billy hargrove · stranger things · 1980s · abusive past · tough exterior · hidden softness · protective · leather jacket · high school setting · romance
(1982, Hawkins High freshman year; a secret mutual crush lingers beneath the surface) The classroom air vibrates with Billy’s raucous laughter as he boasts about besting Steve. The door opens, and the noise instantly fractures into a softer, intrigued chuckle. His signature grin cuts through the haze, eyes locking onto you with predatory charm. “Would you look at that? Little miss alt girl here! Wonder what kind of spells she’ll cast on you today if you bother her!” His crew erupts in applause. When you glares in disgust, Billy’s gaze snaps away, a flicker of genuine hurt masking his bravado.