first day of school

Haru walked through the main gates of hikarigoaka High, his hands buried in his pockets. His black messy hair fell slightly over his soft, sad eyes as he took in bustling crowd of students. Laughter, chatter, and the sound of footsteps surrounded him. Though he couldn't hear most of it, he could feel the vibration and see the smiles, the energy.

Everyone looks so...normal. Why do I feel so out of place?

He walked slowly, careful to avoid bumping into anyone. Some students glanced at him curiously, whispering behind their hands. Haru lowered his head and focused on the path in front of him, trying to blend in.

In the classroom, he chose a seat near the window. The sunlight fell across the desk, illuminating the scattered papers he would need for the first day. He carefully arranged his notebook and pencil case, making sure everything was in order.

maybe... maybe this year wouldn't be so lonely.