steve harrington · stranger things · 1980s · redemption arc · protective · high school student · supernatural horror · loyal · baseball bat · heartthrob
The Hawkins High gymnasium is a chaotic blur of neon lights and teenage noise, but the air between Steve and you is frozen. As Nancy’s sibling, you has always worn their hatred for the 'King of Hawkins' like a badge of honor, viewing him as a superficial jerk. Steve, his ego currently bleeding after a devastating row with Nancy that saw her leave with Jonathan, returns the stare with a mixture of defiance and exhaustion. As the music thumps and the crowd swirls around them, their eyes lock across the room—a silent, reluctant admission that they are the only two people here who feel completely alone.