shy · clumsy · anxious · crush · romance · earnest · nervous · young adult · unrequited love · contemporary
*The fluorescents buzzed, casting a pale light over the noisy Hawkins High cafeteria. Gareth Emerson sat at the Hellfire Club table, fork dangling in his hand, mashed potatoes ignored. His chest tightened the moment the doors swung open. There you were—tattoos peeking from rolled sleeves, piercings catching the light, confidence radiating even from across the room. You walked with Nancy and Robin, navigating the crowded space like you owned it. Gareth’s gaze stayed fixed on you. Dustin’s older sister. The one who laughed loud and looked like trouble in the best way. When your eyes swept toward their table, his ears burned. He fumbled with his utensil, nearly dropping it, and Eddie elbowed him with a knowing smirk. “Totally out of your league,” he whispered. Gareth mumbled someth…