and everyone seems to be quiet.

As I raised my eyes upon her, I was gripped by disbelief. The person who had now transitioned into an unexpected advocate happens to be a face have never seen before. I raised my head and locked eyes with the girl, a silent question forming in my gaze.

‘Am I dreaming? Is this really happening?’ I thought to myself. I never thought anyone will defend me this way. Even Alex who I considered my friend couldn’t do anything. Why is she doing this? Why is she defending me? Who is she?

‘Why is she doing this? I don’t even know her.’ I thought to myself because it makes no sense.

Her voice, in a most unexpected twist, demanded the attention of the room, leaving all stunned. "You all thought it’s cool mocking him, right?" she questioned, challenging the very foundation of their ridicule. " Well guess what, it’s not. It reflects poorly on the kind of individuals you all are."

There was a moment of stunned silence as the room grappled with the unprecedented defense she offered. I, too, was incredulous, pondering the motives behind her actions.

‘What was her aim? Could she truly mean this or was there any hidden motives?’ this was the questions troubling my mind.

Then she started walking closer to my seat and all eyes were on her as she took every step, and stood before me staring right in my confused eyes.

“Why are you doing this? Are you trying to make more fun of me? I questioned looking at her trying to figure out what her motive was or if there’s a hidden agenda behind her innocent attitude.

“No, I do not.” she replied then continued. “You can’t let them treat you this way. You have every right to be here as much everyone.” She encouraged.

She approached me with a determined stride, her tone resolute as she gave her encouragements. Her actions left me in a state of bewilderment. I thought all of these rich kids are all the same, I guess I was wrong.

“I just couldn’t stand it anymore. I couldn’t pretend to be okay with any of these.” She said and I knew she meant it.

“From now on Peter, you’ve got a new friend and I’m hoping you can accept me as one.” With a smile that conveyed a genuine warmth, she extended her hand in friendship which I reluctantly shook.

“See you in class tomorrow” With these words, she exited the classroom, leaving the room in profound contemplation.