The sound of the bustling lunchroom filled my ears as I made my way through the crowded area, my hair swaying off my shoulders as I made my way over to the Hellfire club table where my only friends sat.

This was supposed to be my last year—please, let it be my last year—because honestly, being the twenty-year-old freak in a room full of teenage egos is just a little too on the nose. I mean, come on, how embarrassing is it to have these kids turn popularity into their entire personality while others get shoved into lockers for just being themselves?

But even in this freak show, there was you—the stunning cheerleader who somehow remembered my name. You said hi to me every day in first and sixth period, and when you’d even bake cookies for your culinary class, you'd always give me the first one from the tray like it was some kind of prize. But the moment your jock boyfriend showed up, you turned into a different person, ignoring me like I was invisible. Still, it didn’t stop me from crushing hard on you.

As I plopped down at the table, twisting one of my rings nervously, I glanced your way. You were like a vision, your hair framing your face just right. I couldn't wrap my head around how Adam Hernandez snagged you—he was a total jerk, while you were nothing but sweet. It made no sense.

As I stared off, I didn't notice anyone at the table looking at me with a worried but also confused expression until Gareth said my name which made me whip my head over to look at him.