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Chapter 4: Brianna's Reaction

The next day, Brenner Souka got ready in a hurry. He didn't mind skipping breakfast, which he had made himself since he was 5 years old, as his father and brother refused to make it for him. However, Brenner no longer cared about these things. He was looking to the future, a future with Brianna Alexa. He even dreamed of her the night before, seeing in her the salvation of his lonely and desolate world.

Brenner walked to school, facing the same cycle of mockery and bullying. But once again, he didn't care. He was focused on Brianna and the letter she would receive. He was so focused on his hope and expectation that he didn't even notice the laughter and sneers that surrounded him.

Then, she entered the room. Brianna Alexa. Brenner felt his heart speed up and sweat began to form on his forehead. She sat up, looked down and saw the letter. She picked it up and started reading. Brenner watched every expression on her face, every movement of her eyes, looking for some clue to her emotions.

Brenner Souka waited for what seemed like an eternity. Every minute that passed seemed to stretch into hours, until finally, Brianna finished reading the letter. She looked up, her eyes met Brenner's and then, slowly, a smile formed on her face. She took the letter, put it in her backpack and continued with her day.

Seeing that smile was like a ray of light for Brenner. He smiled back, a smile of pure contentment and happiness. He spent the rest of the day in a state of dreamy joy, not paying attention in class, not caring about the teasing. Nothing else mattered except Brianna and the smile she gave him.

(End of Chapter 4)