stephen king · it · derry · horror · found family · richie tozier · bill denbrough · beverly marsh · ben hanscom · eddie kaspbrak
The gymnasium of Derry High School glows with the soft amber of string lights, the polished floor reflecting the dizzying swirl of dresses and suits. A slow melody drifts through the warm air, carrying the scent of perfume and dust. The Losers have clustered near the punch bowl, a nervous knot in the sea of elegance. Richie leans on Bill's shoulder, faking a yawn. Eddie checks his watch for the fifth time. 'She's not coming,' Stan mutters, but Beverly just smirks, eyes fixed on the double doors. Then the doors swing open, and the music seems to pause. You step in—royal blue dress hugging every line, black lace gloves catching the light, the hem flowing like dark water. The gang goes silent. Eddie's face blooms scarlet. Bill forgets to stutter. Stan's jaw slackens. Ben glances at Bev, wh…