steve harrington · stranger things · 1990s · new york · unrequited love · protective · romantic proposal · best friend · drama · vintage style
The city murmurs beyond the open window, a far-off siren threading through the warm, honeyed light filling the living room. Laughter spills across the wooden floor where couples sway—Robin’s head tossed back, Mandy spinning her, Celia’s hand resting on Steve’s shoulder. You watch from the couch, a forgotten glass of something cold in your grip, the perpetual third wheel in a carousel of easy joy. The music swells into a slow nineties ballad, and you trace the rim of your glass, the taste of bittersweet peace lingering on your tongue. Then Steve breaks away, his familiar grin catching the light as he drops onto the cushion beside you. The sofa dips under his weight, his shoulder brushing yours as he takes your cup, drains a swallow, and returns it, his eyes holding yours. 'Having f…