(Christian)
I stayed with Eli in the art room for a little while. He pointed out different paintings and sculptures, some of them his, some from other students. I tried to focus and let the calm of the space settle in me. But my brain felt too loud again. Like something inside was ringing, refusing to quiet down.
After a while, I rubbed my eyes and let out a quiet breath.
“I think I’m gonna head back to my room,” I said softly. “I’m pretty tired.”
Eli glanced at me and smiled. “Yeah, no problem. If you need anything, text me, okay?”
I nodded.
“We’ll talk more tomorrow. Here. I’ll save you a seat.”
“Thanks,” I said, and meant it.
Eli waved at me as I left. He started humming again, already moving on to something else like he didn’t have a single heavy thought in his head. I kind of
