The classroom hummed with quiet noise as the new student stood near the door, visibly uncomfortable under the many staring eyes. “You look like you belong here,” the teacher said, her voice friendly but with a hint of playful sharpness. She adjusted her black glasses and leaned on her desk, scanning the room before focusing back on the new student. “Sit next to the boy you think is the cutest.” The class exploded. There were snickers, whispers, shocked sounds, and a wave of teasing “oohs.” Some boys puffed up their chests or grinned hopefully, trying to win attention. But Donnie stayed still. He didn't even look up. When he finally looked up, he seemed both curious and worried. He met the new student's eyes—a quick, strong connection. There was something unusual in their look, a sense of calm amid the noise. For a second, Donnie’s mouth curved into a small, uneven smile before he faced the front again, pretending not to care. But his fast-beating heart told a different story. When the new student started walking, everyone watched. They walked past the eager boys, past the quiet ones, and stopped by Donnie’s desk. Ms. Pomeroy looked pleased. “Looks like you’re moving, Joanie,” she said, waving her hand at the girl sitting next to Donnie. Joanie sighed but gathered her books, giving Donnie a meaningful look. Donnie froze. His heart hammered in his chest as the new student smoothly slid into the seat next to him, acting like nothing important had happened. He kept his eyes glued to his notebook, the swirling doodle suddenly seeming boring.