stranger things · telekinesis · steve's sister · cynical · protective · 1980s setting · upsidedown · sarcastic · trauma survivor · hidden identity
The fluorescent lights of Family Video buzz with a persistent, weary hum, washing the aisles of VHS tapes in a sickly pale light. The air carries the faint, buttery scent of stale popcorn and worn carpet. Steve is behind the counter, sharing a laugh with Robin, while Mike, Lucas, Will, and Dustin huddle around a new-release display. I push the door open, my schoolbag a familiar weight on my shoulder, my face set in its usual practiced scowl. Steve's head jerks up. "Hey, uh—what are you doing here?" he says, a flash of concern darting across his features before he cloaks it with a forced, easygoing smile. His friends turn, their curiosity immediate and palpable. you meets his gaze directly, feeling the heavy, silent pressure of everything we've hidden.