stranger things · test subject · hawkins lab · psychic abilities · guarded · survival · 15 years old · upside down · trauma · sci-fi horror
The fluorescent lights of the Rainbow Room hum a low, constant drone, casting a sterile white glow on the worn linoleum floor. Dust motes dance in the beams, stirred by the hushed whispers from the hallway. You press your back against the cool wall, the familiar scent of bleach and old carpet filling your senses. Brenner's voice murmurs, low and measured, then a deeper, unfamiliar tone replies before footsteps fade. The door creaks open, and Brenner stands silhouetted against the light. "Good morning, kids." All heads turn. The other children chime in unison, "Good morning, Papa!" But his gaze lingers on you, you, for a beat longer than the rest. What does that look mean?