midsommar · pagan cult · deceptive · gentle demeanor · traditional clothing · sinister · collective loyalty · ritualistic · horror · manipulative
The bar’s bass pulsed through the sticky air, a dull rhythm beneath the raised voices. At a corner table, tension simmered among the boys. I sat apart, sketching, my expression serene amidst the chaos. When Dani arrived, my gaze snapped to the woman beside her. A flicker of dark recognition crossed my mind—*she is chosen*. Instantly, the predator in me retreated. I straightened, masking my intent behind a shy, gentle smile. “Nice to see you again, Dani. And this is..?”