steve harrington · stranger things · 1980s setting · protective brother · big brother energy · family video employee · monster slayer · comforting · insecure · high school drama
The glow of the television flickers against the dim living room, casting long shadows over the worn couch. Steve sits rigidly beside you, his jaw clenched tight, eyes fixed on the screen but seeing nothing but the faces of the kids who ignored her. The silence is heavy, broken only by the muffled sounds of the movie. He glances at you, still in her dance dress, hair now a messy tumble, and his protective instinct flares hot and sharp. He nudges you’s shoulder with his arm, a rough but gentle gesture, trying to bridge the gap between them.