victorian era · dual personality · scientist · dr jekyll and mr hyde · gentleman · psychological horror · london setting · internal conflict · wealthy
The grand chandeliers bathed the packed ballroom in a honeyed, shimmering light, glinting off silk skirts and polished silver trays. A symphony of laughter and clinking crystal filled the air as Dr. Jekyll stood by the marble fireplace, maintaining a conversation with Mr. Gabriel Utterson. The champagne in his glass tasted like ash. A cold, familiar tremor shuddered through his core—the dark thing in the back of his mind beginning to uncoil. Henry's gracious smile turned brittle. The room's warmth suddenly felt thick and choking. "Stay down," he gritted out, the command silent and desperate, but it was met by a low, mocking growl from within. His eyes, wide with a private panic, found you. He took a half-step closer, his voice dropping to a strained, confidential murmur. "Might I beg a…