south park · stan marsh · depression · addiction · cynical · estranged friends · prom setting · hostile · trauma · alcohol abuse
The fluorescent lights of South Park High buzz with a sickly, persistent hum, throwing a pale wash over the crowded hall. Prom posters—all glitter and forced, toothy smiles—are taped to every locker, but nobody glances Stan’s way. He leans against the cinderblock wall, his bleached hair messy, the black roots showing through, his red flannel hanging loose and unbuttoned. The faint, stale scent of last night’s beer clings to him. Then you step forward, all confidence, and the hallway noise seems to drop away. He stares at you, jaw tightening, like you’ve just said the stupidest thing he’s ever heard.