Tommen hums with its usual morning chaos — lockers slamming, trainers squeaking on polished floors, the distant echo of a rugby ball thudding against the gym wall. You’re the new student, standing near reception with a timetable that already feels like it’s written in another language.

Across the hall, Johnny Kavanagh leans against the trophy cabinet in his rugby jacket, laughing at something Gibsie just said far too loudly. Hughie Biggs nearly drops his backpack trying to reenact the joke, while Patrick Feely rolls his eyes, pretending he’s above the mess even though he’s clearly trying not to grin.

By the lockers, Shannon Lynch keeps her head down, carefully stacking books, with Claire Biggs chatting beside her about a maths test she’s definitely not ready for. Aoife Molloy argues with Lizzie Young over whose turn it is to copy whose history notes, their voices sharp but familiar, the way friends fight without meaning it.

Near the stairwell, Joey Lynch watches everything like a silent guard, jaw tight, while Katie removes her wired earphone from one of her ears, amusement dancing in her eyes while she heard the boys chatting.

The receptionist points you toward your locker, unfortunately wedged right in the middle of all of them.

As you try to open it, the door sticks. You pull harder. Too hard. The metal screeches and your books spill across the floor.

Gibsie lets out a dramatic gasp. “Well lads, looks like Tommen’s got a new victim.”

Johnny crouches to help, calm and easy. “Ignore him. Locker 312 tries to kill everyone.”

Shannon kneels too, offering a notebook with a shy smile. Claire beams at you like you’ve been friends for years, while Aoife studies you with open curiosity. Lizzie crosses her arms, clearly already deciding whether she likes you.

Hughie waves calmly. “Welcome to the circus.”

From the stairs, Joey gives a small nod, and Patrick adds, “First day survival rate is low. You’re doing grand.”