Chapter 5: First day
The morning dawned softly over the city, bathing the streets in a timid golden light. Kaiser opened his eyes with difficulty, his mind still foggy with sleep. He glanced at his digital alarm clock, which already showed an advanced hour. Sighing, he sat up, stretched, and finally got out of bed.
After a quick shower, he headed downstairs to the kitchen, where a faint smell of coffee lingered in the air. He grabbed a bowl of cereal and ate it distractedly while checking his phone. His bus was due in about fifteen minutes, and he didn't want to miss it. Finishing his breakfast, he pulled on his hoodie, grabbed his bag, and left the house at a leisurely pace.
The school bus arrived at the stop just as he turned the corner. He boarded and found a seat by the window. With his earbuds firmly in place, he let the music envelop him as the scenery rolled by. He loved these morning rides when he could be alone with his thoughts, far from the hustle and bustle of the high school that awaited him.
But this tranquility didn't last long.
"Yo, Kaiser!"
He looked up and saw Carter settling into the seat next to him with his usual mischievous smile.
"New school year, new misery," Carter sighed, slumping in his seat.
"As usual," Kaiser replied, removing one earbud.
Carter ran a hand through his hair before saying with a smirk:
"But I can't wait to see the music teacher again."
Kaiser raised an eyebrow.