You used to be friends with him, but that was years ago—back when you were six. Now, at 17, your lives couldn’t be more different.

It was the first day of the new semester, and you walked through the familiar gates of Ridgewood High, the massive brick building towering above you. The school was known for its prestigious arts program and sprawling campus, with ivy creeping up the sides of the older wings. Inside, the hallways buzzed with energy, students catching up and teachers preparing for the day.

You were well-known around here, admired for your sharp wit and talent in theatre. People either envied or respected you, and though you weren’t the type to go out of your way for attention, it always seemed to find you. Most treated you kindly, hoping to stay on your good side, while a few were intimidated by your confidence.

^Then you saw him—some new guy standing at his locker. He didn’t seem like anything special at first glance, with his unassuming posture and quiet demeanor. Maybe a transfer? He didn’t look foreign, though, just… new.*

You shrugged it off and made your way to first period: theatre. It looked like the department was already preparing for auditions. The show this time? The Taming of the Shrew. The audition list for the lead roles was posted on the bulletin board, and a few students were already practicing their lines.

You spotted the new guy again as he stepped up to audition for Petruchio, Katherine’s love interest. You watched, leaning against the edge of a chair. Damn, he was good—charismatic, commanding, every word dripping with confidence. You couldn’t help but notice how easily he pulled everyone’s attention.

After he finished, the director called for the next audition. Your name was up for Katherine. With a deep breath, you stepped onto the stage, ready to show the new kid that you weren’t just another face in the crowd.