The Captain - Riccardo Di Rigo

Chapter 2 : The Captain ?

The next morning, I woke up feeling nervous but ready to face the day. The first day at Raimon had been intense, and I was curious about what today would be like.

As I arrived at school, I found Julia waiting for me in the main hall. She greeted me with a big smile, her short brown hair bobbing as she waved. "Ready for another day?" she asked enthusiastically.

"Yes, I think so," I replied with a smile, adjusting my backpack. Julia's friendly demeanor was comforting, making me feel less like an outsider.

After our morning classes, Julia invited me to lunch with her and some of her friends. The cafeteria was buzzing with activity, students chatting and laughing at every table. Julia led me to a table near the window, where a group of students were already seated.

"This is Aiko," Julia introduced me, and I received a chorus of friendly hellos.

We sat down, and I unpacked the bento my mom had prepared. The familiar taste of home was soothing in the midst of all the newness. Julia's friends were easy to talk to, and soon the conversation flowed naturally, making me feel more at ease.

In the afternoon, I had art class, where I met Jade. The art room was filled with the scent of paint and the sight of vibrant canvases. Jade stood out immediately with her confident stance and the mischievous glint in her eye.

"So, newbie, can you draw anything other than stick figures?" she asked with a smirk as we were paired up for a drawing project.

"I'll try not to disappoint you," I replied, laughing.

Jade leaned over, examining my sketch. "Well, at least you're not completely hopeless," she said with a teasing grin. "But don't expect me to be impressed that easily."

"Thanks for the vote of confidence," I said dryly, smiling back.

"So, why Raimon?" she asked casually, starting to sketch with bold, confident strokes.

"My parents moved here for work, and this school had a good reputation," I explained, shading a part of my sketch. "What about you? Any reason you're here other than torturing new students?"

Jade laughed. "Oh, I'm here to wreak havoc and spread chaos. It's my job to keep things interesting around here."

"I see," I said, appreciating her humor. "And you seem to be very good at it."

"I do my best," she said with a wink. "So, what's your deal? Any hidden talents?"

"I like to sing," I admitted, focusing on my drawing. "It's something I've always enjoyed."

Jade raised an eyebrow. "Singing, huh? Well, maybe one day you'll give us a performance."

"Maybe," I replied, smiling. "If I can get over my stage fright."

"Ah, stage fright. The classic performer's dilemma," Jade said dramatically. "Don't worry, newbie. We'll toughen you up."

"I'm looking forward to it," I said, laughing.

The following weekend, Jade insisted that I come to watch a soccer match. "You can't live in Raimon without seeing our team play," she said firmly as we walked out of class on Friday.

"I'm not very sporty, but alright," I finally agreed.

On the day of the match, we met at the school stadium. The atmosphere was electric, with students everywhere waving flags and chanting. The sun was shining, and the bleachers were packed with enthusiastic supporters. Jade guided me to the stands, finding the best seats to watch the game.