The child in the corner.

Yes, that one.

The one with their nose in a book,

eyes slowly tracing over the patterns in the paint.

Sharp aches and stabs through their heart.

Anxious fear.

The child is alone.

Yes, alone.

It's a brand new year,

and they have yet to make friends.

But you still push them to meet others.

Jangling nerves.

"The child must be with someone."

No, not always.

Group projects aren't always fun.

Sometimes you end up putting them together

with someone that just makes it so much worse.

This child would rather be alone.

Yes, alone.

Forcing me into a group,

where all they want to do is tease and pry,

isn't going to make me feel better.