ã€ŠEveryone Has a Deviceã€‹


 Where it Ends it Can Begin

    ¡°We are so sorry to have to bring this up to you so soon, but your father and I had to make sure our plans would follow through before we had to worry you,¡± mom said, grinning at me as I sat there just listening to them. They always made sure I wasn¡¯t worrying. It was their second job, I swear. I am grown up at this point, is still treating me like a child really necessary?

    ¡°You know we love you and feel awful having to do this, but we lucked out with your new school year starting the day we move in. You will be there for the first day and everyday from there so there is no need to worry about being behind,¡± dad chuckled. ¡°Playing catch up is no fun, now is it?¡± he reminded me of the time I spent a week playing video games over actually doing my midterm work and I got to enjoy some summer work for a long while.

    ¡°Yes, it is a really lovely school! Also you will have a chance to make friends since it is a special school that offers so much for you, it is almost like a university there is so much inside! Your father and I took a chance to check it out and we just know you¡¯ll love it,¡± mom¡¯s enthusiasm is always contagious even if I am only half in the conversation and also tired.

    ¡°Trust us, we know you as well as you do, you are definitely going to be in heaven! I mean we made you that way, right?¡± dad laughed, tapping the table in humor.

    Without a single word I remain eating my cereal as they both spew their stories and hopes on me. We are moving, there is no changing that. Dad got a better position and mom found a clinic that would transfer her over from her old job,and even at a small raise. Makes sense, no reason in blaming them. What is going to happen is going to happen. I hold no resentment toward them. It is not like I had much or anything for that matter at my old school.

    ¡°So¡­?¡± I blankly state shoveling another spoonful of cereal in my mouth. Nothing makes a morning better than sugar and oats. A truly classic combination. A breakfast of champions if you will.

    ¡°We will have you staying in a dorm in the school as we will be living quite a distance from it. Not that we won¡¯t visit! But with a little bit of research we found that gamey store you work with is right outside of the campus.¡±

    I cringe slightly as my mom says ¡®gamey¡¯. It just for some reason physically hurts. Can¡¯t pinpoint why and really I don¡¯t care¡­ but for whatever reason I do. Is it because they embarrass me? Truly, that has to be it. They are so old fashioned, but I love them all the same.

    ¡°Oh, cool,¡± I said, shrugging.

    ¡°Seeing as you are the manager helper-¡± I sighed, cutting my mom off.

    ¡°Associate Senior Manager,¡± I stated. Took me forever to get that title, another thing that hurts when she says it, the way she does that is. I truly can¡¯t tell if it''s to screw with me or if she is just genuinely unaware of how many times I correct her about it. Or could be good old ignorance.

    ¡°Just let your mother talk,¡± dad sighed.

    ¡°Well they already planned and completed the transfer paperwork and details, you just need to swap keys with your replacement when you get the chance tomorrow for work. Shouldn¡¯t take long.¡±

    ¡°I could have done all that, you know?¡± I said, raising my spoon. Watching the bit of milk on the spoon fall back to the bowl. What a crazy way to spend a morning. From the same grind over and over again to flipping my life over and around. A new school, a new job, and a new life? Is that viable in this situation? Who knows. Whatever I say, let¡¯s get to it.

    ¡°You could have, but your mother wanted to be extra sure everything would work out,¡± dad responded, folding the newspaper up and setting it on the counter.

    Right tomorrow. One more day before we leave my home¡­ to this foreign place. I never really minded traveling, but it is a difference when you won¡¯t return. That empty feeling¡­ I won¡¯t even be with my parents. All these years living under them, being able to depend on them, now none of that will hold true. At least I am sure we will keep in touch. It still is a bit worrying to have relied on someone for so long and suddenly realizing they won¡¯t be there, whether I need them or not. It is an awkward feeling not being certain of what is going to happen but I soldier on anyway. No sense already defeating myself. Might as well fight the boss before they kill me a hundred times.

    Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    Breakfast went on quietly after that as dad left for work and mom was preparing to leave as well on errands. I figured I would head to work and meet my replacement who was scheduled for today and tomorrow. No sense wasting time waiting for tomorrow when it can be done today. Mom¡¯s go to attitude really has rubbed off on me.

    I set off after changing my clothes to my soon to be old workplace. Such a weird feeling going through so much change so quickly, it felt oddly¡­ satisfying, bittersweet maybe. I am not sure if it will feel that way for long though. It is nice feeling a new slate to make a new life for myself but at the same time, being used to an old life is reassuring.

    I normally just ride my bike but today I wanted to soak everything in one last time, so I walked. It is a nice day out so no harm right? Wouldn¡¯t take long before I got a text from one of the workers I wouldn¡¯t see anymore. It was Chuck, one of the newer employees.

    >Hey man, hope the new job goes well. Call us!

    Will do man, appreciate the work over the last few weeks.

    >Best of luck! Keep in touch!

    Of course, talk to you later.

    And that is that. Not much to be said. He always was short and sweet and to the point. I always liked that. I put my phone away and noticed I am in the plaza the place is in. I must have lost track of time or have been walking really fast as I surprised myself. I approach the building and reach for the door. I opened it to be greeted professionally by one of the workers until they noticed it was me and let the facade off.

    ¡°Hey Chris.¡±

    ¡°Yo,¡± I say coolly.

    ¡°You¡¯re my transfer, huh?¡± I hear someone say as I look by the counter. A young looking guy waves.

    ¡°I am.¡± He comes up and shakes my hand, surprisingly weak given the way he presents himself. I hand him my keys and he does the same.

    ¡°Thanks.¡± It felt awkward as the atmosphere around the guy felt¡­ off. Is this me being jealous, salty, or some sort of other bitter feeling toward the guy? I kind of felt bad having that thought but I worked here for years to get the position he is just sort of showing up and taking. Ah, I am sure he also worked hard to get to this position¡­ I hope.

    ¡°Yup.¡±

    ¡°So how does it feel, man? Finally leaving this place and going out to some new fancy school?¡± the guy jested.

    ¡°My mom must have really blabbed on, right?¡± I joked. ¡°It''s a bit nerve racking, I won¡¯t lie. But I also must say, I am excited nonetheless. I¡¯ll miss you guys though, but you know the store I am transferring to. Keep in touch.¡± I began to notice a few customers walk in and the conversation breaks off. I high fived the guys before leaving for the last time. Far well my first love. This was a nice location with some really nice customers. Guess we''ll see how the new store compares. Doubt it will.

    I didn¡¯t really plan on doing anything and it seems they had a few needy customers so I just left. Not much for goodbyes anyways. If they wish to keep in touch they have my number as well as the new stores.

    I just returned home and slumped down on the couch. I listened to some music and wrote a bit for the book I was trying to publish. A videogame nerd and a closet writer, could I be any less weird? Probably why I only really have one friend. I must have gotten really into it as before I knew it the parents were back from work and preparing dinner. Oh that sound of the utensils doing their work and the smell of a successful cook. I will miss this pampering.

    The day goes on normally as hopefully tomorrow will, until the big day that was tomorrow''s, tomorrow. The day after tomorrow. Whatever you want to call it, it will be here quickly. Everything was packed that I could fit and wished to take. My parents had a huge yard sale to pay for some expenses and I sold a bunch of junk too so I wouldn¡¯t have to deal with it. And also for the fact that dorm rooms were not spacious by design. I got enough cash to hold me for a few days if I wanted groceries, besides that which my parents told me they would give me. Also of course work.

    We all got settled into the car as a quick dinner and loading of the car led rapidly to us being on the road. Mom gave me a brochure on the school, a weird time to have. It would have been nice to see a while back when this was all starting. I can¡¯t complain though and happily skim it.

    Like a theme park, the brochure mentioned everything about the campus and everything it had. Might as well just be a blank paper with the word ¡®EVERYTHING¡¯ on it. I lost interest after turning page after page of words. Not even any pictures! I laughed to myself criticizing their work. Mom and dad just talked small while we rode to our new home. I zoned in and out and mostly lost track of time and where we were. Cars just do that don¡¯t they?

    I force a smile and poke my cheek. Time to think positive. I haven¡¯t broken down yet so it is bound to happen. I gotta stay cheerful. New life, new me! Ha! Ha¡­

    But seriously, what a way to spend my last Saturday at my home, by leaving it. All this history is gone by the way so quickly. My first confession, my first home, my first life¡­ all gone now. Nothing but a memory to add to the bank that I will probably forget soon enough. We hit a big bump, causing mom to scold dad and I remembered.

    I also hate car rides¡­

 The New and Fresh

    Somehow I woke up to my mom shaking me.

    ¡°Wake up son! This is your stop!¡± I yawned loudly looking to notice we were in a parking lot of what is a large, ancient looking school. That brochure wasn¡¯t lying when it showed the background of the front cover. It was in black and white! I can¡¯t imagine it has remained this archaic for so long yet here we are. ¡°Your father already took your luggage to your room, he should be back to say goodbye. A teacher said he wished to talk with you briefly before you settle in your room. School officially starts tomorrow, but only for you to find your classes and some other things.¡± I was still half asleep and just let her talk regardless if I was following her or not. ¡°Your teacher will fill you in on it all. Oh speak of the devil, here comes dad!¡±

    He came up and gave me a bear hug like I was three. His power and his stance hasn¡¯t changed. He was able to pick me up with ease and smother me with his love.

    ¡°If you need us for anything! I mean anything!! Call your mother,¡± he said grinning at me with his thousand dollar smile. They both truly did love me. I will miss seeing them each day but I will try to keep in touch. I would feel bad if I didn¡¯t.

    ¡°I will dad.¡± Just like me he was terrible with goodbyes and just got into the car. Mom started crying and made me as I was finally feeling that sorrow I thought about the other day. Did not last long before I was in tears too.

    We both cry in each other''s arms for what feels like an eternity. She kissed my forehead and held me again for a few moments before breaking off.

    ¡°We have to head off and meet our agent, we love you so very much! Call us often! LOVE YOU!!!¡± she yelled as she got in the car, and did not stop waving goodbye until they were gone and well out of sight. Which I can guarantee dad told her to stop as the school likely was out of distance. What a bunch of goofballs. I am proud to be their son.

    And with that, nearly most my life just whisked away. It was just me, this school and a room full of luggage. I wipe my eyes and hold myself high. First impressions man, first impressions. I am a hero!

    I looked around the campus, which, for its size, is empty. Everyone must be inside their respective dorms or whatever. I figured the man standing by the gate was who I needed to meet.

    He is a tall slender man with a finely colored suit. He gives a polite bow as I near, which I return feeling strange as that is not normal for me.

    ¡°Mr. Rains is it?¡± I nodded affirming it was me. ¡°Good good good!¡± I looked at the guy like he was crazy as he spoke so loud I figured God would smite him if he wasn''t speaking a hundred decibels. Maybe he does so in case people are hard of hearing? I will be after this conversation I am sure. He gives me a folder which I instinctively open¡­ and ignore nearly everything he said as I flip through everything.

    ¡°Yup,¡± I just stated closing the folder and looking up to the man.

    ¡°I am sorry, it was not a yes or no question?¡± he responded, puzzled.

    ¡°Oh what?¡± I replied with a question and the game of questions began. I am no loser.

    ¡°Did you not hear me?¡± he pondered nervously, his other personality seeming to have left. Please don¡¯t start talking louder. Please.

    ¡°No, was it something I should have heard?¡± I replied not wishing to lose this game, as if it matters at all. Or if he even realized he was playing. Wait, did that even count? I kind of answered his question but then morphed it into my own. Is that legal in this game? As if it matters. I am really basically playing against myself with an unwilling participant. What a way to start you idiot.

    ¡°I believe it was, wouldn¡¯t you think?¡± he nervously rubbed his neck not seeming to know what to do in this predicament.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what to think, I never heard the question, could you repeat it?¡± I kept soldiering on, poorly. I hope there are no cameras or this will be the talk of the year.

    ¡°Sorry! I must not have been speaking loud enough, you are not hard of hearing are you? I am sorry I should have taken notes!¡± I shook my head, disappointed as I thought he wasn¡¯t going to ask a question.

    ¡°I am not, do you think I am?¡± I rebuttal soldering on.

    ¡°I don¡¯t! Apologies if I sound like I do, did you wish for me to repeat myself?¡± I caught myself not responding with yes, which he must have thought I was insane as I am meddling with my thoughts so hard before speaking¡­ there goes that whole first impression thing. I am playing this game of questions with a faculty member. I am bound to be the talk of lunch today if not even longer. Still, does he even notice?

    ¡°Yes if you would not mind.¡± I gave up¡­ he is too good and I didn¡¯t wish to keep standing here awkwardly. To think he just won a game he didn¡¯t even know he was in. For shame.

    ¡°I asked what brought you to this school.¡± Thinking back quickly I realized he must have been really confused as he spoke to someone not listening then got a reply to this question with a ¡®yup¡¯. Man, I must look like an idiot right now.

    ¡°Oh, my parents got a job transfer.¡± He looks a bit distraught. Guess that wasn¡¯t the expected answer?

    ¡°Well, I am certain they informed you about our school, yes?¡± I shrugged, pulling out the ¡®beautiful¡¯ brochure I was given.

    ¡°Just this.¡±

    ¡°Oh my¡­¡± he responds, holding the back of his neck and stiffing up. That face says it all. ¡°That was not the best on our part.¡±

    ¡°Well not everyday you read a thesis as propaganda to go to a school,¡± I joked, and like the sky, it was over his head.

    ¡°Sorry.¡± I shrugged again, not really his fault¡­ unless of course he designed this horror. The demon!

    ¡°It is fine, I suppose you can tell me a bit about the school?¡± Oh god did I just start the questions again? Well it was only one question¡­ I need to get a grip, am I this nervous?

    ¡°It is a special school¡­¡± he began. I nodded curiously. ¡°I am sure the nurse can tell you more. I must be off, I just wished to meet you and give you your paperwork. Also when you get settled in, check your email, which is in the papers, for everything you¡¯ll need to know for the first day.¡± In a flash the man was gone before I even knew who he was. Goodbye champ, I will get the next round for sure. I wonder if all teachers were like him?

    Special school, huh? Seems I will fit in well after that conversation of doom. I wondered why, though. I walk aimlessly seeing as that guy never showed me anything here. Most of the entire campus was grass as well with some trees and patches of flowers. I jumped onto one of the walkways and just waltzed around until I found a bench to sit on. I pulled the folder out again and began to read it more intently.

    After flipping through a few papers I find a tiny envelope with a keycard in it. There was a room number on it and with any luck that was my dorm room. I tried to find a map inside the folder but to no success. I feel like I am the needle in a haystack. Is that even an accurate saying? How can something so big and empty still be difficult to navigate? Also where are the signs to indicate where I need to go? This is all perplexing.

    I get up looking around for a map or anything but I see a large building that numerous students seem to be entering with luggage and with any luck that was my dorm. I proceed over, putting the folder under my arm. Second impressions, Claude¡­ you got this.

    The building is rather large and old looking. This campus must be old seeing as most of the architecture was ancient looking. Not going to lie though, I kind of liked it. Something different from the usual, always refreshing. It does look expertly crafted and all as well, very eye pleasing. Would suck to be here and not be able to enjoy this view. There is something about older aesthetics that are always pleasing.

    I go up to the door and hold it for a few people entering, they gave either an appreciative nod or a quick thanks. I entered after about four others and someone took the door for me. I noticed my room number was 4-7, and assuming that means the fourth floor. I located a staircase right near the entrance and ascended. I would have tried to socialize a little but seeing as I wanted to at least find my room and get acquainted with it, I didn¡¯t stop to talk. And being honest with myself, I am not that sociable. I only have one real friend anyhow, can I fit in more?

    I thought after a few moments I may have realized why it was called special. I walked past a few students with missing limbs, saw a group signing to each other and then almost ran into a blind guy. Is this a disabled school or something? and if so, why was I here¡­ or at least allowed in? Did my parents know something I didn¡¯t? Questions began to race, but I did not need this right now. I attempt to not let it get to me and I journey to my room. The door is closed with a sticky note on by the door handle.

    Love you, DAD. At least that is what I think it says. The handwriting would insult chickens to exclaim it as theirs. But that is unarguably my father¡¯s writing.

    I grinned a little nonetheless and took it off. I brought the keycard out of my wallet and slid it. A small ding and green light glows and I open the door. The room was stuffy and small, basically what you would expect from a dorm room. Both of my bags are next to the bed, which is right next to a small table and chair and across from that was a standing wardrobe and a dresser. That was the extent of the room besides a large window and board to put things on. I stick the note dad left for me on it for now and toss the folder on the table. Figured I would just unpack for the time being.

    I took out my clothes and put them in the dresser, pulled out my handheld game system and sat it on the table and plugged it into the outlet to charge. I did the same with my laptop and as I was finishing up there was a knock on my door.

    I turn and quickly rush to it. Not certain who could possibly be there as it seems this room was only large enough for one person it is undoubtedly a neighbor or someone lost. I open the door and am greeted by a guy smiling ear to ear. He was a bit taller than me and even in his hoodie I could see his muscles. This guy is ripped. I hope he isn¡¯t here to rob me.

    ¡°Hey!¡± he said loudly and put a hand out. Is everyone on this campus loud? Or does it have to do with the difficulty of hearing? Should I be talking louder, more clearly? Questions begin to flood my mind again. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± he roared again, still smiling an infectious smile.

    ¡°Hello?¡± I responded by taking his hand in a firm shake. He could crush it with the strength he is giving. I grimace a bit and try to remain friendly.

    ¡°The names Tyler, but you can call me T, or Ty, or whatever you want man! I am in 4-6 so we will probably see a lot of each other. I figured I would introduce myself.¡±

    ¡°Nice to meet you Tyler, I am Claude.¡±

    ¡°Got it man, cool name!¡± He is extremely energetic. Something about him was like a human coffee. Just energizes you.

    ¡°Is this your first year here?¡± I asked hoping he wouldn¡¯t be so I could get directions. He seems nice enough, though.

    ¡°Ya man, I am excited!¡± he did a few shadow punches in the air. For an excessive amount of time and with some actual ferver. ¡°Can¡¯t wait to join the track and field club and the boxing club.¡±

    ¡°Oh clubs?¡± I  think out loud like an idiot. Of course this school would have clubs. But wait¡­ BOXING?!

    ¡°Yeah man! YOU HAVE to join one, it is like an unwritten rule I think.¡± I rubbed my chin. A strange rule at that. I doubt what he said is true but it would not hurt to humor myself and look into one.

    ¡°I will check them out.¡± Would I though?

    ¡°Oh?¡± I noticed he glanced behind me. I turned following his gaze. Is something weird, I wonder. What could possibly? THE NOTE!

    ¡°What?¡± I said defensively.

    ¡°You use O-Chat-Ing?¡± I nodded, seeing it clearly on my laptop. Oh just that okay. Wait he can see that far and well? Now I am jealous. I have always had fairly poor vision¡­ that couldn¡¯t be why I am here though¡­ could it?

    ¡°Yes?¡± Again with the dang questions. Why is this bothering me so much? Why am I so focused on something so stupid.

    ¡°Dude, what is your username! We should totally be friends!¡± I laugh, unable to hold myself back. Something about this guy just makes you happy, I can¡¯t discern why, he just does. As I said, a walking coffee in human form. I think this school might be alright if more people are like him¡­ but slightly calmer¡­ and quieter.

    ¡°CRains20, capital C and R but I do not think it matters but no space between. Also it is just the number, not spelled out or anything.¡±

    ¡°Awesome man! I will add you tonight, you will see it from T-Dog.¡± The man actually spells it out letter by letter, including the dash. Guess I can¡¯t laugh, I just did the same thing. ¡°I need to head off though man, nice meeting you!¡±

    ¡°Likewise, see ya.¡± With that he is gone as quick as he was here. I turned back, entering my room and closing the door. I hope everyone here is that friendly. My thoughts race for a second, I wonder if he had a disability? And what if that¡­ I really shouldn¡¯t pry into things though, I am sure if people are comfortable they will tell me.

    I let it slide as if they did not mention anything I figure just let it go. No sense prying for useless knowledge right? Or is it useless? What if they have some condition that is life threatening if I do something wrong¡­ God this is going to be absolute hell. I slump down on the bed and reach to grab the laptop, carefully so I do not pull the cords out. I simply navigated around on some sites and played a few free games before turning it off and grabbing the folder again. I then remember to check my email. I did after finding the right paper and started double checking all the emails I had. It didn¡¯t take long and my stomach grumbled. I should probably find where to eat. I am starving. My stomach crying again confirmed this.

    Nothing much of help so I guess I would go for a walk. I was bound to find something. With my thoughts in order and wallet ready to spend, I made my way out. I made sure to lock the door, the last thing I need is to get robbed on my first day. I quickly looked at my phone for anything nearby and there was a small town just outside of the campus with some food and shops.

    I put a hand in my pocket to look casual and cool of course. I left the building as quickly as I could and followed a group of students who more than likely knew where they were going. Hopefully.

    They all left the gate but stopped, crap now what do I do? Like a socially awkward introvert I pulled out my phone to act like I am doing something productive. How pathetic. Just going to stand here and look at my home screen. Nothing weird here.

    Luckily they just talked about where to go to eat, and all my worries began to vanish then as they started to move forward again they mentioned some place, Shack Liquid? Unable to care, I followed them hoping it was some sort of place to eat and judging by the name it must have a nice selection of drinks.

    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

    I have to try my best to keep my distance and not look like a stalker. I am sure if there was only one or two I would have attempted to join but seeing it was nearly ten people I just stayed to myself. That¡¯s just a crowd at this point.

    I am so focused on them that I did not even realize we had arrived. And switching between blankly staring at my phone when someone would look back or glance around. A large neon sign stating ¡®Shack Liquid¡¯ pulsed, which I can not tell if it was because of a faulty line or if it was supposed to do that. Either way at least the place looks charming. It has a sort of Hawaiian vibe to it, very tropical. I dig it.

    The building itself is located on the outskirts of the town we have arrived at. Luckily it seems large and not too far from the campus. A convenient little place to come and chill. They all enter and I take a moment before doing so as well. It looks like a bar of sorts and at this point I am so hungry I would eat the glass my drink came in. I shrugged and entered.

    ¡°Welcome to Liquid! Just one today, sir?¡± I am almost tackled by a hostess when I go inside. I nodded. They have some really vibrant attire here. Bright hawaiian shirts and skirts.

    ¡°Y-yes,¡± I replied nervously, listening to the loud inside. My thoughts were confirmed it was a bar but I was taken to another side that was a little less loud and more¡­ ¡®restauranty¡¯? If that is even a word¡­ More booths and sitting areas with tables rather than bar tops.

    ¡°You can sit here, a waitress will be with you shortly!¡± With that she leaves before I even have a chance to thank her. Must be busy, considering all the students most likely come here and school starting soon, it makes sense. Guess everyone wants one last little party before the grind begins. I can understand.

    Curiosity got the better of me and I began to glance around. I see the group I followed being rowdy across the room. I then saw a girl walking slowly and almost into the group. Well this isn¡¯t going to be good. Didn¡¯t expect entertainment with the dinner as well.

    ¡°Hey watch where you are going, ya blind or something?!¡± One of the guys ratted at her. I felt bad for the girl but did not wish to get involved¡­ until I saw the cane. Wait¡­ she is blind? She has to be a student at Vanderhall too. Oh man¡­Something inside me stirs and I prepare to take action. Hero time? Yeah, hero time.

    ¡°Oh you have my sincerest apologies,¡± I heard the girl say. I started making my way off the bench seat I am placed at but am cornered in by the waitress¡­ talk about bad timing. She gave me a sort of awkward look as I scooted over toward her.

    ¡°Sir?¡± I get up regardless.

    ¡°One minute.¡± I brushed past her and began making my way over. Things were heating up a bit and most of the table either stood or was mocking her.

    ¡°You deaf too? Leave us! Damned first years thinking they own this joint. You ain¡¯t gonna like it if I see you bumping into us again! We rule here, get lost!¡± By this time the group noticed my advances.

    ¡°And you would be?¡± one said downing a shot. Are they even old enough to drink? Guess that doesn¡¯t matter at the moment.

    ¡°Just here to get her.¡± As if the hero''s blood ran through me I took her hand gently into mine. It was incredibly soft and warm. She is completely caught off guard but nonetheless looking slightly thankful. But just kinda. Well, here goes nothing. I get ready to move toward my table but the bigger oaf lectures me again standing up, nearly a foot taller than me too. I feel a chill run down my spine.

    ¡°She does that again, I will kick both your ass¡¯s! Ya hear me!¡± I nodded. ¡°Sod off!¡±

    ¡°Right right, sorry!¡± I am not certain what just happened but time seemed to stop again as I was now sitting looking at the girl I rescued from that small event. The waitress did not know what to say so she simply went to what she knew. Did none of that bother her? Or I can only imagine this happens a lot. What a downer.

    ¡°What can I get you to drink?¡± I quickly looked at the menu and noting how it was not in braille or¡­ blind friendly, I read the names off slowly hoping the girl would catch on. Guess I was the only one here so it makes sense there was no braille menu. How the hell am I being so smooth right now, though? Am I still in hero mode? It was as if someone was a minute ahead of me and choosing my actions. Please don¡¯t wear off.

    ¡°Unsweetened tea please,¡± she murmured, clearly looking embarrassed as all hell.

    ¡°Dr. pepper.¡± I love the doc. I normally don¡¯t drink soda but seeing it on the menu hit my wanting stage. All in moderation.

    ¡°Of course! I will return shortly.¡± The waitress was quick to leave, considering what just happened, can¡¯t blame her.

    ¡°Umm¡­ so¡­.¡± I started. How in the actual hell do I even go about talking to her now?

    ¡°I...I can¡¯t thank you enough.¡± I remembered for a moment the girl was there¡­ and now kind of stuck. I hope to God she was here to eat and not trying to leave and I just pulled her in like a blind date¡­ did I just really think that? Oh god what have I done to myself now.

    ¡°It was no problem, bullies are everywhere it seems, even here. You weren¡¯t, uhh¡­ leaving by chance were you?¡± I added attempting to hold up in conversation. The way she looked in my general direction with her clouded eyes was¡­ unsettling for the time. Still there was magnificent beauty to them too. Not to mention her golden flowing hair was very pretty. Thank god she can¡¯t see me just ogling her right now. Oh that is kind of messed up, huh?

    ¡°No, in fact I went to the restroom to wash my hands and get seated. I just arrived here a few minutes ago. Are you by chance new here as well?¡± she questioned, defensively as if not wanting to overstep boundaries. I think at this point I was the one who broke the boundaries straight up by just kidnapping her.

    ¡°I just got transferred yesterday actually,¡± I responded, not worrying about spilling information about myself. Small idle chit chat. Let¡¯s start here. Man if only real life had dialogue options¡­ or quick saves.

    ¡°Likewise, I happened to be moved here due to¡­ unforeseen circumstances.¡± You can¡¯t say that! Come on, I try my best to not laugh at the unintended pun. Why am I finding fun in her disability?! Get it together! I opened my mouth to question what those circumstances were but stopped myself also the fact she said unforeseen like¡­ come on. I get stuck on that again. Luckily I would have looked like an idiot but she had no way of knowing. Is that rude? This is all way more than I bargained for. I had hoped to just help her on but now she is sat here. I am not sure who I feel worse for¡­

    ¡°Life tends to be cruel,¡± I said shrugging. I noticed she tilts her head as if she is listening to something. Before I could ask, the waitress returned. That is superhuman¡­ all I hear is the buffoons from early shouting and the music playing a bit too loudly.

    ¡°Tea for you¡­ and¡­ the Dr. Pepper for you sir. Are we ready to order?¡± I realized again the futility of this little episode.

    ¡°One moment if you would.¡± She gave a sly grin most likely overthinking this situation but I didn¡¯t care. She must have prepared herself during her little drink run for this interesting evening. Also where the hell is another menu?! Before I could ask for one she was already off to another table. Helpful.

    ¡°I am thankful you picked up on helping me with the menu. I am unable to read this.¡± How should I proceed? I resort back to my gaming and realize that feels just like some sort of RPG dialogue option. The blind girl can¡¯t read her menu, what do you do? I again try to not laugh as my mind is currently in overdrive between being nervous as all hell and just trying to not be a complete weirdo. Well that already failed in many ways. Guess we are winging it.

    ¡°Anything specific you enjoy eating? I could read some things off for you,¡± I suggested. She simply nodded, her blonde bangs bobbing slightly. It is astounding how someone who can¡¯t see has such vivid beauty. I have never actually been on a date before and now here am I with this gorgeous woman¡­ man I need to stop! Back to the moment. Come on now.

    ¡°Fish or salad are my normal pickings.¡± It is odd how everything she said seems so reserved as if thought beforehand whereas I just kind of acted. ¡°But fish is expensive¡­¡± She trailed off.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about the price, I¡¯ll cover you.¡± She retracted herself.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t!¡± Again making a face and shrugging, noticing the nonsense of the gesture I reassured her.

    ¡°You can pick up the next tab.¡± Her face reddened a bit and I again realized what an idiot I am. Smooth Claude, smooth. I just noticed again I make a move acting as if we are going to be doing this again. God this is difficult. Can I lower the difficulty setting somewhere, please? How do people do this¡­ I have gone out with my best friend a few times when we were back in late middle school and early high school¡­ but this is just a whole other game. How long can I keep this up¡­

    ¡°How bold of you.¡± I waved my hand, still unable to grasp that this girl in front of me was blind. As in can¡¯t see, proceeding to just keep doing these gestures is only going to drive me mad. But it is a habit! We are habitual creatures, thanks God.

    ¡°Sorry!¡± She smiled and let out a giggle, and I could tell she was teasing, her usual reserved self seeming to be gone and the wall she had lowered. That is a bit of a relief. Perhaps it is best if I just take this in stride. Nothing serious, just two random strangers eating together. Let¡¯s get to know each other. I suppose it starts after food.

    ¡°It is quite fine, any sort of seasonal salad?¡± I began to scan the menu nervously remembering the situation.

    ¡°Here''s one, a mix of greens, nuts, and seasonal fruits with a refreshing vinaigrette bound to freshen your taste buds¡­ sound alright?¡± I said reading the small description, flavor text included. She nodded. Is it judgmental to be upset that she can do that when I can¡¯t? Is that abilist¡­ or something?

    ¡°Interesting to see an authentic choice in such a place,¡± she added. I quickly scan the menu for myself and figure a steak bowl

    sounds fantastic. To be fair, food sounds good, just anything edible. I am so hungry! The waitress appears again at the perfect time, well actually a good time this time.

    ¡°So?¡± she asks, pulling out a pad and pencil.

    ¡°The fruit salad and a steak bowl please,¡±  I ordered for the two of us. She noted it with a smile.

    ¡°How would you like your steak?¡±

    ¡°Medium well, please,¡± I responded.

    ¡°Right away!¡± I leaned back in my seat hoping that the rest of this dinner would go much smoother than it had been up to this point. I am attempting to think what to talk about when the girl lets out a tiny yawn. I then realized when you can¡¯t see anything, dead silence¡­ Well silence at the table must be dreadfully boring. Hell, I am dreadfully boring. What can we even talk about? No chance she plays video games. Doubt she has touched a board game. Maybe reading?

    ¡°Tired?¡± I instinctively ask as she covers her mouth a little embarrassed.

    ¡°It has been a while since I slept in. Life can be cruel as you said.¡± I again had to stop myself from prying. I decided the best course of action is to change the subject. Let¡¯s start simple. Character names.

    ¡°Mind if I ask your name? I figure we should at least know what to call one another.¡±

    ¡°Whitney.¡± I was a little speechless and she gave a concerned look. ¡°Is it a weird name?¡± I waved it off, before realizing that it wasn''t working. Why must I suffer like this? Cruel fates.

    ¡°No no! I was just impressed.¡± I stopped there realizing that sounded super weird. She did not seem to mind.

    ¡°And how about yourself?¡± Damn it dad, you said ask a girl a question and they will talk your ear off. You lied! Well I did only ask her name.

    ¡°Claude¡± I shrugged for about the third time realizing the futility of this repeated action. Just stop the gestures, man! She gives an amused giggle I found myself smiling at.

    ¡°You sound lovely. An impressive name as well.¡± Good thing she can¡¯t see¡­ Well now that sounds horrible, but I really got embarrassed right there. Also did she just mock me?

    ¡°Umm¡­ thanks?¡± How do you respond to that though? Is this my lack of social skills playing an effect or am I just bad with girls? Also is that her way of saying I look good? Can you sound handsome? Is that a thing? Is she blindly checking me out? Should I be embarrassed or complimented? Sweet lord this is going to be rough. I have been here for like a handful of hours and everything is already super difficult. Hopefully time will make this all better.

    ¡°I know it is boring compared to something as beautiful as Whitneyi.¡± She puffs her cheeks out a bit nervously. I then realized again I made advances without thinking. If the person controlling me could not have me say such forward things, that would be great. Because if they ever decide to stop, I am going to be a fool. It is like I am trying to force her into something. I don¡¯t even know if she has a boyfriend, or fiance, or husband or¡­ Great, now I have a new worry. Angry partner.

    ¡°Claude is a wonderful name.¡± How trivial a conversation this is. To think a conversation on names is what is working. Guess dad wins this round.

    ¡°Do you have any hobbies or anything?¡± I felt like breaking the ice that is this glacier slowly building. I was generally curious as well to see if someone without sight still did¡­ normal like things. Man, my mind is evil. Normal things? Come on, she is blind, not an alien.

    ¡°I tend to read a lot and enjoy spending time in the woods.¡± An odd combination of things to do at this time. I want to write and publish books after just commenting on how literature is dying. ¡°How about you?¡± As I should have known she would turn the question to me. Should I really let my nerdiness be shown? Ah what the hell. Shoot your shot, right? Wait, no FRIENDS just FRIENDS.

    ¡°I play videogames¡­ like a lot. I also used to play tabletop with an old group of friends.¡± I let out a disappointed sigh without realizing. ¡°But recently I just kind of do my own thing and write.¡± She raised an inquisitive brow when I mentioned I write. Of course little effect had on playing games, as to be expected.

    ¡°Have you published anything yet?¡± I shook my head and let silence fall before realizing my mistake. ¡°Sorry! I didn¡¯t mean to pry!¡± I tried to laugh but I am just over-calculating this conversation.

    ¡°No, it is not easy unfortunately and I want to make sure it is 110% ready before I do.¡± She smiled.

    ¡°I would be more than willing to read it and give you my opinion¡­ if that is alright by you.¡± I gave a few moments pause.

    ¡°Uh¡­ how would¡­ umm you?¡± I am really showing how awkward it is for me to talk to a blind person, let alone a blind girl, to be honest, just talking to a girl. In all seriousness, talking. This is so much harder face to face than texting. I can spend hours just messaging back and forth on O-Chat-Ing, but in person it is such a different style.

    ¡°We could find a way. I enjoy reading different tales, what do you write?¡± God how do I keep going? Soldier on Claude! Go go go! Keep up the good fight! At least until food arrives and stuffing your face takes priority.

    ¡°I have tried my hand at everything, but right now I am doing a thriller.¡± I said confidently in my abilities. She smiled warmly again. I can¡¯t help but begin to be mesmerized by her beauty. The smile she gives brings out her lovely features. Her eyes are cloudy but still have a gorgeous emerald blue color. Her hair seems done up into a bun but her bangs are fairly long with a bit of a curl to them. Her hair must be very long because even the bun has some hair sticking out and goes well past her shoulders.

    ¡°It seems food is here.¡± No one is there but in a moment''s time sure enough they appear. I am impressed by her hearing. I guess when you are missing one of your senses your others really do heighten. Luckily food is here and I can use it as a new conversation. Our respective plates were given and the waitress made sure all was good before leaving. I am going to dig in since I was so hungry but I caught myself mesmerized once more by Whitney preparing to eat.

    She deftly hovers over the utensils until grabbing the fork and knife. She taps the edges of the plate and felt if anything was too close to the edge then begins to cut the food up a little smaller than it is. As creepy as it sounds I am glad she can¡¯t see me eyeing her. Something about this is just so fascinating. She does it all with relative ease and with precision, and I can see and still miss my mouth when trying to take a bite.

    ¡°Everything alright?¡± she asks, looking towards me.

    ¡°Oh, uh yeah, why?¡± Play. It. Cool. You were not just checking her out while she prepared her food. Preying on the blind girl who can¡¯t see you being weird.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t hear you eating so I assumed something was wrong.¡± Good lord, this is like superhuman. Well we are right next to each other. I think that is her way of showing she knows I am watching her without just flatly stating such.

    ¡°Oh I am so sorry, I was just¡­¡± I was attempting to think of an excuse but she knew the truth. Can I even redeem myself at this point?

    ¡°Interested in watching me eat?¡± she stated, as I figured. I swallowed a lump in my throat. Her name embarrassed her but me completely eyeing her eating is something else? What?

    ¡°Err¡­¡± She let out another giggle.

    ¡°It is fine, have you not met anyone else with a vision impairment?¡± I shake my head assuring myself and her, I am an idiot when it comes to this kind of interaction. Vision impaired? Is that even viable? She is completely blind! I suppose technically it means impaired but like¡­ I don¡¯t even know.

    ¡°Nope, sorry...¡± I go about the task of eating this delicious looking bowl of steak and other goodies, to avoid this growing awkwardness.

    Dinner was extremely quiet and I leaned back happily now content and full. I wipe my face with the napkin and slide the bowl and trash towards the edge of the table for a busboy or waitress to come by and pick up. Whitney also looked pleased with her meal as she dabbed her mouth.

    ¡°Want some dessert?¡± I offered out of pure kindness. I am sure we are both too full but I thought asking that would be a good segue.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t, I am rather full.¡± She said smiling, and combining her things much like I did. I began to fumble with my wallet to pay and am getting ready to leave. Whitney follows suit, sliding out of the booth cautiously. ¡°Thank you very much. This was nice. I am glad people like you exist.¡±

    I rubbed the back of my neck trying to not sound overly modest. ¡°Oh, it was fine. I am sure anyone would have helped you out if I didn¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°I am grateful regardless. Have a pleasant night!¡± She walked off, cane tapping all the way. I feel a little fuzzy as that was quite a nice experience. And perhaps the first¡­ date I had ever been on, if I am considering this one. I thought on that for a moment. Yes, it was a date. I paid for the meal and got a smirk from the hostess who wished me a good night. I just awkwardly smiled back and left.

    I go back to the dorm room as it is really late. I open the door to my room and notice just as Tyler mentioned, I had a notification on my O-Chat-Ing.

    >T-Dog wishes to be friends.

    -Accept-

    Hey Tyler.

    I am just going to leave him that and be done but I noticed he is already typing. Did he already accept and begin wanting a conversation? No chance he has been sitting there waiting this entire time¡­ I wait to see what is up.

    >Yo man! What¡¯s up?

    I laugh to myself. Even though I was only reading messages on a computer I could still feel his energy flowing through the letters. As if the words were shouting in Tyler fashion.

    Not too much, just got back from Shack Liquid.

    >DUDE! That is my favorite spot! I love it!

    Eat there a lot I assume?

    >Yeah man, the food is great isn¡¯t it? What did you have?

    A steak bowl.

    >Far out! Never did try that but their Liquid Burger is de-licious!

    That sounds odd. But it could be something new to try.

    >It tastes amazing! Not as the name implies!

    Does the guy end every sentence with an exclamation point or am I just imagining them as him yelling in excitement? Also if he is new here how many times has he eaten there for it to be a common occurrence? Maybe he lived nearby or had a chain near his old place.

    I will keep note. It is late though man, I think I am going to bed.

    >No problem, dude! Night! Good luck with your classes!

    Same to you, man.

    I shut my laptop down and begin to get changed. I opened the wardrobe to double check everything. I remember glancing and seeing we have strict uniforms. I didn¡¯t mind as it will help keep me from looking like an idiot. I do not keep up with fashion very well so if we are forced to wear something, it isn¡¯t my fault!

    I jumped into the sheets of the bed and felt the cold from them. Whatever passes for room temperature here is not the norm. The smell as well from the generic detergent on both the uniforms and the sheets is a bit much. I could stomach it though as it was bound to get better after I got used to it. Time to sleep.

    What a day.

 The Start of This School Life

    I woke up to the alarm I forgot I set. The first day of classes in a new school¡­ this very special school¡­ I groggily slapped the alarm off and went to gather a uniform. I yawned as I opened up the door and am beginning to go to the showers when I meet up with Tyler.

    ¡°Dude, morning! Sleep well?¡± Why did it not surprise me that he is also a morning person?

    ¡°For the most part yeah. How about you?¡± He nodded.

    ¡°I feel great! I best be off to class man and I see you are heading to the showers so I won¡¯t keep you.¡± I laughed as he raced off. He is quite the character. I like him though. That energy and friendliness is something I am sure I will grow to appreciate here. He is just a genuine guy.

    The showers are empty and I am rather shocked. Either everyone showers at night or there just aren¡¯t many people on our floor. I picked a stall and got undressed and set the bag I have everything in on a shelf. I hung the clothes on the hangers they had and turned on the water.

    ¡°Ack!¡± The water was bitterly cold and sprayed out like a volcano. It took a few moments to get to a comfortable temperature and I began to rinse myself and lather up. I did not want to be late so I shower quicker than usual. I get dressed in the rather stiff clothing and brush my teeth. Finally I added a little gel to my hair to spike it. I checked myself in the partially foggy mirror. Perfect. Enough.

    I quickly run back to my room and set the dirty clothes aside in my basket and put the bathroom essentials away. With that I figured I would follow the crowd towards classes, or at least the building they are in. I struggle holding the folder, my notebook and pencils as I fumble looking for anything indicating my classroom. No schedule, map or really anything so I did as I did before and just followed some people. How could I receive such a larger folder full of things but not anything I need. How annoying.

    The crowd was thick and I noticed not everyone had the same colors. I had brown pants with a white top but others had different colored pants, did that mean they were a grade above or whatever? Some had black, others green, some with blue, and others like me with brown. Did it signal their disability? Again I turn on that subject and quickly away from it.

    I entered the building it seems everyone else did and I saw a teacher looking about eagerly¡­ might as well talk with them. I made my way over slowly as the piles of students moving was like a raging river. He noticed me and smiled.

    ¡°May I help you?¡± he asks generically. Leaning in toward me.

    ¡°Yes, I am not certain where to go.¡± He gave a large grin as if he had already been asked it three hundred times.

    ¡°Well that tends to be a bad thing, allow me to help.¡± Thank god. I hand him my folder as he holds out a hand for it. He spines through it until he gives a snap of his fingers. ¡°Ah yes, your homeroom and mathematics teacher are in room 302, it is up two floors and in a large room. You can¡¯t miss it! There is a staircase just ahead, follow the others and I am sure you will see it. Or I can direct you to an elevator.¡± I shook my head and thanked him and he returned my folder. I make my way back into the ¡®river¡¯. Should have brought my paddle.

    I am wondering how he picked out that information so quickly and I fingered through the papers. Sure enough like an idiot a schedule was clipped on another piece of paper. Room 302, HR and Mathematics with Dr. Wallen.

    I found the staircase and ascended to the appropriate floor and found the room I needed in a few seconds. A rather angry looking man stood outside I presume is the teacher.

    ¡°Name?¡± he asks roughly as I near.

    ¡°Claude Rains.¡± He gave a grunt. Glaring at me intently.

    ¡°In you go.¡± He followed me inside and I realized I must have been the last one here. I looked around the room at the few glances I got as well as how large the room was. It was like one of those college rooms with row after row of stage like seating. I went up to the top section and into an empty seat, excusing myself from the other few that are up there. The class settled down when the teacher stood in front, he began to speak.

    ¡°I am your homeroom and mathematics teacher, Dr. Wallen. I will not accept late work OR late arrivals. Today is your first and  last warning.¡± I feel a glare in my direction and a few students look my way. Damn this guy was going to be rough. Like come on man, it is the first day of a disabled school, damn. This is not going to be fun.

    He began rambling about more of his expectations that were clearly written on the paper I noticed on the desk. I see the guy next to me looking around a bit nervously. I couldn¡¯t help but realize his hair is covering half of his face making it most likely hard to see what he was reading. I am going to attempt to say hi but with the war general of a teacher I did not wish to push my limits. I hoped I was going to be able to make it a full year with this guy if he was this bad this early in the year. I shrugged not worrying about it as I am sure I will be fine.

    He began handing out textbooks and I took the chance to try and talk to the guy. I needed to make some friends and figure starting out in the homeroom with the person next to me was the best option. When I turn again I noticed a girl that looked just like the guy next to me. Are they siblings?

    ¡°Hey, my name is Claude, nice to meet you.¡± I kind of made a crappy generic introduction trying to keep things short and sweet as I think the teacher would be quick in his ways.

    The reaction I got was as if I told the guy he had been drafted. He nervously jittered something and I am worried as to what his story was. He is too anxious for just the beginning of a new school year. By this time we had more than a few firsts of the year. I didn¡¯t want to pry just as I didn¡¯t with Whitney.

    ¡°Is that your sister?¡± I''ll try another question just in case. He again pulled his hands in front of his face. I then realized how forward that was. Luckily he actually responds.

    ¡°Y-yes.¡± I am getting anxious just talking to this guy.

    ¡°Find the class alright? I struggled, haha.¡± I attempted to make light of the situation.

    ¡°N-no,¡± he stuttered with his words. I do not know if I should just shut up or not. I decide just to be quiet as the drill sergeant is nearby. This also seems to please that guy.

    ¡°Pass these books down, IN NUMERICAL ORDER,¡± he stressed the end hard.

    I took mine and passed the others down making extremely sure I had the right number, because lord only knows I do not need to make this guy any more angry than he already seems to be. I wonder if I can get a class change?

    He begins to rant on how important his class is and other nonsense. I tune him out for the time as if I listened to him I might fall asleep. I grinned thinking about him giving a speech preparing us for battle.

    The class goes surprisingly fast. The classes weren¡¯t too long with a quick break. I would not be shocked if Dr. Wallen didn¡¯t give us a break and instead made us drop and give him twenty. I laughed to myself as I packed my things away. Made sure too on my way out I avoided eye contact with the drill sergeant.

    My next class was science which is cool. I always enjoyed it a bit more than math, because of the explosions and space. Something about it always intrigued me. It is fun to be experimental and mess with things. Reactions are neat. I see the class is only four down from our current one in room 306.

    I entered almost as one of the first. A few others were in and I made it a point to always sit in the back. Especially now as I am certain there are vision impaired ones as well as those who have trouble hearing. This is going to take some time getting used to. Sure it was a handful or so back in my old schools but I think just about every other one had some sort of disability with vision or hearing.

    I can hear him a million miles away and was assured it was him when I saw Tyler enter the room. As if a magnet he instantly finds me in the back and runs to me.

    ¡°Dude what?! You are in this class too?! Far out!¡± I smirked feeling this class was going to be ten times better than my last. Well ten times zero is still zero¡­ This will be a good class. Very good.

    ¡°Hey Tyler, how was your first class?¡± I asked, able to finally talk to my neighbor this time.

    ¡°It was alright, got math with some lady named Hallowfield.¡± I nodded.

    ¡°Better than the drill sergeant of a math instructor I had.¡± He gave a confused look.

    ¡°Huh? Ex marine or something?¡± I laughed at the look he makes.

    ¡°No, Dr. Wallen, stay away from the guy.¡± A light bulb must have appeared over him as he gave a look of enlightenment. And immediate regret.

    ¡°DUDE!¡± He gave me his schedule and I saw what he was seeing. Dr. Wallen for English. He puts his head on the desk out of frustration.

    ¡°I feel for you man, sorry.¡± I pat him on the back and return his schedule. Not long after more students waltz in I spot the teacher coming in.

    ¡°Hello class. I am your science teacher Ms. Wilson.¡± Wilson, how generic I thought again knowing a lot of people named Wilson. Must be some serious inbreeding. I smirked to myself at my own joke. I am funny.

    Just like every class ever she explains her expectations and what we would be learning and doing over the course of the year. Tyler and I high five when she mentions experiments and having lab partners. At the break time Tyler turns to me looking antsy.

    ¡°Everything good man?¡± I asked him.

    ¡°Have you met anyone yet?¡± He replied.

    ¡°What do you mean? Like friends or something? I tried to talk to someone from my other class but no luck.¡±

    ¡°No like¡­ a girlfriend or whatever¡­ or I am sure a guy like you already has one!¡± I laughed at his expectations of me. Man he couldn¡¯t have been more wrong. If anyone had a girlfriend I would guarantee him. He is good looking, well in shape, super outgoing, the dude has it all!

    ¡°Nope. Single as the cheese.¡± He gave me a sly grin enjoying my joke which made me feel a little better. I am funny! ¡°How about you man?¡± He shook his head.

    ¡°I am not¡­ great when it comes to talking to girls.¡± I think that basically goes for all teenage guys at this point.

    ¡°Neither am I.¡± With that little bit of conversation drying up it is time for us to start up again for class. No offense to the guy, but I pictured him as the jockey type getting all the ladies, odd. He just keeps breaking the mold.

    Just like the other class, this one is over before I even remember it is happening. I hope this is how it would be the whole year which would make it much better. Tyler and I part ways and I make my way next to the last class of the day. It was weird only having five classes. I didn¡¯t mind. Maybe this was why they wanted students to join clubs. My next class is in room 310.

    I enter seeing a familiar face. Whitney sits in the front of the class. I did not really feel like I should talk to her out of some reason in my gut but I did anyway. Would it be rude not to, no?

    ¡°Hey there Whitney.¡± She perks up hearing my voice which she most likely recognized. Another really impressive thing. Suppose recognizing a voice is just the same as seeing a familiar face. I have so much to learn about her.

    ¡°Is that Claude by chance?¡± I smiled like a moron. Man she is impressive. I can barely remember faces, yet she knows my voice out of all these people she likely has met. I felt a bit honored.

    ¡°It is, how are you?¡± I decided to sit next to her, as if I am going to sit anywhere else except next to this beauty. Before we could really start talking the teacher walks in. Everyone in class quiets down as she speaks up.

    ¡°Hello class, I hope everyone has had a chance to make friends and get used to the layout of the school. I will be one of your medial classes of the day, as you most likely read on the schedule, I am Mrs. Fillow, but please feel free to call me Kara.¡± She hands out a stack of small novels to everyone. ¡°There is a large library here as well. I normally like it if students can read a book every two weeks and give me a little report about it. It can be a simple review, what you liked, what you did not. Think about characters, setting, and different themes. You all have read things by now and I am sure you each have unique and interesting opinions I would love to hear about.¡±

    Everyone groans at her expectations, except Whitney who seems welcoming of the idea. Mrs. Fillow continues on with class right through the break and up through the end of class. She is so incredibly passionate about her work. She notices the time and looks nervously.

    ¡°My apologies! I got a bit into the talk, feel free to stop me if I break into that time! Have a good day and see you tomorrow.¡± See you tomorrow? Is that allowed for a teacher to say in a school like this? Whatever. I am stressing the little things.

    I started to get up and gather my things and noticed Whitney struggling with her books. Do I help her?

    ¡°Need a hand?¡± I offered, unable to resist. She looked almost a bit upset, but her smile appeared.

    ¡°Please,¡± she accepted happily and I got her things into her pack and handed it back to her extended hands. ¡°Thank you very much.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡± I checked my phone for the time. Lunchtime and then two more classes to go. Whitney and I split ways and I headed towards the crowd. I suspected I was going to the cafeteria, grabbing something out of the vending machine right before to hold me over.

    The cafeteria was all the way down and in the middle of the first floor. To say it was colossal was an understatement. There are hundreds of students, with varying degrees of disabilities scattered all over. I can see plenty with missing limbs, those who are blind, the deaf, and others. I find an open table by the luck of the gods and claim it. I snack on the bag of chips and water I bought, not even attempting to get in line for food.

    I mostly space out during the time and look around a little before thumbing through all the books I got and kind of checking them out to an extent. Nowhere near getting any real information out of them, but some of the diagrams and pictures are nice. Is it even fair to have this much weight? I am sure people can¡¯t handle carrying this much... Except Tyler. He is probably into it.

    I saw people begin to leave and check the time. Sure enough about fifteen minutes before the next class. Next class of the day, let me see here¡­ oh History with Dr. Fullerman? Room 313, easy enough. I like this whole thing of having every class on the same floor thing. I began checking all the doors as I made my way following both the ¡®river¡¯ and the door numbers. Ah yes, here it is. I can¡¯t wait to be done for today¡­

    I entered the class, seeing about half of the class here. And if by fate, Tyler was up at the top row waving his arms frantically seeing me. I grin, awesome, two classes with the guy, this year might not be horrible. I mean they say misery loves company, no?

    ¡°Tyler!¡± I chuckled, heading to an open seat by him.

    ¡°Dude! My man! What¡¯s good?¡± I switched questions on him.

    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    ¡°So Dr. Wallen, am I right?¡± His mood went from bubbly, to sad, right back to bubbly, I love this guy. He is such a literal character.

    ¡°Yeah man! The dude is crazy!¡± We both shared a laugh, looking at other students as they poured in. I then picked one from the crowd, instantly tuning Tyler out while he talked about the class. I felt a hit on the shoulder.

    ¡°Huh? What?¡± I respond defensively, looking at him a bit annoyed. One because even if that was a playful hit, there was some power behind it, and also, hitting a defenseless man!

    ¡°No one, huh?¡± he said, grinning. I then realized how I was eyeing Whitney he most likely got ideas. Whatever, can¡¯t let that get to me.

    ¡°It is not like that, I just have a class with her. I recognized her from before,¡± I said, defending myself. He raised a brow, looking to screw with me.

    ¡°I am sure that is all.¡± I crossed my arms at his statement.

    ¡°There is nothing between us!¡± I shouted a bit annoyed.

    ¡°Between who?¡± Whitney was right next to us while we argued and we both shut up immediately.

    ¡°O-oh hey Whitney.¡± Tyler hides behind some books, clearly not noticing that she wouldn¡¯t notice. But I did. I will remember that.

    ¡°I apologize, did I interrupt something?¡± I waved her off, as usual. Now Tyler and I looked equally stupid.

    ¡°No, not at all. You have History with Dr. Fullerman?¡± She nods, making me jealous she can do that, while I am limited. Am I comparing myself to her again? Oh God¡­ Make it stop.

    She sits herself next to me and Tyler poked me a few times. I turned to look at him angrily.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked quietly, basically almost silent knowing the superhuman is next to me.

    ¡°Dude!¡± he also tried to whisper, which was a feat for the man.

    ¡°What?!¡± I replied slightly louder.

    ¡°Dude!!¡± he also raised his voice and before we knew it the teacher snapped his fingers.

    ¡°Everyone,quiet please. Class starts now.¡± We both shut up and I heard a familiar giggle from Whitney¡­ is she amused? Bah. Guess I can let it slide for her.

    As if deja vu, the teacher went through the same motions as the rest. Second verse¡­ same as the first folks! Talking about what he wants us to do, what he expects and yadda yadda. I mentally sigh, picturing all the teachers getting together and printing one syllabus for all the courses and just replacing name and subject. Would they really do that? I think they would. Except coping off Dr. Wallen. Ha!

    Rinse and repeat as the teacher simply states his expectations, learning outcomes, and other crap teachers spew now and fail to do through the year¡­ Should be public indecency for teachers to be out for they barely cover anything¡­ I really am funny.

    Once class is over I ready myself for the final class. Luckily it is gym, something I am sure can¡¯t suck. Well I will suck AT it but not that it will.

    I made my way to the first floor again as I am beginning to understand the layout of the building, and I also thought I saw the gymnasium when I was leaving the cafeteria. One more class and I am free for the day. And man it is GYM! I hope they have some fun activities like my old school did.

    As if I rolled one more natural twenty on luck, Tyler was walking into the gym just a few moments before me. No way! Again this is amazing. Almost every class with the guy! Nice!

    I opened the doors to see a bunch of dudes chatting amongst themselves. I tried to locate Tyler who was on a bench looking around as well. I walked up behind him and gave him a good smack on the back, realizing I shouldn¡¯t be that aggressive but Tyler didn¡¯t seem to mind, even though he was quite startled. Revenge.

    ¡°No way, my dude!¡± Tyler cheered. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± He gets up and does what I assume was some olympic 400 meter dash, while staying in one spot. I am impressed by his energy. I guess I get to really see it in action now, huh?

    A man comes walking in, with a rather boring looking track suit and a stop watch around his neck. He claps his hands a few times to get our attention. Everyone turns to him.

    ¡°Name¡¯s Mr. Lyle. I assume you are all in the correct place, yes? But just call me Coach, I prefer it that way. Anyways you lot, yes this is a disabled school,¡± Coach Lyle says and the student who had his hand raised, lowers it. Is this guy physic? ¡°You are all here because you are physically capable of doing some actual work. BUT in the rare instance you are too weak or lazy to perform at top levels, I suppose you are warranted a free day and relax and take it easy and if necessary go to the hospital. With that said, shoot some hoops, meet the others, I don¡¯t really care.¡± He puts his arm up and goes over to a bench, sits down and starts messing around on his phone. ¡°Enjoy yourselves. It is high school, the last memory before the big change.¡± I like this guy.

    ¡°Well that was interesting, huh?¡± I chuckled. Tyler smiled.

    ¡°Ya, dude!¡± he looked around. ¡°Wanna shoot some ball?¡±

    ¡°Why not. Might be good for me to do some good exercise once in a while.¡±

    ¡°Did you ever play any sports or anything like that?¡± Tyler asked, grabbing a basketball. Most of the class seems to be taking it easy but a few are also shooting some hoops.

    ¡°Back in my final year in middle school I played Libero for my volleyball squad.¡±

    ¡°Libero?¡±

    ¡°The guy who holds the team together mostly. It was my job to keep the ball in play no matter what. It sucks that most of the time I don¡¯t get the chance to score, but making that game saving one touch or receiving a chance ball makes it so worth my time.¡± I realized I am rambling to him. ¡°Sorry, I didn''t mean to go all out there. What about you, Ty?¡±

    ¡°I just run a lot.¡± Probably because you are a living battery. You should be very active to expel all that energy. I threw my first shot and a complete miss. Tyler grabs it and expertly slams dunks, gathering the attention of the whole class, but not the teacher who I think is now asleep.

    ¡°Damn man! That was amazing!¡± I roared, cheering at him, as if this mattered. An athlete in action, impressive.

    The rest of the session was very boring. Tyler and I kind of lost conversation and just shot until we were dismissed. Tyler simply left after saying goodbye and I was left to think about what to do with the remainder of my day. Classes are shorter here and I actually have a bit more time than normal. And I am close to the school so it is almost an extra two hours or so I have now for free time.

    It seems it is getting toward dinner time, so I am going to try my hand at walking around the nearby town so I could get a layout for everything. Luckily today is the longest day as we got situated with our classes so now it will be more fun actually learning. I decided to look for stores so I could get some snacks or anything necessary. Where the store I am going to be working at is as well since I need to make sure I know where to go since I start next week.

    I am going to make my way to drop off my things and then head to town. I¡¯m a bit hungry but I am sure I can grab something small to eat while I walk. They have food trucks right?

    My thoughts are confirmed after I make my way from my room to the small town. A convenient little gyro stand is set up so I grab one and a drink and am on my way. This guy knows how to load these things, I could barely eat it there is so much piled inside. I will be returning there! The perks of food trucks, quality food and plenty of it.

    I quickly devoured the savory wrap and began sipping on the water bottle I also purchased. The town seems to be in a giant block-like shape. All of the stores in the middle and the restaurants outside. I shrugged not understanding, but as soon as I began to walk towards the inner section I caught a glimpse of my work place. I turn around deciding to at least meet who I will be suffering¡­ I mean working with.

    The door gives a familiar ding and I notice how much like my old store this one looks. Guess that is just how it is when you work for corporations. A fellow came walking over to me.

    ¡°Hello! Is there something I can help you find today?¡± the guy asked. I smile.

    ¡°Nope, I am the new ASM, just coming by to say hey.¡± I took a glance down to his name tag. ¡°Good to meet you, Larry.¡± He held his hand out.

    ¡°A pleasure Claude!¡± I walked around bored noticing how it is not as fun to shop at a place you work at than you would think. The other guy was on break so I just went back to my original task. Kind of a waste, but whatever.

    A large supermarket caught my attention and I made my way inside. It is packed full, I am almost thinking there is a sale or something but I just notice some of the uniforms and quickly look down to confirm I too am still in mine. Again it seems I am late along with everyone else to get their things.

    I grab a buggy and begin to shop. I need food and perhaps some paper plates and plastic utensils too. I looked around for anything catching my eye. For now I was just going to buy what I want since money isn¡¯t too tight.

    I wasn¡¯t paying attention and bump my buggy into someone. I was shocked and apologized, turning toward the victim.

    ¡°I am so sorry!¡± The girl waves it off as I see she checks out the clothes I was wearing.

    ¡°Oh you are from Vanderhall Academy as well?¡± she said cheerfully, playing with her hair.

    ¡°Yeah, if the uniform didn¡¯t give it away I could have let you guess,¡± I responded strangely again not realizing the stupid things I say until after the fact. If that voice in my head would work again in the future that would be great.

    ¡°Do you mind helping me?¡± I shook my head for once feeling relieved that it was noticed.

    ¡°Sure thing, what do you need?¡± For some odd reason I just now noticed the girl''s left arm is mechanical when she points up towards a higher shelf with it.

    ¡°Can you grab me those napkins?¡± I made sure not to stare. Now back to being seen. This is such a roller coaster of having to behave in so many different ways with so many different people. Am I really going to survive here?

    ¡°Yeah no problem.¡± I excused myself and grabbed them for her. She took them quickly in her right arm, smiling.

    ¡°Thank you so much!¡± she was very bubbly.

    ¡°It was no biggie,¡± I stated, trying to sound cool.

    ¡°I am Toni by the way,¡± she comments, smiling and getting a bit close to me. A bit too close. What is this about? Personal space please?

    ¡°Claude¡­?¡± She waved her mechanical arm which I instinctively inspected as she walked off. It is strange seeing these people here. I can not pinpoint why though, they are as normal as I am¡­ just with special circumstances. Yeah they aren¡¯t different¡­ just different? I don¡¯t know.

    No sense in getting lost in my thoughts. I need to finish shopping and then drop them off and preferably get dinner. I begin to quicken my pace and just start loading my cart.

    ¡°Thanks, come again soon!¡± the clerk said handing me my card back and receipt. I lugged the groceries and other goods all the way back to my room and tried to organize them the best I could. I give up figuring it is futile. I am starving at the moment and I notice there is a barbeque place in town. The smell had me hooked in a matter of seconds. Something about meat being basted in sauces just got me everytime. BBQ is the absolute BEST.

    Luckily, as I said before, the town isn¡¯t far from campus. I like being able to just come out here on a whim and only take about ten minutes getting to it. I figured when I learn the layout even better I will be able to pinpoint places and make visits to an optimal level, min max this place real quick.

    I remembered to change my clothes this time as I sat eyeing the menu. I could feel my stomach fighting me for not coming here earlier. The place smells fantastic. I feel bad I am seated alone at a four person booth since they are running out of seating at smaller tables.

    While I was checking the menu I noticed someone approaching my table and then took a second to register who and why I recognized them. It was that scared guy and his sister....?

    ¡°Oh hey!¡± I said, trying to sound hospitable. ¡°They seating you here?¡±

    ¡°I-if that is fine by you¡­¡± the sister spoke this time, also a bit timid but having a little confidence. They both sat.

    ¡°Thanks¡­¡± The brother mumbled covering himself a bit. Hey at least I got something out of him.

    ¡°I do not believe we really had a chance to get introduced. I am in your math class, Claude.¡± I smiled, not thinking of trying to get a handshake or something since we are sitting.

    ¡°I am Sarah and that is my brother Stan.¡±

    ¡°Ah, the S siblings.¡± I actually got a laugh from her.

    ¡°We are called that a lot. Weird coincidence.¡± The atmosphere seems to change as she lightens up, her brother still does not speak or even move for that. I quickly noticed as Sarah parted her hair a bit she had the same scarring. It looks like burn scars if I had ever seen them, but have I really ever seen them to be able to think such a thing? Much worse than I have seen before though, recalling a camping trip a few years back. It is most likely why they are so backward.

    ¡°Enjoying school so far?¡± I openly asked as I go back to figuring out what to eat. Apparently everything would break my budget so I need to choose one thing. Or maybe two...

    ¡°It is not bad, it is just¡­ awkward?¡± She was checking out her menu. ¡°Being normal with all these people with such obvious disabilities is hard.¡± Did she not realize? I then thought about myself. I am here as well¡­ There has to be something wrong with me.

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Was all I could come up with and we went about ordering our food. Sarah ordered Stan¡¯s food for him as he couldn¡¯t even look at the waiter.

    ¡°Baby back ribs, always a good choice,¡± she said, breaking the slim silence we had. I laughed.

    ¡°If it is meat and has barbeque sauce and smoked seasonings, count me in!¡± I responded looking anxious for the food to arrive. My phone buzzes and I notice I have a text message. ¡°Sorry.¡±

    ¡°It is fine, go ahead. This isn¡¯t a date or anything, no need to be reserved on our parts. Consider us not even here.¡± Her brother seemed to like that idea. It is odd seeing her so lively now, compared to her brother, getting anything was a plus.

    >yo bro, whats good man

    Hey Aaron, just at a BBQ place.

    >with??? ;)

    A couple of classmates.

    >Oh.

    Don¡¯t seem so disappointed.

    >i just pictured u unlike a calendar

    What?

    >a calendar has dates ;P

    Screw off.

    >i will catch up w/ u later man, enjoy the food lol

    Thanks. Talk to you then.

    I put my phone away with a little bit of anger. He always got on me for never dating. I guess I could have brought up that incident with Whitney¡­ but was that really a date? No, he would find a way to screw with me, best leaving it. I mean it was almost akin to kidnapping or something like that. Rough way to get to meet someone, but I think it went alright. Anyways,  the less he knows sometimes, the better.

    ¡°Everything cool?¡± Sarah asked as drinks arrived.

    ¡°Peachy.¡± I took a sip of the sweet tea. This is a southern BBQ place, you would be crazy not to get the sweet tea. I mean this stuff is beyond good. Like super good even. Wow, what is it about southern tea that just teas better than other teas? I probably should not eye this glass as much as I am before they think I am stranger than I am.

    ¡°Ah, that is good,¡± Sarah replied.

    ¡°Just an old friend keeping in touch,¡± I stated, silencing my phone and putting it away.

    ¡°Old friends are those you can¡¯t afford to lose,¡± she mentioned, a bit sympathetic.

    ¡°Right on point,¡± I assured her.

    Food arrived quicker than I expect and there is no way talking is going to get in the way of me and this meat. I devoured it like a starving cannibal. The flavor is out of this world and before I noticed it was all gone, with the remnants being all over me. Man ribs are so good, but the aftermath is a pain. A small price to pay for such delicious morsels. I wanted to give a moment of silence, for that was the best slab of ribs I have ever eaten. Perfect amount of spice and the sauce was slathered. This going out to eat thing is really worth my while. But how in the world did this happen twice? I wiped myself down as ribs are the messiest of foods, besides the food I cook.

    ¡°Good lord, that was delicious,¡± I said, sinking into the seat and letting myself get a moment.

    ¡°Room for dessert? My treat,¡± Sarah smiled. I grinned remembering the Whitney incident.

    ¡°Oh no please, spare me.¡± That is an unfortunate timing. She must have known I am too full and offered it to seem nice but knowing I would refuse. Still that triple chocolate death cake sounded good, minus the death part, but at the same time it seemed to fit. Especially in the state I am in. Would it be rude to order and take it home¡­? No I couldn¡¯t.

    ¡°I agree,¡± she said, putting her silverware on the plate. ¡°This was nice, but we best get moving.¡± She tossed me thirty dollars. ¡°Keep the change or just use it as a tip.¡± The two are off with that and I paid and left as well knowing it had to be quite late at night. I yawned as I walk back to my dorm room.

    I don¡¯t think going out every night is going to be in my best health. It is almost ten and I need to be up at about six to get showered and ready for class at seven. I was about to retire when I noticed a notification on my computer, from Tyler no doubt.

    >You ever play Dungeonz man?

    No.

    That seemed a bit rude but I am sure Tyler won¡¯t mind. It took a few minutes for him to respond. I hope he isn¡¯t asleep, but at the same time he shouldn¡¯t have his computer volume up if he was¡­ so I lost my regret. Does the guy actually sleep though? I immediately pictured him running in his sleep and benching his pillows. Ha, classic Tyler.

    >You play MMORPGs?

    Yeah, I used to play Guided Gates MMO for a while.

    >DUDE! Download Dungeonz, I just started playing.

    I will check it out.

    >Coolio man! My name is Ty13r in game.

    There servers?

    >Oh right right. Go on Veil.

    Veil, got it. I will look into it tomorrow.

    >What do you play?

    I will see what they have to offer before I make my choice.

    >I play the tank!

    Why did I already figure that much? I mean I shouldn¡¯t judge, I almost exclusively play magic classes. Could be a good combo, I will look into it.

    Alright sounds great, I will talk to you in class.

    >See you then man! Night.

    This guy was something else. I was chuckling to myself as I closed my laptop. Passersby must have thought I was on something, but as I said before this guy just had something about him that made you happy. I hope he stays like this.

    I retired to bed shortly after that little episode. It has been a while since I played a good MMO, hopefully this won¡¯t disappoint. Got me a bit hyped if I am honest to get back into a fun grind. With Tyler I am sure even if it isn¡¯t the greatest I will still have a good time.

 Creating Bonds

    I sit grueling life as the drill sergeant goes on a tangent because nobody answered his question. What did he expect out of us? Also the way he takes attendance is horrifying. He screams at you and asks for your name and then he practically kicks you into class. Can I make it all year? Would being actually drafted be worse than this?

    I wondered how he was for English if he is this bad with his math students. I pondered for a few moments and imagined Tyler easily getting on his nerves. I couldn¡¯t help but let out a small laugh which of course drew the attention of the DS.

    ¡°Something funny?!¡± He pointed his baton towards me.

    ¡°No sir!¡± I say sitting straight up and trying my damndest not to salute the guy. I do not have a death warrant.

    ¡°Then SILENCE!¡± he turned with a harsh slap against the board and continued on explaining the equation.

    I do not know how but I just realize Stan is not in class. Sarah was and I decided during the tiny break to chat with her. She seemed cool enough. I jumped into Stan¡¯s chair, which startled her as she was on her phone.

    ¡°Oh sorry. Did not mean to scare you.¡± She gives a weak smile, her heart clearly racing as that was a big startle. I probably should refrain from doing acts like that in the future. Man couldn¡¯t even imagine the fear if someone had a heart condition or something and I did that. Yikes, this puts me on edge.

    ¡°I-it is fine,¡± she sighed.

    ¡°On edge with the teach?¡± I asked.  She nods.

    ¡°What was so funny earlier?¡± She looked at me, putting her phone away. I again couldn¡¯t help but notice her scarring.

    ¡°Nothing, just thought of something hilarious.¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± She seemed to be a bit off today compared to yesterday. Maybe it has something to do with Stan. I did not want to over push my boundaries so I just returned to my seat as class is going to be resuming soon.

    Like any drill, class proceeds on as expected¡­ hard. I shrugged as we were let out and I gave a nice long yawn. Luckily the DS was talking with some other students and couldn¡¯t hear. I let out a pleased sigh.

    I went into the next class to see Tyler scribbling in his notebook. He looks up beaming at me. Tyler¡¯s battery charge is at maximum capacity, prepare for energy.

    ¡°DUDE!¡± It felt like everytime I see the guy it is the first time we have met after like ten years apart or something. He really was an oddball.

    ¡°Hey Ty.¡± He closed his notebook quickly and threw me a thumbs up.

    ¡°What did you think of Dungeonz?!¡± I sighed sitting down.

    ¡°It was getting close to midnight man, didn¡¯t have a chance to check it out. Sorry.¡± He still kept smiling.

    ¡°No worries man! Tonight will be the night!¡± he said excitedly, I laughed.

    ¡°Alright, Veil right?¡± He nodded at my question.

    ¡°Yup! I will be starting a new tank so we can level and do groups together.¡±

    ¡°Sounds cool man, I¡¯ll make my character tonight and get a feel for the game.¡± We stopped talking when the teacher came in.

    ***

    ¡°Lastly make sure that when mixing the chemicals you¡­¡± she glanced down to her watch. ¡°It would seem that is all for today! Enjoy the rest of your last classes and day.¡± We are dismissed and Tyler nearly sprints out of the room. Where was he going?

    I moved to class and saw Whitney again sitting there reading. I looked around, noticing most of the class still had yet to arrive. Was there something going on?

    Only Whitney and I are in class, along with a handful of others. I am about to ask her what is going on but the teacher comes in. She glanced at the few of us here.

    ¡°I assume those of you here either were not interested or unaware of today.¡± I raised a brow and then shortly after my hand. ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°What is today?¡± Whitney turned towards me, noting my voice. The teacher smiled.

    ¡°Club day, did you not catch the email? There are sign ups happening in the cafeteria and library.¡± Oh man, I should start actually regularly checking that. ¡°Also there will be an announcement emailed to everyone. Classes are being changed up for some select students.¡± There is a loud sigh towards the back and I leaned to see a group of four looking sad. ¡°No need to worry, I will still be your teacher and you will have the same classmates. It is just due to¡­ circumstances they want to change up classes.¡±

    Less class time with the DS? Am I in a dream? Am I sleeping? I pinched myself with a smile¡­ This is reality. I am also curious as to the different clubs so I raise my hand again as the teacher lets us talk amongst ourselves.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± she responds by walking over by me.

    ¡°What types of clubs are here?¡± I inquired.

    ¡°Plenty for everyone. If you can¡¯t find one you like, make your own!¡± Short and sweet. Didn¡¯t really answer my question in its entirety but enough.

    ¡°Oh alright.¡± I replied and she returned to her desk. I excused myself and left for the area she mentioned to me. It is again I realized I have no clue what is really going on. I just went with the flow of myself and later the students and in minutes found myself bombarded with papers, pamphlets, and other club like items. I noticed Tyler¡­ well hear him, over by the track and field club. I am not really interested in things like that so I look for something more my level.

    There isn¡¯t a board game or videogame club, which is disappointing. I wonder if I should make a club like the teacher said as well. Maybe one for Dungeonz or something. I am sure enough people will be interested. I decided against it for the time as I doubt anyone besides Tyler and I would be involved. I would need to see if anyone actually even plays this game Tyler seems to be so on about. I turn to my only other hobby and reluctantly see a writing club.

    There are a handful of students happily exchanging books and talking to each other as I walk over. I am greeted by a guy holding some papers. He smiled warmly and made his way to me.

    ¡°Hello! Would you happen to be interested in the Writing Club?¡± he asked, holding out a piece of paper. I took it instinctively but didn¡¯t really look at it.

    ¡°I am. Anything in particular this club does?¡±

    ¡°Well, we write! It also is a bit of a literature club too and we discuss some of our favorite books as well as our own creations,¡± he said, beaming with excitement at the mention of our own works. I guess it is kind of cool to see what others create, no matter the medium.

    ¡°Sure,¡± I responded and in a matter of seconds he had me at the table signing my name and giving my number and email.

    ¡°My name is Maximillian, by the way. That is Catherine and Claire.¡± The two other girls behind the table wave kindly before returning to what they were doing.

    ¡°I am Claude. Looking forward to getting to work together.¡±

    ¡°Thanks! We meet around noon on Sundays for little sessions that will last about an hour or two. That piece of paper will highlight everything.¡±

    ***

    Things died down quickly after I signed up and got to meet the others. Not much else I knew of what to do and considering school was done for the day, I went with a safe bet to return to my room and downloaded Dungeonz. Tyler has gotten my interest beyond piqued so I am excited to try it out. Plus seeing as so many are skipping class for this Club Day, I skipped history and gym. At least I hope we were allowed or supposed too. Whatever, it''s too late now.

    You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

    Takes me only a few minutes to set up an account and begin downloading. While it patches and downloads I decided to run out for a quick bite to eat. I could not help but notice a conversation while I was leaving my room.

    ¡°Yeah she is having some serious problems from what I heard yesterday¡­¡± One said very solemnly.

    ¡°Probably why they are changing up classes¡­ some people can¡¯t handle it.¡± I heard one sniffle.

    ¡°It is for the best, I will see you guys around.¡± The group disperses without a sound.

    Even when I am beginning to get a feel for this place and thinking it is normal, there goes that. Did a student really die or something? Do they not make announcements for it? Would it be wrong too¡­ is it wrong too? Oh man, this is a bit much. This is absolutely horrifying, and I am certain that is not unusually uncommon here. I rubbed my arm trying to cope with that little conversation they had. I sighed and just needed to let what happened, happen. I don''t even know the severity of my own ailments so I do not believe them to be life threatening.

    I got some tacos from a food truck and returned to my room silently, still unable to stop thinking about that earlier conversation. It makes me apprehensive to talk to others as well as who knows if the shock could seriously hurt them or even worse¡­

    Luckily for me I had a missed message from Tyler on O-Chat-Ing and for the moment I lost those trains of thought.

    >Got Dungeonz yet?

    About ten more minutes for the updates.

    >DUDE SWEET! I can¡¯t wait!

    What clubs did you join?

    >I was going to ask you the same thing man! I went with the Track and Field club and the Bowling Club.

    Sounds cool. I joined the writing one. Not certain if the videogame one is really a thing yet. Did not seem to be many people there.

    >Well I am sure the writing one is amazing! Writing can be super cool and it is why I always wanted to try RA.

    Coincidentally, I have some old books and figures. We could try some night, if you still would like to give it a whirl.

    >You are the man¡­ man!

    I stopped messaging him for now as I want to enjoy my tacos before they get too cold. They are small but good lord the flavor is absolutely breathtaking. A burst of lime in the meat and there is a bit of kick in the sauce and the wrap. I am beginning to get attached to these food trucks. Just what is it with them¡­

    Okay, it is downloaded. Veil right?

    >Yeah man! Name will be Ty13r, just message me in game!

    Okay, ttys.

    I logged in and am amazed at the graphics and opening cinematic. It is only about three minutes long and made me sad as it felt like watching a movie. Just please don¡¯t be a tease and the in game be some 16-bit nonsense. The gist of the game is two warring nations (how cliche) and you are caught in the middle. I realized I did not know what faction Tyler was.

    I figured I would just guess that he would be on the gold side instead of the red. I quickly read the descriptions of each class. Wizard it would be. I love casting spells and powerful magic incantations to turn the tides of combat¡­ or so the description said! I customized him in a few minutes, entered my name and server and I was absorbed into the game.

    It feels surreal to be in an MMO again. I smiled walking around the beginning city. You start in some church and are told to seek out a guard captain. I took this chance to figure out the different interface options and icons. Got to have it all set perfectly or the entire game is ruined. I took a bit longer than I anticipated though with an entirely new UI to mess with.

    Before I knew it I was rather mastered in most things. I added Tyler to my friends list and messaged him but hadn¡¯t got a response back. He is probably eating too or going to the bathroom.

    Hey Tyler, it¡¯s Chris.

    >A Wizard huh? SWEET!

    I am certain I could have played a tank for that matter and he would still be excited.

    Need to talk to Guard Captain Nor, where is he?

    I felt like such a novice at the game now realizing I need help completing not only the first quest of the game but one where you simply need to talk to some guy. I do appreciate you need to read quest text and work with the environment rather than simply following waypoints. But guess that is all defeated when I get my friend to do the leg work and get me to where I need to go.

    >Here I will invite you, I am by the shops near him.

    Tyler invited me to a party, which I promptly accepted and noticed him appear in the party and on my minimap. His character was literally made just like him. What a mad lad. A fantasy adventure game and this guy makes himself and not only that, a human fighter. Mad lad.

    >Over here man!

    Coming.

    I made my way to the dot on the map that shows his location. It is not long before I find the aforementioned captain. He gave a basic beginning quest of ¡®Wolves everywhere! Kill twenty of them!¡¯. I followed Tyler as he took the lead towards the gates.

    I am surprised to only see a handful of other players. I had Tyler on auto follow so took the chance to ask a few questions.

    Not many other players huh?

    >Nope.

    Is it a new server or something? Or is everyone max level?

    >Actually this is Vanderhall¡¯s private server.

    What really?! That is kind of cool.

    >Right?! Oh here man I got a staff earlier and sure you can use it better than I.

    Tyler comes up to me and I see a trade section pop up. It is a rather simple design, just a box full of what I am trading and what he is. I saw the staff appear and accept it. Both boxes close automatically and the game is back to normal.

    Thanks man.

    Wow it does double the attack damage with melee attacks with it and gives me two intellect and two vitality, that is really good for a level one weapon. Or is it? It is hard to judge stats and balance in a new game. Guess if I am smart, I could check my actual current stats and gauge it on that. Meh, that sounds like work.

    >No problem man! Just give me any shields you come across! Uh oh, wolves ahead!

    Let¡¯s take them out!

    I could feel giddy getting into our first combat. I know it is level one but I am still excited. I only have two moves for now but can¡¯t wait to see the rest.

    Tyler charged in quickly and used some type of stun. I began to cast firebolts. They have two second cast times so I couldn¡¯t move and fight. The other move is frostbolt. It had a quicker cast time and after three consecutive shots it freezes the target. Cool¡­ literally!

    We quickly managed to kill ten before Tyler stopped. I ran over to him and began to drink some water which restores mana. I noticed a small campfire sets up between us as we both rest, my character sipping on a flask and his munching on a loaf of bread.

    We are making good work of these wolves.

    >Yeah man! Dude that frost attack is killer! Chaining my stun and your freeze helps me not take damage!

    Yeah. I am sure health will become an issue in later levels.

    >We got this!

    After I was fully restored we went about finishing the quest. We ran back to the captain who then told us to return to the east mountain where a small wolf den was. Is this our first dungeon already? I level off the quest and experience from the wolves but did not expect to be thrown into a dungeon. Tyler seemed eager as he was already bolting towards the objective while I was checking my inventory.

    We made it to the cave and Tyler cast his invigorating shout. It gave us five percent extra attack damage and resource regeneration which isn¡¯t much right now.

    >Make sure you watch your back man, don¡¯t want you dying in here!

    I will. We need to clear the whole thing and the alpha male at the end right?

    >Yeah and hopefully there will be a chest!

    As we are clearing the wolves we found another player and Tyler being the person he is was quick to invite them to our party. TheManStan?

    >Welcome fellow player!

    Hey.

    >>...

    Did this guy really just type that? What an ego. It couldn¡¯t possibly be though¡­

    What¡¯s up?

    >>The tank not pulling, go!

    >Oh sorry. Pulling!

    Yup, the ego is real. But the battle awaits no one, especially Ty! Tyler rushes in but accidently pulls three wolves! He is quickly getting beaten down so I tried to take one of the wolves off him. He did not have much health left so I am questioning running but his health went back to full instantly.

    >What a save! Dude, TheManStan, you¡¯re a healer?!

    >>Yes you buffoon. Try not to pull so much though!

    Wait¡­ TheManStan¡­ are you Stan? Sarah¡¯s brother?

    >>Yeah, so what?

    Oh that''s cool, didn¡¯t think you would enjoy playing games like this.

    >>Well I do so shut up.

    I did not expect him to be so rude in game. Then again I never really hear him speak much at all besides to his sister. I didn¡¯t let it bother me though. Having a healer in the group is going to really help us. Tyler can take some hits but I am much more frail. We continued pushing for a long while before I could see a larger wolf, clearly the alpha one.

    >Another two wolves and we are at the alpha.

    >>I can see that¡­

    Okay kill them both and let¡¯s rest up before pulling the alpha.

    We quickly dispatched those two wolves and are just a handful of feet from the alpha. I could feel myself being nervous as it is level five and we are all level three. I laugh at myself getting so worked up over a game but this feeling reminds me of home.

    I used to play these types of games nonstop with my old friends but slowly over time¡­ they disappeared one by one. It is like having a large bowl full of food and slowly being eaten away until it is just an empty bowl¡­ that is me now. But I think I am going to be able to refill it.

    >My man Stan! Give me a shield so I can pull. This beast looks tough.

    You stun it first and I will chain the freeze.

    >>Whatever just go.

    >Going!

    Tyler ran in and stunned the beast as I began to pelt it with frostbolts. Stan was doing his best to attack the beast and heal Tyler. Every three shots Tyler was almost dead. I began to worry about this game if it is this hard this soon, but a challenge I gladly accept. Just as things were heating up, the wolf howls, giving it an enraged buff and two new wolves joined the fray!

    Oh man! Tyler, I¡¯ll try to focus the adds!

    >You got it man!

    >>...

    Right, let¡¯s get this!

    It does not take long for the beast and his minions to go down luckily and we do a little celebration... Well that is Tyler and I celebrate.

    >>I¡¯m logging.

    Oh alright, thanks a ton for the help. Couldn¡¯t have done it without you.

    He logged off before Tyler got to type to him. I wonder if this means he will be a little more talkative in class? Oh that is right too, classes are being changed. I need to check out that email.

    >I probably should head too man. It is late.

    I glanced at the time. Already eleven twenty?!

    Yeah man, see you tomorrow.

    I logged off after turning in the quest and going in the inn with Tyler. That was really fun to be honest. I let a lot of adrenaline off I forgot I had. I checked the email and wrote it down. I went and tossed on some pajamas and slid into bed. I hit the alarm to set and drifted off to sleep.

 Life Has Variety

    As if a nail gun was blaring into my skull, the alarm went off. I got up in a startle and then the grogginess of early morning struck me like a tank. I yawn loudly, slapping the alarm off. I sat on the side of my bed roughing my hair and face. I should not have stayed up so late¡­ Worth it though.

    I quietly grabbed my bathroom things and went for the showers. I could not stop yawning all the way there and bumped into Tyler as he was brushing his teeth. I gave him a small wave and he grinned but did not reply since he had the brush in his mouth. I got undressed and turned on the water which was luckily warm. Tyler must have just used it.

    ¡°Hey man, had a ton of fun last night! We totally have to do it again,¡± he said, slightly deafened by the sound of water.

    ¡°Yeah, sounds good.¡± I heard him say bye and leave and I was lost in my thoughts. I read the email about the class changes apparently being due to the illness of a handful of students and the critical condition of one. They decided an hour long class with a ten minute break was better. That also means we now have schedule changes¡­ What a drag.

    After what felt like an hour I realized I was just standing with the water pouring over me. Showers open the pores just as well as the mind it seems. I quickly rinsed off and cleaned up. I ran back to my room for my things and headed to class. I gave a small sigh walking towards the room to still see Drill Sergeant Wallen. At least it was only fifty minutes of torture now.

    Class began two minutes early as Mr. Wallen seemed angry (of course) about the shortened class periods.

    ¡°And that is why it is FUNDAMENTALLY important too-¡± I can see his disgust at the time already being over. I secretly cheer so loud in my head it would give Tyler a run for his money.

    ¡°You going to be playing tonight?¡± I asked Stan as we gathered our things. As if he was a different person online compared to real life he looked to the ground and gave a small nervous cough. I can¡¯t tell if he was saying yes or no or whatever. I shrugged as he waited for me to leave before quickly rushing away.

    ¡°Has he always been like this?¡± I turned to Sarah who was next to me as we left.

    ¡°Best not to think about him much, for his own sake.¡± I felt bad having her tell me to basically just ignore his existence. Seemed harsh. I devised a plan to get him to be sociable sometime once we play enough Dungeonz together. I still need to make some decent friends.

    ¡°Alright.¡± We parted ways quickly and I went into my next class. Tyler was playing with his phone and barely noticed me. I decided to screw with him¡­ because why not?

    I quietly snuck up behind him while he was texting someone and rather than being nosey and seeing who I simply slammed my hands down on his shoulders and yelled.

    ¡°What¡¯s up man!¡± He turned grinning ear to ear as always. Nothing gets past this guy.

    ¡°Claude, my man!¡± I took my seat as everyone filed into their seats.

    ¡°Last night was a lot of fun. Maybe we should try and rock an hour or so a night¡­ how does that sound?¡± As if he would refuse, I just asked to clear my own conscience.

    ¡°Dude I am game! You are so good with that wizard!¡± I hated to tell him I only click like two buttons while he has to dodge and block attacks, keep aggro, and all that kind of stuff.

    ¡°Thanks, you are a hell of a tank.¡± He hit his head.

    ¡°Yup, dense as always!¡± We bumped fists when the teacher came in and everyone settled down for the lecture.

    It was surprisingly boring even though it was about some different properties of space we would be studying. But eventually we were dismissed. Tyler was again on his phone by the end of class, I was a bit curious and seeing as I am sure he wouldn¡¯t mind me bugging him, I asked away.

    ¡°Everything alright? Not used to seeing you on the phone.¡± He had a slight frown for a few seconds before turning to me with his trademark smile. I could not help but instill that image in my head, he was definitely worried for a moment there.

    ¡°Nope! All is good in T-Town!¡± He said grinning.

    ¡°Well if you need to talk I am here for you man.¡± I responded reassuringly.

    ¡°Will do man! See you tonight! I want to try and get level ten or so and we can tackle the next big dungeon!¡± He waved and was off. I can¡¯t get that feeling away that something is troubling him. I might just be over analyzing, I am sure Tyler is fine.

    Entering one of my next classes of the day I am greeted in a way I would not have usually suspected. I stopped for a brief moment to fix my pant leg when I felt something hit me. It was a cane, no doubt belonging to Whitney. Turning toward the wielder, my suspicions are correct.

    ¡°Sorry!¡± It was her.

    ¡°Oh hey Whitney.¡± She blushed quickly, no doubt recognizing my voice.

    ¡°Oh my word, Claude I am so sorry!¡± I wanted to joke and be like ¡®What didn¡¯t see me?¡¯ but that would be rather cold. Funny, but cold.

    ¡°No problem at all. I had to fix my pant leg.¡± She sighed.

    ¡°If you are sure you are alright¡­¡± If she was this apprehensive about tapping me with her cane, I could only imagine her fear of something like bumping into someone or hitting a table and knocking over a drink. I stop joking about it and realize that must be a fear she lives with constantly. I could never imagine being in her shoes.

    ¡°My fault entirely, let¡¯s head into class.¡± I could see people eyeing us. She gave a tiny smile. We entered and quickly took our seats. The teacher was a few minutes late so Whitney and I talked a bit.

    ¡°Are you¡­ busy Friday night?¡± Once again I am going to hell for thanking God she couldn¡¯t see my reaction. Was she planning on going out with me or something? I was flabbergasted and quickly tried to pull myself together as she looked at me nervously, face burning red. ¡°I-if you¡¯re busy¡­¡±

    ¡°No, sorry I was just thinking if I had plans.¡± And the crisis averted. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±

    ¡°I was just wondering if you wanted to pick up on your offer the other day.¡± I raised a quizzical brow.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± I tried to remember.

    ¡°That I would pay for the next meal.¡± She said, smiling warmly with her adorable grin.

    ¡°Oh right. Got a plan set up I take it?¡± She nodded.

    ¡°If you are not busy, meet me by the gates Friday say about seven?¡± I nodded before once again needing to respond further.

    ¡°Sounds like a date.¡± I said without thinking. Man am I bad at this. For whatever reason it seemed so natural when it happened that day but now that we are starting to try and make plans it is like another animal.

    ¡°O-okay then.¡± We both just shut up at that point as the teacher came in.

    Mrs. Fillow began her lecture rather abruptly and seemed a bit off today. I was then reminded about that student¡­ it must be getting to people. It seemed to me Mrs. Fillow as well as Tyler were taking it hard¡­ or at least I thought. I caught myself drifting off and tried my best to pay attention the rest of class.

    I was flipping through the book casually waiting for the dismissal as she gave us the last ten minutes of class to read the last few pages of the novel we needed to finish by Monday. With luck the class ends. I was on my way out before being stopped by Whitney calling my name.

    ¡°Huh?¡± I turned to see her slowly approach me, but not too close as she most likely lost the distance between us and did not wish to run into me again.

    ¡°I have a question.¡± This can¡¯t be good¡­

    ¡°Yes?¡± I responded hesitantly.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡± That came out of nowhere.

    ¡°I am, why do you ask?¡± She fidgeted with her bag and cane for a moment.

    ¡°Your breathing was off today.¡± Is that like the blind equivalent of staring at someone? Did she honestly also just say that? My breathing was off? Is that a thing?

    ¡°I am fine, thanks for your concern.¡± I wanted to try and change the subject. It does feel weird having people ask you that. ¡°So the gate at sevenish Friday night right?¡± Her frown didn¡¯t disappear but she nodded.

    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    ¡°Yes, I look forward to it.¡± Before I had a chance to stop myself I replied.

    ¡°See you then!¡± I winced after saying it much to my failure, still unable to change my speech with her around. With much luck involved, the last two classes go on very smoothly. Tyler wasn¡¯t in the gym though, and I am beginning to worry. I returned to my dorm room. I was going to finish some homework before the weekend so I could enjoy my first weekend.

    I ran into Tyler who gave me a quick high five before running down the halls. He had clothes on much like a track runner so I assumed he was going to a meet. I remembered the time for my own club. I expect Tyler¡¯s meets up a lot more than mine will. It only took about an hour for the homework and I checked the time. About five or so. I was going to take a walk around town and get used to things there and while I was at it, double check my schedule.

    Deciding to quickly stop by work before I eat sounded like the most ideal situation. When the door opened the place was rather packed but I was still met by one of the staff. I took a quick glance at the nametag. Denver, the manager.

    ¡°Hey.¡± I said casually to him. ¡°I am the ASM replacement.¡± He nodded with a grin.

    ¡°Oh? Well that is just swell! You don¡¯t work today though, what¡¯s up bud?¡± He seemed rather cool and collected.

    ¡°Just stopping by to see when I do work.¡± Without a second thought he responded.

    ¡°You work Monday, Wednesday and Friday at five to close. That is fine right? Doesn¡¯t interfere with school?¡± I shook my head.

    ¡°Nope it is fine. Close is at ten right?¡± He nodded. ¡°Well you seem busy so I won¡¯t keep you.¡± He waved me off and in those few minutes I expected to take nearly an hour, why I thought so I am not sure. I guess I will walk around one of those clothing stores I saw. I should look at least somewhat decent during my days off. Work and school have uniforms so I am rather strict on those accounts but Saturday nights and Sundays I want to look good. Or at least the best I can with my abysmal fashion sense.

    I opened the door and looked around at all the patrons. People were everywhere. How was everyone so busy all the time? Is it still because of the first week of classes? God I hope so.

    I slowly made my way around the other people and towards the men''s section. I was caught off guard when I glanced over to see a girl inspecting men''s clothing. She was also wearing very bulky clothes. The guy in me decided to take a chance and strike up a conversation regardless of what my conscious thought.

    ¡°Hey.¡± I said with a tiny wave. As if I just drew a gun and shot one her she turned to me as if she would snap from that twist. Her eyes opened widely and I thought they would burst. Good lord¡­ I could not help but notice her scarring just like Sarah and Stan¡¯s but this was even worse. Her long hair barely covered the large amount of scars on her face. She drew the shirt to her face and just shook in terror.

    ¡°Woah, hey I am so sorry. I didn''t mean to startle you or anything. The name''s Claude, I go to school at Vanderhall.¡± I went to put my hand out but realized the futility of the action as she could not see past the shirt. I heard her crying as well¡­ What the hell? I was feeling horrible at this point. A few people started to look at me like I beat her or something. I took a step back to assess the situation.

    ¡°Everything alright sir?¡± An employee came over to me. I was speechless for the time and just glanced from the girl, to the employee to the tiny crowd that was forming. How did I end up in this situation?

    It took over an hour for the girl to calm down and leave the store. Let me say that again A FULL HOUR. She was clearly traumatized by something. I am not certain and after that exchange I am going to be extremely overly cautious when I meet new people if that is the way some can respond. I did not know what to do but just stayed there until everything boiled over. I was so glad it all was fixed up and I was on my way.

    I was sitting at a local cafe sipping some warm tea trying to calm my nerves. The waitress dropped my sandwich off and was off to another patron when she was called. That was fine. I needed a minute to myself. While I was trying to control my thoughts, my phone buzzed.

    >yo man, everything cool?

    Yeah. How goes things on your end Aeron?

    >pfft sure not as fun as urs

    You don¡¯t even know man¡­

    I did not have the heart to tell him I made a girl fall into a panic for an hour, or that I can¡¯t speak to a blind girl or even the fact that a classmate might have died just the other day.

    >need to talk?

    I took a moment to figure out a response.

    I think it might help.

    >I am here man, what is wrong?

    When he actually takes the time to change his grammar and spelling I can tell he is in serious mode. Guess I can appreciate that in him.

    Well for one a girl just died the other day for starters¡­ well I think. I don¡¯t know man. It has been a chaotic day.

    >Damn man, are you serious?! I am so sorry bro.

    She was a classmate, I did not know her personally but you can feel the dread at school now.

    >Your parents did tell me you were going to Vanderhall, it was a school for the ¡­ well¡­

    Not normal, disabled, broken you can say it.

    >Well still man, I am sorry to hear you struggle. Call me anytime bro, I am here for ya. Don¡¯t fret anything. You¡¯ll always be my bro.

    Thanks, I really appreciate it. You are the last one actually still contacting me.

    >I am going to take a weekend off sometime and come see you. Work has me pinned a bit but I will burn some vacation if I have to.

    I will look forward to it. I just got some tea and a sandwich so I am just going to try and calm myself. Thanks for listening man.

    >no probs broham. toodles

    With that I closed my phone and sipped on the tea again. I bought the sandwich but did not feel the slightest bit hungry now. My stomach hurts. I did not really know why but I was assuming it was part of the past events that had recently occurred. I took a bite of the sandwich as the waitress made her way towards me so I didn¡¯t look like it was bad. It wasn¡¯t though and I just kept sipping on the drink.

    Hey bro you still there?

    >yo

    You said I can talk to you if I needed to, right?

    >Yeah?? Talk to me. What¡¯s up bro?

    So I have a question.

    >That would be the point of talk to me man.

    Well listen. There is this girl at school and I don¡¯t know¡­

    >HAHA My main man¡¯s got a crush?!

    Dude shut it. It is more of a situation I know you can handle better than I. You tend to be better with the ladies.

    >u came to the right spot

    It is nothing crazy, just¡­ I need an opinion.

    >im all ears¡­ well eyes in this situation

    Right¡­ Anyways, this girl is blind mind you, and she invited me to go out to eat.

    >wont have to look ur best then

    Literally screw off man.

    >haha sorry, go on

    I just¡­ we ran into each other once and I didn¡¯t think much of it.

    >way to go man, running into the blind girl

    No not like that you idiot, we met at a local bar.

    >hoho? pray tell

    Oh for god''s sake man.

    >sorrysorry i couldnt resist

    Anyways what should I do I guess?

    >Just be yourself man. Take it as it comes. I am sure you will do fine. I got a meeting to run to but just shoot me a text if you need, I will check my phone when I get the chance.

    Alright, thanks man.

    >peace

    See you.

    >she wont 8D

    I don¡¯t even respond to that. I am not much further than I was before¡­ ugh, but I won¡¯t lie, it did make me feel a little better. I just decided to get some food in me since that was kind of why I was here.

    I took another bite of the sandwich and bit a nice helping of it. Surprisingly it was very tasty even though it did not have much to it. Just some meat and cheese and Italian dressing. I got another refill on my tea as I felt like relaxing here for a while.

    Time slipped by quickly though and it was already nine and I had my share of tea. I think I lost count after six. I was finishing the last portion when I saw someone looking around nervously. I noticed he was in a wheelchair and started coming my way. He looked too formal to be from Vanderhall. He looked at me and I felt compelled to say hi.

    ¡°Hello.¡± He glanced at me.

    ¡°Did I speak to you peasant?¡± Well damn fine.

    ¡°Uh? Excuse me?¡± I blurted out offended.

    ¡°Silence, I do not have time for you.¡± He rolled away and I saw the waitress come up to me with a troubled expression.

    ¡°Apologies, Reiner tends to be¡­ hot headed.¡± She stopped looking in his direction and back to me. ¡°Another refill?¡± I shook my head thinking another would blow my stomach up. I am going to be in the bathroom all night¡­

    ¡°No no¡­¡± She smiled and tore off my bill and handed it to me.

    ¡°I apologize again about him.¡±

    ¡°No worries, does he like own the place or something?¡± She parted her hair and leaned towards me slightly.

    ¡°No, but he is the son of the owner.¡± She stepped back. ¡°Anyways, have a lovely night!¡± She bowed and was off to another table. I left her a few bucks and went to pay the bill.

    I went home to see about ten missed messages from Tyler. It was as if he had an argument with himself.

    Hey man I am back, Dungeonz?

    >Yeah man! I was just checking the auction house. Log in, I¡¯ll talk to you in game.

    Got it.

    I did just that, supposing I could spare an hour or two for the game. I quickly logged in and found myself invited instantly to Tyler¡¯s party. There was someone I did not recognize. Also, wait¡­ the auction house? How does he already have money to blow?

    Hello Stace, I am not sure we have met.

    >>Hey hey! It is Sarah from your Math class or should I say basic training!

    Haha right?!

    >Yeah Mr. Wallen is crazy! Anyways, enough of him, let us move on! I want to get to this dungeon tonight or tomorrow.

    Oh I won¡¯t be on tomorrow, so let¡¯s try to get to it today.

    >>Oh? ;)

    Nothing big, just got plans with a classmate.

    >>Whitney?

    I made an audible gasp which made me happy to not be on voice chat. How in the hell? What has spread around¡­ and how quickly?

    How did you know?!

    >>It is high school, sweetheart, we all chat one way or another.

    It isn¡¯t what you think!

    >>Oh, well okay then.

    >My man Chris! Good one bro, wish you luck!

    Thanks. Anyways where to?

    Necessary subject change before I spend my blissful MMO experience being harassed.

    >Oh right, got a quest to go into a bandit infested town and take it back for the guard.

    Got it, lead the way.

    We grinded more than we quested after doing the bandit quest. I excused myself for a few minutes while they kept killing as that tea went through my system quicker than I would have liked. It was still amazing no doubt.

    Okay back.

    >>wb

    Thanks. Where to now?

    >Well we are level eight and ten is the recommended level for the dungeon, but it is already eleven, maybe we should call it a day.

    Sounds good.

    >>Right, see you tomorrow, Claude.

    Stace left the party.

    Tyler logged off.

    I logged off as well in the inn and checked my email. I had one from the nurse? Oh it is a second one¡­ which is the same as the first but in much larger font. Wait, this could be good. Maybe he can explain why I am here and if I have something to worry about. I went to bed anxious to meet the nurse and figure out my reasoning behind being here, even if it was just due to our moving.

 The Shortness of a Soul

    I got up, yawning as usual. The alarm was going to cause me trauma. I then remembered that girl from the clothing store and stopped thinking about it just as quickly as her image appeared. I opened my door to be met by none other than Reiner, the rich kid. How have I not ran into him here before? Is this fate?

    ¡°Oh hey.¡± He turned to me angrily.

    ¡°Again you address me as if you have the authority too. I will have no more of it! Unless I talk to you, you are not to mutter a word!¡± I laughed without caring. What an absolute snob.

    ¡°Sorry Mr. Reiner.¡± He glared at me before Tyler appeared lightening¡­ well my mood.

    ¡°Claude! Reiner!¡± I laughed at Reiner¡¯s headache.

    ¡°Imbeciles!¡± He quickly rolled away. Feels bad to laugh at his double misfortune but with an attitude like that, who cares?

    ¡°Hey Ty.¡±

    ¡°Morning man! You seem chipper.¡± I nodded.

    ¡°For the wrong reasons.¡± He smiled.

    ¡°Excited for the date?¡± I then remembered I did have that tonight didn¡¯t I?

    ¡°Oh right that.¡± Tyler gave a puzzled expression before returning to his smiling self.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t forget did you man? If that wasn¡¯t what''s got you in a good mood, then what is it?¡± I noticed he had clothes in his hands.

    ¡°Going to take a shower? We can chat there, so we shouldn''t waste too much time here.¡± He grinned.

    ¡°Gotcha!¡±

    The water was cold as ever. I missed using it after someone as the water was already heated up. I began to rinse myself and heard Tyler speak.

    ¡°So man, what¡¯s good?¡±

    ¡°Oh, I got an email from the nurse.¡± Of course this brought out a burst of laughter from him.

    ¡°That¡¯s my man, excited even if it means a trip to the nurses! You alright man?¡± It was odd hearing so many people ask if I was alright. I see why some people get mad when you do, it is awkward. Is there really any other acceptable answer besides, ¡®I¡¯m fine¡¯?

    ¡°Oh it is fine, I just have some questions for him.¡±

    ¡°Oh cool, cool.¡± He didn¡¯t pry into what I had so I was lucky to not have to respond with I don¡¯t know and look like an idiot for not knowing what is wrong with me. I have met a large stock of people with problems, I doubt they let normal people here¡­ but what really defines normal? I got lost in thought, something that seems to happen when you are under the warm water of a shower.

    ¡°Hey Ty.¡±

    ¡°Yeah man?¡±

    I wanted to thank him for just being him but I kind of felt weird saying something like that. Not something you tend to just tell people. Oh hey thanks for being you! Yeah that can come off rude but at the same time knowing Tyler he would welcome even an insult.

    ¡°Thanks.¡± He seemed to pause.

    ¡°Yeah man! It is all good.¡± We showered and departed for classes without much more talk. I was nervous all throughout Wallen¡¯s class (not for the usual reasons). Come science class I wasn¡¯t very talkative but Tyler didn¡¯t seem to mind as he was texting someone anyhow. In English I couldn¡¯t even look at Whitney, we simply greeted each other and that was that. And history blew by without much besides some idle chat between Tyler and I, same with gym.

    Classes finished up for the day and I let out a sigh and made my way to the nurses. While I left I realized I didn¡¯t say goodbye to Whitney¡­ hopefully she doesn¡¯t get too upset or read that as a decline for tonight. Remembering that I felt my face heat up. I ducked my head and made my way to the nurses. This time I was prepared and found a map and detail of where it was before just wandering aimlessly.

    I found the building it was in, for whatever reason it was the Administrative Building. I talked to one of the staff who informed me that the admin building was actually a hospital. When I entered I noticed this. He kindly directed me to the nurses (well my nurse, apparently everyone has their own). I gave a hearty knock and was greeted warmly.

    ¡°Mr. Rains! A pleasure. I thought you were dead.¡± I winced a bit at his introduction. Did he just really say that? ¡°Never mind the joke, glad to see you came. And luckily not in any of the other students.¡± He gave a sly grin. Was this guy a comedian standing in for the actual nurse? His green eyes and blonde hair stood out as more of an actor than doctor. What is this guy''s deal? I couldn¡¯t respond as I was mostly speechless.

    ¡°Y-yeah, you wanted to see me Dr. Keenan?¡± He lit up.

    ¡°So you can talk! Still not sure about your sight though. I mean I sent two emails and made sure the second was legible,¡± he laughed at his own bit. ¡°I thought you were mute for a while there. Not laughing at the jokes or stopping me from going too far. Maybe you just have a tolerance for this sort of thing. Your hormones in balance? The Yin and the Yang playing well together?¡± I sat on the bed not wishing to comment but maybe it would stop him.

    ¡°Well you know my body better than I, I would assume being the school nurse.¡± He grinned.

    ¡°Done to every last ¡®inch¡¯.¡± He chuckled. ¡°Okay let us get down to business. How have you been holding up?¡± I shrugged as he began to take my blood pressure and check some various vitals or whatever they do. I hate the feeling of all this.

    ¡°Fine.¡± He nodded, it was as if another person took control. He seemed much more professional. Which makes sense I guess. Suppose even this guy needs some sort of composure.

    ¡°Good, cough.¡± I complied. ¡°Good, now lay back.¡± He checked my heart and breathing before calling it a day. ¡°Clean as a whistle, unless that whistle was in the dirt.¡± He said this joke so nonchalantly while putting his things away I let out a small chuckle. That was a horrible joke but for some reason it made me smile. ¡°Really, that is the one you laugh at? Pete''s sake.¡± He wrote some things down and looked at me. ¡°Any questions or anything before I send you off. I just wanted to do a quick check up on you. It is preferable at least once or twice a week.¡±

    ¡°Well just one. Why am I here?¡± He gave a thousand watt grin.

    ¡°Well ain¡¯t that just the question I get everyday from everyone. Something ails you. It is our job here to ensure you get an education, great healthcare¡­¡± He gave a sly grin. ¡°And a ¡®date¡¯ should it be possible.¡± I gave a weak thumbs up. How does he change so quickly and easily? Is this just really how he is?

    ¡°Oh.¡± He seemed disappointed in my response. ¡°Well more of what brought me here.¡±

    ¡°Your parents, I was told.¡± I rubbed my forehead. For someone you should be comfortable talking to, I think turning around and having a chat with the bleached white walls would be more appealing and helpful.

    ¡°No what inside of me I guess brought me here¡­ is it deadly or something I should be concerned with? I seemed to be fine my whole life and next thing you know I am at a school of disabled kids.¡± He smiled.

    ¡°Welcome!¡± That was all? Really? ¡°But if your parents never told you, where is my place to say so?¡± I crossed my arms.

    ¡°You are my nurse, you have every right to tell me what''s wrong with me.¡± Giving that usual grin, he laughed.

    ¡°Your sense of humor for starters.¡± I wanted to punch the guy at this point. Was he trying to test me or something? Who do I need to talk to for a replacement?

    ¡°Just¡­ just tell me please.¡± I was losing my will to go on with this.

    ¡°Ah, jests aside. You are quite healthy. Should the need arise I will inform you. But it is best to not know so you do not worry about it.¡± I did not like the logic behind that.

    ¡°Well what if I worry too much by not knowing?¡± He cleaned his desk a bit as he turned away from me.

    ¡°A bridge that shall be crossed when we come to it. Now it is Friday, go get drunk.¡± What wise words from the school nurse.

    ¡°Eh?¡± He laughed.

    ¡°Go enjoy yourself, this may be a different type of school but that should not stop you from enjoying a normal night for yourself. Now go, I am sure you have plans.¡± He basically shoved me out of the room and off I went. More confused now than I was beforehand. I guess I will freshen up and head towards the gates. Better sooner than later I suppose.

    I washed up quickly and knocked on Tyler¡¯s door to see if he was there. No answer. Hmm, that is odd. I shrugged it off and made my way to the school gates. I was about a half hour early so I quickly checked to see if she was here. She wasn¡¯t. I pulled out my phone to pass the time.

    Dinner tonight, wish me luck.

    >all of it bro

    Thanks.

    >u dress nice?

    Of course.

    >not that she will notice huh ;)

    Really man?

    >haha i kid i kid, have a good time dude keep me posted

    Will do.

    I fiddled around with a few settings while I waited for Whitney to arrive. I just spun my phone in my hand, bored. I leaned against the gate watching people come in and out. I let a yawn slip. Closing my eyes and just regretting being this early. What if she is late? Or decided to cancel and we can¡¯t get a hold of one another. Ah great.

    ¡°Tired?¡± I noticed Whitney walking up looking stunning. Once again I let my mind slip into thought about how she is lucky to not see me looking her up and down¡­ I am pathetic. But in all honesty, the dress she had was gorgeous and her hair was done up very nicely. I couldn¡¯t help but be enamored for a few moments. But got to gather myself before she gets anxious.

    ¡°Oh no, just¡­ uhh¡­¡± I didn¡¯t want to say I was bored waiting for you. ¡°I guess a little.¡± She looked a little worried.

    ¡°We can postpone this if you are too exhausted.¡± I waved it off. There I go again.

    ¡°No worries, ready to head?¡± She nodded letting the frown turn back into her usual small smile. We didn¡¯t talk at all which was odd. Just the sounds of the late afternoon breeze, the cracking of the branches and occasional students chatting.

    ¡°So where to?¡± She asked me out of the blue.

    ¡°Wait, why is it my decision? Weren¡¯t you the one who planned this?¡± She blushed a little and puffed her cheeks.

    ¡°Well¡­¡± She fidgeted with her cane.

    ¡°I suppose I can check to see if anywhere looks appetizing at least. You know when you plan the date you tend to be the one to choose the location and time.¡± She blushed again at the word date which I also did.

    ¡°It is my first time¡­ err¡­ well second I guess after our first meeting.¡± Something I still grimace at when I remember. ¡°We can split the duties. I got us here on time so you can pick the place to eat.¡± I didn¡¯t see the logic in it but whatever.

    We walked around commencing very small bits of talk until she smelled something. I checked around and noticed a small Italian eatery. Something I am sure she would enjoy if her senses seemed to draw toward it as they did.

    ¡°Shall we?¡± I opened the door for her, she gave a cute little bow before entering. The host smiled at us warmly and welcomed us.

    ¡°Just two tonight?¡± He said grinning widely quickly, noticing Whitney¡¯s lack of vision. He did not seem off put which was nice. I suppose a fancy restaurant like this would have staff trained for these situations.

    ¡°Correct.¡± He gathered two menus and some silverware.

    ¡°Booth or table?¡± I looked over to Whitney who thought for a moment.

    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°Booth please.¡± He snapped his fingers.

    ¡°Booth it is! Right this way please.¡± Whitney matched the hosts footsteps with precision and followed him near perfectly, not even barely using her cane. I followed closely behind them as the place was quite packed. I was shocked to get in this quick but by the looks of the place it had a large amount of seating.

    He placed us and motioned for a waitress. She came over excitedly.

    ¡°Good evening! I am Dulce and it will be my pleasure to serve you tonight. May I start you two off with something to drink?¡± Whitney felt over the menu. ¡°Drinks are on the back ma¡¯am.¡± She flipped the menu and felt around for something she would like. The waitress turned to me.

    ¡°I will have the raspberry tea, it says it is your house specialty.¡± She smiled.

    ¡°Of course! Brewed fresh daily. Have you decided ma¡¯am?¡± Whitney nodded.

    ¡°I will take the raspberry tea as well.¡± She quickly jotted it down.

    ¡°Right away! Tonight''s special soup is clam chowder should that interest you.¡± With that she was off to gather our drinks. Whitney had a new type of focus I have yet to notice. It was as if she was listening to everything around. The music, the people and even the sounds of dining.

    ¡°Remind you of home?¡± I asked, and then instantly regretted it. She does not respond and keeps her focus. I wait a moment before speaking again. ¡°Quite a nice selection they have.¡± I said breaking her from her thoughts.

    ¡°It sounds absolutely lovely here.¡± She said, smiling brightly. ¡°You picked well.¡± I laughed causing her to be confused.

    ¡°I went off of your insight.¡± She seemed like she was focusing on if she said something early.

    ¡°Did I mention this place? I had no idea it existed to be honest.¡± I couldn¡¯t help but laugh again both at her innocence and the fact I was very nervous for whatever reason.

    ¡°Your nose pointed me in its direction.¡± She covered her face with the menu, clearly embarrassed. ¡°It did a good job, no need to fret.¡± With that the waitress returned with our drinks.

    ¡°Have we decided or need a minute?¡± She had her pen and paper ready, as she parted her silvery bangs from her face. Her eyes were almost a crystal pink color and I stopped myself from checking her out more. We haven¡¯t even started checking out the menu so I waved her off for the time being. I was impressed how quick we got drinks with how busy it was here.

    ¡°Another minute please,¡± I reply. She put her things away.

    ¡°No problem! Be back shortly.¡± I took a quick drink of the tea and noticed even though the waitress didn¡¯t put Whitney¡¯s drink near her, the sound of the glass on the table gave her the indication of where it is as she expertly took hold of it, taking a sip too. Amazing.

    I went about reading the menu for something that would catch my eye¡­ besides the prices. I sighed enough for Whitney to hear, which indeed wasn¡¯t much.

    ¡°Can¡¯t find anything?¡± I just felt it best to agree.

    ¡°Yeah. It is fine I will come up with something.¡±

    ¡°If you don¡¯t like this kind of food¡­¡± she exclaimed, a bit saddened. Are we just going to go back and forth all night with apologies? This is just so awkward.

    ¡°No it is fine! I am just overburdened with choices.¡± She giggled and we went back to finding out what we wanted. The waitress returned quite promptly. Man, I know she is doing her job, but ugh...

    ¡°What have we decided?¡± I looked to Whitney for help but of course she didn¡¯t get the cue. Luckily she ordered her dish after a few moments of silence hopefully picking up on my distress. The waitress questioned her order and what sides and all that before turning to me.

    ¡°The chicken alfredo please.¡± Something simple but more than likely heavenly in an Italian restaurant.

    ¡°Very well! I will put your order in. Here is a basket with some fresh bread and garlic butter, feel free to snack before your meal arrives.¡± She waved and went off. Very polite, as were the others here. It was a nice place.

    ¡°Are you enjoying yourself?¡± Whitney asked me while I was reaching to grab a piece of bread.

    ¡°It is nice. Company is great, too.¡± I added awkwardly. Was that a flirt? Did I really attempt a flirt? We ate a few pieces of bread in silence after that sad affair before going back to small talk.

    ¡°Has your book been proceeding well?¡± Oh god, I totally forgot to work on that every so often. Time for the lies to spill.

    ¡°Well it is for the most part, just with school and everything I haven¡¯t gotten a whole lot accomplished.¡± She looked down.

    ¡°Sorry.¡± Oh this night isn¡¯t going to go well, everything is going downhill. How was everything so hunky dory the first time and now is just a train wreck.

    ¡°No no, I am glad you reminded me. I should get to work on it more. How is that book you are reading? Anything worthwhile?¡± She looked happy with the change of subject. She seemed to suffer over the little things, not that I can say the same. I tend to do the same.

    ¡°Oh it is quite thrilling. It is about a young couple living after a horrible accident.¡± I felt a bit off.

    ¡°That sounds interesting.¡± That is all I could come up with since I was imagining how many people are in this school because of an accident. I then wondered if she read this to cope with an accident that may have caused her blindness. I did not feel comfortable asking though so I didn¡¯t.

    ¡°Anything amusing that you have read lately?¡± I actually had to think as I was not much of a bookworm regardless of my obsession with writing.

    ¡°Not really that I can think of. I finished an adventure novel not too long ago but nothing worth mentioning.¡± She frowned as that bit of conversation dried up quickly. With how busy the place was I expected to chat for a while before our food arrived.

    ¡°Classes coming along well enough for you?¡± I took another drink of the tea, which was without a doubt the best I had ever tasted. She was not lying about house speciality. There was a perfect blend of fruity flavor yet still the slight bitter tones of the fresh tea.

    ¡°They are, thanks. And for you?¡± I started to nod but stopped myself, much to my own delight.

    ¡°Yeah, it is not as hard to transition as I thought.¡± She smiled.

    ¡°That is good to hear.¡± She said, spinning her straw in the glass.

    ¡°It is really a nice place here, both the community as well as the school. Everything seems so tranquil.¡± I said looking around the place again.

    ¡°Reminds me of home.¡± I wanted to stop myself from prying, but something got the better of me and I asked.

    ¡°Oh, where did you grow up?¡± Dumb question, but whatever.

    ¡°Italy as I am sure you may have noticed from the accent.¡±

    ¡°It is a pleasant sounding accent.¡± I tried to compliment her but she seemed uncomfortable with it.

    ¡°It is embarrassing¡­¡± She adjusted her collar.

    ¡°How so? I think it is quite lovely.¡± Not saying from experience since I am not certain if I have an accent. I do not think you really can know if you do, since you just sound¡­ like you.

    ¡°I speak so much differently than everyone else.¡± I let a small laugh escape.

    ¡°That is no reason to be embarrassed, you should embrace it as something unique of both you and your past cultures. Your form of speech is very refined and I think it suits you.¡± She seemed a little off now.

    ¡°I suppose.¡± Luckily food arrived and quickly changed the mood and subject.

    ¡°Wow this looks good! Err¡­ sorry.¡± This brought a smile out of Whitney.

    ¡°I am sure it looks just as good as it smells.¡± She tried her best to face the waitress and show gratitude.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± We both said. She bowed.

    ¡°Is everything to your liking?¡± the waitress questioned. I nodded and Whitney followed. ¡°Very well, enjoy! I will be back to check up on you.¡± With that she was off and I dove into the food.

    The sauce was heavenly and really complemented the noodles. There wasn¡¯t enough chicken for my own preference but the pasta was too good to ignore. It was angel hair and held the sauce on well. A good mix of pasta taste and of the alfredo sauce. Whitney got some kind of fish. She deftly cut it into pieces and felt around for all the sides. Content, she began to eat. I caught myself staring so I tried to come up with a conversation as if she noticed me looking at her.

    ¡°Is it good?¡± She got a single bite off as I asked this, such bad timing.

    ¡°It is, thank you. Is yours of good quality?¡± That was a weird way to ask the same question. Was she really focusing on the ¡®refined speech¡¯ thing I mentioned earlier?

    ¡°Yeah, they did a really good job.¡± We ate in silence. I finished it all, regretfully. That was a lot more than I had thought. Pasta hits like a truck when you least expect it too. Whitney only ate about half of hers and had it aside. I leaned back in my seat, overly full and miserable now.

    ¡°You should not have eaten so much, you sound miserable.¡± I let out a courteous laugh at her suggestion. But with each movement, was the stomach pain. Oh lord, this full feeling.

    ¡°Eh, it was too good to waste,¡± I said. She looked puzzled.

    ¡°They can give you to go boxes.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± She had me there. ¡°You¡¯re right I suppose.¡± Sure enough the waitress came by with a box for Whitney. Dulce had a beaming smile.

    ¡°Can I get you two refills on your drinks?¡± Before I could respond no, as we were most likely leaving, Whitney spoke up.

    ¡°Please.¡± She looked at me smiling.

    ¡°I guess that is your way of wanting to stay and talk?¡± She made a cute pouting face. Again I am blasted with her beauty. There is something about how fair her skin was, her cloudy, yet stunning blue eyes, and her fancy curls. This must be the whole love at first sight thing, but can I really start to say that? I barely know her.

    ¡°If you wish to leave¡­¡± I couldn¡¯t say no.

    ¡°It is fine. Some small talk might ease my stomach and a little rest never hurts.¡± Did that sound rude? As if the reason I am staying is for selfish reasons. Quickly replacing our empty glasses with full ones, the waitress was off again. Poor girl must be tired.

    ¡°So I must ask you, do you have any siblings?¡±

    ¡°Only child. How about you?¡± The typical throw the question back at the asker, originally. Way to go Claude.

    ¡°I had an older brother.¡± I winced at ¡®had¡¯.

    ¡°I am sorry. I didn¡¯t know.¡± I felt defensive as if anytime I asked something or did something it brought on a negative response.

    ¡°You had no way of knowing, no need to apologize. He died a long while ago while I was still young.¡± I felt like trying to pull out some good memories despite the feeling it will only cause more harm.

    ¡°Were you two close?¡±

    ¡°Yes, we spent most of our lives in the orphanage together.¡± And there it is, an orphanage¡­  why can¡¯t talking be as easy in video games as it is in real time. Granted even just having time to think and respond¡­ These quick timed events are killing me. I need a manual damn it!

    ¡°Oh.¡± I respond sounding hollow.

    ¡°It is fine, not having parents hasn¡¯t changed me at all. It helped me to grow up.¡± I sighed out of relief that it wasn¡¯t all going downhill.

    ¡°That is quite honorable. I am sorry you never had any parental figures.¡± Not knowing what to say I said the obvious.

    ¡°It is no different with the mother who raised us at the orphanage and I was happy with just Alexton and myself. We lived as if we were born there.¡±

    ¡°Making good memories out of hard times is something I am quite envious of to be honest.¡± Whitney gave an interested look.

    ¡°Did you grow up in distress?¡± I shrugged.

    ¡°Not really. Life was actually so easy for me I took advantage of it for the longest time until my dad lost his job. Mom had to support us for a while alone while I was in school and my dad worked out a new job.¡± She seemed to be absorbing the information while she sipped on her tea.

    ¡°Sorry to hear. Jobs can be a pain.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, being a manager of anything is a pain.¡± I let slide out. She giggled.

    ¡°I am sure it is.¡±

    ¡°Just having the title is like wearing a kick me while I am down shirt or something. It is never a conversation you want to hear when it starts with ¡®I want to speak to the manager!¡¯.¡± I said in my best impersonation of a customer. She laughed. ¡°It isn''t that they want to pay a compliment or say we are doing good work. Nope. It is, you sold me this broken piece of junk, or the customer service here is terrible!¡±

    ¡°I envy you being able to handle such situations well.¡± I couldn¡¯t help but laugh.

    ¡°Who said I handle them well? If they wish to get all over me, I will dish it back. I have the authority to refuse service for unruly crowds. It is nice. But yeah, it is not really as easy as I make it sound.¡±

    ¡°That does indeed sound helpful. I am glad you seem okay with dealing with such vulgarity.¡± I let out a snarky laugh.

    ¡°Ha! Welcome to retail.¡± I sipped on my tea as well since I could not help it being so delicious.

    ¡°I am curious, you are the first to seem very involved with video games. I must ask what they are like.¡± I nearly spit my drink out, unable to barely discern where to start. How do you describe this stuff to a blind girl?!

    ¡°Well¡­¡± I rubbed my forehead.

    ¡°Just tell me as you would anyone else, I won¡¯t mind.¡± I ruffled my hair.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind then, I guess it is just to me like living another life. Where I can be the hero and you know¡­ matter.¡± I was shocked I went so deep so quickly. It was true no doubt in my mind, but to tell Whitney that¡­ I let a secret go away. One I am ashamed of. ¡°Nevermind that bit¡­¡±

    ¡°That sounds nice, but never worry about mattering. Even if people do not show it, many do care about you.¡± I did not want to argue this so I just agreed.

    ¡°You might be right.¡±

    Much to Whitney¡¯s displeasure the conversation dried once more not long after that and we found ourselves leaving. She paid for everything as she mentioned but never let me know how much. I do not wish to know either¡­ mine alone with the pasta and drink is nearly twenty five dollars. We were stopped by the gate where we were to part ways.

    ¡°Tonight was really nice.¡± She said, extending her cane out.

    ¡°It was, thank you so much.¡± Without much else to say we went to our dorms unable to bring up anything else.

    As if an NPC, Tyler was opening his room door and saw me. He is always there or finds a way to find me. I smiled.

    ¡°Hey Tyler.¡± He grinned his thousand watt smile and gave me a thumbs up.

    ¡°My main dude Claude! How was the date man?!¡± I felt my cheeks redden.

    ¡°Huh?¡± He gave me a sly wink.

    ¡°I was coming back from track man, I saw you and Whitney.¡± He leaned in closer to me. ¡°I won¡¯t tell, your secrets are safe with me!¡± I chucked his shirt at him and stepped back.

    ¡°Come on man, it was just a little dinner.¡± He shrugged, removing the shirt from his face.

    ¡°Okay okay. I think you guys look cool together though man, no hard feelings.¡± He seemed a bit backward even though he was like his usual self. I couldn¡¯t put a finger on it but there was a terrible hunch something was up. I had to ask.

    ¡°You said I can talk to you anytime about anything right man?¡± He actually let his smile disappear.

    ¡°Yeah?¡± I didn¡¯t like the tension now. It was like I was about to tell him his sister died or something.

    ¡°Did you know that girl who had complications a couple days ago?¡± That look of heartbreak in his eyes. The frown he gave and the tears I saw start, it said it all. ¡°Oh my God dude, I am so sorry! She¡­ she was your-¡± Tyler dropped the clothes.

    ¡°She was my baby sister man! Why her!¡± He started to cry and tense up. ¡°Why?! Why couldn¡¯t we have done something?!¡± I went up and gripped his shoulders, unable to hold my own emotions. I could never or want to imagine his pain with his family. I wonder if Whitney is still shook up about her own brother...

    ¡°Life has a strange way of working.¡± I tried my best to console him seeing as I just ruined his night bringing this up. I felt absolutely ashamed. Since I got to know Tyler a little while back, he has been nothing but fun and smiles. Now this? God this is definitely the worst feeling in the world.

    ¡°I appreciate the words man, I really do¡­ But I just¡­ I need to be alone.¡± With that he broke from me and quietly entered his room. I stood there in shock unable to grasp what had just occurred before me. I left for my room thinking I wouldn¡¯t be able to sleep after that. I quickly sent Tyler a message on O-Chat-Ing apologizing again for what I brought up and wishing him luck for whatever was going in his future. I slammed down on my bed and just tried my best to calm my thoughts from the date with Whitney, to Tyler¡¯s misfortune¡­ this must have been why he was on his phone so much. God I am such a horrible friend¡­ How could I not have pieced it together? This really sucks. I just closed my eyes and hoped tomorrow wouldn¡¯t be as shit as this last hour was.

 Lets Work

    I woke up yawning hard. I realized I overslept. I had a missed message from Tyler. I was still a bit groggy and noticed the time was TWELVE IN THE AFTERNOON?!

    >Hey thanks man. Really appreciate the sentiment. I will be fine though.

    About an hour after that message he sent another. Now I felt even worse thinking he must believe I was ignoring him or beating myself up over it. Well technically I sort of was, but it wasn¡¯t too bad.

    >You''re okay man, you didn¡¯t know.

    I sighed and realized no point in trying to go further. I mulled over what to do now. I didn¡¯t work until next week. I guess a shower and breakfast¡­ er well, lunch is in order.

    I did my best to shower quickly and plan where to eat. I guess I would grab a sandwich from a local bakery and head to work. Maybe meet a few new coworkers. Wouldn¡¯t hurt right?

    I made my way to work and saw it nearly completely empty. Were weekends actually slow at a game store?! I was greeted by a girl who seemed bubbly.

    ¡°Hello! Welcome to Vintage-¡±

    ¡°Home for games new and old.¡± She looked taken back for a second and then smiled.

    ¡°You must shop here often!¡± I felt like getting a chuckle so I decided to mess with her more.

    ¡°Yeah I¡¯ve been coming to Vintage for a long time. I know quite a lot about the store too.¡± She looked pleased.

    ¡°That is great! Anything I can help out with?!¡± Her bubbly attitude made me remember Tyler but I was able to brush the thought away.

    ¡°I work here.¡± I said blankly. She looked stunned, then came the realization.

    ¡°Oh my gosh! You must be Mister Rains!¡± She bowed, throwing me off guard. Why does everyone bow?!

    ¡°Just call me Claude.¡± I replied nervously as she was seemingly crazy.

    ¡°Kay kay!¡± She then tapped her chin. ¡°You don¡¯t work today though?¡± I shrugged.

    ¡°Figured I would come meet some of my new coworkers.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I am so sorry! I am Ashley.¡±

    ¡°No worries. Glad to meet you Ashley, you seem chipper.¡± She smiled.

    ¡°Thanks!¡± A guy popped his head out from under the counter.

    ¡°You¡¯re the new ASM? Oh.¡± The guy had a very flat voice and seemed bored.

    ¡°I am, who are you?¡± I questioned.

    ¡°Colton.¡± He replied before disappearing behind the counter again.

    ¡°Nice to meet you.¡± I added courteously.

    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to work with you! You seem so cool!¡± I laughed.

    ¡°Well if this is your way of sucking up, it is working.¡± Ashley quickly looked at her watch.

    ¡°Oh it is three! I am free! Hehe!¡± She happily removed her name tag and ran to grab her things. ¡°How about lunch?!¡± What? Did she really think going on a lunch date with her boss was a good idea? Whatever, I wanted food and I did come here with the intention of getting to know my staff. This is the third girl I am now technically going out with. Am I becoming a manwhore?

    ¡°Eh, why not.¡± She smiled.

    ¡°Great! Where to?¡± I sighed, this reminded me of Velatori.

    ¡°I was going to go to that local bakery and get a sandwich.¡±

    ¡°Then a sandwich it is!¡± We both left and Colton did not acknowledge nearly anything that just happened. Would he be alright alone? I did not overly worry about it yet. That is a future me problem.

    ¡°So how long have you been working at Vintage?¡± She turned to me spinning her purse.

    ¡°About seven months.¡± I nodded. ¡°How about you?¡± I always wondered how this worked. When one person asks a question everyone seems to answer it then immediately reverse the question to the asker. Was this something that was taught secretly or instinctively throughout the generations? Were our ancestors doing the same thing? I shook my head to stop thinking about such useless things.

    ¡°A few years.¡± I did not care to really give a number.

    ¡°Oh, well it must have been a while for you to become an ASM!¡± I messed around with the cuff of my shirt while we talked.

    ¡°I guess.¡± Not really knowing how to respond, that is all I simply added.

    ¡°I have not really seen you around here before though, do you not live here?¡± I figured this topic was best left for when we got our food.

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you when we get seated. It is a bit of a long story and I am starving.¡± She smiled.

    ¡°Likewise!¡± With that we entered the place and were quickly seated. For once the restaurant wasn¡¯t completely packed. Actually it was scary how slow it was for lunch time at a sandwich place. I didn¡¯t let that discourage me and began to scan the menu.

    If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    ¡°Been here before?¡± I asked Ashley while I checked what seemed good.

    ¡°Nope.¡± She said poking the menu. ¡°It looks good though.¡± I agreed.

    Did not take long to get our orders and drinks. Even shortly after ordering we had our sandwiches. I began to munch down and noticed Ashley take the sandwich apart and remake it. That was odd but I didn¡¯t really care that something as simple as that compared to what I have been through now is nothing.

    ¡°You enjoy working at Vintage?¡± I asked taking a sip of my water. What kind of place only has water to drink though? That was weird. Might explain the lack of patrons.

    ¡°It is a job.¡± I questioned this.

    ¡°What do you mean? Not really your type of thing?¡± She shrugged.

    ¡°I never was a gamer. Mostly work there for money. Times are rough so you have to get work wherever you can.¡± I nodded.

    ¡°Yeah.¡± I said a little static.

    ¡°Don¡¯t get me wrong, I enjoy working with the people and helping customers, but just¡­ not really my forte.¡± I laughed seeing as the once bubbly Ashley now seemed a bit hesitant.

    ¡°What do you enjoy then?¡± I asked.

    ¡°I prefer the outdoors. Going on long hikes, camping at cool spots and stuff like that. I am an outdoor bug. I need to be free.¡± She sat her sandwich down. ¡°I really want to just retire and go be with nature.¡± I couldn¡¯t hold back my laughter, getting a quizzical expression from her.

    ¡°Sorry, it is just hearing you talk about retirement when you can¡¯t be over 20 years old just made me laugh.¡± She smiled.

    ¡°Does that sound dumb, huh?¡± I shook my head, once again feeling relieved it was seen.

    ¡°No, not at all. I would kill to never have to work again. I think it is great you have aspirations for the future and something to dream about.¡± She smiled warmly.

    ¡°I¡¯m glad I don¡¯t sound dumb then!¡± She giggled.

    ¡°Never be so hard on yourself. It isn¡¯t good for your morale.¡± I realized how stupid that sounded after saying it but she seemed to agree.

    ¡°True. Thank you.¡± We began to eat with little to no conversation and she ended up taking a phone call and leaving me¡­ and the bill. Strike one, I laughed in my head. It wasn¡¯t expensive at all and I didn''t mind.

    I went back to my room and laid down, grabbed my laptop and messaged Tyler. He didn¡¯t respond instantly and I noticed he was offline after the fact. Huh.

    As soon as I was beginning to go and browse the good old internet I could hear commotion outside. At first it just sounded like two people talking at one another but things escalated quickly to yelling. I tossed my laptop aside and ran out my door to the hallway to see Tyler and Reiner going at it. But Reiner was actually standing, on what seemed to be false legs.

    ¡°You little vermin, how dare you speak to me in such a manner!¡± Tyler had a hoarse voice and he seemed extremely agitated. A few other students stood around, but not doing anything. Bystander effect be damned, I won¡¯t let Tyler be treated like shit by this guy.

    ¡°No, you talked about my baby sister! You have no right to say she deserved what happened!¡± Tyler cried.

    ¡°As if someone related to some freak like you, she did have what''s coming to her.¡± Before I had a chance to step in, Tyler took the first swing, nailing Reiner right in the face. Of course this sent Reiner falling way back and hitting the ground with a harsh thud. Now it seemed a pile on as all the students began to break this up.

    Tyler was in some mode I didn''t even know existed for him. He began to lash out at everyone. He knocked two guys away with but a simple back hand and swift kick. I slowly approached thinking he might respond to seeing a friend.

    ¡°H-hey, Ty my man. Calm down buddy.¡± He turned to me, looking absolutely pissed.

    ¡°Where were you! WHERE WERE YOU!?¡± I was then met with the same fate of Reiner, a hard hit to the face, making me fly back into the wall. I felt blood run from my nose and the tenderness it now had after that hit.

    ¡°T-tyler! St-top!¡± He would have nailed me again if three students got the better of him. Reiner laughed regardless of just being slammed.

    ¡°Pfft, pathetic.¡± He stumbled up and began to try and walk away, but Tyler once again in rage mode was not going to have it. He leaped at him, tossing the three guys on him off. Tyler was some sort of animal at this point. He was crying and screaming while just throwing punches. The pile on began again as he was tackled by the others just barely keeping him restrained.

    It did not take long for a few nurses and security to arrive. It took three of these guards to pull and restrain Tyler. Reiner was also taken away to lord knows where. Right now between the hurting of my face and the chaos going on in my mind¡­ I just let myself stop and let the nurse check on me.

    I was taken to the hospital and into some room where I was treated and given some water. One of the guards came in and sat in a chair by me while the nurse did his thing.

    ¡°You alright kid?¡± He asked, his strong face seeming protective. He folded his arms and checked me out.

    ¡°Y-yeah, just more startled than anything.¡± He let out a sigh.

    ¡°Fights like that can¡¯t be allowed to happen on a campus like this. Anything you can tell me about how this started?¡± He seemed to not really care about how I was and more about how he can prevent things like this. Can¡¯t really blame him though as in a school like this, I could not even imagine the trauma suffered from fights.

    ¡°Reiner must have said something bad about Tyler¡¯s sister and then the two went at it.¡± That really was all I knew.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± The guard nodded. ¡°How devious were you involved?¡± He questioned, showing where I was clearly hit. ¡°Got a hell of a bulb.¡±

    ¡°I tried to break it up and was coldcocked.¡± The guard sighed.

    ¡°Best thing to do is just call us. Innocent people being hurt isn¡¯t going to help much. It will add to the paperwork and even worse in other circumstances.¡±

    ¡°Well he is my friend and I figured he would have stopped if I talked to him.¡± The guard looked at me puzzled.

    ¡°Kid listen. I hate to be like this, but people here aren¡¯t normal. They won¡¯t act like what normal people would do.¡± The nonstop use of normal began to make me cringe. ¡°You never know what can happen at the slightest event. My job is to stop things like this from happening and having others be involved only makes matters worse. If you ever hear something like this or see anything for that matter, just call us. It is our job.¡± With that he was up and gone while the nurse let out a sigh.

    ¡°Feeling alright?¡± I nodded.

    ¡°Just mentally drained¡­¡± I took another good sip of the water.

    ¡°It is late, best go get some sleep. You are free to stay here, or return to your dorm.¡± I did not want to be here. I¡¯ve always had a hatred for hospitals. The layout, the noises, and just the overall vibe.

    ¡°I¡¯ll return home.¡±

    ¡°Want an escort?¡± I shrugged.

    ¡°I should be fine, just a small bloody nose. I will be good.¡± The nurse got up, patting my shoulder.

    ¡°You are strong. Keep in there.¡± With that I went home to sleep but never once even closed my eyes for what felt like three or four hours as I just let my mind race with thoughts, questions and all kinds of clouded memories. What a waste of a day¡­ But poor Tyler¡­

 Starting Again

    I opened my eyes, feeling my face, that still hurt to the touch. Note to self, do not get in between Tyler and his fist. I did not expect to talk to him for a while or see him and Reiner most likely were in some sort of hospital or something. I shrugged it off and just breathed in slowly. No sense in reeling in the past for now. I wanted some breakfast.

    I showered and cleaned up before making my way down to the school cafeteria. I received a few looks as I walked, more than likely due to the large bruise I had covering a large portion of my face. I was lucky he didn¡¯t break anything. It also threw me off as if people stared at me this much with just a bruise¡­ I wonder if this is what it''s like to have actual scars. Or I am overthinking it and it is just because of the fight. It just feels weird. At the same time I guarantee word spread fast about the incident.

    I got some pancakes and hashbrowns from the line and found a vacant seat. I slowly nibbled on them, not as hungry as I thought. Mostly because of my feelings right now, without a doubt.

    I just poked at the fluffy pancakes and stirred the hashbrowns around. I sipped on the milk and looked around at the few students actually here. None of them looked my way or really seemed to be sentient. Must just be from a long day yesterday¡­ for different reasons than my own I would assume.

    I returned to my room without caring about much for the day. Like usual I had no plans and was just going to take the day as it comes. I grabbed my phone and figured I would talk to the only guy I can.

    Hey bro. You there?

    >yo

    What are you up too?

    >chillaxing

    Cool.

    >everything good mate? not like u to be textn me this early

    Just school things. Plus I am bored.

    >so i am the last resort huh?

    No.

    >2nd to last?

    Bingo.

    >u dont agree with that man

    lol sorry man. I was just wondering when you wanted to try and meet.

    >uhhhhhhhhhh

    Is texting that really something he needs to do? Just take the few seconds to think...

    >how about next month around the first or so? works got me pinned

    Sure. We can figure something out.

    >ill text ya l8r need to run

    Alright man. Peace.

    >l8rs

    I put my phone back on the table and just laid in bed. What to do now? I was not really feeling like playing Dungeonz without Tyler and the others as games with friends were always the best. Maybe if I just go out and walk around something will come up. According to my past experiences, something is bound to happen.

    I got ready to leave and left for the city to see what to do. I wonder if they have an arcade or something. Would anything even be open on a Sunday? I shrugged. A lot of places tend to be.

    I began just walking about the pathways through the town, not seeing much that was interesting. Not many people were out right now and the smell of the food and other places made me hungry but I held off since I just had breakfast about an hour ago.

    I found a library and decided to stop in and see if there was anything interesting inside. I opened the door to feel a nice breeze of air conditioning which felt great as it was a little warm outside. The smell of books emitted everywhere and I felt a strange sense of tranquility.

    Only two clerks were behind the desk and completely ignored me as they were both on their phones. Half of the people inside were on their phones too and it kind of made me chuckle to myself.

    I saw a friendly face towards the back of the library with a group of people. I should try and meet some new people since it seems some of the old friends¡­ well I do not need to think about that right now. I made my way over to the group of people. Toni waved to me.

    ¡°Hey hey! Claude, come over here!¡± I waved back and tried my best not to look too nervous or crazy.

    ¡°Hey there Toni.¡± There were about five other people here, three of which left the moment I showed up. She stuck her tongue out at them.

    ¡°Eh, who needs them.¡± She laughed. ¡°What¡¯s up? Didn¡¯t pick you as the bookworm.¡± No one said anything about my bruise, maybe they are more reserved. I noticed she had a book on her lap as she was sitting on top of the back of the couch.

    ¡°Likewise.¡± I replied sarcastically, getting a laugh from her and her friend.

    ¡°Haha, true. I tend to enjoy sports more but I read in my spare time too. OH right! Claude, this is Dulce.¡± The girl waved at me.

    ¡°Hello Dulce, nice to meet you.¡± She nodded. Wait, was she¡­?

    ¡°Same to you Claude.¡± I did not recognize her clothing but it seemed like a uniform of some sorts. ¡°May I inquire what it is that brought you here?¡± She asked while I was eyeing her. That hair and those are unmistakable.

    ¡°Oh, just bored is all. Figured I would check out the place.¡± Dulce tilted her head slightly.

    ¡°So you are new here?¡± Dulce questions. Toni scratched the back of her neck.

    ¡°Hey Dulce, might wanna tone down the questions girly. Don¡¯t want you driving him away too.¡± I laughed in response.

    ¡°It is fine. Sometimes it is good to get to know someone. I am new here. Transferred in at the beginning of this year.¡± Dulce also eyed me up and down.

    ¡°You seem to lack any external injuries, besides that bruise, and seem to hold yourself proper, what brought you here?¡± I then realized this was probably the question she initially wanted to know. Toni huffed and started reading, not seeming to want to be involved.

    ¡°Oh. I will be honest. I am not certain.¡± I decided to swap around and question her. ¡°What is that uniform? It seems different from what I have seen.¡±

    ¡°I attend the University of Vanderhall. Vanderhall Academies other branch. It is a school for the prestige.¡± It seemed to fit her well as she was very clean and trim plus the way she talked was different. Her neatly braided silver, and her makeup seems to make her pink eyes pop out.

    ¡°Yeah Dulce and I met a while back during our early teens.¡± I got an image of Reiner in my head after thinking about a prestigious school.

    ¡°Can I ask you another question?¡± Dulce nodded.

    ¡°Sure.¡±

    ¡°At the University, did you ever meet someone by the name of Reiner?¡± She pushed her glasses up, looking deep in thought.

    ¡°Yes, a rather stunning gentleman, and quite kind at that.¡± I was astonished, no way we were thinking about the same guy, granted he was a bit suave looking to be honest, but he is a dick.

    ¡°In a wheelchair?¡± I blurted out without thinking.

    ¡°Hey now! These questions are getting ridiculous!¡± Toni interrupted. Dulce waved her off.

    ¡°As Claude mentioned, it is good to get to know people and about things. As for your question Claude, Reiner did not have a wheelchair during his stay at the University, but after the accident he was moved. I never spoke to him after that.¡± Toni instantly seemed engaged in the conversation more.

    ¡°Hold up, Dulce?! Is this the guy you mentioned before?! No way! Reiner?!¡± Dulce rubbed her neck looking out of her usual character and a bit more like Toni, which showed they both must have spent quite a lot of time together.

    ¡°He was smart and handsome, any girl would give him a try.¡±

    ¡°Wait, the Reiner that just got into a fight not even a few days ago, was considered handsome and nice?¡± I said again not really caring at this point.

    ¡°Yes.¡± I scratched my chin.

    ¡°Did he change or something? Do you know what happened?¡± A sly grin came across her face, causing me to regret my question.

    ¡°How about we talk over lunch?¡± I took my phone and checked the time, it was about one.

    ¡°Sure.¡±

    We made our way out, after Toni checked a few books out. Toni and Dulce talked while we made our way to that sandwich place I ate at before. It again was nearly empty besides an old couple.

    We were promptly seated, orders taken and we''re ready to eat in a few moments. This place had great service, or they are just bored out of their wits. Which I can completely understand.

    ¡°Getting back on track to your question, Claude.¡± Dulce broke the silence. ¡°I do know some tidbits of what happened to Reiner.¡± I slowly ate my sandwich while I listened to her tell the tale about Reiner and this accident. ¡°Reiner was always top of the class. Early to everyday lectures, 100% on all tests, quizzes, and exams and extremely friendly. I originally met him when I asked to be his study buddy.¡± She took a sip of her coffee.

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    ¡°This is going to get intense.¡± Toni said, looking like a little gossip queen, completely in her element.

    ¡°Things went on as usual, I just got help from him and he would enjoy my company. I thought things were going to go on from there. We were both clearly enjoying ourselves, why not have continued to move forward, I thought.¡± Toni again interrupted.

    ¡°Did they?!¡± Dulce sighed.

    ¡°You know the answer to that.¡± Toni leaned back, clearly saddened by her response.

    ¡°Oh yeah.¡± Toni giggled and went back to eating.

    ¡°We had a small falling out after he didn¡¯t show twice to our study nights. He ignored my texts and calls and unlike me, I pressured him into talking.¡± She rubbed her arm. ¡°I don¡¯t want to get into details, but his father was abusive and a few things happened at home.¡± I was able to put things together.

    ¡°Something happened to make him lose his legs and his temper?¡± I questioned, but seeing her reaction made me know I hit the hammer on the nail.

    ¡°Preciously. Now if we could¡­ change the topic please.¡± I felt bad, thinking the guy I grew to detest, had such a tragic backstory. I can only imagine how many others are here for the same reason.

    ¡°So how¡¯s Whitney, Claude?¡± I nearly spit my drink everywhere.

    ¡°Huh? What?¡± This got a chuckle from Toni as most likely intended.

    ¡°Come on now. This is highschool and we are all girls. Word spreads. And that word spreads quickly when two lovebirds come together.¡± I crossed my arms.

    ¡°I have no clue what you are on about.¡± Toni grinned looking to tease me more.

    ¡°Not into the blind girls then? How about ones missing an arm? Maybe smarties?¡± She said the last bit with a long drawn out look toward Dulce. I put my head on the table. ¡°Haha! You are too easy!¡± She taunted.

    ¡°Enough, sheesh.¡± I turned to look at her, head still on the table. ¡°You are a handful.¡± She smiled.

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Toni says, puffing out her chest. I shrugged, leaning back up.

    ¡°Not exactly a compliment, but sure.¡± Dulce began eating her sandwich.

    ¡°All jests aside, how are you fairing here, Claude?¡± Toni inquires. I shrugged.

    ¡°It is different, I won¡¯t lie. It is very hard to get used to as well. Everything is so¡­ different.¡± Toni laughed.

    ¡°Everything¡­ or everyone? It is a lot to take in huh? One minute I have two arms playing volleyball and the next thing you know I am in the hospital and months later here I am.¡± Dulce hit her shoulder.

    ¡°It was a lot more than that.¡± She sighed. ¡°But I suppose the reader''s digest version is much nicer.¡± Dulce¡¯s phone went off while she was going to talk again. ¡°Oh sorry, I need to take this.¡± She excused herself and left. If Toni leaves too for a phone call, I will be angry. I keep having dinner interrupted with people¡­ is this what it is like to be unwelcome or something? I laughed to myself.

    ¡°Hey Toni, mind if I ask you something.¡± She nodded as she took a drink.

    ¡°Go for it, sweetie.¡± I ignored that last bit as she cooed.

    ¡°Have you ever been in a relationship?¡± She grinned, clearly taking this the wrong way. Yeah not the best thing to randomly blurt out.

    ¡°Is that an offer?¡± I gave her a serious look. ¡°Fine, fine. One more thing, is it about Whitney?¡± I gave her another mean look. ¡°Alright, sorry. I can be playful, my apologies. But yes, I have an ex-boyfriend. Complete asshat though. Don¡¯t know why I fell for him.¡±

    ¡°What is it like to be in a relationship? Is it just like a really good friendship?¡± She rubbed her chin and studied me closely. I don¡¯t even want to imagine what is going on inside of her head.

    ¡°You know, it is kind of the opposite.¡± I tilted my head a bit trying to figure out what she meant before she actually told me.

    ¡°It is?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, it is more like, with friends, you can have as many as you like. You can do what you want when you please and saying no isn¡¯t the end of the friendship. From my experience, you are almost in prison together. You both have to make plans together, do things together or else you aren¡¯t seen as trusting or cheating or something stupid. To be honest I am probably not the best one to talk to. I went through a rough first and only.¡± She laughed. ¡°But I don¡¯t let it get to me.¡± Really now? After that little episode? I could tell by her voice it irritated her but no sense in continuing it.

    ¡°That is good, you seem like a great person and really strong.¡±

    ¡°You like volleyball?¡± She asked out of the blue.

    ¡°Sure, I played that and tennis back in middle school with some friends.¡±

    ¡°By my flat we have a court, you should come by sometime and we can play. I don¡¯t have many people who still enjoy taking the time, so if you can rally some guys, it would be great.¡± I then was reminded of Tyler and Reiner. I hope Tyler is okay, and after what I heard from Dulce, I kind of feel bad for Reiner too.

    ¡°Sounds cool.¡± Without a second thought, she slid her phone across the table to me.

    ¡°Copy that number, we can keep in touch.¡± I did just that and Dulce came back.

    ¡°Sorry, I need to run!¡± She tossed me the money for her food and Toni did the same before the two left in a rush. Well luckily I wasn¡¯t pinned with the bill, but I felt bad now they both didn¡¯t finish their meal. Whatever. I went back to my dorm.

    I was rather bored and just looked at Toni¡¯s number on my phone. The significance was insane. This was the first girls number I have ever gotten. To think as well it was just some spur of the moment quick thing too¡­ Am I overthinking this? She was even the one who gave it to me without me asking¡­ is that better than me asking for it? I have no idea¡­ What if Whitney found out? Would she be mad? Does she even have a cell phone? Oh man why is this suddenly seeming like such a bad thing.

    I decided to just mess around on Dungeonz, for it would make me feel better and give me something to do. Being left alone with your thoughts at critical moments in your life can only make matters so much worse. I logged on and was greeted by someone I did not expect at all.

    Tyler.

    >Yo Chris my man! What¡¯s up?!

    This can¡¯t be real. Someone had to be on his account. There was no way this was the actual Tyler. Did he have no remorse for what happened? Does he not care about the stunt he pulled and how it affected everyone? I felt bad ignoring Tyler, but I didn¡¯t know what to say or do.

    >>Chris, it is Sarah. You alright? I am sure Tyler just messaged you too.

    Sarah was on too. This could be a good chance to get to the bottom of things.

    Sarah? What is going on?!

    >>No one told you? Well this is probably for the best that I tell you. You are Tyler¡¯s friend after all. He is staying with his cousin for a week or so to recuperate. He is a special case. Sorry to be so blunt.

    But does he not remember or care about what happened?

    >>I know you got punched, Reiner was put in the hospital and security is on high alert, but it is hard to say this, but let this just slide. Tyler wasn¡¯t in his usual condition. He didn¡¯t have his medications and after hearing about the last of his last family, I am sure it was hard.

    Well I learned about Reiner.

    >>From Dulce I am sure.

    Yeah, you know her?

    >>Look, we need to talk, are you busy?

    >Chris you there man?

    I¡¯m sorry Tyler, you might be able to forgive and forget, but I need answers.

    Yeah Sarah, where do you want to meet?

    >>At the fountain, we will go from there.

    I logged off before she did. I did not want to talk to Tyler just yet. Time to get some answers and figure some things out. I gathered my things and went to the meeting spot. Sorry Tyler, but I need to know things first before I even try and understand what you are and what happened.

    Sarah stood looking at the sky, which was slowly darkening. Dusk was coming, so I wondered just what Sarah had in mind. All of this chaos I just wanted to end so I hoped she was going to do just that. I just wanted the old life back. I hate this school and how hard it is to adjust, just as I was, this all happens.

    ¡°Hey.¡± She said, tossing her hair back.

    ¡°Hey.¡± I simply responded. She sat on the edge of the fountain and I sat next to her.

    ¡°Everyone here has a story. Each and everyone also is very sensitive in their own rights. I have come more accustomed to my fate, but many others try to push theirs off.¡±

    ¡°I assume you mean Tyler.¡± She nodded, looking a bit uneasy.

    ¡°Tyler is very unique, as I am sure you have noticed. He suffers not only from being bipolar, which he is graced with, it is acute, but he also has severe depression. This is why he always tries to be loud and happy. He doesn¡¯t want others to know or to feel the way he does constantly. After his sister''s episode, his mindstate took a turn for the worst. Stan actually reached out to help him.¡± I was shocked to hear that.

    ¡°Stan really did? That is amazing.¡± She leaned forward a bit, playing with her skirt.

    ¡°Stan may be rather limited in his speech and manners but he is by far the kindest person I know.¡± She paused for a moment, seeming to collect her thoughts. ¡°Sometimes those who can empathize are those who will reach out, regardless of circumstances.¡±

    ¡°According to Dulce, so was Reiner, kind that is.¡± As if the lightbulb went off in her head she turned.

    ¡°I do not know all the praise she has given him, mind explaining?¡±

    ¡°Well I went to the library and met her for the first time. She talked about Reiner and her own past. I think they were once love birds¡­ or moreover she was attached to him but he didn¡¯t feel the same way.¡± Sarah looked to the ground.

    ¡°I know the feeling.¡± She looked at me. ¡°I am lucky to have found someone though.¡±

    ¡°Oh, you have a boyfriend?¡± She smiled.

    ¡°Yes, his name is Blake.¡±

    ¡°I am glad for you. Must be nice having someone.¡± I said not thinking, getting a chuckle from Sarah.

    ¡°I think you have someone and just don¡¯t know it yet. But to be straight and clear with you, relations are much harder and worse than most can imagine. There are fights, disagreements and trust issues. I won¡¯t go on as I am not one you need to hear these things from.¡± She pulled her phone out and put it away quickly. More than likely just checking the time.

    ¡°Need to take a call or something?¡± I offered to ease her.

    ¡°Yeah, I need to text Blake real fast. I sort of left my dorm without telling him.¡± I laughed.

    ¡°It is no problem.¡± As she texted him, I looked around.

    Seeing the campus slowly darken, the misfits of this school go about their ways, a sight I do not know if I will get used to. I looked to the sky as a few stars began to appear. There is a tranquil beauty only moonlight can cast over the world. A comforting dark blanket.

    ¡°I love the night sky.¡± Sarah said, breaking my thoughts.

    ¡°It is a gorgeous sight.¡±

    ¡°I always imagine every star is a friend or family member, shining at you.¡± I did not like the sound of how she said it. She had an edge.

    ¡°Yeah, I see what you mean. Feels nice to imagine you always have someone to look up to.¡± I paused for a second. ¡°Unless the night sky is cloudy!¡± I joked, not getting the reaction I wished. I hoped I didn¡¯t hit a bad nerve for Sarah, she just stared at the night sky. Sick joke, timing, need to learn timing.

    ¡°Yeah.¡± She finally responded after some time. ¡°I am sorry to drag you out here. But to end this little chat, just be strong. Be as strong as you can. Everyday here is survival, a trial of sorts. Each and every one of us has our own issues to deal with, do not take it upon yourself to help them through it. Just offer a shoulder to lean on and nothing more.¡± She got up and I did too. She surprisingly hugged me. She did not let go either. This was extremely awkward.

    ¡°Sarah?¡± She didn¡¯t seem to be crying or anything.

    ¡°You are too nice. You are too naive. You are too trusting.¡± She held my arms and stepped back smiling. ¡°That is why you are you though. Don¡¯t change, Claude. Ever.¡± I felt a bit embarrassed by her compliments and the close vicinity of this all.

    ¡°H-hey.¡± She laughed.

    ¡°It is getting late and I have a dinner date with Blake. He just got off work. Just remember what we talked about!¡± She bolted off. I rubbed the back of my head. That just happened.

    I returned to my room and slumped down on my bed. I had a few missed messages from Tyler. I didn¡¯t want to deal with it right now. I would tomorrow. School begins once more. Let¡¯s do this.