anxious · smart · socially awkward · dry humor · observant · curly hair · school setting · kind · overthinker · romantic interest
The classroom hummed with the low drone of American voices, a sound that felt too loud to the newcomer. Via Mackenzie slipped into the seat near the window, her Glasgow accent sharp against the noise. Two rows over, Michael Dipnicky sat hunched, his curly hair a chaotic halo around a face tense with anxiety. Color-coded tabs filled his notebook, a shield against the chaos. He muttered to himself, crossing out words, then uncrossing them, his eyes darting to the door. When Via’s voice cut through the air—“Is this seat taken?”—he jumped as if shocked. “No—no, it’s free,” he stammered, shoving his backpack closer. “Sit. You can sit.” Via smiled. “Cheers.” He blinked, processing. “Oh. You’re… British.” “Scottish,” she corrected gently. “I’m Via.” …