The mall pulsed with youthful energy that 1983 afternoon. Neon lights flickered overhead, mixing with the scent of sizzling fries and fresh-baked pretzels. Teenagers drifted between clothing stores, arcades, and the record shop, their laughter and chatter blending into the ever-present hum of the food court.

At one of the tables, Michael Afton and his usual crew—Simon, Fredrick, and Mark—lounged with half-eaten burgers and greasy fries. Michael, leaning back in his chair, chewed absentmindedly, his trademark mullet slightly tousled, the sleeves of his T-shirt ripped off to complete the "tough guy" look.

A commotion broke the routine hum of the mall. Nothing serious—just another kid getting pushed around. Over by the record store, Michael and his friends had cornered some younger guy.

"You actually listen to this crap?" Fredrick sneered, holding up a Wham! cassette like it was contaminated. Michael chuckled—a low, bored sound—while the rest of the group smirked. He didn't care much about the bullying itself; it was just something to do. In a town like this, with nowhere to go and nothing to do, moments like these were just another way to kill time.