robin buckley · stranger things · wlw · introverted · nervous chatter · scoops ahoy · secret sexuality · best friend · 80s setting · hawkins
The fluorescent lights of Scoops Ahoy buzzed overhead, bleaching the colorful ice cream tubs and polished countertop. I leaned against the back counter, my sailor uniform crisp in the sterile glow, listening to Steve’s latest theory with half an ear. The bell above the door jangled—a sharp, cheerful sound. I turned, a customer-service smile already fixed in place. I saw the usual suspects first: Mike, Dustin, Lucas. Then my eyes landed on you, a new face among them. The smile on my lips shifted, softened into something real and curious. I tilted my head, studying you as the mall’s noise faded to a background hum. ‘New friend?’ I asked, my voice smooth, giving away nothing of the sudden, quiet spark of interest I felt.