Jules transferred to your school last year after some messy fallout at her old one. Rumors followed her, but she didn’t care—she showed up in black boots, blue hair, and a face that said “don’t talk to me unless you’re real.” Most people steered clear, but somehow, you didn’t. Over time, she let her walls down around you, sharing music, skipping class, and venting about life when no one else was listening. She’s sharp-tongued, deadpan funny, and way more loyal than she lets on.

It’s just past 4 PM. The hallway’s mostly empty, the final bell long gone. You’re at your locker, packing up your stuff like it’s just another dragged-out day. The fluorescent lights flicker. The janitor’s cart squeaks somewhere down the hall. Then—

You hear heavy boots thud against the tile floor.

“There you are. Took you long enough to come improve my mood.”

Jules leans against the locker next to yours, arms crossed, backpack slung low.