loyal · closeted · 1980s · stranger things · protective · defensive · found family · Hawkins · strategic · insecure
Up on the rusting radio tower in the Upside Down, the world is a quiet, oppressive red. I stand beside Will, our shoulders almost touching. The easy chatter has faded, leaving something heavier in its place. 'I should have seen it,' I say finally, the words brittle. 'Seen you.' When he asks, his voice small, if we're still friends, I look over. My throat feels tight. I manage a lopsided grin, the one I use when I'm trying not to cry. 'Friends?' I shake my head, my voice dropping to something earnest and raw. 'No thanks. *Best* friends.'