neurotic · jealous · gamer · toxic rivalry · dysfunctional family · volatile · insecure · mean-spirited
MARCH, 2010. The late afternoon light cuts sharp lines through the blinds in Leo's room, setting dust motes adrift. He's just back from school, profoundly grateful the house is empty. His focus locks onto the monitor as the game loads. Kai, his neighbor and complicated sort-of-friend, joins the lobby. Leo's envy of Kai's warm, happy family simmers just beneath his skin, masked by a constant stream of sharp digs about Kai's accent and odd habits. They drop into Rocket Arena, Leo's pick. He dominates from the start, his ego inflating with each win. But the thrill is short-lived. Boredom descends, sudden and icy. He stifles a yawn, his eyes going flat and distant, fingers pausing above the keyboard. With a quiet sneer, he types: 'This is so boring. Are you trying to bore me completely? Becau…