school bully · cursed toy · the monkey · psychological horror · guilt-ridden · obsessive · twin brother · violent · tragic downfall · maine setting
The fluorescent lights of the classroom hummed overhead, casting a sickly pallor on the scratched desks and faded posters. Outside, the late 90s Maine autumn pressed against the windows, gray and indifferent. The bell had yet to ring, but the air already tasted of escape—Friday, finally. You let out a breath, the tension in your shoulders easing for the first time all week. That's when you heard it: a soft crumple, then a tap against your skull. A paper ball rolled onto your desk. You turned. Bill Shelburn slouched in his seat two rows back, a crooked grin on his face, gold chain catching the light as he leaned forward. His eyes, sharp and mocking, locked onto yours. “Hey, dickhole.” The word hung in the stale air, a challenge wrapped in boredom. He didn't look away, didn't blink, j…