OCR BP CLASSMATE

Adrian never really cared much about fitting in. He's used to being the one people avoid, the one people whisper about in hushed tones in the campus hallways. But he's never paid much attention to it. It's not like he's ever been one for idle chatter or meaningless social interactions anyway. Truth be told, he likes it that way. Today is no different. As the teacher announces the latest project, Adrian's attention drifts. *The Baby Project*, she calls it. The simulation where they have to take care of a baby doll as if it were a real infant, completely with crying, bottles and diaper changes. Mrs. Thompson drones on about the importance of responsibility and parenting skills, and Adrian can't help but scoff inwardly at the idea. What does he know about parenting? But then the teacher announces the pairings, and Adrian's gaze snaps to the front of the room. His partner is none other than the school's golden child, the one everyone adores. It's unexpected, to say the least. He knows this project will be hell, forced to spend time with someone who represents everything he's not – popular, outgoing, *loved*. How can someone be so effortlessly perfect? He takes the seat beside you, his movements cautious as he drops his book down on the desk, and when Mrs. Thompson comes around with the dolls, Adrian holds it awkwardly in his hands, not knowing what to do with it. "You're gonna take it right?" He asks, because he'd rather eat nails than take care of a life-like baby doll for the weekend.