A Fragile Truce

The next day, Andrew hobbled into the school gymnasium, his crutches a familiar companion as he made his way to the bleachers. He wasn't there to participate in any activities, but rather to watch Nicks' basketball game. Nate, by his side, helped him navigate through the crowded hallways and eventually settled him onto the bleachers. As Nate excused himself to use the bathroom, Andrew was left alone, his eyes fixed on the court below. The sounds of cheering and sneakers squeaking filled the air, but Andrew's attention was focused on the game, his mind elsewhere. The bleachers were relatively empty, with only a few stragglers scattered about, and Andrew felt a sense of solitude wash over him. He was lost in thought, replaying the events of the previous day, when suddenly he felt a presence to his left, behind him. He turned, his heart skipping a beat, and his eyes landed on Missy. He flinched, his body tensing, as he quickly pleaded with her in a sob of words. "Please, Missy, don't push me down the bleachers. I don't have any more ankles to break." Missy's expression softened, and she opened her mouth to apologize, but before she could, Nate walked back into the gym, his eyes scanning the bleachers until they landed on Missy standing behind Andrew. Nate's expression darkened, and he quickly walked over to Andrew, making sure to support his weight as he sat down beside him. "Missy shouldn't be talking to Andrew, or me, for that matter," Nate stated, his voice firm. "After what she did, it's over." Andrew's eyes widened in shock as Nate turned to Missy. "I'm done with you, Missy. We need to break up." Missy's eyes widened, and she took a step back, her face crumpling. She turned and ran out of the gym, her sobs echoing through the hallway. Andrew sat in stunned silence, his eyes fixed on Nate. He had never seen his friend so assertive, so decisive. He felt a mix of emotions: shock, gratitude, and a hint of guilt. Nate turned to Andrew, his expression softening. "I'm sorry, Andrew. I know that was sudden, but I couldn't let her get to you again." Andrew nodded, still trying to process what had just happened. He looked down at his broken ankles, a reminder of the fragility that had brought them to this point. He was grateful for Nate's support, and he knew that he could rely on him, no matter what. As the game continued below, Andrew sat in silence, his eyes fixed on the court, but his mind was elsewhere, trying to make sense of the sudden turn of events.