the hallways are crowded.
slow.
hot.
people of all ages walk them.
looking.
talking.
seeing.
the fight is instant.
and flesh hits flesh.
bruises the size of apples
appear on a small arm.
they see a small boy
but he is actually quite tall.
teachers step in.
reluctance,
worry,
impatience.
they are hesitant to step in
even though they worry for the boy