At school, Mina noticed things were changing — slightly, almost imperceptibly. She still raised her hand, still helped friends, still walked with her penguin shuffle when nerves overwhelmed her. But now, she decided she wouldn't stay silent when unfairness came her way.
One day, Mrs. Hartley asked a question, and Mina's hand shot up. The teacher started to call on someone else. Mina took a deep breath and spoke clearly: "I know the answer, Mrs. Hartley. May I try?"
The class went quiet. Mrs. Hartley hesitated, then nodded reluctantly. Mina answered correctly, her voice steady and strong. A small smile crept across her face. For the first time, she felt seen.
Later, at home, a small argument erupted between her parents again. Mina wanted to shrink into a corner, but instead, she gently spoke up, suggesting a way to calm down and work things out. Taro glanced at her, surprised but supportive. Her parents, tired but attentive, listened for a moment.
Mina realized that standing up didn't mean yelling or fighting. It meant speaking clearly, calmly, and showing courage even when her voice trembled inside.
By the end of the week, she noticed small changes. Friends listened to her more. Teachers noticed her efforts, even if only quietly. And she discovered something important: standing up for herself didn't make her weak. It made her stronger.
I'll continue with Chapter 8, focusing on moments of joy, friendships, small victories, and her crush noticing her kindness.