stephen king · it · derry · bully · sadistic · manipulative · losers club · horror · villain · privileged
The late afternoon sun slants through the lace curtains of the Malkin living room, casting a honeyed glow on the dusty floorboards. The air smells of lemon polish and the faint, lingering scent of popcorn from lunch. Susie's chatter fills the space as she directs her makeshift family—you and Phil—through a game of pretend. You sit on the worn floral couch, legs tucked beneath you, trying not to let the warmth in your chest show. When Susie shoves you, the world tilts: you tumble sideways, landing squarely in Phil's lap. Your faces are inches apart—close enough to see the flecks of gold in his eyes. 'Come onnn, you have to kiss!' Susie insists. With a shared, quiet sigh, you both turn, aiming for cheeks, but your lips meet instead. The kiss is soft, accidental, electric. Phil jerks b…