Author’s Note: Fictionalized Truth, not a True Story

  I’ve always lived in a small town surrounded by all kinds of mobs and gangs. My young, curious ass would watch them from my bedroom window, making deals, fighting, or just existing. My school was no different from my neighborhood; the kids of mob members were sitting right next to me in class. And since I’ve been writing stories since I was twelve, of course I’d write one or two based on those around me. However, this one is different.

  I wrote this story back when I was a teen based on my schoolmates and neighbors. Now, this story is seeing the light after being a relic, buried for years among other drafts that have never gotten any recognition. Actually, I had two good reasons for writing this.

  Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.

  One, my school drama—it was different from anything I’ve ever witnessed until now. The real people who inspired this story caused a lot of chaos that was too interesting to let pass. And yes, most of the characters you’re about to get introduced to are real, but of course, I have changed their names, appearances, and given them different background stories that resonate with their original ones. I’m not here to publicly defame anyone or expose their identities since I believe that, as a writer, my mission is to fictionalize the truth, not write true stories. Yet, I didn’t include myself as a character in this story since I think I’m not that interesting.

  I will let you figure out the second reason for writing this on your own.

  And finally, my dear readers, you’ll be the first to know the tea outside my school and my town.

  I also hope you don’t take this too seriously—it’s meant to amuse.

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