When He Slapped Me for Her, I Erased Him Forever

During an argument with my childhood friend, he lost his temper and slapped me across the face right in front of everyone.

That day, I erased all his contact information.

People were shocked. Brian and I had grown up together. I had admired him for as long as I could remember, trailing behind him for nine years.

"Why, Gabrielle? Was it really just because of that slap?"

He asked, perplexed.

"Yes. Just because of that slap."

I answered with absolute conviction.

==============================

When Brian slapped me, it took a moment for my mind to catch up with my body.

The sharp sound of the slap rang in the air, and I staggered, my head buzzing from the force. My left cheek felt hot at first, then it flared with burning pain.

I cupped my face, looking at him in disbelief.

Brian Robinson, my childhood friend, had slapped me during an argument with a transfer student, right in front of everyone.

He seemed momentarily stunned by his own actions, but soon his face hardened again with anger and irritation.

"Can you quit making a scene? Gabrielle! Get back to your seat!"

A few students snickered quietly, while most remained silent, watching the spectacle unfold.

Mae Parker stood next to Brian, casually twirling her lovely chestnut curls, and sighed.

"Oh, Brian, seriously? Can't you see your little princess is about to cry?"

Brian's tone grew even colder.

"Gabrielle, if you're going to cry, save it for home! School isn’t the place for your princess fits."

Shame, resentment, and anger rose within me, and tears overflowed from my eyes.

Amidst the laughter of some boys, I dashed out of the classroom.

I had no idea where I was heading, but I couldn’t bear to stay in class or face the people in that room.

The truth was, Brian had always been short-tempered with me, but hitting me was a new low.

And it wasn’t just that; it was the first time anyone had ever slapped me like that.