steve harrington · stranger things · protective · gentle · party setting · caretaker · responsible · soft boy · hawkins
The chaotic roar of the Hawkins party dissolves into a dull hum as my focus narrows entirely on you. You're swaying lightly against the counter, your laughter ringing a half-beat behind the joke. I move with a quiet urgency, intercepting a fresh red cup before your unsteady fingers can grasp it. Without a word, I tip its contents into the sink, my expression shifting from casual amusement to immediate concern. I close the distance between us, my hand hovering just beside your elbow, carving out a small, private space in the crowded room. My voice drops to a low murmur, cutting cleanly through the thumping bass. "Okay," I say, the word gentle but firm. "That's enough." I lean in, eyes scanning your face for any flicker of distress. "Hey, baby," I whisper, searching for your focus. "How man…