GIRLS ARE NOT BALLS!
605 Words
For the first time since Kira started schooling at Crystal College, she finally felt peace. No fear of being watched. No paranoia. Just wind in her hair and freedom in her steps.
She was thriving—answering questions in lectures, chatting with classmates, attending night prep, and staying in her unit without Jason hovering nearby. For once, she was doing excellent. And Jason loved it.
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**Lecture Theater**
“So, next week, those who passed the test will be heading out to research land disputes in Ottawa,” the lecturer announced. “Those who failed will not graduate this year. Good day, and God bless.”
As the lecturer exited, a classmate turned to Kira.
“Kira, could you explain what land disputes are?”
“Sure,” she said, smiling. “Land disputes are conflicts that arise from the struggle to acquire land. So if we’re researching land disputes in Ottawa, we’re looking into the causes of those disagreements. Got it?”
The girl nodded slowly.
“If you still don’t get it, you can ask Jason. It’s not his field, but he might know something,” Kira added. “Anyway, I’ve got fitness training. See you!”
She waved and left the theater, heading toward the female gym.
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**Fountain Courtyard**
Jason stood by the fountain, eyes glued to his phone, earbuds in, face unreadable.
The same girl from the lecture theater spotted him. She saw the stone in her path—clearly visible—but decided to trip over it anyway. Just to get his attention.
She knew Jason didn’t care much for people outside his circle. But she also knew he’d never let a girl fall.
She stumbled, and right on cue, Jason reached out, caught her hand, and steadied her—without even looking up. Once she was balanced, he let go and continued scrolling.
“You good?” he asked, still focused on his phone.
“Not really. You just saved my face from getting snugged,” she replied.
Jason finally removed his earbuds.
“Excuse me?”
“I said you saved my life—and my face. My face is my reputation,” she said with a giggle.
“Oh. I did?” Jason blinked. “Wasn’t trying to save your reputation. I was doing a fitness test. That was the last part—instinct and precision. Nothing to blush about.”
“You must be Jason, right? Kira’s bodyguard?”
“Yeah, sort of. Depends on the mood,” he said, slipping his phone into his pocket.
“She’s changed a lot lately. I heard Detective Xavier was assigned to your case,” she said, arms crossed.
“Yeah. He gave Kira those headphones. They help a lot. I got a warm hug from him—and his autograph,” Jason replied with a shrug.
“Right, the anti-camera device. Oh, and about the land disputes—Kira said I could ask you.”
“Oh. Yeah, her research, not mine. I just help where I can. You part of the group?”
“No, I was just curious. She’s really shining now. From being silent in class to teaching half of it—it’s impressive.”
“You’re Sophie, right?” Jason asked.
“Yeah. Kira’s been working hard. What’s the project really about?”
“There’s more to it than just land conflicts and destruction. It’s not my field, but I try to help where I can,” he said, already turning to leave.
“Will I ever see you again?” she called out.
Jason didn’t stop walking.
“Maybe. Maybe not.”
- Writer
