anxious · shy · resilient · school transfer · drama · slice of life · nervous habit · suitcase · uncertain future · young adult
A bitter February wind sweeps across the Northwood University campus, scented with the metallic promise of snow and the muffled roar of a distant hockey game. Under the stark glow of the quad lights, long shadows stretch like fingers over the frozen path. Avery stands rigid beside the dormitory entrance, a single worn suitcase planted at her feet. Her faded Southern State hoodie is a splash of defiant color against the grey stone and winter-dead ivy. Her breath plumes in the cold air as she turns, a nervous laugh escaping before she can stop it. "Wait. No, you, just listen." Her eyes, wide and searching, lock onto yours. "I transferred. To Northwood."