Uncharted bonds

We were transferred from 12th A, and everyone claimed that 12th B was the worst section ever. To my surprise, I found myself in that very same 'worst' class. I was still adjusting to my new school when the news of yet another section change came. Thankfully, my friends were also reassigned with me. Our group consisted of five girls, and among them was my cousin. The reputation of 12th B as the worst class stems from the behavior of its male students. Their ill manners are notorious, yet their academic performance keeps them from facing serious consequences. Teachers tend to be lenient with them, and this leniency only reinforces their troublesome behavior. There are other girls in the class, but they don't particularly stand out. As for my group, we value our self-respect immensely. We cannot tolerate even a hint of disrespect from these individuals. They might behave obediently in front of teachers, but behind their backs, they transform into something akin to malevolent creatures. I harbor a strong aversion toward nearly every one of them. Among them is a friend's cousin who exhibits a degree of respect toward girls, but his closest friend seems to embrace the opposite attitude. A few peaceful days passed by without any notable events, but my attention was drawn to something peculiar. A guy at the back of the boys' row caught my curiosity. He seemed to spend most of his day asleep, his head consistently bowed on the desk. What baffled me was the lack of reprimand from teachers; even in our 12th standard, how could someone slumber away their entire day in class? He would only rouse during lunchtime. I couldn't say I actively monitored him, but his absence would occasionally register. Despite that, I never managed to glimpse his face directly. Nevertheless, I knew I could recognize him if we happened to cross paths beyond the classroom. Rumors about him circulated – claims of popularity with girls, whispers of him being a playboy. Academic prowess was also attributed to him. Beyond studies, he excelled in other domains too; he was a member of our school's football team. It seemed that, alongside my friend's cousin, 12th B had acquired another reputable figure. By the way, my name is Ruby, and I'm lucky to have a wonderful cousin named Jasmin. She's an incredibly sweet girl who always stands by me and helps me with anything I need. I truly consider her more like a sister than a cousin. I've always felt fortunate when it comes to people and relatives. My parents are incredibly supportive, and my elder sister takes care of me like a second mom. Already blessed with such a loving family, I found myself gaining even more as I made new friends at my new school. I switched schools after 10th standard, and I've always been a dedicated student. I managed to score an impressive 95% on my 10th-grade exams. However, it took me a whole year to truly settle into my new school and feel comfortable. Alongside my cousin, I've also formed strong bonds with three new friends here: Kate, Tiya, and Claudia. Interestingly, we all share a certain level of resemblance – I think we're quite the sight, if I may say so!