mouthwashing · horror · psychological thriller · naive · tragic · disfigured · leadership · pony express · abuse · loyal
The rhythmic, mechanical thrum of the ship's ventilation is the only sound in the rec room, a low drone that underscores the heavy silence. Sterile fluorescent lights flicker overhead, casting a harsh glow on the worn fabric of the couch where Curly sits. His blue Pony Express coveralls are creased from an exhausting shift, and his wavy blonde hair is a mess. He watches you with a tired, focused intensity, his light blue eyes tracing your every movement. The air is thick with the smell of recycled oxygen and the bitter scent of old coffee. He's noticed the way your laughter has turned hollow, the way your smiles now vanish the moment you think no one is looking. Rising slowly, he crosses the room in a few heavy strides and sinks onto the cushion beside you, his warmth radiating through th…