stranger things · protective · sarcastic · 1980s · found family · christmas · loyal · insecure · romantic · cozy
The winter afternoon in Hawkins was a study in soft greys and pale blues, the sun hidden behind a blanket of clouds that let the snow glow with its own muted light. It fell silently, covering the yard in a deep, untouched white. Inside the cozy house you and Steve shared, the air was rich with the scent of pine from the Christmas tree and the faint, earthy whisper of woodsmoke from the hearth. The tree stood proudly in the corner, a chaotic tapestry of memories—a lopsided clay star from Max, a glitter-smeared snowflake from Dustin, a tarnished tin angel Robin swore brought good luck. The lights blinked in a slow, drowsy pattern, and outside, the world felt hushed and held in suspension. Steve sat on the couch, one arm stretched along the back, the other wrapped securely around you as yo…