I looked at myself in the mirror one more time. Icy eyes gazed over me as they scanned for every flaw. I sighed, remembering why I was getting dressed. This was the first day of school. And it was the thing I was dreading most.
After grabbing a small breakfast, I gathered my stuff into my car and drove off as fast as I could. I didn't want my parents waking up before I left.
While I was driving, I focused my thoughts on my music, not school. Song after song of people screaming and singing, crying and resenting quickly took my mind off of what was going to happen.
Too soon did the brick towers of my school came into view. Parents were hugging their teens who couldn't quite drive yet, boys were chest bumping their friends, girls were already gossiping, and teachers were stocking up on their coffee. A perfectly normal way to start the school year.
I parked my car as far away from the regular people as I could and got out. I kept my head held high which is what I would never have done last year. Or ever. I saw my old group of friends gathered in a circle with huge smiles. I tried to walk past them quickly but they caught me.
"Calloway!"
I pursued my lips and spun around. Five familiar faces beamed back at me. I forced a smile back.
"Hey guys."
Jamie came up and gave me a big hug. "I've missed you so much! How was your summer?"
I bit my lip trying to maintain my smile. "Just swell, thanks. You?"
Jamie flipped her blonde hair over her shoulder. "Great! I went to cheerleading camp and this year I feel like I have a great chance at becoming captain!"
I nodded slowly. "Oh that's great," I replied, hoping she didn't catch the sarcasm in my voice.
Zoe threw her arms around me. "I'm so happy to see you! I hate never seeing you in the summer!"
"Um yeah."
Zoe looked me up and down. "New clothes?" she asked warily.
I looked down. I had on a gray V neck with black leggings and an olive jacket.
"Yep," I said crossing my arms.
Zoe gave me a faint smile. "New colors too. And styles..."
The rest of the group had stopped smiling and was staring at me with confusion.
"You okay?" Jamie asked.
I shrugged and walked away to find my locker.