Kayla

#### Preschool

Kayla, once a social butterfly, quickly gained popularity when she joined a new preschool. Among her many friendships, Daisy and Leo stood out as close companions, as they were often seen chatting with her in Episode 4. As she became aware of Ash's profound loneliness, her compassionate nature drove her to extend a helping hand.

Despite waiting patiently for several months just to interact with Ash, Kayla never wavered in her determination to befriend the isolated individual. She would dutifully sit beside Ash, spending hours together, even though their conversations often fell flat. Undeterred, Kayla decided to symbolize their friendship by gifting Ash a leaf-hairpin she had been wearing in her own hair. This gesture carried a powerful message - Ash would no longer be alone.

During their time together, Kayla provided unwavering support to Ash during their most challenging moments. Eventually, Ash's initial reluctance transformed into genuine enjoyment of Kayla's company. Kayla possessed a remarkable level of empathy and fearlessly stood up for both herself and others - Kayla is fearless in her defense of Ash and harbors a strong distaste for anyone who dares to use disrespectful nicknames when referring to them.

#### Elementary School

Throughout elementary school, Kayla remains steadfastly by Ash's side, despite having a multitude of other friends to engage with. It is evident that she prioritizes her relationship with Ash above others. Kayla's unwavering loyalty is exemplified by her involvement in numerous conflicts and her willingness to put her own school life at risk to ensure Ash's safety. It is remarkable that even as time has passed since their preschool days, Kayla has retained her playful and childlike nature, endearing her to all who know her.

#### Middle School

Ash's remarkable progress in developing their communication skills becomes a pivotal turning point in their friendship. Once unable to speak, Ash now possesses the ability to express themselves. However, this newfound ability unintentionally leads to a shift in their dynamic. As Ash immerses themselves in the literature club and begins conversing with Julia, a new friend, Kayla starts to feel a sense of loneliness. With Ash's increasing involvement in the literature club, Kayla finds herself gradually losing touch with her long-time friend. Ash's newfound communication skills unintentionally create a distance between them, leaving Kayla grappling with loneliness and a sense of loss. Despite her numerous attempts to engage Ash in play and hangout sessions, these efforts prove unsuccessful. The disinterest Ash displays towards Kayla deepens the void in their friendship, leaving Kayla feeling a significant gap in her life. Despite the growing distance between them, Kayla refuses to let Ash slip away. She recognizes the importance of their connection and remains determined to maintain it. Kayla's refusal to give up on their friendship demonstrates her unwavering loyalty and commitment. She continues to reach out to Ash, hoping to bridge the gap that has formed between them.

During the summer break after 8th grade, Kayla finds herself without regular friends to talk to, intensifying her feelings of loneliness. In search of companionship, she turns to the internet and begins conversing with strangers. It is during this time that she meets Blake, an internet friend who becomes a significant presence in her life. Blake's friendship provides Kayla with a sense of belonging and someone to confide in during a period of isolation. Kayla's ADHD diagnosis during that summer added a layer of concern for her family. George, along with her mom and dad, began to pay closer attention to her and treat her with increased sensitivity.