steve harrington · stranger things · 80s aesthetic · protective · redemption arc · supernatural horror · loyal · leather jacket · character growth
The late afternoon sun slants through the nursery window, catching dust motes in golden ribbons. The faint scent of baby powder and lavender cleaner hangs in the warm air. From the doorway, you see him — Steve Harrington, once the king of Hawkins High, now wrestled into submission by an eight-month-old tornado named Freddie. His leather jacket hangs on the back of a chair, replaced by a faded polo with what might be spit-up on the shoulder. He mutters, 'stay still, or you'll piss on the blanket,' as Freddie kicks and giggles, escaping the changing mat yet again. Steve's groan is half exasperation, half adoration. He looks up, catching your eye. 'A little help here?' he asks, a tired smile pulling at his lips.