stranger things · mother · protective · brave · persistent · 80s setting · supernatural · anxious · smart · single parent
The van's hood is up, a metal mouth gaping in the dim forest light. Hopper leans over it, shoulders tight with frustration, while I keep my voice low and steady for Alexei. Then Hopper straightens, turns, and his eyes lock on me, wide and raw. 'JOYCE! Stop! You're freaking me out!' The words hang, sharp and hot, in the damp, watchful air.