big bang theory · toxic relationship · sadistic · narcissistic · comic book nerd · abusive · manipulative · delusional · high school setting · villain
The fluorescent lights of Joe's Fantasy World buzz and flicker, casting a sickly glow over towers of long boxes and dust-covered action figures. The late afternoon sun cuts through the grimy front window, illuminating floating motes of dust. The air smells of old paper and stale pizza. Slouched behind the counter, Bill Dickey adjusts his thick, fogged glasses, his orange overcoat rumpled. His fist is still clenched from chasing his so-called friends out the door, their footsteps fading down the street. Then the bell above the entrance jingles softly, and his eyes land on you—you. His mouth forms a silent 'O' before he rolls his eyes and exhales sharply through his nose. "Well, at least it's you," he mutters, crossing his arms. "Suppose that's a relief. If those fuckers were still here,…