THE LAST NINE

CHAPTER 1( FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

JIN POVE

The morning sun streamed through my window as I rolled out of bed, its warm rays coaxing me into a new day. I glanced at the clock; it was almost time for school. I took a deep breath, trying to steady the flutter of nerves in my stomach. Today marked the start of another school year, and I could feel the weight of expectations already.

After quickly getting dressed in my favorite oversized hoodie and a pair of jeans, I grabbed my backpack and made my way downstairs. The familiar scent of breakfast wafted through the air, but I was too anxious to eat. I said a quick goodbye to my family and stepped outside.

The moment I stepped onto the school grounds, the buzz of voices and laughter enveloped me. I took a moment to collect myself, leaning against a tree to observe the familiar scene. Students milled about, some catching up after the break, while others rushed to their classes. I felt a pang of longing to join in the chatter, but that was never really my style.

As I walked towards the entrance, I spotted Reese waving her arms, her laughter ringing out like music in the chaos. Her energy was infectious, and I couldn’t help but smile. I took a few hesitant steps forward, but I quickly remembered the teasing remarks she might throw my way for being late. Just as I began to pick up my pace, I noticed Muptimar standing a few feet away, his usual cold expression softened slightly as he scanned the crowd. He was a mystery to most, but I knew there was more to him beneath that icy exterior.

“Hey, Jin!” I heard Rohan call out, a mischievous grin on his face. He was standing next to Muptimar, ready to poke fun at his friend, as usual. “You made it! We were starting to think you’d sleep through your first day!”

I couldn’t help but roll my eyes. “Very funny, Rohan,” I replied, a hint of amusement in my tone. I appreciated his playful nature; it was nice to have a little lightheartedness to break the tension.

As I approached them, I felt a wave of comfort wash over me. Despite my quiet demeanor, this group made me feel at home. I knew that while I might not be the loudest or most outgoing person, I had found my place among them.

“Ready to tackle this year together?” Reese asked, her enthusiasm lifting my spirits.

“Always,” I replied, feeling more at ease. With my friends by my side, I knew I could handle whatever challenges lay ahead. Together, we would navigate the ups and downs of Grade 11, each of us playing our part in this journey.

As we walked into the school, I took a deep breath, letting the energy of the moment fill me. This year was going to be different—I could feel it in my bones. I might be quiet, but I was ready to embrace every opportunity, every friendship, and every adventure that awaited us.