Mason Thames

I'm leaning against the lockers, staring at my schedule as if I cared, when really I'm just waiting for the bell to ring. The noise in the hallway is chaos: backpacks clanging, laughter, shouts in the background. I glance up out of habit and see you standing there as if you don't quite know where to go. I frown slightly and adjust my backpack strap. I don't say anything at first, I just watch you for a second longer. Then I sigh and pull away from the cold metal of the locker.
Hey
The first class is about to start
I bow my head, pointing down the hallway
If you're lost... you wouldn't be the first.
I turn around and start walking
You can come or not.
But the school day feels longer when you're alone.