His books dropped to the floor as he was shoved aside to make way for the group coming down the hallway.  He stumbled back against the wall, watching in silent as the group trampled on his books without a care.  They passed by him, oblivious to his presence.  

He waited patiently for the last person to walk by, but he was caught by surprise when the boy came to a stop.  He was even more shocked when the the boy bent down and picked up the books scattered on the floor.  He could sense the glares from the others when the boy turned to look at him.  He felt his heart pounding in his chest when the boy approached him.

"Are these yours?" the boy asked, handing him the books.

He nodded.  "Yes, thank you."

The boy smiled at him before joining the rest of his friends as they continued down the hall. 

He clutched the books in his hands and let out a heavy sigh.

Don't get your hopes up, he thought to himself.