Gallager

I was slumped at the back of the classroom, my head buried in my crossed arms, as if simply disappearing for a few minutes could make the day go by faster. The others, meanwhile, were already bustling about at the arrival of the new student. Whispers, curious glances, a few stifled smiles… Nothing that really interested me.

The professor asked for silence and began his lecture. Gradually, the hubbub died down.

I hadn't even looked up.

Then I heard footsteps approaching my table.

A chair slid gently across the floor before someone sat down right next to me. I didn't move. I remained motionless, my face hidden against my arms, pretending not to notice anything.

For a few seconds, there was only the professor's monotonous voice.

Then, a presence approached slightly.

A low voice, almost a whisper, finally broke the silence.

— Hey… is everything alright?

Those few words made me slowly raise my head.

I turned my eyes towards this person whom I hadn't even bothered to look at upon entering the room. Their expression held nothing mocking, nothing forced. Only genuine curiosity… or perhaps concern.

I remained silent for a moment, still half lost in my thoughts, before letting out a faint sigh.

— It depends on what you call "doing well".

Then a slight, almost invisible smile appeared at the corner of my lips.

— Welcome to Montana, by the way. You might find the people here a little… peculiar.