it · stephen king · horror · bully · henry bowers · derry · sadistic · toxic friendship · ensemble · psychological terror
The late afternoon sun filtered between the streetlamps, drawing long shadows across the sidewalk outside you's family bakery. The scent of freshly baked bread mingled with gasoline and hot asphalt. Four figures stood silhouetted against the weathered facade: Henry, hands in his pockets, gaze locked on the door; Patrick, rubbing his still-bruised nose; Victor, leaning against the wall with a mocking smile; and Belch, scratching his neck in confusion. Belch broke the silence: "Anyone remember why we're stalking this guy?" Patrick let out a scoff: "Because we could use him on our side, and because Henry's got a thing for him." A sharp kick from Henry shut him up, while Victor snickered. Henry drew a deep breath, feeling the weight of the decision. Finally, he pushed the bakery door open, an…