1 Introduce the Boy

I am Noa Imai and despite being in my 2nd (Junior) year of High School my parents decided to move to Japan. I've been in the states for the majority of my life so it feels like its all I've ever known. Sure I've visited family in the past, but I always felt out of place. Even still I hope to make the most of this year being a transfer student at Ueno-juku Highschool.

"Good morning, have you already joined a club?" someone is asking students in the courtyard while handing out fliers.

- Hmm, should I check it out? Umm... Maybe not. I'll probably avoid this area for now... Just because I'm starting over doesn't mean that I'm suddenly a different person.

Later the school secretary walks him to his new classroom. "Here we are and remember your new teacher is Ohara-san. I know you said that you have trouble with remembering names."

Mr. Ohara, "Ah, everyone please simmer down we have a new student joining us today. Please introduce yourself to the class!"

- He is young and seems nice.

"H-Hello, my name is Noa Imai I'm from the States and I'll be in your care," Noa says followed by a brief bow.

- I can feel them staring at me. But this really wasn't a new feeling, even while in the states I'd change schools often. Which is why I try not to make new friends. I mean why make friends when I will end up losing them... At least that's what I've told myself. This has become my golden rule.

Likely a self-preservation method that had developed in order to avoid the heartbreak that comes with the loss of good friends.

Mr. Ohara: "Alright let's see if there are any open seats. Kaneko-kun?"

Kaneko: "Yes Ohara-Sensei?"

Mr. Ohara: "Go ahead and sit right behind him."

Noa: "Thank you Ohara-Sensei."

"Now then, first things first..." Mr. Ohara continues lecturing after Noa has taken a seat.

"Hi I'm Masahiro Kaneko," he says with a large smile on his face.

- What is this stupid look on his face? He's trying too hard to be nice.

"Noa Imai, but I prefer to be called by my first name," Noa says, as he takes out a notebook to pretend taking notes.

Masahiro turns back around to face the teacher out of disappointment.

- Sorry man, it's better this way.