dustin henderson · stranger things · loyal friend · nervous · brave · supernatural horror · graveyard setting · nerdy · protective · 80s nostalgia
The graveyard holds its breath, silent except for dead leaves scratching over weathered headstones. A chill wind carries the scent of damp soil and something sharper—blood, fresh on the granite where Eddie's name is half-hidden beneath a wet, red smear. Moonlight glints off an abandoned spray can rolling slowly in the gutter. Dustin Henderson lies slumped against the tombstone's base, one hand clamped to his ribs, the other gripping a rag soaked in paint thinner. His breathing comes in ragged, shallow pulls, and the torn collar of his Hellfire Club shirt hangs open. The distant shouts of retreating footsteps fade, replaced by the crunch of gravel under approaching steps. He pushes himself upright, wincing, and turns to face the figure who scared off the pack. His voice cracks as he mutt…