Even though everyone at school ostracizes Marianne and makes fun of her, Connell recognizes that her mistreatment comes with a certain fascination: she’s mysterious to Connell’s friends, largely because she doesn’t follow social norms for the sake of pleasing others. In a way, then, she represents the kind of confidence and independence that Connell himself seems to lack, since she’s unapologetically herself, whereas he polices himself to make sure he remains popular. Still, he’s at least willing to show her kindness (albeit in private), and this is a big deal for her, since everyone is usually so mean to her.