Kazutora's life has been a tumultuous journey, marked by a troubled childhood, a fateful encounter, and a series of decisions that would forever alter the course of her life.
Growing up in a dysfunctional household, Kazutora sought solace in an unli...
As I approached Mizo Middle School, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. I was finally gonna be a middle schooler! My black hair was styled in two low pigtails held down by two black hair ties, and two brown snap clips to keep my bangs from falling into my eyes. I clutched my new black portfolio bag tightly, hoping my look would be well-received. It was hot outside, so I had decided to leave my school blazer behind.
I wore my favorite locket necklace, which hung just below my collarbone, glinting in the sunlight. I had left the top two buttons of my shirt undone because I hated the feeling of being all buttoned up; it felt tight and uncomfortable.
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As I neared the entrance, I spotted Kei waiting for me, his face lighting up when he saw me. But then, he burst into laughter, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "What's with the clips and pigtails? You look like a little kid!" His laughter echoed around us, and I felt heat rise in my cheeks.
I shot back, trying to sound defiant, "Shut up! I wanted to try a different hairstyle! Plus, the clips are to keep my bangs out of my face!"
He wiped away a tear from laughing so hard and then said, "I know, it looks good on you. But what's with the tattoo on your neck? Oh man!"
My expression shifted to annoyance. "Shut up! What's it to you?" I retorted, crossing my arms.
Kei then quickly added, "I didn't mean anything bad by it! It's just... it's a weird combination with your face, considering you're a beautiful girl."
In his mind, he thought, Did I just call her beautiful out loud? He felt a rush of embarrassment but maintained a smiling facade, hoping to divert her attention from his slip.
Meanwhile, a wave of insecurity washed over me. "I don't like my face in the first place."Especially since I look so much like my dad, memories of his harsh criticisms echoing in my mind. I tried to shake off the negative thoughts, but they lingered like a shadow.
"Ah, I just remembered!" Kei said, shifting the topic. "Let me introduce you to my mates." He motioned for me to follow him.
As we walked down the tree-lined street behind the school, I noticed two boys about my age. They were both in middle school uniforms, but I didn't recognize them. One was tall, with blond hair that was a bit different from the other boy's. Suddenly, the tall one turned around, his expression shifting to surprise when he saw me.
"Whoa! A girl with a tiger tattoo on her neck?! So cool!" he exclaimed, his left ear adorned with a small silver earring. I noticed the dragon tattoo on the side of his head, his sides shaved to the skin, and I felt a mix of awe and nervousness.
Kei wearing a closed eyed Naruto smile, chimed in, "That's Ken Ryuguji."
I was taken aback, my heart racing. He has a dragon tattoo! That's priceless! I couldn't help but smile as I said, "Hey there!"
Then, the other boy, who had champagne-blond hair and had rested his blazer on his shoulders, raised his arm and pointed at me. "Alright, Kazutora!, Play with me today" he said with a straight face.
I blinked in confusion. How does he know my name? And what does he mean by play? A moment of panic washed over me, but then I thought maybe Kei had mentioned me before, though I still can't figure out what the latter means.
Kei, still smiling but now with his eyes open, added, "He's always talking. That's Mikey."
"Come on!" Mikey urged, a playful commanding tone in his voice.
As my gaze shifted to Mikey, my surprise deepened. This guy's the strongest delinquent?! I thought, taking in his sideways stance and the way his eye caught mine.
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Manga 278.2/
"You've gotta be kidding..." I muttered, a small smile creeping onto my face, mixed with surprise and anxiety. This was going to be an interesting first day after all.
