True Colors

Chapter 7: New Beginnings

I hate exams and homeworks
Sorry for disappearing, school gives me a lot of assignments, I had to study a lot. Sorry!

Chapter 7: New Beginnings

The air was crisp with the first hint of autumn as students shuffled through the halls of Willow High, murmuring about classes and summer adventures. Jules, Avery, Max, Lila, and the rest of their friends were gathered at their usual spot in the courtyard, excitedly catching up and discussing their plans for the new school year.

“Senior year, can you believe it?” Avery said, shaking her head with a mix of disbelief and excitement. “Feels like just yesterday we were freshmen.”

Max chuckled. “I’m ready for it. Bring on the final year.”

Jules smiled, but their mind was already racing with thoughts about what they wanted to achieve this year. Pride Day had been a huge success, but there was so much more they wanted to do.

As the bell rang, signaling the start of the day, Jules caught sight of a new student walking by, looking lost and overwhelmed. They were about Jules’s age, with short, tousled hair and a backpack slung over one shoulder. Jules felt a pang of empathy, remembering their own first day at Willow High.

“I’ll catch up with you guys later,” Jules said to their friends. “I’m going to help the new kid.”

Avery gave them a thumbs up. “You’re always so kind, Jules. See you in class.”

Jules approached the new student, offering a friendly smile. “Hey there, I’m Jules. Need some help finding your way around?”

The student looked relieved. “Yeah, that would be great. I’m Sam. Just moved here from out of state and feeling a bit out of place.”

“Welcome to Willow High, Sam,” Jules said warmly. “I can show you around. What’s your first class?”

“English, Room 204,” Sam replied, pulling out their schedule.

“Perfect, that’s on my way. Let’s go,” Jules said, leading the way through the bustling halls. “How are you finding Willow High so far?”

“It’s been a bit overwhelming,” Sam admitted. “But everyone seems nice. And I heard about the Pride Day event last year. That was really cool.”

Jules beamed. “Thanks! It was a team effort. We’re hoping to do more events like that this year. If you’re interested, you should join our LGBTQIA+ club. We’d love to have you.”

Sam’s eyes lit up. “Really? That sounds amazing. I was hoping to find a place where I could meet people and get involved.”

“We meet every Wednesday after school,” Jules said as they reached Room 204. “You should definitely come by. Here we are—English class. You’re in good hands with Mr. Anderson; he’s a great teacher.”

“Thanks so much, Jules,” Sam said, looking more at ease. “I’ll see you at the club meeting.”

“See you then!” Jules waved and headed off to their own class, feeling a sense of satisfaction. Helping new students find their footing was something they enjoyed, and they were always on the lookout for potential new members for the club.

That Wednesday, Sam walked into the LGBTQIA+ club meeting, looking a bit nervous but excited. Jules waved them over, introducing them to the group.

“Everyone, this is Sam. They’re new here and interested in joining our club.”

The group welcomed Sam with open arms, making them feel instantly at home. Jules led the meeting, discussing plans for the upcoming year. They talked about organizing more events, increasing outreach, and continuing their advocacy work.

“We’re thinking about hosting a school-wide LGBTQIA+ history month,” Avery suggested. “With guest speakers, workshops, and maybe a film screening.”

“That sounds awesome,” Sam said, already feeling like part of the team. “I’d love to help out.”

After the meeting, the group headed to the local café, a cozy spot they often frequented. They sipped on hot chocolates and discussed everything from school to future dreams.

“So, Sam,” Lila asked, “what do you like to do in your free time?”

“I love photography,” Sam said, their eyes lighting up. “Capturing moments, telling stories through pictures—it’s my passion.”

“Maybe you can help us document our events,” Max suggested. “We could use someone with your skills.”

“I’d love that,” Sam replied, feeling a warm sense of belonging.

As the evening drew to a close, Jules looked around at their friends, old and new. This year was going to be special—they could feel it. They had big plans, a strong community, and the determination to make a difference.

Walking home, Jules felt a renewed sense of purpose. They were ready to tackle whatever challenges came their way, knowing they had their friends by their side. And with new members like Sam joining the fold, their community was only growing stronger.

Senior year was just beginning, but already, it promised to be a year of growth, change, and new beginnings. And Jules was ready to embrace every moment of it.