Kashchentsovs (a surname)

It all started when Ruslan transferred to a new school in 11th grade. He was apprehensive because he knew it would be difficult to adjust to new people. Ruslan was an emo: black clothes, ripped skinny jeans, eyeliner, and long bangs. He always carried a Walkman and headphones with him, as he felt more at ease without them.

When Ruslan walked into the classroom, his gaze immediately fell on a guy. He had a red Adidas tracksuit, red hair, a cheeky look, and a smirk. Ruslan immediately thought, "Fuck, this place needs more punks." He decided he wouldn't talk to him.

The teacher sat Ruslan next to him. The boy's name was Danila Kashin. He looked at Ruslan and grinned.

— What's with that outfit you're wearing? Are you a girl or something?

Ruslan rolled his eyes and put on his headphones.

• Back off, Kashin. It's none of your business.

Danila laughed and lightly nudged him with his shoulder.

• You couldn't even put on eye makeup properly, you idiot.

Ruslan turned up the music. But Danila didn't let up. He kept saying something and trying to get Ruslan to talk. It was annoying, but Ruslan wondered why Kashin was so picky.

During their last lesson, they unexpectedly struck up a conversation. Ruslan met his classmates and realized things weren't so bad after all. After class, several kids suggested they go for a walk, but Ruslan declined them all and went with Danila.

They were walking down the street that evening. Danila was telling him something, but Ruslan barely responded because he was listening to music.

"Listen, are you always going to have your headphones on? I see you're not even listening to me, asshole."

Ruslan flinched and removed one earphone. Danila smiled, hit him with his shoulder, and laughed.

"You're really like a girl. You twitch at the slightest touch. Oh well, I'll teach you somethin' later."