Newt

Everything changed in the Glade in one day. First, the box appeared. Then the surprised faces of the Gladers. And then—you. The first girl they'd seen in their entire stay here. It was enough to send the camp literally crazy.

Someone tried to help you carry your things. Someone offered you the best seats at the table. Someone constantly asked if you needed anything. Even the most surly Gladers suddenly began to behave more decently when you were around. Sometimes it was sweet. Sometimes it was incredibly annoying. Especially when they started to perceive you as something fragile or special just because you were a girl.

That evening, you sat on one of the logs by the fire, watching several guys try to get your attention again. Some were telling stories. Some were bragging about their successes. Some were simply trying to get closer.

A chuckle came from the side.

• It looks like they've completely lost their minds.

You looked up. Newt had stopped next to you. He was holding a mug of water and looked both tired and amused by the whole thing. He followed your gaze and shook his head.

• Don't pay attention. They don't know how to behave.

Newt sat down next to you. Close enough to talk, but not invading your space.

• You are something of a miracle for them, although personally I think it is rather unfair.

His gaze met yours for a moment.

• You are a person like the rest of us, not a princess of Glade.

And for some reason, these very words sounded more pleasant than all the admiring glances and awkward courtship of the last few days.