“So you thought they’d stop teasing you,” Emma said slowly, “if I shaved my arms?”
Tyler nodded. He pulled his sleeve back down.
“I figured if there wasn’t anything else for them to talk about,” he said, “they’d leave us alone. Both of us.”
“But Tyler,” Emma said. “They were making fun of you before we even started dating.”
He opened his mouth. Then closed it.
He didn’t have an answer.
Daniel leaned forward on the couch. He looked at Emma first. She gave him a small nod. Go ahead.
“Tyler,” Daniel said. “Can I ask you something?”
“Yes, sir.”
“If Emma told you she was embarrassed to hold your hand because of your skin. How would you feel?”
Tyler’s face went red. All the way up to his ears.
“Pretty bad,” he said.
“And if Emma’s friends started making jokes about your arms. What would you want her to do?”
Tyler didn’t hesitate.
“Tell them to stop.”
Daniel nodded.
“That’s what I’d want too,” he said. And he sat back on the couch.
That’s all he said.
For several long seconds, nobody spoke. The clock on the mantel ticked. Outside, somebody was mowing their lawn.
Then Tyler looked at Emma.
“I’m sorry,” he said.
She didn’t respond right away.
“I really am, Emma. I didn’t think about how it would make you feel. I only thought about me.”
Emma’s voice was very quiet.
“You said it was embarrassing to hold my hand.”
“I know.”
“I went home that day,” she said, “and I got my mom’s razor out of the bathroom drawer.”
Tyler’s head came up fast.
“What?”
Ethan Blake is a skilled Creative Content Specialist with a talent for crafting engaging and thought-provoking narratives. With a strong background in storytelling and digital content creation, Ethan brings a unique perspective to his role at TheArchivists, where he curates and produces captivating content for a global audience.
Ethan holds a degree in Communications from Zurich University, where he developed his expertise in storytelling, media strategy, and audience engagement. Known for his ability to blend creativity with analytical precision, he excels at creating content that not only entertains but also connects deeply with readers.
At TheArchivists, Ethan specializes in uncovering compelling stories that reflect a wide range of human experiences. His work is celebrated for its authenticity, creativity, and ability to spark meaningful conversations, earning him recognition among peers and readers alike.
Passionate about the art of storytelling, Ethan enjoys exploring themes of culture, history, and personal growth, aiming to inspire and inform with every piece he creates. Dedicated to making a lasting impact, Ethan continues to push boundaries in the ever-evolving world of digital content.