storms don't last forever | h.kazutora

chapter twelve

cw: attempted self-harm

A room full of students with different personalities, some are talking, some are busy texting, some are staring at the absence, making up scenarios in their heads, and some are like Rindou, silently observing their surroundings.

Another dull day, the young lad sighed as he rested his hand on his palm and gazed out the large window where he could see the trees with their branches swaying in the breeze.

"Please take your seats, class," Their homeroom teacher said as she placed her books on the table in front. She paused to allow the students to return to their proper seats before proceeding. "We have a new student in our class today."

Those words piqued Rindou's interest. Curious as to why someone was transferring schools in the middle of the school year, he looked to the front. There, he saw the teacher, motioning for you to come inside. You reluctantly comply, entering an unknown room with people you don't want to be associated with, but of course, since you decided to live with your father, you don't have any choice but to continue your school. You agreed to finish high school in exchange for a roof over your head and food in your stomach. This is until I gathered enough money then I will disappear.

After you went to your father's house, they immediately prepared everything. Your room, your stuff... everything. Your stepmother cleared her schedule and drove you to a shopping mall to get you new clothes. You expected this to be the beginning of their control over you, but to your surprise, she let you choose your own style. She said nothing negative or objected to your preferences. She was only there to help you along the way.

They then planned your education. Despite the fact that you've been out of school for two years, your father pulled a string, and here you are, entering high school without even finishing middle school. They simply hired tutors to assist you with your missed classes.

"This is your new classmate. She was transferred here from Tokyo; I know some of you have already formed friend groups, but I hope you all welcome her." The teacher said and looked at you, smiling to make you feel welcome. "Please introduce yourself to the class." You look around and notice that some are whispering, and some have their eyes fixed on you.

"I'm y/n, l/n."

"Is that all? Tell us about yourself."

"About me? Well, I was an ex-delinquent. I shoplifted, damaged property, and beat other people for fun... What else? Ah! I used to smoke, ran away with my boyfriend, lived with my boyfriend, never did drugs though, I don't like it," you paused as you noticed everyone's eyes widening and jaws dropping. "I was transferred here because my father, who abandoned me half of my life, is surprisingly wealthy... That's all."

After your introduction, the murmurs became louder as their eyes shifted from curious to scared. You just shrugged your shoulders, you couldn't care any less about what they think about you.