Kamoenanyae
George Henry Collins has always lived like the world is something to be explored loudly - warm, spontaneous, endlessly talkative, and determined to make friends wherever he goes. Starting high school as a freshman, he promises himself one thing: no drama, no trouble, just a fun and peaceful year.
That promise lasts until he's assigned a seat next to Ash Donovan Hale.
Ash is quiet in the way only someone truly unbothered can be - observant, sharp, strategic with his words. He doesn't speak much, but when he does, it's precise enough to leave George blinking in confusion. Calm where George is chaotic, composed where George is impulsive, Ash seems like the last person who would willingly entertain an overly friendly classmate.
Unfortunately for him, George doesn't give up easily.
What begins as an unlucky seating arrangement slowly turns into stolen glances, reluctant conversations, and a connection that neither of them planned. After all, what happens when an unstoppable optimist decides to befriend someone who prefers distance?
Maybe friendship.
Maybe something more.