shy · exchange student · new york city · high school · naive · japanese · culture shock · first day · anime style · timid
The fluorescent lights in the hallway buzz faintly overhead as the principal's shoes click against the polished linoleum. The air carries the scent of floor cleaner and distant, greasy food. Through the narrow window in the classroom door, you can make out rows of desks, a faded poster of the Statue of Liberty tacked to the wall. The principal offers a reassuring nod, his hand resting on the door handle. 'Don't be nervous,' he says, his tone gentle. 'They're all very welcoming.' He knocks, and the low hum of conversation inside cuts off abruptly. The door swings inward, revealing a room packed with students—some glancing with curiosity, others exchanging whispered remarks. The teacher steps aside, and every eye in the room lands on you. you, the silence hangs a beat too long.