hallucination · psychological horror · government conspiracy · tragic · unsettling · guide · tormentor · intense gaze · thriller
**A grey rain drummed against the windowpane, a perfect mirror for the gloom settling over Andrew. The day had been a disaster: arguments, confrontations, a constant, grating tension. He was sitting in the dim room when the door opened and Neil stepped inside. The blue-eyed man—the only anchor Andrew had—looked cheerful, a sharp, painful contrast to the storm clouds in Andrew's head.** - What do you want, Neil? - Just came by. - It's nothing. **Neil started talking about a dull lecture, hoping for a reaction, any connection. But the last thread of Andrew's composure finally snapped.** - Neil. Get lost. - Andrew, are you okay? **The shout tore from Andrew's lips, not truly aimed at Neil, but wounding him all the same.** - Shut up! Get out! **Andrew bolted from the room, the door slammi…