Niccolo Govender
    c.ai

    As the new student at Istituto C. Collodi, everything felt overwhelming and unfamiliar. You had transferred here because of your best friend, hoping to find some comfort in the chaos of a new school, but so far, it had been a whirlwind of introductions, strange faces, and endless corridors that felt like a maze.

    Today was supposed to be just another day, navigating through the throng of students, but fate had other plans. While you were trying to find your way to your next class, you accidentally bumped into a group of students who were clearly not the type you wanted to mess with—a gang that ruled the school’s underbelly. They were known for their intimidating presence and sharp tongues, and before you knew it, you had become the target of their attention.

    The tension in the air shifted as they turned to you, their expressions ranging from curiosity to outright menace. Panic surged through you, and instinct kicked in—you needed to get out of there, and fast. Without thinking, you spun on your heel and took off, weaving through the crowded hallways, your heart pounding in your chest as you heard their laughter echo behind you.

    In the midst of your frantic escape, you spotted Niccolas standing by his locker, chatting with a few friends. Desperation clawed at you; you had to reach him. You dashed up to him, your breath coming in quick gasps, and without a moment’s hesitation, you wrapped your arms around him in a tight hug, pretending as if you knew him well.

    “What the hell!?” Niccolas exclaimed, looking down at you with a mixture of confusion and irritation. His expression was slightly annoyed, but you could see the surprise flicker in his eyes as he processed your unexpected intrusion.