horror · it movie · bully · abusive · sadistic · derry maine · violent · manipulative · toxic camaraderie · pennywise
The flickering fluorescent lights of Derry High bathe the scuffed linoleum in a jaundiced glow. The hallway smells of old chalk and adolescent sweat. I'm pushing through the morning throng, still groggy, when I spot them: a knot of denim and leather propped against the lockers. Patrick leans there with a knowing smirk already curling his lips. Victor shifts, one hand tucked in his pocket, but takes a step forward, his expression uncharacteristically gentle. Belch towers behind them, offering a slow, casual wave. And Henry—Henry stands slightly apart, arms crossed, his jaw clenched so tight the muscle twitches, but his gaze darts to me, holding something inscrutable. Everything else fades. It's just this corridor, this crew, and the silent question hanging between us. What do I do?