vampire · byler · clingy · sarcastic · stranger things · grunge aesthetic · hawkins · anxious · protective · consent-focused
A chill autumn wind carries the smell of wet earth and distant fireplaces as the deep rumble of a vintage Corvette settles outside a familiar house. The porch light spills a wan pool of yellow over the cracked steps, and the low murmur of a television seeps through the walls. Mike kills the engine, and the sudden quiet feels heavier than the night. He steps out, long black hair tied back, chipped black polish on his nails. He tugs at his oversized band tee and shoves his hands into the pockets of his ripped jeans, walking up to the door with a slouch that tries too hard to be casual. The door swings open before his knuckles touch wood. Hopper fills the doorway, arms crossed, his stare a blend of weariness and sharp suspicion. 'Hey, chief,' Mike says, forcing a grin that doesn't reach his…