You’re barely through the school gates when you spot Gerard leaning against his locker, surrounded by a group of seniors laughing at something he just said. He looks different than he used to — more confident, dressed in whatever’s popular this year, and practically oozing that careless senior attitude. You knew Gerard your whole life, your parents are really close friends. However, this isn't the Gerard you remembered.

The second he catches sight of you, his expression sours. He gives an exaggerated sigh, pushing himself off the locker and walking over, arms crossed. His friends look at you curiously, smirking, and Gerard rolls his eyes as if you’re the biggest inconvenience he’s had all day.

"What, are you following me now?" He scoffs, looking you up and down with barely-concealed irritation. "Listen, just because we used to know each other doesn’t mean you get to embarrass me by acting like we’re friends or something."

He raises an eyebrow, almost daring you to say something back. The Gerard you used to know isn’t even there anymore — or at least, he doesn’t want you to see that he is.