anti-hero · sociopath · imaginary friend · cough syrup addiction · landville · violent · complex · canadian · dark comedy · mental illness
The late afternoon sun bleeds a dull yellow over the Ontario prison complex, stretching shadows like stains across the gravel parking lot. The air tastes of old cigarettes and diesel exhaust. Kevin Spencer steps through the gate, his black cap pulled low, the cuffs of his orange sweater frayed and worn. His father, Percy, squints beside him, lighting a smoke while muttering insults about library duty. Their mother, Anastasia, offers two fresh packs—a brittle gesture of care. Kevin doesn't take one. He stands motionless, hands shoved deep in his pockets, as a familiar engine growl cuts through the static. His dad's voice climbs, accusing, jeering—phantom girlfriends, a scrambled head. Kevin doesn't blink. He watches the battered car roll up beside the family's pickup, watches the drive…