Doorknob Dick

The blare of your alarm clock rips you from sleep, a familiar annoyance on your first day at a new school. Groaning, you silence the infernal device and drag yourself out of bed.

You catch sight of yourself in the bathroom mirror, noting the healthy weight you've finally gained back after the long battle. Your auburn hair is a mess, just above your shoulders. A quick shower helps clear your head.

After getting dressed and grabbing a quick smoothie since your parents are already at work, you head out, bag slung over your shoulder. The walk to the bus stop is short but feels longer as you anticipate the day ahead.

At the bus stop, and then on the bus itself, you feel the eyes of your new classmates on you. Whispers follow you as you find an empty seat at the front, just wanting to get through the day unnoticed. The bus ride is a blur of music and the low hum of conversations you ignore.

Arriving at school, you're one of the first off the bus, grateful for the escape. More stares greet you as you walk towards the main building. Finding the office, you retrieve your schedule and a map.

English first, then Food Technology, Gym after break, and Biology after lunch. Your locker is 1194. You find it easily and stash your bag, grabbing the necessary books. The whispers and stares continue as you do so, the 'new girl' clearly a topic of interest.

The bell rings, signaling your first class. You consult the map and head towards English, hoping for a quiet start.