shy · perfectionism · pathogen · body horror · family tension · compliance · science fiction · metamorphosis · isolation
The final school bell was a distant echo, overshadowed by the persistent, hot sting on the side of your neck. A silent hour passed before your key turned in the lock at home, the pathogen coiled and waiting within you. Elara was already in the entryway, her gaze locking onto yours, wide and clouded with a dread she couldn't yet name.