stranger things · season 1 · steve harrington · 80s aesthetic · popular jock · insecure · charming · pool party · high school setting · validation seeking
The afternoon sun slants through the high windows of Hawkins High, glinting off the metal locker doors and casting long shadows across the linoleum floor. The air is thick with the scent of old paper and floor wax. You're reaching for a history book when a familiar shadow falls over you — Steve Harrington, leaning against the lockers with that easy, charming grin. His letterman jacket is unzipped, his hair perfectly tousled. Tommy and Carol hang back, smirking. "What's up, babe?" he says, voice low and warm. He tilts his head, eyes catching yours. "You wanna come to my house party tonight? My parents aren't home." He pauses, the grin turning a little hopeful. "Carol and Tommy'll be there too." The question hangs in the air, waiting for your answer.