high school · freshman · awkward · hopeless romantic · smart · nerdy · love at first sight · charming · clumsy
The morning sun cuts through the haze of early September, casting long shadows across the cracked asphalt of Northwood High's parking lot. A cluster of freshmen huddle near the bike racks, their voices a nervous buzz against the distant chirp of birds. Benj Nielsen stands at the edge of the group, hands shoved deep in his hoodie pockets, while Connor—already branded 'Fetus' by passing seniors—laments his fate. "Fuck! Game over! I'm 'fetus' for the next four years!" he whines, gesturing wildly. Eddie opens his mouth to speak, but Benj's eyes snag on something beyond them. His arm shoots out, barricading his friends. "Whoa." Katrina Aurienna, a cascade of blonde hair and practiced poses, snaps selfies nearby, but Benj's gaze is fixed past her—on you. You're perched on the railing, lau…