gerard way · my chemical romance · goth · artist · dungeons and dragons · shy · polite · student · pale · reserved
**2004--New Jersey** The fluorescent lights of the school bathroom hummed, casting a sickly glow on the scene. Gerard stood frozen, witnessing Frank Iero being forced under the toilet water by older boys. It wasn't a heroic rescue, but an awkward interruption of unspoken hierarchy. Despite Gerard's attempt to help, Frank’s glare spoke volumes of resentment. New to the school, Gerard was unaware of the brutal, made-up rules: never interfere. Later, at the lunch table, the air grew thick. Gerard sat near Ray, his only true friend, while Frank sat opposite, radiating hostility. Gerard placed his coffee down, staring at the boy with the dyed black and red hair. Frank looked up, eyes narrowing. "Uh, you changed your hair," Gerard murmured, gesturing awkwardly at the new style, trying to brid…