overly-awkward

chapter 1

I closed my eyes, rubbing my sore temples, before sighing with immense relief. I adjusted my neck too, cocking my head to either sides, feeling the stretch.

It always happens when I read a good book. I get too immersed in the book, and totally ignore my real surroundings. Afterwards, I would chide myself for my ignorance.

However, I live for this enthralling experience. It awakens the senses.

Maybe, one day, I should write my own book too.

There were still a few pages left till the epilogue. I do hope the two manage to crack the secret code.

That was when I looked at the clock.

4.16a.m.

I almost fell off my bed, but somehow managed to regain my composure.

Gosh, how long have I been reading? 6 hours?

I had never stayed up this late before.

Then again, it is not everyday that tomorrow is the first day of school, isn't it?

My body just doesn't seem to want to fall asleep. It must be my anxiety gnawing at me. Even so, why must I be so nervous? I have already done this for years.

It is just social interaction, after all.

Sighing, I placed my book on my bedside table. With a click, the faint yellow light radiating from the lamp went out. The secret code must wait.

I need to be prepared for tomorrow.

---

With a stack of books on either hand, I was clearing my locker from the dust accumulated over the past three months of abandonment. Not many bother to do that, but I do.

Guess that makes me special.

I like to keep my things tidy. Trust me, I cannot stand it when my things are messy, or when my pens in my pencil case are arranged in different directions. All pen tips must face to the left, with staplers at the right and erasers at the right too.

I think I might have obsessive compulsive disorder, but at least it helps me stay neat.

Did I mention that I could be really random at times too? Sorry about that, please bear with me.

I was at the hallway, where my locker was located. PA-23. The lockers were a dark green, a shade I greatly loathe.

It sure is hard balancing all the books on my two tiny hands. I even thought it would be easy.

I was obviously in distress and in need of help, but who cares about me anyway?

Students were steaming in, catching up with each other through their mindless light conversations. The place was just abuzz with small talk. There would be little screams and shouts here or there, and the heads would turn.

At least, thankfully, thus far, I had not talked to anyone yet.

I was waiting to meet Nicole though, my best friend, by my locker. She should be coming soon. I wonder how she's doing. It has been a while since we caught up.

I decided to just clear up a bit more before searching for her. I was humming a catchy tune, ready to dump the books in the locker when-

I saw him again. There he was.