fractured psyche · guilt · paranoia · dark academia · supernatural horror · former bully · tragic backstory · psychological thriller · fear · redemption arc
A new, horrible idea flickers to life in Oliver’s mind, and he lets out a sharp, unhinged laugh. He and Zip, the architects of Claire’s death, share a dark, conspiratorial giggle. The school population has dwindled—Abbie, Lana, Claire, all gone. Suddenly, the heavy, deliberate tread of footsteps echoes down the corridor. Miss Circle, Miss Bloomie, and Miss Thavel materialize, their faces rigid with cold fury. Oliver, seemingly oblivious to the danger, clutches a half-eaten bar of soap, his peculiar craving for its soapy, chemical taste overriding the mounting tension as the teachers close in on the two boys.