Tears in the Shadows

As I walked away from the infirmary, anger and hurt swirled inside me like a stormy sea. How could they think that I would help the League of Villains? Did they really believe that I would be capable of such a thing? The reporter's words kept echoing in my mind, and I couldn't shake off the feeling of betrayal. I felt like I was going to explode, but instead, I found myself walking further and further away from the crowds, searching for a place to be alone. I spotted a quiet corner of the school, hidden behind a row of tall trees and overgrown bushes. It was a place where nobody would think to look for me. I collapsed onto a bench, feeling the weight of my emotions crushing me. I buried my face in my hands and let the tears flow. I cried and cried, the sound of my sobs muffled by my palms. Nobody saw me, nobody heard me. I was alone in my grief. But then, I heard a voice, soft and gentle. "Are you okay?" I gasped, my heart racing as I looked up. A boy with messy purple hair and baggy eyes stood before me, his expression filled with concern. I wiped my tears away, trying to compose myself. "Yea... I'm fine," I said, trying to sound calm, but my voice cracked. The boy's eyes narrowed slightly as he took in my appearance. "Aren't you the girl on TV, who's parents...?" I cut him off, my voice barely above a whisper. "Yes, I am." The boy's expression softened, and he said, "Sorry." I shook my head, trying to wave off his sympathy. "It's fine." He took a step closer, his eyes locked onto mine. "I'm Hitoshi Shinso. Nice to meet you." I wiped my tears away again, trying to calm down. "I'm Vesper Shishio. Nice to meet you too, Hitoshi." Shinso's gaze lingered on me, but he didn't push for more conversation. Instead, he simply nodded and sat down beside me on the bench, his presence a comforting silence in the midst of my turmoil. I didn't know what to make of him, but for now, I was grateful for his quiet companionship.