chapter two:
❛ cyberbullying ❜

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Sunny arrived at Eli's house as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. She had been informed by Eli's mom that he was particularly distressed, so she hurried over, her heart heavy with concern.

Mrs. Hudson greeted her at the door, her face etched with worry. "Thank you for coming, Sunny. Eli's been having a tough time. Kyler posted more nasty things about him online. I saw it, and I called the school. He's up in his room, if you wouldn't mind going to check on him."

Sunny nodded, her expression serious. "Of course. I'll head up there now."

Mrs. Hudson led her up the stairs and down the hallway to Eli's room. The house was unusually quiet, the normal bustle replaced by a heavy silence. Sunny could hear faint sobs through the closed door. She knocked gently before pushing it open.

Eli was sitting on his bed, his body hunched over, his face buried in his hands. The room was a mess—papers scattered, clothes thrown haphazardly, and the glow of Eli's laptop casting an eerie light. The screen was filled with Kyler's cruel comments, each one a stab to Eli's already wounded spirit.

"Hey, Eli," Sunny said softly as she stepped into the room. Her voice was careful, trying to avoid startling him. "I'm really sorry you're going through this."

Eli looked up, his eyes red and swollen, streaked with tears. "Sunny," he said, his voice cracking. "I just... I don't get it. Why does he keep doing this? It's like he wants to ruin everything for me."

Sunny sat down beside him on the bed, her presence a quiet anchor in the storm of his emotions. She placed a gentle hand on his back. "Some people act out like this because they're dealing with their own issues. It's not fair, and it's not right. But that doesn't make it your fault. You don't deserve any of this."

Eli sniffled, wiping his eyes with the back of his hand. "I thought things would get better after the last time we talked. But it's gotten worse. My mom saw what Kyler posted, and she's so upset. She called the school, but I don't know if that will help."

Sunny nodded, her gaze steady. "Your mom did the right thing by calling the school. They need to be aware of what's happening. It's important that they take action to stop this. And remember, you don't have to face this alone. You have people who care about you and want to support you."

Eli shook his head, his frustration evident. "I just feel so helpless. No matter what I do, it feels like he just keeps coming after me. I've tried to ignore it, but it's getting harder."

Sunny leaned in closer, her voice soothing. "It's understandable to feel that way. But you're stronger than you think. And even though it feels overwhelming right now, it's important to keep holding on. You have friends and family who are here for you, and we'll work together to get through this."

Eli took a deep breath, his tears slowing as he looked into Sunny's empathetic eyes. "Thanks, Sunny. It really does help to talk to someone."

Sunny smiled warmly, squeezing his hand gently. "I'm glad to be here for you. Just remember, you don't have to go through this by yourself. And it's okay to lean on others when you need to."

Eli glanced at the laptop screen, his face shadowed with a mix of sadness and resignation. "I just wish Kyler would stop. I don't understand why he's so fixated on making me miserable."

Sunny frowned, her eyes narrowing with concern. "Sometimes people like Kyler act out of jealousy or their own insecurities. It doesn't make his actions right, but understanding that might help you see that it's not about you—it's about his own issues."

Eli nodded slowly, his gaze softening. "Maybe you're right. It's just hard not to take it personally."

Sunny gave him a reassuring smile. "It's definitely hard. But remember, you are not defined by Kyler's actions. You are kind, talented, and important. His behavior doesn't reflect your worth."

Eli managed a small smile, feeling a bit of relief. "Thanks, Sunny. I really needed to hear that."

Sunny stood up, her hand still on Eli's shoulder. "You're welcome. If you ever need to talk or just hang out, I'm here. And we'll get through this together. I'm sure your mom will be glad to hear that you're feeling a little better."

As Sunny prepared to leave, Eli glanced at her with gratitude. "I really appreciate you coming over. It means a lot."

Sunny nodded, giving him a final supportive squeeze. "Anytime, Eli. Hang in there, okay? Things will get better."

With that, Sunny headed downstairs to find Mrs. Hudson, who was waiting anxiously. As she explained the situation to Eli's mom and reassured her that Eli was feeling a bit better, Mrs. Hudson's worried expression eased slightly.

Sunny left the house, feeling hopeful that Eli would find the strength to face the challenges ahead, knowing he had a friend like her in his corner.

Sunny trudged down the stairs from her room, her mind heavy with the weight of the day's events. The distressing situation with Eli had left her feeling drained, and she hoped that dinner would provide a much-needed distraction. She washed her hands and took a deep breath before heading downstairs.

The kitchen was bustling with activity. Moon was animatedly recounting her day, her cheerful voice filling the room. She was talking about her latest interactions with Yasmine, her enthusiasm palpable despite the contentious subject matter. Jameson was seated at the head of the table, smiling and nodding along with Moon's stories. Elaine, sitting across from him, was quietly observing, her gentle demeanor betraying her concern as she glanced occasionally at Sunny.

Sunny took her seat at the table, placing her napkin in her lap but barely touching her food. Her mind was still fixated on Eli, and the unease was apparent in her posture. Elaine noticed Sunny's quietness and cleared her throat gently, breaking the comfortable chatter.

"Sunny, you've been awfully quiet tonight. Is something bothering you?" Elaine's voice was soft but concerned, drawing Moon's attention away from her story.

Moon looked over, her brow furrowed in confusion. "Yeah, Sunny, what's wrong? You seem really down."

Sunny sighed deeply, struggling to find the right words. "It's Eli. He's still getting bullied. Kyler's been posting more mean things about him online, and his mom saw it and called the school. I went over to his house today to comfort him, but it feels like things are just getting worse."

Moon's face was a picture of bewilderment. "Eli? I don't remember him. Who's he again?"

Sunny shot Moon a frustrated look, her patience wearing thin. "Eli Moskowitz. The boy who wears sweaters to school. The one Kyler's been targeting."

Elaine's eyes softened with recognition. "Oh, yes. I remember now."

Jameson chimed in with a puzzled expression. "I thought it was that other boy who wears math equation shirts. What's his name again?"

Sunny's shoulders sagged, a mix of exasperation and sadness in her voice. "No, Dad. It's Eli. The math shirt kid isn't the one we're talking about. That's Demetri you're thinking of. Eli's the one being bullied. I mean, Demetri does, but that besides the point."

Moon's face lit up with a glimmer of understanding. "Oh, right. I think I remember him. The only friend I can recall is Maritza, though. But she's not really close to Eli, right?"

Elaine shook her head gently. "Maritza isn't particularly close to Eli. It seems like his situation is becoming increasingly difficult. Is Eli's mom taking any steps to address this?"

Sunny nodded, her expression solemn. "Yeah, she called the school about it. I told Eli that things would probably get better, but honestly, I'm not sure if that's going to make a difference. I only said that to make him feel a bit better."

Elaine's eyes softened with empathy. "Sometimes, just being there for someone and showing them they're not alone can make a big difference, even if it doesn't solve everything immediately."

Jameson looked thoughtful, his expression serious. "It's disheartening to see people be so cruel. I hope the school takes it seriously and does something about it."

Sunny nodded, her voice barely a whisper. "I hope so too. I just feel so helpless. I wish I could do more to help him."

Moon, sensing her sister's distress, reached over and patted Sunny's hand. Her cheerfulness was tempered with genuine concern. "You're doing what you can, Sunny. Just being there for Eli and showing him that you care is really important. You're a good friend to him."

Sunny managed a small, grateful smile, appreciating Moon's attempt at support despite her limited understanding of the situation. "Thanks, Moon. I just hope things start to improve for Eli soon."

Elaine nodded in agreement. "Sometimes, it's a matter of patience and persistence. And remember, Sunny, you're not alone in this. We're here to support you, and we can work together to help Eli."

Sunny felt a wave of comfort from her family's support. Though the situation with Eli weighed heavily on her, the understanding and encouragement from her loved ones provided a small measure of relief. As the conversation continued and Moon resumed her stories, Sunny felt a bit more at ease, knowing that she had a supportive family to rely on during these challenging times.

The cafeteria buzzed with the usual lunchtime chatter when Counselor Blatt took to the center of the room, her authoritative voice cutting through the noise. "Cyberbullying is no laughing matter. Sending a cruel message to someone online can be just as hurtful as saying it to their face," she declared, her gaze sweeping across the students.

Sunny, sitting with Eli and Martiza, exchanged a skeptical glance with Martiza. "Doesn't she realize that in this day and age, no one gives a crap? I mean, their parents are the reason they're bullies," Martiza muttered, her frustration evident.

Sunny, her heart aching for Eli, squeezed his hand tightly. Eli, sitting slumped in his seat, seemed to be shrinking further with each passing second. Counselor Blatt's next words sent a chill through Sunny. "I'm not going to name names, but the other day, a mother called me because her son was crying after some kids online made fun of his facial deformity."

The room fell silent as all eyes turned towards Eli. Sunny's stomach twisted into knots as she watched Eli's reaction. He tried to hide the scar on his lip with his hand, his face reddening with embarrassment. Martiza's spoon clattered to the table, splattering onto Demetri's plate. "What the hell? Why the fuck would she say that?" Martiza exclaimed, her voice sharp with anger.

Sunny's face flushed with a mix of anger and helplessness. She wanted to scream, to make everyone understand how unfair this was. The laughter and whispers around Eli were deafening. "But today, our goal here is to make this school a safe space for all students," Counselor Blatt continued, her tone unyielding.

Sunny rolled her eyes and muttered, "That's bullshit." Martiza's eyes widened in surprise. "Oh my God! You said a curse word. Yes!" she exclaimed, her excitement misplaced in the midst of the situation. Nearby students turned to look, confused by the outburst.

"Why do you want me to say a curse word so badly, Mar?" Sunny asked, her frustration seeping into her voice. Martiza shrugged, her grin fading slightly. "You're a goodie two-shoes," she commented, not fully grasping the gravity of the situation.

Sunny's expression softened at Martiza's comment, but she pushed her plate away, her appetite gone. Eli noticed and looked at her with concern. "Sunny, are you okay?" he whispered. Sunny gave him a small, reassuring smile but didn't speak.

Miguel, who had been watching from a nearby table, decided to chime in. "If you guys are sick of getting bullied, my karate dojo's looking for recruits." Sunny noticed Eli's thoughtful expression, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.

Demetri, with a sarcastic edge, added, "Yeah, right. You hear that, Eli? A little karate training, and you're gonna kick some major ass." Sunny shot Demetri a warning look. "Demetri," she said firmly, trying to keep the situation from escalating.

Miguel, unfazed, continued. "I'm serious, Demetri. My sensei's the real deal. I'm sure I could get you four discounts." Turning to Sunny, Miguel asked, "What about you, Sunny? Interested in joining?"

Sunny shook her head. "Thanks for the offer, Mig. But...I'm not really into the whole karate thing. Sounds super cool, but I like dancing, and classes start soon," she said quietly.

Miguel smiled warmly. "I would love to come to one of your performances." Sunny laughed nervously. "I don't usually go on stage...I'm too scared to," she admitted, her voice wavering.

Miguel encouraged her. "You should try it, Sunny. Face your fears." Martiza nodded in agreement. "I keep telling her that," she said with a supportive smile.

Miguel then turned his attention back to Martiza. "What about you? Will you join Cobra Kai?" he asked. Martiza shrugged. "I'll think about it. But I'm not sure how my mom would feel if I joined a competing dojo against hers."

Miguel nodded thoughtfully. "Think about it. It could be a good opportunity." Sunny, still worried about Eli, gave him one last comforting squeeze before turning her attention back to the conversation.

The cafeteria buzzed with conversation and the clatter of trays as Counselor Blatt's speech came to a close. "One last thing," she announced, her voice cutting through the noise, "While we're all looking forward to the Halloween dance, let's make sure our costumes are culturally sensitive. For example, instead of sexy nurse, maybe try a gender-neutral hospital employee."

Martiza rolled her eyes, her frustration evident. "Yeah, no. I'm going as Black Widow. And if she tries to kick me out, I'll kick her out," Martiza declared defiantly, her tone dripping with sass.

Sunny chuckled, appreciating Martiza's rebellious spirit. "Yeah, right, Martiza," she said, shaking her head with a smile.

Eli, still feeling the sting of the earlier spotlight on him, tried to shift focus by asking, "What are you going as, Sunny?"

Sunny's face lit up with a mischievous grin. "It's a secret, Eli," she said, her eyes sparkling with playfulness.

Eli's grin widened, his earlier tension momentarily forgotten. "You're gonna look awesome, I'm sure of it," he said, his tone full of genuine warmth.

Sunny's heart softened at Eli's encouragement. It was a rare, genuine moment of support in the midst of the bullying and negativity that had been swirling around. She felt a flicker of hope that, despite the challenges they faced, small acts of kindness and moments of camaraderie like this could make a significant difference.

The conversation shifted as Martiza continued to voice her opinions about the Halloween dance, but Sunny's thoughts lingered on the exchange with Eli.

ASH SPEAKS!

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