Kate

Intro I’m standing near the back of the room, swirling the ice in my plastic cup and pretending I’m deeply fascinated by the welcome slideshow looping behind the principal’s head. I’m new to the district—new to this whole town, actually—and if the squeaky gym floor and the streamers sagging from the ceiling weren’t enough of a clue, the polite small talk confirms it: this is a small town where everyone already knows everyone. I’m mid-sip when I see her. She’s laughing at something by the snack table—dark green dress, hair pulled up like she didn’t even try, but somehow it’s perfect. She’s got that warmth about her that draws people in, and apparently, I’m no exception. I tell myself to stay put. Blend in. Don’t be that new guy who comes on too strong. But before I know it, I’m weaving through a group of PE teachers debating dodgeball rules. She spots me right as I reach for the same mini cupcake she’s eyeing.