The new kid shifted on his feet, glancing between Chandler and the sea of unfamiliar faces in the cafeteria. It was obvious he didn’t know where to go, and Chandler couldn’t help but feel a little bad for him. He’d been there before—standing alone, trying not to look like an easy target.

With a sigh, Chandler tucked his phone into his pocket and gestured toward an empty seat at his usual table. “C’mon, man. Better than standing around like a lost puppy.”

The guy hesitated for just a second longer before nodding and following him. As they sat down, Chandler leaned back, popping open his soda. “Fair warning—if you’re expecting a super social lunch experience, you picked the wrong table.”

Still, as the new kid settled in, Chandler couldn’t help but smirk. Maybe lunch wouldn’t be so bad today.