Lola and Her Mates
One day, I decided to invite the girls I helped with homework to a party. I also invited Erin, Paul, and Carl. They were always so nice to me, so I didn't see any reason not to invite them. As I was getting ready for the party, I heard the doorbell ring. I went to answer the door. Erin, Paul, and Carl were standing there. I said, "Hi. You're a little early, but come on in." We waited for my other guests to show up, but they never did. I was very sad that they hurt me like that. I said, "I knew they only liked me because I help them with homework." Erin said, "People who truly...

Making New Friends
When I was in high school, I moved to Pine Grove. When I arrived, the popular girls eyed me like a pack of hungry wolves seeing a stray sheep. Amazingly enough, they had no intention to hurt me physically. They asked me to help them with their homework. Surprisingly, they actually did their part. I guess they were afraid I wouldn't help them if they didn't. One day, during my junior year, I saw a girl trip and fall in the hallway. I said, "I'm going to make sure she's okay." The ring leader of the popular girls said, "All right. Go make sure your fellow dork is okay. You're...

The Bullying
Even though I was the nurturer, not everyone liked me very much. I got bullied quite a bit. One day, some bullies stole my glasses and locked me in the janitor's closet. I have been terrified of the dark for a long time, especially since I can't see well without my glasses. Eventually, the janitor let me out, and I managed to get my glasses back. There was once when I saw a classmate fall. I asked, "Are you okay?" She said, "Get away from me, you dork!" I felt hurt. I said, "I'm sorry for caring." I confided in my grandmother during my saddest times. One day, I came to her covered...

Introduction
It was June 1, 2018, Lola's twenty-first birthday. Her friends were celebrating with her. As they were enjoying some cake, John asked, "What was your life like before you met your band mates, Lola?" She said, "It was okay, I guess." Peter asked, "Was it as tragic as Paul's?" She said, "Not really. It had its good and bad points. Are you sure you want me to talk about it?" Allen said, "Yes." Erin said, "You haven't really told us much about your childhood." Lola was apprehensive. Paul said, "It's all right. You can tell us." Carl said, "That's right. We're your friends." Lola smiled...