https://fivedotoh.com/2022/03/19/fowc-with-fandango-ostracize/

ostracise is the word of the day

Standing at the back of the playground, Tabitha slunk back into the shadows. She scanned the area. Some were chatting, some were playing football. Alone, being ostracised on a daily basis was taking its toll.

Her confidence dipped to an all day low, she had long since stopped trying to make friends. Susan wouldn’t allow it. There were many rumours going around – none of them true. What did that matter anyway? It was the last year of school. Next year she would leave, get a job.

‘You okay?’

A girl, in her year group, walked over. Tabitha made herself as small as possible, ready for the onslaught that was to come. The clouds were dark, grey, full of a lingering storm.

Staying silent, and she would be accused of being stand office, but talking meant they cold crack her thin veneer. With a deep breath, she faced the girl, who had oval eyes, blue the colour of the sea.

‘Yes, fine.’

‘It’s just I noticed you on your own. Did you want to go to lunch with me, I’m new.’

‘I wouldn’t be friends with me, I’m not the most popular,’ she said.

‘I don’t listen to bullies, and you seem like a nice girl to me. My name’s Sarah by the way.’

‘Tabitha.’ Her shoulders relaxed against her black blazer.

‘Nice to meet you Tabitha, cool name by the way.’