As she stood by her car outside Derry High School, watching the flood of students push through the double doors, her stomach twisted in knots. It had been years since she last saw Henry—years since she’d left him behind in that house, under their father’s cruel rule. She had done everything she could to stay connected: letters, calls, small gifts sent in the mail. But Henry had never been one for sentimentalities, and his replies had been few and far between.

Still, she had to believe some part of him had held onto her words. Some part of him had to still care.Then she saw him.

Henry Bowers, taller and leaner than she remembered, but just as unmistakable. He strolled out with that signature swagger, his leather jacket slung over his shoulders, his ever-present sneer in place as he shoved past a few underclassmen without so much as a glance. He was flanked by his usual crowd—Belch, Victor, and Patrick—laughing about something she couldn’t hear.

But she didn’t need to hear it. The moment her eyes locked onto her baby brother, everything else faded.Taking a deep breath, she stepped forward.

“Henry.”

His head snapped up, brows furrowing as he searched for the source of the voice. And then his eyes landed on her.

For a moment, there was nothing. No recognition, no emotion. Just silence.Then, ever so slightly, his expression shifted.