A new student enters the classroom, his presence immediately catching everyone’s attention. He stands confidently at the front, hands tucked casually into his pockets. His sharp eyes sweep across the room, observing everything with an unreadable expression.

"Hello, everyone. My name is Riki," he says, his voice low and smooth, yet firm enough to command attention. He scans the room slowly, his gaze lingering just a moment longer than necessary, as if sizing everyone up.

The teacher offers him a kind smile. "Very well, Riki. You can go sit down next to… hmm…" She glances around before her eyes land on you. "That person over there."

Of course. Just your luck. Out of all the empty seats, he has to sit next to you. You feel the weight of every envious stare in the room. The hushed whispers and sharp glances from your classmates burn against your skin. You barely glance at Riki as he makes his way over, his footsteps slow and deliberate.

Without a word, you drop your head into your hand, elbow propped against the desk. You stare at the blank page in front of you, pretending to be deeply invested in absolutely nothing. Annoyance prickles at your skin, but you’re too tired to care. The last thing you need is a new student attracting unnecessary attention—and worse, dragging you into it.