CHAPTER 1

  Life is so boring. Every day is the same, go to school, come home, and py video games. That’s all I do. I don’t have anything else to fill my time—and no friends. Basically, I’m a shut-in. Everyone at school thinks I’m clueless, and honestly, they’re right. The only thing I’m good at is gaming. But even that is just a way to escape.

  Now, I have to move back in with my parents because I can’t afford rent anymore. It’s kind of pathetic. At this point, I might as well stay here forever. At least I won’t have to deal with the pressure of being an adult.

  Anyway, I’m heading to the store for a quick snack before I crash for the night. Nothing special. Just trying to get through the evening.

  Wait—what’s going on? A robbery?

  I freeze. I should just leave. I’m no hero. But if there are cameras and I run away... I’ll be the coward who did nothing. I’ve been invisible my whole life.

  Ugh, fine. I guess I have to help.

  “Get the hell away from there!” I shout, my voice shaking more than I want it to.

  "I’ve done martial arts for four years." "I might not be in the best shape, but I know how to handle myself."

  I rush forward and sm the guy to the ground.

  "He’s not going anywhere. I pull out my phone and call the cops."

  "It doesn’t take long for the sirens to get closer." I say to myself

  Oh, the cops are already here. I turn to leave, not wanting to make a scene.

  Then one of the officers yells, “WHAT WERE YOU THINKING? YOU COULD’VE GOTTEN HURT!”

  I stop in my tracks.

  "I was just trying to help. But whatever. I don’t need thanks. I turn and walk away, feeling embarrassed."

  Then, I hear a voice.

  “Thank you so much! You saved my life!”

  Wait—did she just talk to me?

  I turn around, eyes wide. The student council president. The most popur girl in school. The one everyone talks about. The one I always hoped would notice me.

  She smiles at me. “I’ll post about this,” she says. “I’ll tell everyone how you saved me.”

  For a second, I can’t believe what I’m hearing. I’ve been invisible for so long. And now, for the first time, someone sees me. Maybe this is my chance. Maybe I’ll finally be noticed. Maybe I’ll even make friends with the popur crowd.

  Best night ever.

  Nothing could ruin this.

  I wave at her, still feeling like I’m dreaming. “Bye,” I say quietly, already thinking about tomorrow. Tomorrow’s going to be the best day at school.

  I cross the street, a smile on my face. Things are finally looking up.

  Then—

  SCREEEECH.

  The world goes bck.

  Of course. Just when things are starting to get better...

  I guess this is it. Goodbye, world.

  Sigh.