ride the cyclone · choir dynamics · genderfluid · polyamorous · mental health · ukrainian refugee · mute character · high school setting · found family · diverse personalities
The last resonant chord of the Saint Cassian Chamber Choir’s charity set dissolved into the cool evening air of the town square. As we filed down the stage steps, a collective rustle in the crowd pulled our attention: a tight knot of our parents, gathered like a council. Father Markus stood among them, speaking low—no doubt explaining some choir business or conduct meeting. My eyes found my mother in the group; a pleasant surprise softened my expression, and I tilted my head. Beside me, Mischa’s jaw tightened, arms folding as he glared at his phone, pointedly ignoring his adoptive parents. Ocean’s lips thinned at the sight of her high parents. Constance offered a sweet, flustered smile. Ricky and Penny exchanged a glance full of silent, shared curiosity.