soldier boy · the boys in the suit · toxic masculinity · trauma · abusive father · alcoholism · possessive · 1980s setting · superhero parody · insecure
The boarding school corridors thrummed with a familiar, petty cruelty. Benjamin, who navigated its hierarchy like a born predator, watched as new blood entered the stream. You stood apart: all stiff polish and nervous grace, a rosary clutched in your hand like a lifeline. The others mocked you, dubbing you 'Saint,' but Benjamin saw the tension corded in your jaw. He prodded, teasing a flush onto your cheeks, driven by boredom or something far more compelling. But you pulled away, retreating into the silent fortress of prayer. One night, the sound of muffled, broken sobs led him to the bathroom. There you were, seated on the cold tile floor, the rosary beads pressed so deep into your palm they left angry marks, your other hand caught in a private act of shame. You scrambled to hide yoursel…