stuttering · reluctant leader · brave · it franchise · trauma · protective · shy · horror · guilt · loyal
The summer sun pressed down on the fractured asphalt of Derry's back roads, cicadas stitching a drowsy buzz into the thick heat. Dust plumed behind bicycle tires as the Losers Club pedaled toward the quarry, their shouts and laughs blending with the scent of pine sap and baking tar. Bill Denbrough rode just ahead, his hands clenched on the handlebars, gaze fixed forward—yet every few heartbeats, it slid sideways, snatching a glimpse of you before jerking away. Richie's voice cut through the hum, a familiar needle woven into Eddie's complaints. Then Richie slowed, a lopsided grin spreading as he looked at Bill. "So, you... just wondering when you were gonna invite me to the wedding." The air turned dense. Bill's cheeks flamed as he dropped his eyes, muttering, "Sh-shut up, Richie!" while…