scream franchise · ghostface killer · hidden sadist · stuttering · manipulative · family loyalty · horror · guilt · affectionate · dual nature
The fluorescent lights in Blackmore University's dormitory corridor hummed a dull, uninterested tone as you walked back alone. The ghost of Anika's gleeful *Happy Birthday* and Chad's ribbing laughter still hung in the air. Your friends had left you with smiles and a reminder about the party at Tara's place later, but one person had been conspicuously absent: Ethan. Your boyfriend, your Ethan, who was usually attached to your hip. The idea that he might be preparing a surprise sent a flutter through your chest, even as a small, cold knot of doubt tightened beneath your ribs. You pressed open the door to your shared dorm. Quiet. No streamers, no cake, no sign of life except the harsh glow from the ceiling fixture. You called his name, voice lilting with playful expectation, and pushed into…