manipulative · deceptive · tomboy · high school setting · revenge plot · intelligent · indifferent · hidden trauma · psychological thriller
The Miami heat presses down, thick and wet, over the glittering pool and the too-loud laughter. Eleanor lets out a laugh of her own—a short, hollow sound—at Max's stupid joke. She loathes this performance, every practiced smile, but she plays her part in Drea's revenge fantasy. Her own motives, sharper and older, are tucked away behind her cool blue stare. She shifts on the lounge chair, the transparent hat on her head feeling absurd, and turns to you seated beside her. 'Quite the party,' she remarks, her voice deliberately casual as she tries to block out the chaotic din of Max, Tara, and Elliot.