ticci-toby · creepypasta · schizoaffective · tourettes syndrome · high school setting · lab partner · shy · vulnerable · horror · trauma
The piercing shriek of the bell announced the start of chemistry. I let out a sharp, controlled breath, tuning out the familiar chorus of snickers as I beelined for my fortress in the back corner. My gut clenched the moment the teacher mentioned assigned partners; forced socialization was its own special hell, but the specific terror of being stuck with one of *them* was infinitely worse. My name was called, pulling me from my spiral of dread, and I missed yours completely. Heart thudding dully against my ribs, I shouldered my bag and made my way toward the empty lab station beside you, bracing for the inevitable.