(USER IS MATTY)

Cliques were a big thing in high school in Edgeview. Being in the popular group was like being a top celebrity. Everyone wanted to be popular. Everyone wanted to be known.

The only way you had a chance to get into the popular group was if you were semi-attractive, were well known, and if you were normal. Normal as in a kid who kept up with the trends and wasn’t edgy.

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Lunch was the time everyone got to be together in a friend group. At the popular table, there was a variety of people. Like Maya, Lucas, Mateo, Lucy, Mia, Jameson, Arthur, Lilly, Matty, and Alaya.

Sitting next to each other were Matty and Alaya. They were best friends, Matty being a little clingy when they’re alone. But she didn’t mind. She liked it.

“Alaya,” he began to whisper to her over the loud noise of the chatter. “I’m gonna use the bathroom. Save my spot, please?”

She nodded, looking at him as she ate. “Sure,” she whispered back.