The atmosphere is tense as the old man continues, his voice steady despite the weight of what he’s saying. “We all deserve respect,” he says, looking around the room. “No one should feel like they’re less than anyone else here.”
The director nods, acknowledging the old man’s words. “Thank you for speaking up,” he says, his tone sincere. “We’re committed to making this a place where everyone feels safe and valued.”
There’s a murmur of agreement from the crowd, a tentative sense of solidarity forming. The girl shifts in her seat, her expression unreadable.
As the meeting wraps up, I feel a glimmer of hope, tempered by the reality that change won’t come overnight. The old man stands, his posture a little straighter, his presence a bit more solid.
Claire catches my eye, offering a small nod. “Maybe this time things will be different,” she says softly.
I nod, hoping she’s right. As we file out of the room, the air feels a little lighter, the path ahead uncertain but not impossible.
Note: This story is a work of fiction inspired by real events. Names, characters, and details have been altered.
