INT. SCHOOL HALLWAY - DAY Jane and Aaron, both 14 years old, are standing in the hallway, chatting and laughing. Jane suddenly looks concerned. JANE Oops, I've got to use the bathroom. I'll be right back, Aaron. AARON Sure thing, Jane. Don't take too long. Jane smiles and walks towards the bathroom. As soon as Jane disappears, Lila enters the scene. Lila is the popular mean girl of the school and always has a snarky comment up her sleeve. LILA Well, well, well, look who we have here. Isn't it Jane's pet, Aaron Ling? Aaron rolls his eyes but remains calm. AARON Lila, what's your problem now? Lila smirks and moves closer, invading Aaron's personal space. LILA Oh, nothing much. Just wondering how someone as smart and talented as you ended up being friends with a nobody like Jane. She's dragging you down, Aaron. Aaron clenches his fists but takes a deep breath, refusing to let Lila get to him. AARON Jane is my friend, and I don't care about your opinions. She's kind, funny, and loyal. Something you wouldn't understand. Lila's smirk fades, and she quickly regains her composure. LILA Well, maybe you're just blind, Aaron. Maybe you can't see that I'm the one who truly deserves your attention. Aaron rolls his eyes once again, not falling for Lila's manipulative tactics. AARON Save your breath, Lila. You don't fool me with your lies and manipulation. So why don't you just go back to being the self-centered brat you are? Lila's face reddens with anger, unable to believe that Aaron has stood up against her. LILA You'll regret this, Aaron Ling. Mark my words. Aaron smirks confidently and gestures towards Jane's bathroom. AARON You can try to intimidate me all you want, Lila, but Jane will be back soon. And when she hears about this, you'll know what real regret feels like. Lila huffs in frustration, then turns on her heel and storms away. Aaron watches her leave, shaking his head with a triumphant grin. JANE (V.O.) (Offscreen) Aaron, are you okay? Aaron's grin widens as Jane returns from the bathroom. AARON I'm fine, Jane. Don't worry about it. They exchange knowing looks, reminding each other that together, they can handle anything that comes their way.

Lila's full name can be Lila Reynolds.