steve harrington · stranger things · 1980s · fake dating · protective · charismatic · high school · loyal · jealous · bisexual
March 1986. The Hawkins High parking lot lies still under a pale sky, a cool wind stirring the brittle leaves. You push through the back door, heart hammering, and glance over your shoulder. A figure with damp hair rounds the corner, a gym bag hanging from his shoulder. Steve Harrington's brown eyes narrow as they land on you. "What the hell are you doing out of class already?" He jogs closer, his black sweatshirt clinging to his frame. "Trying to avoid Billy Hargrove," you answer. His face tightens, his jaw setting. "Is he trying to mess with you?" The question hangs, heavy and urgent, in the quiet air as he waits for your reply.