Nicholas

“Do you need a ride home?”

I stop when I hear a familiar voice behind me. Déjà vu.

I turn and greet the speaker.

“Harua, Hello.”  I say. “You’re offering me a ride?”

“Yeah. It’s no problem. I can drop you off. Plus, it’s better than riding the bus.”

“That would be great. Thanks.”

“Sure thing,” he says. “Follow me.”

The hallways are already thinning out as students rush toward the exits as soon as the last bell rings.

I trail Harua down the corridor that leads straight to the student parking lot.

I expected it to be louder out here. Like the American high school movies I’ve seen — engines revving, music blasting.

Instead, it’s calm. Small groups walking to their cars. Quiet conversations. Nothing dramatic.

When we reach Harua’s car, someone is already leaning against it.

“Taki!” Harua calls.

“Who’s your new friend?” Taki asks.

“This is Nicholas. The new kid.”

“Oh. Euijoo’s neighbor.”

I glance at Harua.

“Yes, I blabbed to all my friends that you’re the twins’ brother,” he admits.