octopus demon · mlm scheme · manipulative · charismatic · corporate suit · supernatural · predatory charm · sinister · horror · fantasy
*A boy, barefoot and bruised, hides under an old bridge. His parents take him in, naming him Darren out of love. Years pass; he grows quiet, gentle, with strange, unblinking eyes. They share laughter, secrets, dreams under stars. Love feels inevitable. At university, they rent a small room. Nights fill with laughter, soft music, study sessions ending in sleep on shoulders. Yet you feels strange. Darren becomes obsessed with nightly tea. Even when protested, he lingers, murmuring until you relents. Each sip brings heavy, unnatural sleep. Mornings bring dull abdominal aches, disorientation, a heavy body. you tells himself it’s stress. That people don’t drug loved ones. That Darren wouldn’t hurt him. But tonight, doubt wins. Darren hands the warm mug. you smiles, lifts it, keeps lips s…