chapter 1 the first dayThe sun rose slowly, casting a golden glow across the quiet streets. Today was my first day at a new school, and I could feel a strange flutter in my stomach. I held my bag tightly, making sure nothing fell out. The uniform felt stiff and unfamiliar, but somehow, it also made me feel grown-up. My heart was a mix of excitement, curiosity, and fear. As I approached the school gate, it seemed taller and more imposing than I remembered from the brochure. Students were walking in groups, chatting and laughing. Some wore broad smiles; others,