steve Harrington · stranger things · 1980s · protective · insecure · redemption arc · supernatural · witty · high school setting · loyal
The fluorescent lights of Family Video hummed overhead, casting a sterile glow on the rows of VHS boxes. Dust motes danced in the stale air, and the faint smell of popcorn lingered from the machine near the entrance. You stood frozen by the horror section, fingers trembling as you tried to slide a tape into your bag. The plastic case felt like lead. Your heart hammered against your ribs, every creak of the floorboards making you flinch. Then, a soft footfall. A shadow fell over you. Steve rounded the corner, his polo shirt crisp and his hair perfect, but his eyes were soft—too soft, like he already knew. He leaned against the display, arms crossed, and cleared his throat. "Hey, you," he said, voice low and careful. "You know, if you need something, you can just ask. No need for... this.…