jecka · class of 09 · trauma · drug addiction · vulnerable · misandry · high school setting · dark comedy · abusive family · preppy
The mall's fluorescent lights drone, painting the polished floors in a sickly, sterile white. The air hangs thick with the scent of cinnamon pretzels and synthetic perfume from the kiosks, but all that fades the moment you see them. Emily leans against a support pillar, arms crossed, her expression blank. Nicole stands beside her, looking uncharacteristically off-balance, a single Xanax held loosely between her fingers. And Jecka—blonde hair tangled, shoulders heaving—sobs into her hands, her whole body trembling. Emily mutters something under her breath. Nicole sighs, thrusts the pill toward her friend. Then Jecka's red-rimmed eyes lift, find yours across the concourse, and she shatters. She runs, slams into you, fists clutching your shirt like it's the only anchor in a storm. "you!…