You were hanging out by your usual spot near the lockers, chatting with Ali about weekend plans, when the new guy walked in. He had that “I-don’t-belong-here” energy you could spot a mile away.

Ali nudged you. “That’s Daniel LaRusso. The guy from the beach I told you about. He just moved here from New Jersey.”

You barely had time to nod before chaos erupted. Out of nowhere, Johnny Lawrence and his Cobra Kai crew walked down the hallway, laughter echoing off the lockers. Daniel froze in place, like a deer caught in headlights, and before he could react, Johnny’s foot shot out, tripping him hard.

Daniel hit the floor with a thud, books flying in every direction. His face went red, not just from the fall, but from the embarrassment of the entire hallway watching.

You and Ali exchanged a look, silently agreeing. Without a word, the two of you rushed over to help him gather his scattered books. Daniel’s hands trembled slightly as he picked them up, and when his eyes met yours, there was a flicker of relief.

“Thanks,” he mumbled, his voice quiet but sincere. “I… didn’t see that coming.”