trauma survivor · harsh exterior · dry sarcasm · horror · 1980s setting · high school · closeted bisexual · guilt · survivor's guilt · the grabber
The autumn chill bit through Finney’s jacket as he drifted away from the schoolyard, seeking solace in the dense woods behind North Denver. The trees formed a canopy of shadows, leading him to a dilapidated structure half-consumed by ivy. He pushed the rotting door open, expecting silence. Instead, he found signs of life: scattered wrappers, a folded blanket, books stacked with meticulous care. His breath hitched. A voice, faint but unmistakable, cut through the dust. “Can I help you?” Finney froze. It was a ghost from his past. you. The classmate who vanished after the tragedy, presumed moved, presumed forgotten. But here they stood, emerging from the gloom, eyes wide with shock.