A Private Corner...

Eric smiled.
"Then do so, it's your dream, isn't it?"

"Yeah, you're right. What do you wanna be when you grow up yourself?" asked Karin.

"I'm not sure, There's not a wide choice for me..."

"Oh!" Karin gave him a little slap. "Don't say that! Grades don't show your intelligence, how you live your everyday life shows your true intelligence, and I think you're very smart!"

"Well, then what do you think I should do?" he said rubbing his shoulder.

"Oh sorry about that," said Karin nodding at his shoulder. "I think you should do whatever you want. It's your life, live it." she said simply.

Eric smiled.
"Tis fine. And, I'm not sure, that's the thing. I need ideas." He laughed.

"Well, hmm... Why don't you work with children, you know, that have been abused, like you or something?"

"That's... that's actually a good idea, Karin."

"You're welcome." Karin studied him again. "Are you bruised all over, or is it just on your back?" she asked.

"My legs, too... And, mind you, I'm wearing makeup on my cheek..." He grinned bashfully.
"That concealer stuff works, you know."

"Oh... I'm really sorry..." she balled her hands into fists. "That's so terrible of them! I wanna take care of your parents, let them see how it feels..."

Eric's eyes widened.
"Oh- Please don't, Karin." he pleaded.

"Why not? They deserve it, and you don't deserve to be beaten..."

"... Just, don't, ok? You don't know how horrible it's been. And, I don't want it worse..."