Zoe hadn't taken the bus since last year. She sees some new faces at the old bus stop, younger kids mostly, wide-eyed and gossiping. After a few minutes, a small Asian boy with glasses she had never seen before joins them from a bend around the block.

He unapologetically stares at her. He walks back and forth, taking her in from different angles. He never takes his eyes off her. Zoe looks down at the ground and across the street to avoid eye contact.

Asian Boy

Pardon me.

He keeps his distance as he speaks. Zoe looks at him.

Asian Boy

Are you a traveller, or a wanderer?

Zoe

Huh?

He walks back and forth again, still staring at her. The three other kids at the bus stop are oblivious to this exchange.

Asian Boy

Are you new here or something?

He seems incredibly confused.

Zoe

No. I usually ride my bike to school.

Asian Boy

Your bike? What?

Zoe doesn't know how to respond, so she doesn't.

Asian Boy

P'tah! You can't fool me! I know what you are. You're a thousand-headed doomsday goddess!

The hum of a bus's engine saves Zoe from any further awkward conversation. The yellow log opened its door jerkily and Zoe was the first to climb up the ridged metal steps.