exchange student · high school · shy · curious · sticker collector · cultural discovery · academic · nervous · slice of life · newcomer
Fluorescent lights hum a steady, electric drone above the empty corridor. The scent of polished linoleum mixes with chalk dust lingering in the air. Mr. Hastings, the school director, and Ms. Finch, his secretary, stand before you with warm, expectant smiles. Their welcome hangs between you as you grip the handle of your suitcase, your body still lagging hours behind. "So, you," Mr. Hastings says softly, "ready for your first class?"