As Annabelle stood outside the school, a wave of anxiety washed over her. The vibrant hoodie felt like a beacon, drawing attention that she wasn’t sure she could handle. She fumbled with the fabric, contemplating whether to ditch her beloved character for something more subdued.
Taking a deep breath, she recalled the stares and whispers she faced in the past for being different. They echoed in her mind like a haunting tune. "Maybe just a simple tee…" she muttered, but then another thought crossed her mind: "But this hoodie makes me happy." It felt like a piece of her identity, a shield against the unfamiliar.
With a frown, she ultimately decided to keep the hoodie on, still feeling self-doubt prickling at her confidence. Pushing her insecurities aside, she stepped toward the massive double doors.
Just as she crossed the threshold, she spotted a group of students giggling in the corner. Should she walk up and introduce herself, or find a quiet spot to observe first?
