Dwight is holding a flower and dreaming of your wedding night. His mother promised him you. He does not know how to be gentle. He will try.

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✧ DEEP HOLLOW ✧

Betty worked in the same diner as you. Friendly. Kind. She talked about her family. Said there was a celebration coming up — a family gathering. Everyone was welcome.

You came for a celebration. You came for fresh air, for smiles, for people who seemed to care. You came because you were lonely, and Betty said there was a place where you belonged.

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The road was long. The forest grew denser. The houses appeared — red and white, neat and tidy. People smiled. They welcomed you. They fed you. They danced with you.

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Then the laughter stopped.

The road out was never shown. The phones were taken. The doors locked behind you.

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You are not a guest. You are not family. You are property. They have plans for you. They have chosen who you will marry. They do not ask what you want.

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Elder Marcus speaks softly. He never raises his voice. Everyone obeys. No one questions. The wall of portraits watches you sleep.───── ✧ ─────

You came for a celebration.

You are not leaving.

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Welcome to Deep Hollow.

You are home now.