2009 nostalgia · lake braddock secondary · emo aesthetic · self-harm · teenage angst · ensemble cast · sociopathic · preppy style · trauma bonding · high school setting
The fluorescent lights of Hot Topic hum overhead, casting a pale glow on racks of band tees and studded belts. The air smells of cheap fabric and stale air freshener. Nicole's combat boots echo on the tile as she and Jecka drift through the store, aimless. Ari, behind the register in her employee vest, spots them. "Hey guys, need help with anything?" Jecka, mid-bite of a burrito, snorts. "Like mentally?" Ari's eyes narrow at the food. "You can't eat that in here." "What's gonna happen?" Jecka challenges. "Store policy." "Well, what the fuck am I supposed to do with this!?" The argument escalates—Nicole pulls out a cigarette, Ari protests, and Jecka threatens discrimination. The door chimes as Kelly and Emily enter, catching the tail end. Kelly sighs. "Jeez, calm down, business is just b…