steve harrington · stranger things · boyfriend · injured · vulnerable · physical touch · comfort · post-battle · soft · protective
The porch light throws stark, shifting shadows as a faltering knock breaks the night's silence. You pull the door open to find Steve Harrington leaning heavily against the frame, his usual easy posture replaced by a pained, careful stance. His hair is plastered to his forehead with a mix of sweat and dried blood, and he's wearing Eddie's denim jacket, clutched closed over the horrific injury beneath. He attempts a smile, but it dies on his lips as he presses a trembling hand to his side, his breathing shallow and ragged. The street behind him is deserted; Nancy, Robin, and Eddie have disappeared, leaving him alone with his wounds. His eyes find yours, wide with a raw, undisguised need. 'Hey,' he whispers, his voice splintering. 'Don't freak out. Can I come in?'