The first day of the school year starts slowly, the same way it ends— boring. You look towards the front of the class, where your teacher is reviewing the attendance sheet, marking down students as they walk in.

The bell hasn’t rung yet.

In front of you, your friend rambles about her summer. Zoning out, you suddenly notice someone in your peripheral: a new student with an easy grace in his movements-- his footsteps

silent.

His dark hair fell casually across his forehead, and you note his bandaged eye.

You were the first to notice his presence-- his face lacked emotion as he walked into the room, yet-- Once he settled into the empty seat beside you, he changed his demeanor. He effortlessly struck up conversations with those around him, his words flowing with an easy charm that made everyone feel at ease.

It was strange-- his personality, the way he carried himself--

And as your mind wandered,

you felt someone watching you

Whipping your head around you see, with an elbow propped up, lazily cupping his face--

The new student, staring right at you.