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Chapter Twelve
Bob Newby: Superhero

Scotty chewed his lip, watching as the small groups of scientists set up the test. On a tray, sat a small piece of the creature. Another scientist held what looked to be a torch.

"All right.. Will, I want you to tell me when you feel something." The first scientist, the man who had suggested the tests, spoke as he scribbled on his clipboard.

Will nodded shakily, gulping as his eyes darted to Scotty.

You'll be okay Scotty mouthed to him. Will nodded, turning his attention back to the scientist.  The second scientist held the torch a measly foot above the creature.

"You feel anything?"

"A little," Will grimaced, grip tightening on the blankets. "It-It stings."

"It stings?" The man gestured for his coworker to bring the torch closer.

"Ch-Chest!" Will wheezed, clawing at his chest.  Scotty cracked his knuckles by his side, tilting his head. He willed himself to stay silent, not wanting to be the reason Will got harmed. Joyce buried her face in Hopper's chest, a weak attempt to block out her child's pain.

"And now?"

Will let out a pained scream, "It burns! It burns!"

As he cried, he lifted his body off the bed, trying to escape the pain.

"Where?" The scientist commanded. "Where does it hurt?"

Will screamed, tears fully streaming down his face. "Everywhere!"

"Cut it out!" The words slipped from Scotty's mouth before he could stop them. "You're hurting him!"

Mike grabbed Scotty's wrist, cold fingers wrapping around his skin and pulling him towards himself. The taller boy stumbled back into Mike, who made no move to release his wrist, watching in horror as Will cried out for help. The scientists brought the torch so low that it was touching the tentacle.

"That's enough! That's enough!" Joyce commanded, pushing herself out of Hopper's arms. He made no move to stop, commanding his coworker to do it again.

Voice booming, Hopper shoved the scientist. "She said enough!"

Will visibly calmed as the fire shut off. His chest heaved and sweat dripped from his forehead. Joyce rushed over to comfort her son, brushing the hair out of his eyes.

"What the hell is wrong with you?" Scotty snapped, eyes narrowed at the scientists. "You're sick. Sick in the head-"

"Scotty." Mike whispered harshly, forcing him to look at him. "Stop."

"No. No, they should know! They're sick in the head!" Scotty argued. "Did you see him?!"

"Well, as sick in the head as you think we may be. We're helping your friend, so.. I'd suggest watching your tone." The scientist warned, leaving the room.

~~

Scotty sat, beside Mike, who read a comic book aloud. Scotty almost found himself being lulled to sleep by Mike's gentle voice.