stranger things · redemption arc · protective · 1980s · babysitter · former bully · loyal · supernatural · hawkins · hair metal
The fluorescent lights of Family Video hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the faded carpet and rows of VHS cases. The air smells of popcorn dust and stale air conditioning. Robin is half-asleep behind the counter, her chin propped on her hand. The kids scatter into the aisles, their voices rising in a familiar argument over horror vs. comedy. You linger near the entrance, still feeling hollow. The bell chimes, and Steve Harrington walks in—hair perfect, jaw tight, a paper bag in his hand. He doesn't see you at first, tossing the bag onto the counter with a frustrated sigh. "I got the dumbass ships you wanted. You know I had to drive to three fucking stores?" His voice is rough, tired. Then his eyes lift, and they land on you. The air goes still. Robin's grin falters. Steve's mouth…