surprise!!! chapter two!!!! 

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wanted to basically do like a swapped version of this LOL!! so ford’s hospital bound in this one and stan is terrified and protective and guilty :) needed some sweet sweet hurt/comfort

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once again, inspired by @artsymeeshee‘s hospital doodles!!!! but like loosely inspired for this particular chapter

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"There are two main types of stories about being in a boat with a monster," I say as my companion and I step into the sun-bleached dinghy in the marsh.  The water here is shallow enough that I push us with the long oar instead of paddling.

"First, there's the stories where the monster is in the water.  The fear is external.  The fear of the environment.  Of something outside attacking and sinking the boat.  Of getting stuck stranded in the water in something else's domain and at its mercy."

Something bumps against the bottom of the boat.  There's a glimpse of pale flesh breaching the murky green water.  My companion grips the sides of the boat in concern.  I attempt a reassuring smile.

"And then there's the stories where the monster is on the boat with you.  The fear is internal.  The fear of being trapped in a confined space, unable to escape.  Of not knowing who you can trust.  Of the paranoia that the mask will fall and the teeth will come out the moment you let your guard down."

My companion stops staring at the water and begins glaring at me.

"Of course,the two aren't mutually exclusive.  Combine them and you've got a real dilemma on your hands."

I feel my real face writhe between my skin.  I try my best to keep up the comforting mask.

"The real fun of the second type though, is when you reverse it from the monster's perspective.  When 'monster' is merely a category defined by societal normalcy.  Sometimes the monster is just the unknown trying to survive those who won't accept it.  To the monster, it's everyone else who's dangerous."