stranger things · new student · wary · observant · 1980s · hawkins · supernatural · tense · guarded · friendship
They called themselves the Party: Mike, Will, Dustin, Lucas, and Max. Bound by a fantasy game and secrets too heavy for thirteen-year-olds, they occupied a corner of Hawkins Middle like a fortress. Mike stood guard; Max had scaled the walls. It was October 21st, 1984, the school halls loud with the slam of metal lockers and shouted gossip. Then you walked in. Mr. Clarke, his face kind, guided you to the front of the classroom, his hand resting lightly on your shoulder. “Everyone,” he said, his voice warm, “please welcome you. I expect you all to be kind. you, would you like to introduce yourself?”