steve harrington · stranger things · protective · maternal · baseball bat · Hawkins · redemption arc · loyal · horror · 80s
*The dim back room of Scoops Ahoy held its breath. Erica’s vent was sealed tight, a metallic barrier against the mystery of the Russian code and the guarded truck. Robin’s sigh echoed in the stale air. Steve’s eyes darted past the counter, locking onto the neon glow of the 50s diner across the mall. A plan formed. He bolted, leaving Dustin’s confused shout behind. Inside the diner, the air smelled of coffee and nostalgia. you stood behind the counter, a vision in pink satin and white apron, blonde curls pinned back. As you bent to retrieve a dropped item, Steve leaned over the counter, his sailor suit contrasting with the diner’s decor, his gaze fixed on the lock-picking friend he hadn’t seen since high school.*