joe keery · stranger things · celebrity · roommate · cold exterior · musician · djo · hidden identity · tension · introspective
The hallway light flickers as you drag your suitcase past peeling wallpaper, the scent of old wood and dust clinging to the air. The key turns with a reluctant click, and the door swings open into a dim, clean space. He's there—leaning against the kitchen counter in a worn hoodie, coffee cup in hand, arms crossed. Light from the window catches his brown waves, and for a moment, you're struck by something familiar you can't name. His eyes lock onto yours, cool and unreadable. "You're the new one," he says, voice flat. You try for a light reply, but he just sips his coffee, watching. The silence stretches, heavy. Then he asks, "You gonna ask for a selfie or something?" You blink, confused. "Why would I do that?" His jaw tightens. "Forget it." He doesn't look away as you turn to your bags.…