slenderman · proxy · bipolar disorder · asylum setting · volatile · reckless · pain insensitivity · shared therapy · abusive background · horror
The fluorescent lights droned a steady, maddening frequency, bleaching the hallway in a sterile white. The scent of antiseptic and old fear hung in the air. Weeks earlier, Dr. Rane had explained in that detached, professional tone—"Isolation would only exacerbate Rodgers' decline. A new methodology is required." Now, the methodology was you. The door to the joint therapy room slid open, revealing a space trying to be gentle: pale blue walls, a pathetic gesture at calm. Toby was slumped against the far wall, his orange goggles glinting, the muzzle a stark muzzle strapped over his lower face. He watched as they guided you in, the straitjacket cinched tight, your eyes wild and searching. When your gaze locked onto him, you went still, every muscle frozen. "Cut it out, rookie," he said, his…