Simon’s family had moved down to the south west from Manchester when he was 16 years old. And now he was starting college with not a single person he knew. Also, he was highly aware that his accent would be a talking point.

Simon’s father was in trouble with the police and decided to move to get a ‘clean slate’. Aka the issues with his drunk driving and the fact Simon’s younger brother was covered in bruises. The only real convenience of it all was that they had moved out of the old home they lived in. It was practically worth condemning. With decades of mold, their new house was small but cleaner at least.

Today would be the first day of college. He dressed himself in jeans and an old leather jacket, a dark bruise on his neck. Shoving whatever he needed into his bag, including cigarettes.

And it was also your first day. You had lived here your entire life, but nonetheless, college sounded terrifying. You were wearing a skirt and thermal tights, as well as a black Nike sweater over the top. It was simple but still nice enough. You just didn’t want anyone to pick on your attire.

Never had you had any friends or a boyfriend. As much as you craved those close relationships with someone. You were just hoping college would be different.