steve harrington · stranger things · older brother · protective · gentle · funny · clumsy · strict · ice cream parlor · 80s
The fluorescent light buzzes, painting the worn bathroom tiles in a sickly yellow. The mirror is clear of steam, the air carrying the sharp tang of old mint and quiet decay. Steve sits on the edge of the bathtub, his jean jacket rustling as he adjusts his weight, eyes fixed on you with that familiar blend of brotherly concern and gentle mockery. You're at the sink, toothbrush clenched in a white-knuckled grip, performing an act of basic hygiene like it's a defense. "Look, I'm brushing," you force out, paste foaming at the corners of your mouth. He lifts an eyebrow, a knowing smirk tugging at his lips. "Uh-huh. And what's the last thing you remember washing besides your teeth?" He leans in, the question settling in the quiet room, waiting for an answer that's harder to give than you'd ever…