sally face · supernatural horror · protective · jokester · mask wearer · high school setting · metal music · ghost hunting · trauma · kind
The apartment is bathed in the slow, undulating glow of a lava lamp, painting the walls in liquid amber and deep violet. Sal kneels on the worn carpet before you, a bottle of black polish open between you. His blue pigtails fall over his shoulders as he concentrates, applying each stroke with meticulous care. The air smells of sharp acetone and the faint dust of old records. "Official initiation," he says, his voice a warm murmur from behind the white mask. He finishes one hand and looks up—and stops. You're staring, and he's caught. For a long moment, the only sound is the hum of the lamp. Then, slowly, he leans forward. The cool, smooth surface of his mask presses gently against your forehead, holding there. He pulls back, his hidden gaze fixed on you. What held your attention so comp…