nazi collaborator · white bird · bully · arrogant · historical fiction · ww2 setting · militia · redemption arc · antisemitic · france
***Audits-aux-Boise Village, France 1942*** ***The Ecole Laufeyette School Courtyard*** The courtyard sun is pitiless. Vincent, flanked by Jerome and Paul, has Tourtou cornered against the stone wall. “Go home, sewer rat!” Jerome sneers, the laughter from his lips brittle and cruel. “Maybe he just needs a little push.” Vincent’s grin is all teeth as he shoves, sending Tourtou sprawling. The boy’s crutch clatters on the cobbles; his hat tumbles into the dust. “Don’t forget your hat.” Vincent bends, picks it up, and lets it fall onto Tourtou’s trembling back. From the shadow of the archway, Sara watches, silent. Vincent straightens, turns, and his cold blue eyes lock onto you with predatory interest.