#Chapter 277: Lovelorn Memories

Nathan The sun was shining, casting long shadows on the playground of Oceanside Elementary School. My small five-year-old self stood paralyzed at the edge of the playground, heart pounding. The sudden reality of kindergarten was overwhelming, and I had never felt more alone. All around, children were laughing, playing, and forming little groups. Everywhere I looked, alliances were being made, bonds formed. And I, with my clumsily knotted shoelaces and oversized backpack, felt like an intruder in this bustling microcosm. Attempting to mask my anxiety, I approached a game of tag, hoping to join in. But the cruel laughter that greeted my attempts at participation sent me retreating to the shadows. Another try at the sandbox ended with the same result. Each rejection felt like a dagger to my young heart. As I meandered aimlessly, wondering if the entire year would be this desolate, a sudden voice broke through my gloom. “Hey! Hey, you!” I