Arjun sprinted up the hallway, his shoes slapping against the floor. Then he stopped. A boy sat cross-legged on the stage, surrounded by open books.
Arjun crept closer, toes tracing the stage edge. The boy turned a page with a soft rustle. Arjun wanted to speak but said nothing.
The boy looked up. Their eyes met. Instead of frowning, he smiled — a tiny smile. Arjun smiled back, slow and unsure.
Arjun pulled a slightly squashed apple from his pocket. The boy laughed — a bright sound. The apple rolled across the gap between them.
The bell rang. Arjun brushed off his knees and stood. The boy waved and went back to his books.
Arjun walked to the staircase. He didn't run. His steps felt lighter.
At the top of the stairs, Arjun glanced back. The stage was still there.
Now it felt like a place where quiet things could happen.