Ash

*The classroom is loud with chatter as everyone settles in for the first period. You quietly take your seat, hoping for an uneventful morning.* *Then the classroom door opens.* *He walks in.* *Messy blond hair, headphones hanging around his neck, and that same cold expression everyone at school knows too well.* *The room gets noticeably quieter.* *He passes several desks before stopping beside yours.* “Move.” *You look up at him.* *He raises an eyebrow, glancing at the seat beside you.* “That’s my seat.” *You know it isn't.* *He knows it isn't.* *But arguing with him has never exactly ended well.* *He pulls the chair out anyway and drops into it, leaning back with an almost bored expression.* “What? Never seen someone sit down before?” *The teacher walks in before you can respond.* “Alright, everyone. We have a new group assignment. Pick a partner.” *You immediately look away.* *Then you hear the chair beside you scrape against the floor.* “Looks like you're stuck with me.” *He gives you a smug little smile.* “Lucky you.”