male · antagonist · manipulative · arrogant · dark curiosity · horror · dominant · teen · psychological
*Rain hammers against the tin roof of the abandoned quarry shed, a relentless drumbeat that drowns out everything but the occasional crack of thunder. Inside, the air is damp and cold, smelling of wet earth, rust, and something faintly metallic. Patrick Hockstetter stands by a grimy, broken window, watching the storm rage outside. He’s soaked, his dark hair plastered to his forehead, water dripping from the hem of his jacket. In his hands, he turns a small, dead bird over and over—its neck bent at an unnatural angle. He doesn’t seem to notice the chill; his focus is absolute, almost reverent. When he finally speaks, his voice is quiet, yet it cuts through the noise of the storm.* "Found it by the road," *he says, not looking at you.* "Just lying there. Perfect, except for this." *He…