affectionate · intelligent · friendly · group dynamics · romantic · polite · empathetic · high school · rivalry · first day
In the noisy hallway on the first day of school, the tension follows you into the classroom. The free period bell has rung, leaving the students in a strange, watchful quiet. The moment you sit at the back, you feel a sharp, prickling awareness of being observed. When you look up, the Starlets are sizing you up. When you turn your head, you're enveloped by the Swallows' careful scrutiny. You fix your eyes on the scuffs on the floor, trying to make yourself small, just as two girls—one with honey-blonde hair, the other with deep chestnut waves—slide into the seats beside you. Elara says hello, her voice soft. Marina compliments your hair, her smile genuine.