I wake up to my 6:30 am alarm. The shrill sound of my alarm pierces through the peaceful silence of the morning, dragging me out of the depths of sleep. My eyelids feel heavy, reluctant to part ways with the comfort of slumber. I groan, reaching out blindly to silence the incessant beeping, my hand fumbling until I find the snooze button.

With a sigh, I push myself into a sitting position, rubbing the sleep from my eyes as I try to shake off the lingering tendrils of drowsiness. The room is still cloaked in darkness, the only light filtering in through the curtains is the faint glow of dawn on the horizon.

As I glance at the clock on my bedside table, the numbers mock me with their bright display: 6:30 am. It's too early, too damn early for the world to be awake. But I know I can't afford to linger in bed any longer.

Reluctantly, I swing my legs over the side of the bed, my feet meeting the cool hardwood floor with a jolt. The chill sends a shiver down my spine, but it's enough to jolt me awake.

I drag myself upright, running a hand through my messy hair as I try to gather my thoughts. The day looms ahead, filled with responsibilities and obligations that I'd much rather ignore. But I know I can't hide from it forever.

With a resigned sigh, I shuffle across the room towards the window, pulling back the curtains to reveal the soft light of dawn outside. The world beyond is still and quiet, a stark contrast to the chaos of my mind.

I take a moment to gather myself, to steel my resolve for the day ahead. Despite the early hour and the heaviness in my limbs, I know I have to face it head-on. With one last glance at the clock, now reading 6:45 am, I push myself away from the window and begin the familiar routine of getting ready for the day.

After a quick shower, I stand in front of my closet, contemplating what to wear just as my phone, its incessant buzzing filled the room, signaling a barrage of missed calls and urgent messages. Amidst the chaos of notifications, one name stood out like a beacon: Marcus, my best friend.

With a mixture of confusion and curiosity swirling in my mind, I tapped on Marcus' name and answered the call, my voice still thick with sleep. "Hey, Marcus, what's going on?"I say in a way of greeting.

"Evan, dude, you've gotta get down to school right now!" Marcus' voice crackled with urgency, slicing through the morning haze and sending a jolt of adrenaline coursing through my veins. My heart quickened as I struggled to comprehend Marcus' frantic words.

"Wait, what's happening? Why do I need to come to school so early?"

"No time to explain, man! Just trust me, it's important. Something's happening, and you need to be here," Marcus insisted, his urgency palpable even through the phone.

My mind races with a flurry of questions and possibilitie as I hastily gathered my belongings, "Hurry, buddy, I'll be waiting for you. We've got this," Marcus' voice echoed in my ears, fueling my resolve as I dashed out the door into the cool morning air.

As I hurried downstairs, the faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm toast greeted me, mingling with the sound of clinking dishes and murmured conversation. My parents sat at the kitchen table, their faces illuminated by the soft morning light filtering through the window.

"Morning, Mom, Dad," I greeted them with a quick smile, my voice laced with urgency as I grabbed a seat at the table.

"Good morning, sweetheart," my mom replied, her warm smile reflecting the concern in her eyes as she noticed my rushed demeanor.

"Hey, champ. Everything alright?" My dad's voice was filled with gentle concern as he set down his newspaper, his attention fully on me.

"Yeah, everything's fine. Just got a call from Marcus, he needs me at school early," I explained hastily, reaching for a slice of toast and spreading butter on it with quick, practiced movements.

My mom's brow furrowed slightly as she poured me a cup of coffee. "Is everything okay with him? Do you need us to drive you?"

I shook my head, taking a hurried sip of coffee to fortify myself for the busy day ahead. "No, it's nothing serious. Just some last-minute stuff." I reply while stuffing in pancakes into my mouth.

As I wolfed down my breakfast, my parents exchanged a knowing glance, their expressions a mix of understanding and concern. Despite the rush, there was a sense of comfort in their presence, a silent reassurance that no matter how hectic life got, they would always be there for me.

ed

With a quick farewell, I grab my bag and dashed out the door, the echoes of my parents' well-wishes trailing after me as I raced towards the next chapter of the day, fueled by the hurried breakfast and the unwavering support of my family.

***

As I approached the school gates, the familiar sight of the sprawling campus came into view, bustling with activity even at this early hour. Students streamed past me, their voices mingling with the crisp morning air as excitement and anticipation filled the atmosphere.

The sun had fully risen now, casting a warm golden glow over the brick buildings and neatly trimmed lawns. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the trees, carrying with it the scent of freshly cut grass and the promise of a new day.

As I made my way through the throngs of students, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nervous energy pulsing through me. Today was the first day back after a long break, and there was an undeniable buzz of anticipation in the air.

With each step, the familiar sights and sounds of the school enveloped me like a comforting embrace. The sound of laughter and chatter filled the air, punctuated by the occasional burst of excitement as friends reunited after weeks apart.

I glanced around, taking in the familiar landmarks—the flagpole standing tall in the center of the courtyard, the rows of lockers lining the hallways, and the colorful banners adorning the walls, each one a testament to the vibrant spirit of our school community.

As I reached the entrance to the main building, I felt a surge of determination wash over me. Whatever challenges awaited me inside those walls, I was ready to face them head-on.

With a deep breath and a quick adjustment of my backpack, I stepped through the doors and into the bustling hallway, ready to embrace the new day and all the possibilities it held.

My name is Evan Everett, I am your average anti-social, teenage boy and this--this is my story.

As I walked through the halls of my school, I couldn't help but notice the vibrant posters plastered on every wall, each one bearing a powerful message against bullying. The air was electric with a sense of purpose and determination as students and teachers alike rallied together for a cause close to our hearts.

The main hallway had been transformed into a sea of blue and yellow, the colors of our anti-bullying campaign, with banners hanging from the ceiling and tables set up to distribute informational pamphlets and wristbands emblazoned with empowering slogans.

As I made my way through the crowd, I felt a surge of pride welling up inside me. This wasn't just another school event; it was a movement, a collective effort to stand up against the injustices of bullying and create a culture of kindness and respect.

At the center of it all stood a stage, adorned with a backdrop of swirling colors and twinkling lights. A group of students had gathered there, preparing to deliver speeches and performances that would inspire and uplift their peers.

As the murmurs of conversation gradually quieted down, the student president, adorned with a confident stride, approached the stage. With each step, her determination radiated, evident in the purposeful movements and the unwavering gaze fixed upon the gathered audience. Her posture exuded a blend of resolve and compassion, embodying the weight of the message she was about to deliver.

As she ascended the steps to the stage, the atmosphere shifted subtly, charged with anticipation. The faint rustle of clothing and the shuffling of feet ceased as all eyes turned towards the student president. The stage lights illuminated her figure, casting a spotlight on her poised demeanor.

With a subtle nod to the audience, the student president took hold of the lectern, her  grip firm yet composed. Her  presence commanded attention, instilling a sense of reverence in the room. As she adjusted the microphone, a hush fell over the audience, signaling the beginning of her speech.

"Good morning, fellow students, teachers, and staff. As your student president, I am honored to stand before you today to address an issue that affects us all: bullying. It's a problem that cannot be ignored, and it's time for us, as students, to take a stand." She begins.

"Bullying is a harsh reality in many schools, including our own. Whether it's physical, verbal, or online, bullying inflicts pain and suffering on its victims, tarnishing the very fabric of our school community. But here's the thing: we, as students, have the power to change this narrative. We are not helpless bystanders; we are agents of change. Together, we can create a school environment where kindness triumphs over cruelty, and where every student feels safe and respected."

"That's why I'm thrilled to announce the launch of our school's anti-bullying campaign. This campaign isn't just about raising awareness; it's about empowering each and every one of you to be part of the solution. We will raise awareness about the different forms of bullying and their impact on individuals and our school community, empowering students to speak up against bullying, to support one another, and to seek help when needed."  She looks at everyone of us, determination washing over her, expression as that of a proud leader.

As the student president concluded their impassioned anti-bullying campaign speech, a wave of silence swept through the auditorium, lingering in the air like a held breath. The weight of their words hung heavy, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of everyone present. Then, like a sudden burst of sunshine breaking through the clouds, the silence was shattered by the thunderous applause that erupted from the audience.

Hands clapped together in unison, creating a symphony of sound that reverberated throughout the room. Cheers and whistles intermingled with the applause, echoing the collective sentiment of admiration and gratitude for the student president's heartfelt message.As the student president concluded their impassioned anti-bullying campaign speech, a wave of silence swept through the auditorium, lingering in the air like a held breath. The weight of their words hung heavy, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of everyone present. Then, like a sudden burst of sunshine breaking through the clouds, the silence was shattered by the thunderous applause that erupted from the audience.

Smiles lit up faces, and eyes shone with pride as the crowd rose to their feet, a spontaneous gesture of respect and appreciation.The applause swelled in intensity, reaching a crescendo as the student president stood before them, humbled by the outpouring of support from their peers. It was a moment of unity, a testament to the power of solidarity and the shared commitment to creating a safer, more inclusive school environment.

As the applause gradually subsided, a sense of camaraderie lingered in the air, binding the audience together in a shared sense of purpose. The student president's speech had ignited a spark within each person present, inspiring them to stand together against bullying and to embrace the values of empathy, kindness, and respect.

In that moment, as the echoes of applause faded into the background, the school community stood united, ready to embark on a journey of change and transformation. And as they looked towards the future, they knew that with their student president leading the way, anything was possible.

Soon we all depart, preparing for our daily routine, classes and activities. I see Marcus ahead, taking to someone who I'd seen earlier. It was the student president. Cammy Rivera.

On getting there, Marcus' sights me , making his company turn also, their heads in my direction. It was like all eyes were on me, which I dreaded.

"Hey Evan! Howdy buddy?" He playfully hits my shoulder while smiling. I smile back. "I guess you were at the campaign."

"Yeah, I was." My gaze shifts to Cammy Rivera and back at Marcus.

"Oh, hey, this is Cammy, the student president, Evan." He introduced her to me as we exchanged eye contact. We shake.

"And this is Evan, Evan Everett. My best man." He says to Cammy while looking at me. I'm very observant.

"Nice to meet you, Evan." She smiles.

"Feeling's mutual." I say.

"Anyways, Marcus sighs along with Cammy and I, " I was just asking our student president here that you would be happy to apply for a post in the students' political affairs." He says, voice sharp unwavering as if he'd practiced this sentence.

I frown my face, confused and utterly disturbed as to why Marcus would say that. I knew he was trying to get me out of my comfort zone but I don't need help with that. It was something personal, something I'd take slow.

"No, I'm okay with being a regular student." I give Marcus a deathly stare as I turn my back and hit a solid figure.

"The fuck is wrong with you, amigo?" I hear a voice say, one I was familiar with quite so well.

Jack Reynolds. He was this School's biggest bully. One that always picked on me especially and this was no different. But I guess this was my fault for the very first time.

"Watch where you're going, F- Variant." I could have stepped on you." He says in a threatening manner. He always calls me that, "F- Variant"  cause it sounded like my last name, Everett.

"Sorry." I say dryly.

"Sorry my ass. Ain't gonna change how lame you're." He says, clearly disgusted with having a conversation with me.

"Hey, you don't get to say that to him, Mr Reynolds. He said he's sorry and that should be the end." Cammy says, sizing up Jack while he sneers at me ignoring Cammy's words.

"I'll be back for you, F- Variant, my eyes are on you." He walks off, hitting me in the process. Something that was natural to me. I've been a victim of Jack Reynolds since the 3rd grade and I never once stood up cause I didn't want to cause a scene. Or let's just say I was less concerned to do that. I was antisocial after all, easy to pick up on.

"...later." that was all I heard Cammy say before she left. I was lost in my thoughts. I'm quite the dreamer after all being the imaginative and probably the most unrealistic person on this planet.

"Really, Evan? You just let it go?" Marcus says, looking at me sternly, waiting for a reasonable answer.

"What? What'd you expect me to do?,"  I adjust my bag, "Punch him in the face and give him a black eye?" I reply.

"Exactly bro. Fuck him up. He ain't got no reason to hit you." Marcus says poking my shoulder. I shift a little.

"I'm not you, Marcus. I don't do shit like that."  I start walking towards my locker. He follows me , trying to walk at the same pace with me.

"But you take shit, Evan. You gotta give it back man or you gonna implode." He says from behind.

"I'd rather implode than give Jack a response." I conclude.

I hear him stop walking  and I turn around, his hands on his waist. "Then I guess my efforts have been in vain." He states.

I frown. "Cammy wasn't the one behind the campaign, was she?" I say dryly folding my hands.

"Ask her that when Jack picks up on you again." He says and walks off.

As the minutes tick by, the anticipation of the final bell grows stronger. The air in the classroom feels charged with a mixture of excitement and restlessness, as if everyone is eager to break free from the confines of the school day.

I steal a glance at the clock mounted on the wall, willing the hands to move faster. My attention drifts in and out of focus, alternating between the teacher's voice droning on and the distant sounds of classmates shuffling papers and shifting in their seats.

The sunlight streaming through the windows has begun to soften, casting a warm glow across the room and lending a sense of tranquility to the otherwise bustling atmosphere. It's a reminder that soon we'll be released from the confines of the classroom and free to enjoy the fleeting hours of daylight.

As the teacher wraps up the lesson, I can feel a collective sense of relief wash over the room. Backpacks rustle as students begin to pack up their belongings, their movements growing more hurried with each passing moment.

I join in the flurry of activity, neatly stowing away my books and papers, eager to escape into the freedom of the afternoon. With one final glance at the clock, I count down the seconds until the bell rings, signaling the end of another day of learning and the beginning of whatever adventures await beyond the school doors.

I couldn't stop thinking of what Marcus had said. It kept on ringing in my head like my alarm only that his was more louder and convincing. But it goes against my ethics; I wasn't one for physical attacks but yet, I knew i had to stand up to him or else...

"... you there?" I blink my eyes, realizing it was the students' President's hands waving at me.

"Uh, hello, Cara!"  I felt words leaving my mouth against its will. She laughed but I didn't see anything funny in what I said.

"It's Cammy, not Cara...Evan."  She very well stressed the words of my name. I guessed that deserved a good laugh. I adjust my bag, "Yeah, Evan , Cammy." She chuckles.

"Well, thank the good Lord, you didn't forget mine." I returned the smile now looking straight into her eyes. Another day to deal with this confusing gender. Hey, I wasn't complaining though.

"Yeah.. " she trails off.

I could have sworn that we remained fixed in our positions for hours cause staring into eyes was like drowning into a pool of endless possibilities.

"So, you headed somewhere?" I heard her break the silence and I was completely fazed all I could say was...

"Nah-"

"Great! There's something I'd love to show you." She'd began walking when she realized I wasn't following so she turns around and jerks her head, " you coming?"

I slam my locker and sigh.

         ***                

It was 6 pm in Crestwood Park and we're currently kicking stones and fiddling with sticks. I still couldn't put a knife as to why Cammy had brought me here or why we're still doing what we're doing at this point but all I could was sigh anytime I'm confused. We've been talking for awhile and well, I've gotten to know her. And now, it was turn to speak.

"You really don't have any idea what a home party is like?" She hit my arm lightly.

I turn my head towards her with a little smile plastered across my face, "Well, I don't do parties so I guess I don't know what a home party is all about."

"But you seem like the social type,"  I cough and that makes her giggle, " Excuse me. Did I say something funny?" I clear my throat, prepping myself to speak to Cammy Rivera, once again.

"Don't judge a book by it's cover. I'm nothing but an introverted, antisocial guy. You won't get any fun from me, Cammy." I assured her.

"Oh, is that so, "Mr. Not so fun guy"? " She inquires. Our hands brush slightly--enough for me to feel the heat radiating from her skin. She faces me, head bent slightly since I'm a little tall for her making it far much easier to see her face clearly.

A smile runs across her soft features, the little sunlight casting its dying light on her skin, glowing brilliantly, resonating with the calm breeze surrounding us. She takes in a deep breath, closing her eyes as I watch her chest heave up and down. She opens them , revealing two rich brown , warm color reminiscent of chocolate captivating and soulful, reflecting her personality and emotions-- something I was nervous and bent on not reading it wrongly.

Her warm hands finds its way to my chest. It was then I realized how much speed it was running on. My breathing had began getting wild and rough. Her stillness made my mind race as confusing began seeping in slowly. Slowly but surely, I place my hands on hers, holding it, guiding it as her other hand finds mine. We lock hands as I let myself sink into her embrace, just this once, my head against hers; The world against us.

"Cammy..." I manage to say through my rugged breath but she shuts me up, her lips against mine, kissing me slowly, her breath on my face. Heat spreads around me causing me to bite her lips. She lets out a soft moan and we share a knowing look. We look up and knew night was upon us. We had to take our separate paths, hoping we'd met again.

I let go of her hands as she watches me with withdraw slowly and into the distant not turning back for once.

                                  ***

"Evan, Evan, wake up. You'll late!" I hear a voice in my sleep followed by a bang on my door and I groan loudly.

"Cammy, stop it, okay? I'll come for the party."

"Evan? Evan it's your mum. Wake the hell up!" I jerk up, turning my head round the room, realizing I had been sleep talking.

"Mum?" I say loudly.

"Evan, get up and go take a shower or I'm coming in. It's late already." I hear footsteps receeding down the stairs.

I run my hands through my hair, "Fuck!" .

After a long shower and weird prep to myself on how to face her today, I slide in my uniform and head downstairs. Fortunately, my mum had packed something for me to eat.

"Hey mum, Dad. Good morning."

They both acknowledge my greeting with my dad grumbling something under the sound of my mum's voice.

" We'll talk about that stuff earlier, Evan. " She looks me in the eye and looks at my Dad with a side eye. "Here, I've packed something for you. Now, off you go. Shoo! "

I nod my head, realizing my Dad had been completely oblivious to what happened. I head for the door and step out just as I see the girl I had a weird encounter with last night. Of course, it's fucking Cammy Rivera. Oh shit, my breakfast falls to the floor, my eyes still fixed on her sitting perfectly still what seems to be her ride. She smiles and I groan inwardly.

"Fuck!"