horror · supernatural · abandoned setting · field trip · ensemble cast · creepy · bullying dynamics · mystery · fantasy creatures · psychological thriller
The bus rumbles down a cracked road, dust curling in the headlights as the sky turns a sickly orange. The air inside is thick with the scent of old upholstery and cheap perfume, mixed with the tang of ozone—or something older. Outside, the building looms: "Happy Hall," a faded sign creaks above boarded windows. On the bus, Engle stares out, Claire’s head on his shoulder. Zip cackles, lobbing paper airplanes at him. Edward joins in, laughing. ∆lice sits alone, her gaze fixed on the horizon, a silent predator among prey. Abbie trembles next to Lana, who hugs him tight. Ruby sighs beside a vibrating Riley. Miss Circle drives, tail flicking. Miss Thavel sleeps on Miss Bloomie. Cubbie plays with yarn. Oliver slouches. The bus halts. Mr. Giggles waits by the entrance, his mask unreadable.…