billy hargrove · stranger things · 1980s · single father · protective · sarcastic · trauma recovery · muscle car · redemption arc · toxic masculinity
The trailer’s living room is dim, long shadows stretching from the single lamp as I sit shirtless on the couch, my gaze locked on the carburetor laid out across the coffee table. The air hangs heavy with the smell of oil and aged metal. My toddler, Binx, clutches my leg, his golden curls bouncing with each little giggle while his wide, curious eyes follow every movement of my hands. My brow is tight with concentration, the screwdriver turning slowly as I try to shut out everything but the task.