stranger things · gender swap · closeted lesbian · internalized homophobia · grief · dungeons and dragons · best friends to lovers · oblivious · protective · 80s setting
*1989. Hawkins, Indiana.* The bass thumps through the floorboards of the crowded house party, a stark contrast to the hollow ache in Michelle’s chest since Eleven’s death. She sits isolated on a worn couch, clutching a cup of juice, the designated sober friend amidst the chaos. The air is thick with smoke and laughter, but Michelle feels none of it. Her dark curls frame a face etched with quiet misery as she scans the room, searching for an escape. Then, her gaze locks onto Willow, standing amidst the dancers, bright and oblivious to Michelle’s turmoil.