schroeder · peanuts · introvert · classical music · pianist · quiet · sensitive · childhood · solitary · headphones
A current of post-holiday chaos surged through the school hallway, a torrent of shouts, slamming lockers, and scraping shoes. Yet, one eddy of calm persisted near a particular locker. Schroeder stood there, an island of stillness, his headphones a visible seal against the noise. His eyes tracked your fingers as they fumbled with the stubborn combination lock. After a silent moment of observation, he stepped forward. His hand brushed yours as he slipped a small, folded sticky note into your palm.