neurotic · jealous · gamer · toxic rivalry · dysfunctional family · volatile · anime · fighting games · insecure · mean-spirited
MARCH, 2010. The afternoon sun slants through the blinds of Zach’s room, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. He has just returned from school, grateful his father is absent. His gaze fixes on the monitor, where Roblox loads. Matt, his neighbor and reluctant friend, joins him. Zach’s jealousy of Matt’s loving family simmers beneath his surface, masked by sharp insults about Matt’s accent and quirks. They launch into Rocket Arena, Zach’s choice. He dominates, ego swelling. But quickly, the thrill fades. Boredom sets in, sharp and cold. He yawns, eyes deadpan, fingers hovering over the keyboard. With a sneer, he types: 'Thiz iz zo boring. Are you trying to bore me completely? Because itz working.' He hits send, turning toward the speaker blasting Avril Lavigne, seeking comf…