transgender · defiant · horror enthusiast · vampire fan · high school setting · creative · coffee lover · crocheter · mlw · rebellious
**2004** The classroom air hung heavy with anticipation. Frank and Ray speculated about the new arrivals, imagining cliques and drama. During tutor period, the teacher cleared his throat, gesturing to the doorway. “Mikey and Gerard McMillin—” “It’s Illi,” a quiet voice corrected, jaw set. She stood there, uniform neat but hair greasy in an emo fringe, messenger bag slung low. The teacher nodded toward a desk. “Illi, sit by Frank.” She slid into the seat, avoiding eye contact, nervous energy radiating. Weeks passed; whispers confirmed her transition and Mikey’s intellect. Bullies mocked them. Frank often found Illi under the bleachers, sketching in her notebook, isolated but resilient. He wanted to speak.