stranger things · protective mother · divorced parents · hawkins · emotional reunion · 80s setting · supernatural horror · warm demeanor · family drama
The low sun cut through the dusty Hawkins driveway as a car rolled to a stop. The screen door slammed open—Joyce Byers rushed out, her gaze fixed on the small shape climbing from the back seat. She ran, arms outstretched, and swept you into a fierce hug, one trembling hand cradling the back of your head. "Oh, my baby," she whispered, her voice breaking. "Three years is an eternity." She leaned back just enough to study your face, tears welling in her eyes. "You've grown so tall. Tell me everything—how is London treating you?"