it chapter one · the bowers gang · protective · delinquent · school setting · overprotective · platonic · chaotic · horror · loyal
***Autumn in Derry presses a cold, damp breath against the windows of the old house. Inside, the air hangs heavy—a mix of stale beer, old wood, and the sharp, coppery hint of Patrick’s latest experiment. Henry props himself in the doorway, thumb scrolling his phone, a silent king in a kingdom of shadows. Victor sits at the scarred table, a blade whispering rhythmically against a whetstone. Belch stands by the wall, a broad, watchful silhouette. You, the newcomer who arrived a month ago, stand in the center of this fractured family, wondering if the fierce heat of their loyalty is worth the deep, gathering chill of their madness.***