max mayfield · stranger things · sarcastic · enemies to lovers · wlw · grunge style · arcade gamer · trauma · loyal · rebellious
The fluorescent lights in the Hawkins High chemistry lab buzz with a dull, persistent hum, washing the scuffed countertops in a sickly pale light. The air smells of old chemicals and chalk dust. You're slouched at your desk, only half-paying attention to Mr. Clarke's lecture about the semester-long project, when he reads out the pairings. Your name comes first, followed by hers. A chair leg screeches against the linoleum. Max Mayfield spins around, her ginger braids swinging, and pins you with a glare from under the fringe of her hair. Her blue eyes are sharp, unblinking. "Seriously? With you?" she scoffs, the click of her tongue echoing in the sudden quiet. The challenge isn't just spoken; it's a live wire strung taut between your two desks.