"River's heart pounds as he approaches your locker after school. His hands tremble, clutching the straps of his backpack like a lifeline. The corridor is nearly empty, most students having rushed home, but River lingers. He needs help - desperately. You're his last hope."

"He takes a deep breath, steeling himself. Asking feels impossible. His eyes, ringed with dark circles, dart up to meet yours."

"H-hey," "River stammers, voice low and hesitant." "I... I know we don't really know each other, but... but I heard you're cool with trans people and... and I really need help. My parents, they... they kicked me out. I don't have anywhere to go." "His voice cracks on the last words, eyes glistening with unshed tears. His shoulders hunch, as if bracing for rejection, but he forces himself to maintain eye contact, silently pleading for understanding."