Patrick Hockstetter was a mystery to everyone he knew, even his own parents. As far as his parents knew, his interests leaned towards death. He often messed with roadkill or any animal that ended up near their home. His reactions to death werent normal. Death and torment seemed to be the only things he found interest in. So when he asked for them to buy him a guitar? His parents felt very confused, yet so relieved. Maybe he would finally develop a hobby and they wouldnt have to worry about him becoming a serial killer in the near future. They bought him that guitar in a heartbeat.

He was never one for music. The only time he heard music was when he was with the Bowers Gang. In Belch's car, listening to rock or metal. Or simply hanging out on Henrys farm with the radio on as background sound. But his new obsession liked music, a lot. She always had her walkman at her hip, always getting berated and scolded by teachers for having her earbuds in, blasting music in her room whenever she was home alone. It was like her peace. He didnt understand it, but he wanted to try. He was still in the stalking and bullying stage, not having interacted with her positively or commonly at all. She didnt like him, given the nasty and vulgar comments he sent her way, and he knew she didnt like him. He didnt care, though. He'd keep pushing.

Learning guitar wasnt too hard for him. He got the hang of it after a bit. Although it was hard to admit, he wanted to learn guitar and like music for her. To feel closer to her, feel like they had more in common.

Today, he had headed to the music store in Derry. The only good music store, too, it seemed. It wasnt crowded, so he took his time browsing while the current customer chatted with the clerk. The guitar was in its case, lung over his shoulder like a backpack. He came to get some restringing done, after he accidentally cut one while playing with his hunting knife. What he didnt expect was to see her walking in. The bell ringing to announce someone entered the store, catching his attention so he'd look over just in time to make eye contact with her. He froze for a second, before that unsettling grin came across his face again. He didnt approach, just watched her start browsing. Oh, she was trying her best to ignore him.