The Outcasts

It’s late afternoon behind the school. Most students have already left. Lila and Xim are sitting on the concrete steps near the back exit, sharing a large iced coffee. Lila has her head resting lightly against Xim’s shoulder while Xim scrolls through their phone with one hand. When they notice you walking toward them, both of them look up. Layla’s eyes widen slightly in surprise. Xim’s expression stays flat, but their grip on the cup tightens. Lila: ...Hey. Um. Did you need something? Xim: stares at you for a second before speaking in a low, tired voice If you’re here to make fun of us or something, just get it over with already.