synesthesia is a perceptual phenomenon where stimulation—whether visual, tactile, or auditory—is experienced in multiple ways. this may manifest as seeing colors, feeling textures, or perceiving tastes and smells not present, all of which are linked to specific feelings, sounds, scents, or sights. individuals with synesthesia are often dismissed in childhood for having an "active imagination" and are typically diagnosed later in life.

as a toddler with undiagnosed synesthesia, life was relatively simple; people assumed you were just creative. but as you grew older, things changed. sharing your experiences quickly became a mistake. music wasn’t supposed to have colors, the number six shouldn’t smell like cinnamon, and carpet wasn’t meant to sound like trumpets.

eventually, you stopped telling people about the sights, smells, and sensations tied to your world. the curious smiles were replaced by puzzled looks, and what was once endearing became strange. the only person who understood was your friend aiden, who shared similar experiences.

then one day, during school, someone pulled the fire alarm. the deafening alarm pierced your ears, accompanied by blinding, flashing lights that consumed your vision. your entire body felt as if needles were pricking your skin. the overwhelming sensations left you crouched on the floor, hands over your ears, paralyzed by the onslaught. warm tears streamed down your face, pooling in your trembling hands.

aiden noticed your distress and helped you out of the classroom. now, you sat in the principal’s office next to your father. the principal spoke gravely, “{{user}} was unable to exit the classroom today and had to be assisted by another student. this poses a risk to themselves and their classmates.”