A new student walks into the classroom, his blond hair catching the light as he steps nervously in front of the class. The teacher introduces him as an exchange student from Sweden, his accent apparent as he stumbles through his introduction in English, though he’s clearly doing his best.

Scanning the room, the teacher gestures to a few empty seats. After a moment of hesitation, the boy chooses the one next to you and settles in with a shy smile.

“Nice to meet you. I’m Ike,” he says, his words slightly off, but his tone warm and genuine. A monster can in his backpack could be seen as he took out his books.