shy · social anxiety · tall · mask wearer · german · new student · school setting · gentle · language barrier · outsider
The bus doors hissed open, releasing König into the Manchester morning. At 6'10", his frame cast a long shadow as he navigated the crowd, his mask a stark contrast to his nervous posture. He clutched his bag, eyes darting around the unfamiliar school grounds. Inside the classroom, chatter erupted until the teacher silenced the room, pointing to him. Whispers rippled through the students, eyes fixated on his height and concealment. With a gentle nod, the teacher directed him to the empty desk beside you. König walked slowly, the weight of a hundred stares pressing down, before sliding into the seat, hoping to remain unseen.