Somehow I woke up to my mom shaking me.

“Wake up son! This is your stop!” I yawned loudly looking to notice we were in a parking lot of what is a large, ancient looking school. That brochure wasn’t lying when it showed the background of the front cover. It was in black and white! I can’t imagine it has remained this archaic for so long yet here we are. “Your father already took your luggage to your room, he should be back to say goodbye. A teacher said he wished to talk with you briefly before you settle in your room. School officially starts tomorrow, but only for you to find your classes and some other things.” I was still half asleep and just let her talk regardless if I was following her or not. “Your teacher will fill you in on it all. Oh speak of the devil, here comes dad!”

He came up and gave me a bear hug like I was three. His power and his stance hasn’t changed. He was able to pick me up with ease and smother me with his love.

“If you need us for anything! I mean anything!! Call your mother,” he said grinning at me with his thousand dollar smile. They both truly did love me. I will miss seeing them each day but I will try to keep in touch. I would feel bad if I didn’t.

“I will dad.” Just like me he was terrible with goodbyes and just got into the car. Mom started crying and made me as I was finally feeling that sorrow I thought about the other day. Did not last long before I was in tears too.

We both cry in each other's arms for what feels like an eternity. She kissed my forehead and held me again for a few moments before breaking off.

“We have to head off and meet our agent, we love you so very much! Call us often! LOVE YOU!!!” she yelled as she got in the car, and did not stop waving goodbye until they were gone and well out of sight. Which I can guarantee dad told her to stop as the school likely was out of distance. What a bunch of goofballs. I am proud to be their son.

And with that, nearly most my life just whisked away. It was just me, this school and a room full of luggage. I wipe my eyes and hold myself high. First impressions man, first impressions. I am a hero!

I looked around the campus, which, for its size, is empty. Everyone must be inside their respective dorms or whatever. I figured the man standing by the gate was who I needed to meet.

He is a tall slender man with a finely colored suit. He gives a polite bow as I near, which I return feeling strange as that is not normal for me.

“Mr. Rains is it?” I nodded affirming it was me. “Good good good!” I looked at the guy like he was crazy as he spoke so loud I figured God would smite him if he wasn't speaking a hundred decibels. Maybe he does so in case people are hard of hearing? I will be after this conversation I am sure. He gives me a folder which I instinctively open… and ignore nearly everything he said as I flip through everything.

“Yup,” I just stated closing the folder and looking up to the man.

“I am sorry, it was not a yes or no question?” he responded, puzzled.

“Oh what?” I replied with a question and the game of questions began. I am no loser.

“Did you not hear me?” he pondered nervously, his other personality seeming to have left. Please don’t start talking louder. Please.

“No, was it something I should have heard?” I replied not wishing to lose this game, as if it matters at all. Or if he even realized he was playing. Wait, did that even count? I kind of answered his question but then morphed it into my own. Is that legal in this game? As if it matters. I am really basically playing against myself with an unwilling participant. What a way to start you idiot.

“I believe it was, wouldn’t you think?” he nervously rubbed his neck not seeming to know what to do in this predicament.

“I don’t know what to think, I never heard the question, could you repeat it?” I kept soldiering on, poorly. I hope there are no cameras or this will be the talk of the year.

“Sorry! I must not have been speaking loud enough, you are not hard of hearing are you? I am sorry I should have taken notes!” I shook my head, disappointed as I thought he wasn’t going to ask a question.

“I am not, do you think I am?” I rebuttal soldering on.

“I don’t! Apologies if I sound like I do, did you wish for me to repeat myself?” I caught myself not responding with yes, which he must have thought I was insane as I am meddling with my thoughts so hard before speaking… there goes that whole first impression thing. I am playing this game of questions with a faculty member. I am bound to be the talk of lunch today if not even longer. Still, does he even notice?

“Yes if you would not mind.” I gave up… he is too good and I didn’t wish to keep standing here awkwardly. To think he just won a game he didn’t even know he was in. For shame.

“I asked what brought you to this school.” Thinking back quickly I realized he must have been really confused as he spoke to someone not listening then got a reply to this question with a ‘yup’. Man, I must look like an idiot right now.

“Oh, my parents got a job transfer.” He looks a bit distraught. Guess that wasn’t the expected answer?

“Well, I am certain they informed you about our school, yes?” I shrugged, pulling out the ‘beautiful’ brochure I was given.

“Just this.”

“Oh my…” he responds, holding the back of his neck and stiffing up. That face says it all. “That was not the best on our part.”

“Well not everyday you read a thesis as propaganda to go to a school,” I joked, and like the sky, it was over his head.

“Sorry.” I shrugged again, not really his fault… unless of course he designed this horror. The demon!

“It is fine, I suppose you can tell me a bit about the school?” Oh god did I just start the questions again? Well it was only one question… I need to get a grip, am I this nervous?

“It is a special school…” he began. I nodded curiously. “I am sure the nurse can tell you more. I must be off, I just wished to meet you and give you your paperwork. Also when you get settled in, check your email, which is in the papers, for everything you’ll need to know for the first day.” In a flash the man was gone before I even knew who he was. Goodbye champ, I will get the next round for sure. I wonder if all teachers were like him?

Special school, huh? Seems I will fit in well after that conversation of doom. I wondered why, though. I walk aimlessly seeing as that guy never showed me anything here. Most of the entire campus was grass as well with some trees and patches of flowers. I jumped onto one of the walkways and just waltzed around until I found a bench to sit on. I pulled the folder out again and began to read it more intently.

After flipping through a few papers I find a tiny envelope with a keycard in it. There was a room number on it and with any luck that was my dorm room. I tried to find a map inside the folder but to no success. I feel like I am the needle in a haystack. Is that even an accurate saying? How can something so big and empty still be difficult to navigate? Also where are the signs to indicate where I need to go? This is all perplexing.

I get up looking around for a map or anything but I see a large building that numerous students seem to be entering with luggage and with any luck that was my dorm. I proceed over, putting the folder under my arm. Second impressions, Claude… you got this.

The building is rather large and old looking. This campus must be old seeing as most of the architecture was ancient looking. Not going to lie though, I kind of liked it. Something different from the usual, always refreshing. It does look expertly crafted and all as well, very eye pleasing. Would suck to be here and not be able to enjoy this view. There is something about older aesthetics that are always pleasing.

I go up to the door and hold it for a few people entering, they gave either an appreciative nod or a quick thanks. I entered after about four others and someone took the door for me. I noticed my room number was 4-7, and assuming that means the fourth floor. I located a staircase right near the entrance and ascended. I would have tried to socialize a little but seeing as I wanted to at least find my room and get acquainted with it, I didn’t stop to talk. And being honest with myself, I am not that sociable. I only have one real friend anyhow, can I fit in more?

I thought after a few moments I may have realized why it was called special. I walked past a few students with missing limbs, saw a group signing to each other and then almost ran into a blind guy. Is this a disabled school or something? and if so, why was I here… or at least allowed in? Did my parents know something I didn’t? Questions began to race, but I did not need this right now. I attempt to not let it get to me and I journey to my room. The door is closed with a sticky note on by the door handle.

Love you, DAD. At least that is what I think it says. The handwriting would insult chickens to exclaim it as theirs. But that is unarguably my father’s writing.

I grinned a little nonetheless and took it off. I brought the keycard out of my wallet and slid it. A small ding and green light glows and I open the door. The room was stuffy and small, basically what you would expect from a dorm room. Both of my bags are next to the bed, which is right next to a small table and chair and across from that was a standing wardrobe and a dresser. That was the extent of the room besides a large window and board to put things on. I stick the note dad left for me on it for now and toss the folder on the table. Figured I would just unpack for the time being.

I took out my clothes and put them in the dresser, pulled out my handheld game system and sat it on the table and plugged it into the outlet to charge. I did the same with my laptop and as I was finishing up there was a knock on my door.

I turn and quickly rush to it. Not certain who could possibly be there as it seems this room was only large enough for one person it is undoubtedly a neighbor or someone lost. I open the door and am greeted by a guy smiling ear to ear. He was a bit taller than me and even in his hoodie I could see his muscles. This guy is ripped. I hope he isn’t here to rob me.

“Hey!” he said loudly and put a hand out. Is everyone on this campus loud? Or does it have to do with the difficulty of hearing? Should I be talking louder, more clearly? Questions begin to flood my mind again. “What’s up?” he roared again, still smiling an infectious smile.

“Hello?” I responded by taking his hand in a firm shake. He could crush it with the strength he is giving. I grimace a bit and try to remain friendly.

“The names Tyler, but you can call me T, or Ty, or whatever you want man! I am in 4-6 so we will probably see a lot of each other. I figured I would introduce myself.”

“Nice to meet you Tyler, I am Claude.”

“Got it man, cool name!” He is extremely energetic. Something about him was like a human coffee. Just energizes you.

“Is this your first year here?” I asked hoping he wouldn’t be so I could get directions. He seems nice enough, though.

“Ya man, I am excited!” he did a few shadow punches in the air. For an excessive amount of time and with some actual ferver. “Can’t wait to join the track and field club and the boxing club.”

“Oh clubs?” I think out loud like an idiot. Of course this school would have clubs. But wait… BOXING?!

“Yeah man! YOU HAVE to join one, it is like an unwritten rule I think.” I rubbed my chin. A strange rule at that. I doubt what he said is true but it would not hurt to humor myself and look into one.

“I will check them out.” Would I though?

“Oh?” I noticed he glanced behind me. I turned following his gaze. Is something weird, I wonder. What could possibly? THE NOTE!

“What?” I said defensively.

“You use O-Chat-Ing?” I nodded, seeing it clearly on my laptop. Oh just that okay. Wait he can see that far and well? Now I am jealous. I have always had fairly poor vision… that couldn’t be why I am here though… could it?

“Yes?” Again with the dang questions. Why is this bothering me so much? Why am I so focused on something so stupid.

“Dude, what is your username! We should totally be friends!” I laugh, unable to hold myself back. Something about this guy just makes you happy, I can’t discern why, he just does. As I said, a walking coffee in human form. I think this school might be alright if more people are like him… but slightly calmer… and quieter.

“CRains20, capital C and R but I do not think it matters but no space between. Also it is just the number, not spelled out or anything.”

“Awesome man! I will add you tonight, you will see it from T-Dog.” The man actually spells it out letter by letter, including the dash. Guess I can’t laugh, I just did the same thing. “I need to head off though man, nice meeting you!”

“Likewise, see ya.” With that he is gone as quick as he was here. I turned back, entering my room and closing the door. I hope everyone here is that friendly. My thoughts race for a second, I wonder if he had a disability? And what if that… I really shouldn’t pry into things though, I am sure if people are comfortable they will tell me.

I let it slide as if they did not mention anything I figure just let it go. No sense prying for useless knowledge right? Or is it useless? What if they have some condition that is life threatening if I do something wrong… God this is going to be absolute hell. I slump down on the bed and reach to grab the laptop, carefully so I do not pull the cords out. I simply navigated around on some sites and played a few free games before turning it off and grabbing the folder again. I then remember to check my email. I did after finding the right paper and started double checking all the emails I had. It didn’t take long and my stomach grumbled. I should probably find where to eat. I am starving. My stomach crying again confirmed this.

Nothing much of help so I guess I would go for a walk. I was bound to find something. With my thoughts in order and wallet ready to spend, I made my way out. I made sure to lock the door, the last thing I need is to get robbed on my first day. I quickly looked at my phone for anything nearby and there was a small town just outside of the campus with some food and shops.

I put a hand in my pocket to look casual and cool of course. I left the building as quickly as I could and followed a group of students who more than likely knew where they were going. Hopefully.

They all left the gate but stopped, crap now what do I do? Like a socially awkward introvert I pulled out my phone to act like I am doing something productive. How pathetic. Just going to stand here and look at my home screen. Nothing weird here.

Luckily they just talked about where to go to eat, and all my worries began to vanish then as they started to move forward again they mentioned some place, Shack Liquid? Unable to care, I followed them hoping it was some sort of place to eat and judging by the name it must have a nice selection of drinks.

A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

I have to try my best to keep my distance and not look like a stalker. I am sure if there was only one or two I would have attempted to join but seeing it was nearly ten people I just stayed to myself. That’s just a crowd at this point.

I am so focused on them that I did not even realize we had arrived. And switching between blankly staring at my phone when someone would look back or glance around. A large neon sign stating ‘Shack Liquid’ pulsed, which I can not tell if it was because of a faulty line or if it was supposed to do that. Either way at least the place looks charming. It has a sort of Hawaiian vibe to it, very tropical. I dig it.

The building itself is located on the outskirts of the town we have arrived at. Luckily it seems large and not too far from the campus. A convenient little place to come and chill. They all enter and I take a moment before doing so as well. It looks like a bar of sorts and at this point I am so hungry I would eat the glass my drink came in. I shrugged and entered.

“Welcome to Liquid! Just one today, sir?” I am almost tackled by a hostess when I go inside. I nodded. They have some really vibrant attire here. Bright hawaiian shirts and skirts.

“Y-yes,” I replied nervously, listening to the loud inside. My thoughts were confirmed it was a bar but I was taken to another side that was a little less loud and more… ‘restauranty’? If that is even a word… More booths and sitting areas with tables rather than bar tops.

“You can sit here, a waitress will be with you shortly!” With that she leaves before I even have a chance to thank her. Must be busy, considering all the students most likely come here and school starting soon, it makes sense. Guess everyone wants one last little party before the grind begins. I can understand.

Curiosity got the better of me and I began to glance around. I see the group I followed being rowdy across the room. I then saw a girl walking slowly and almost into the group. Well this isn’t going to be good. Didn’t expect entertainment with the dinner as well.

“Hey watch where you are going, ya blind or something?!” One of the guys ratted at her. I felt bad for the girl but did not wish to get involved… until I saw the cane. Wait… she is blind? She has to be a student at Vanderhall too. Oh man…Something inside me stirs and I prepare to take action. Hero time? Yeah, hero time.

“Oh you have my sincerest apologies,” I heard the girl say. I started making my way off the bench seat I am placed at but am cornered in by the waitress… talk about bad timing. She gave me a sort of awkward look as I scooted over toward her.

“Sir?” I get up regardless.

“One minute.” I brushed past her and began making my way over. Things were heating up a bit and most of the table either stood or was mocking her.

“You deaf too? Leave us! Damned first years thinking they own this joint. You ain’t gonna like it if I see you bumping into us again! We rule here, get lost!” By this time the group noticed my advances.

“And you would be?” one said downing a shot. Are they even old enough to drink? Guess that doesn’t matter at the moment.

“Just here to get her.” As if the hero's blood ran through me I took her hand gently into mine. It was incredibly soft and warm. She is completely caught off guard but nonetheless looking slightly thankful. But just kinda. Well, here goes nothing. I get ready to move toward my table but the bigger oaf lectures me again standing up, nearly a foot taller than me too. I feel a chill run down my spine.

“She does that again, I will kick both your ass’s! Ya hear me!” I nodded. “Sod off!”

“Right right, sorry!” I am not certain what just happened but time seemed to stop again as I was now sitting looking at the girl I rescued from that small event. The waitress did not know what to say so she simply went to what she knew. Did none of that bother her? Or I can only imagine this happens a lot. What a downer.

“What can I get you to drink?” I quickly looked at the menu and noting how it was not in braille or… blind friendly, I read the names off slowly hoping the girl would catch on. Guess I was the only one here so it makes sense there was no braille menu. How the hell am I being so smooth right now, though? Am I still in hero mode? It was as if someone was a minute ahead of me and choosing my actions. Please don’t wear off.

“Unsweetened tea please,” she murmured, clearly looking embarrassed as all hell.

“Dr. pepper.” I love the doc. I normally don’t drink soda but seeing it on the menu hit my wanting stage. All in moderation.

“Of course! I will return shortly.” The waitress was quick to leave, considering what just happened, can’t blame her.

“Umm… so….” I started. How in the actual hell do I even go about talking to her now?

“I...I can’t thank you enough.” I remembered for a moment the girl was there… and now kind of stuck. I hope to God she was here to eat and not trying to leave and I just pulled her in like a blind date… did I just really think that? Oh god what have I done to myself now.

“It was no problem, bullies are everywhere it seems, even here. You weren’t, uhh… leaving by chance were you?” I added attempting to hold up in conversation. The way she looked in my general direction with her clouded eyes was… unsettling for the time. Still there was magnificent beauty to them too. Not to mention her golden flowing hair was very pretty. Thank god she can’t see me just ogling her right now. Oh that is kind of messed up, huh?

“No, in fact I went to the restroom to wash my hands and get seated. I just arrived here a few minutes ago. Are you by chance new here as well?” she questioned, defensively as if not wanting to overstep boundaries. I think at this point I was the one who broke the boundaries straight up by just kidnapping her.

“I just got transferred yesterday actually,” I responded, not worrying about spilling information about myself. Small idle chit chat. Let’s start here. Man if only real life had dialogue options… or quick saves.

“Likewise, I happened to be moved here due to… unforeseen circumstances.” You can’t say that! Come on, I try my best to not laugh at the unintended pun. Why am I finding fun in her disability?! Get it together! I opened my mouth to question what those circumstances were but stopped myself also the fact she said unforeseen like… come on. I get stuck on that again. Luckily I would have looked like an idiot but she had no way of knowing. Is that rude? This is all way more than I bargained for. I had hoped to just help her on but now she is sat here. I am not sure who I feel worse for…

“Life tends to be cruel,” I said shrugging. I noticed she tilts her head as if she is listening to something. Before I could ask, the waitress returned. That is superhuman… all I hear is the buffoons from early shouting and the music playing a bit too loudly.

“Tea for you… and… the Dr. Pepper for you sir. Are we ready to order?” I realized again the futility of this little episode.

“One moment if you would.” She gave a sly grin most likely overthinking this situation but I didn’t care. She must have prepared herself during her little drink run for this interesting evening. Also where the hell is another menu?! Before I could ask for one she was already off to another table. Helpful.

“I am thankful you picked up on helping me with the menu. I am unable to read this.” How should I proceed? I resort back to my gaming and realize that feels just like some sort of RPG dialogue option. The blind girl can’t read her menu, what do you do? I again try to not laugh as my mind is currently in overdrive between being nervous as all hell and just trying to not be a complete weirdo. Well that already failed in many ways. Guess we are winging it.

“Anything specific you enjoy eating? I could read some things off for you,” I suggested. She simply nodded, her blonde bangs bobbing slightly. It is astounding how someone who can’t see has such vivid beauty. I have never actually been on a date before and now here am I with this gorgeous woman… man I need to stop! Back to the moment. Come on now.

“Fish or salad are my normal pickings.” It is odd how everything she said seems so reserved as if thought beforehand whereas I just kind of acted. “But fish is expensive…” She trailed off.

“Don’t worry about the price, I’ll cover you.” She retracted herself.

“I couldn’t!” Again making a face and shrugging, noticing the nonsense of the gesture I reassured her.

“You can pick up the next tab.” Her face reddened a bit and I again realized what an idiot I am. Smooth Claude, smooth. I just noticed again I make a move acting as if we are going to be doing this again. God this is difficult. Can I lower the difficulty setting somewhere, please? How do people do this… I have gone out with my best friend a few times when we were back in late middle school and early high school… but this is just a whole other game. How long can I keep this up…

“How bold of you.” I waved my hand, still unable to grasp that this girl in front of me was blind. As in can’t see, proceeding to just keep doing these gestures is only going to drive me mad. But it is a habit! We are habitual creatures, thanks God.

“Sorry!” She smiled and let out a giggle, and I could tell she was teasing, her usual reserved self seeming to be gone and the wall she had lowered. That is a bit of a relief. Perhaps it is best if I just take this in stride. Nothing serious, just two random strangers eating together. Let’s get to know each other. I suppose it starts after food.

“It is quite fine, any sort of seasonal salad?” I began to scan the menu nervously remembering the situation.

“Here's one, a mix of greens, nuts, and seasonal fruits with a refreshing vinaigrette bound to freshen your taste buds… sound alright?” I said reading the small description, flavor text included. She nodded. Is it judgmental to be upset that she can do that when I can’t? Is that abilist… or something?

“Interesting to see an authentic choice in such a place,” she added. I quickly scan the menu for myself and figure a steak bowl

sounds fantastic. To be fair, food sounds good, just anything edible. I am so hungry! The waitress appears again at the perfect time, well actually a good time this time.

“So?” she asks, pulling out a pad and pencil.

“The fruit salad and a steak bowl please,” I ordered for the two of us. She noted it with a smile.

“How would you like your steak?”

“Medium well, please,” I responded.

“Right away!” I leaned back in my seat hoping that the rest of this dinner would go much smoother than it had been up to this point. I am attempting to think what to talk about when the girl lets out a tiny yawn. I then realized when you can’t see anything, dead silence… Well silence at the table must be dreadfully boring. Hell, I am dreadfully boring. What can we even talk about? No chance she plays video games. Doubt she has touched a board game. Maybe reading?

“Tired?” I instinctively ask as she covers her mouth a little embarrassed.

“It has been a while since I slept in. Life can be cruel as you said.” I again had to stop myself from prying. I decided the best course of action is to change the subject. Let’s start simple. Character names.

“Mind if I ask your name? I figure we should at least know what to call one another.”

“Whitney.” I was a little speechless and she gave a concerned look. “Is it a weird name?” I waved it off, before realizing that it wasn't working. Why must I suffer like this? Cruel fates.

“No no! I was just impressed.” I stopped there realizing that sounded super weird. She did not seem to mind.

“And how about yourself?” Damn it dad, you said ask a girl a question and they will talk your ear off. You lied! Well I did only ask her name.

“Claude” I shrugged for about the third time realizing the futility of this repeated action. Just stop the gestures, man! She gives an amused giggle I found myself smiling at.

“You sound lovely. An impressive name as well.” Good thing she can’t see… Well now that sounds horrible, but I really got embarrassed right there. Also did she just mock me?

“Umm… thanks?” How do you respond to that though? Is this my lack of social skills playing an effect or am I just bad with girls? Also is that her way of saying I look good? Can you sound handsome? Is that a thing? Is she blindly checking me out? Should I be embarrassed or complimented? Sweet lord this is going to be rough. I have been here for like a handful of hours and everything is already super difficult. Hopefully time will make this all better.

“I know it is boring compared to something as beautiful as Whitneyi.” She puffs her cheeks out a bit nervously. I then realized again I made advances without thinking. If the person controlling me could not have me say such forward things, that would be great. Because if they ever decide to stop, I am going to be a fool. It is like I am trying to force her into something. I don’t even know if she has a boyfriend, or fiance, or husband or… Great, now I have a new worry. Angry partner.

“Claude is a wonderful name.” How trivial a conversation this is. To think a conversation on names is what is working. Guess dad wins this round.

“Do you have any hobbies or anything?” I felt like breaking the ice that is this glacier slowly building. I was generally curious as well to see if someone without sight still did… normal like things. Man, my mind is evil. Normal things? Come on, she is blind, not an alien.

“I tend to read a lot and enjoy spending time in the woods.” An odd combination of things to do at this time. I want to write and publish books after just commenting on how literature is dying. “How about you?” As I should have known she would turn the question to me. Should I really let my nerdiness be shown? Ah what the hell. Shoot your shot, right? Wait, no FRIENDS just FRIENDS.

“I play videogames… like a lot. I also used to play tabletop with an old group of friends.” I let out a disappointed sigh without realizing. “But recently I just kind of do my own thing and write.” She raised an inquisitive brow when I mentioned I write. Of course little effect had on playing games, as to be expected.

“Have you published anything yet?” I shook my head and let silence fall before realizing my mistake. “Sorry! I didn’t mean to pry!” I tried to laugh but I am just over-calculating this conversation.

“No, it is not easy unfortunately and I want to make sure it is 110% ready before I do.” She smiled.

“I would be more than willing to read it and give you my opinion… if that is alright by you.” I gave a few moments pause.

“Uh… how would… umm you?” I am really showing how awkward it is for me to talk to a blind person, let alone a blind girl, to be honest, just talking to a girl. In all seriousness, talking. This is so much harder face to face than texting. I can spend hours just messaging back and forth on O-Chat-Ing, but in person it is such a different style.

“We could find a way. I enjoy reading different tales, what do you write?” God how do I keep going? Soldier on Claude! Go go go! Keep up the good fight! At least until food arrives and stuffing your face takes priority.

“I have tried my hand at everything, but right now I am doing a thriller.” I said confidently in my abilities. She smiled warmly again. I can’t help but begin to be mesmerized by her beauty. The smile she gives brings out her lovely features. Her eyes are cloudy but still have a gorgeous emerald blue color. Her hair seems done up into a bun but her bangs are fairly long with a bit of a curl to them. Her hair must be very long because even the bun has some hair sticking out and goes well past her shoulders.

“It seems food is here.” No one is there but in a moment's time sure enough they appear. I am impressed by her hearing. I guess when you are missing one of your senses your others really do heighten. Luckily food is here and I can use it as a new conversation. Our respective plates were given and the waitress made sure all was good before leaving. I am going to dig in since I was so hungry but I caught myself mesmerized once more by Whitney preparing to eat.

She deftly hovers over the utensils until grabbing the fork and knife. She taps the edges of the plate and felt if anything was too close to the edge then begins to cut the food up a little smaller than it is. As creepy as it sounds I am glad she can’t see me eyeing her. Something about this is just so fascinating. She does it all with relative ease and with precision, and I can see and still miss my mouth when trying to take a bite.

“Everything alright?” she asks, looking towards me.

“Oh, uh yeah, why?” Play. It. Cool. You were not just checking her out while she prepared her food. Preying on the blind girl who can’t see you being weird.

“I didn’t hear you eating so I assumed something was wrong.” Good lord, this is like superhuman. Well we are right next to each other. I think that is her way of showing she knows I am watching her without just flatly stating such.

“Oh I am so sorry, I was just…” I was attempting to think of an excuse but she knew the truth. Can I even redeem myself at this point?

“Interested in watching me eat?” she stated, as I figured. I swallowed a lump in my throat. Her name embarrassed her but me completely eyeing her eating is something else? What?

“Err…” She let out another giggle.

“It is fine, have you not met anyone else with a vision impairment?” I shake my head assuring myself and her, I am an idiot when it comes to this kind of interaction. Vision impaired? Is that even viable? She is completely blind! I suppose technically it means impaired but like… I don’t even know.

“Nope, sorry...” I go about the task of eating this delicious looking bowl of steak and other goodies, to avoid this growing awkwardness.

Dinner was extremely quiet and I leaned back happily now content and full. I wipe my face with the napkin and slide the bowl and trash towards the edge of the table for a busboy or waitress to come by and pick up. Whitney also looked pleased with her meal as she dabbed her mouth.

“Want some dessert?” I offered out of pure kindness. I am sure we are both too full but I thought asking that would be a good segue.

“I couldn’t, I am rather full.” She said smiling, and combining her things much like I did. I began to fumble with my wallet to pay and am getting ready to leave. Whitney follows suit, sliding out of the booth cautiously. “Thank you very much. This was nice. I am glad people like you exist.”

I rubbed the back of my neck trying to not sound overly modest. “Oh, it was fine. I am sure anyone would have helped you out if I didn’t.”

“I am grateful regardless. Have a pleasant night!” She walked off, cane tapping all the way. I feel a little fuzzy as that was quite a nice experience. And perhaps the first… date I had ever been on, if I am considering this one. I thought on that for a moment. Yes, it was a date. I paid for the meal and got a smirk from the hostess who wished me a good night. I just awkwardly smiled back and left.

I go back to the dorm room as it is really late. I open the door to my room and notice just as Tyler mentioned, I had a notification on my O-Chat-Ing.

>T-Dog wishes to be friends.

-Accept-

Hey Tyler.

I am just going to leave him that and be done but I noticed he is already typing. Did he already accept and begin wanting a conversation? No chance he has been sitting there waiting this entire time… I wait to see what is up.

>Yo man! What’s up?

I laugh to myself. Even though I was only reading messages on a computer I could still feel his energy flowing through the letters. As if the words were shouting in Tyler fashion.

Not too much, just got back from Shack Liquid.

>DUDE! That is my favorite spot! I love it!

Eat there a lot I assume?

>Yeah man, the food is great isn’t it? What did you have?

A steak bowl.

>Far out! Never did try that but their Liquid Burger is de-licious!

That sounds odd. But it could be something new to try.

>It tastes amazing! Not as the name implies!

Does the guy end every sentence with an exclamation point or am I just imagining them as him yelling in excitement? Also if he is new here how many times has he eaten there for it to be a common occurrence? Maybe he lived nearby or had a chain near his old place.

I will keep note. It is late though man, I think I am going to bed.

>No problem, dude! Night! Good luck with your classes!

Same to you, man.

I shut my laptop down and begin to get changed. I opened the wardrobe to double check everything. I remember glancing and seeing we have strict uniforms. I didn’t mind as it will help keep me from looking like an idiot. I do not keep up with fashion very well so if we are forced to wear something, it isn’t my fault!

I jumped into the sheets of the bed and felt the cold from them. Whatever passes for room temperature here is not the norm. The smell as well from the generic detergent on both the uniforms and the sheets is a bit much. I could stomach it though as it was bound to get better after I got used to it. Time to sleep.

What a day.