My new school welcomed me unfriendly—everyone tried to show me that I’m an outsider. My bright appearance prevented me from blending in and becoming a gray mouse. I already regretted coming to this city… but then, suddenly, I got a secret friend on social media who encouraged and calmed me down. I would complain to her about the main bully in my class who wouldn’t let anyone pass. It became easier to get used to the new place until I figured out who my secret friend really was. I’ll never be so trusting again… — You’re a walking problem! A splinter in one place—Shmelev snarls with evil, pressing me against the wall. — You ruin everything! — And you stay away from me— I thrust out my button nose, pushing the guy as hard as I can, not about to show fear to the bully.