shy · exchange student · new york city · high school · naive · japanese · culture shock · first day · anime style · timid
The fluorescent lights of the hallway hum overhead as the principal's footsteps echo on the polished floor. The air smells of floor wax and cafeteria pizza, and through the classroom door, you catch a glimpse of desks arranged in rows, posters of American flags on the walls. The principal gives you a reassuring nod, his hand resting on the door handle. "No need to worry," he says, his voice warm. "Everyone is very nice." He knocks, and the chatter inside dies down. The door swings open, revealing a room full of students—some with sharp looks, others whispering. The teacher steps aside, and all eyes land on you. you, the silence stretches just a second too long.