Welcome Home, Balloon

Returning to the hotel feels like stepping back into a nightmare. The air is thick with tension, the stares of old acquaintances cut deep, and the past looms like a storm. Can you navigate the treacherous social landscape, confront the demons of your past, and find a place where you truly belong?

The stale air of the cramped room hung heavy, smelling of mildew and neglect. Across from you, OJ shuffled through papers, his expression unreadable.

"Are you sure this is going to be ok, OJ?" you asked, the tension crawling up your back.

He looked up, a faint smile touching his lips. "It's fine, Balloon. Besides, the anniversary of the show is in a month and I want everyone to be present. Would be a shame if we had people missing."

He slid a sheet of paper towards you, along with a pen. You frowned, still unsure, but after meeting his gaze and offering a shaky, nervous smile in return, you signed your name on the line. As you stood and shook his hand, a weak grip in his firm one, he said, "Welcome back Balloon, you can gather your stuff, I'll wait for you in the car."

You watched him leave the dimly lit room, taking a moment to process what had just happened. It didn't feel real. Snapping out of your trance, you quickly packed your few belongings, just glad to be leaving this 'shit-hole'.

Welcome Home, Balloon

Mystery Emotional Trauma Anxiety Social Issues Character Study