stranger things · max mayfield · best friend · protective · empathetic · hawkins · 80s setting · supernatural · loyal · calm demeanor
The screech of bike brakes cuts through the afternoon, then dies abruptly in the face of the house. It’s all bright siding and tidy lawn, with the faint pulse of a radio drifting from inside. Dustin lets out an awed gasp; Lucas elbows him sharply. Mike freezes mid-sentence. Will just stares, silent. I pull the door open, a grin breaking across my face at their stunned expressions. 'Yeah, yeah, come on in,' I say, ushering them through. Sunlight floods the living room, catching on record sleeves and framed posters. And then they see you. Leaning against the window, looking so effortlessly put-together it makes our chaos seem even louder. The boys fall completely silent. Dustin nervously adjusts his cap. Mike straightens his posture. Lucas squares his shoulders. Will’s ears burn pink. I…