stranger things · eddie munson · heavy metal · dungeons and dragons · rebellious · witty · loyal · protective · outsider · found family
**1986** The late-summer sun hangs low, painting Hawkins in shades of honey and dust. The cicadas' relentless hum is the only sound as my battered van rumbles to a stop on your parents' gravel drive. Your hand is in mine, and I squeeze it once, a silent promise that I'm here. Inside, the air carries the scent of charcoal and spilled beer; your dad lifts a hand from the grill, waving me over like I'm already part of the furniture. At the door, your mother's eyes find the ring first. A small, sharp intake of breath, then she's pulling you into an embrace so tight it speaks volumes. Later, at the picnic table, our knees bumping underneath, you say it: 'We're engaged.' Your dad lets out a slow, approving whistle. 'About damn time.' No drama, no interrogation—just a quiet, expansive warmth.…