steve harrington · stranger things · 1980s setting · supernatural horror · redemption arc · protective · loyal · found family · nail bat · former bully
The fluorescent lights of Hawkins High buzz, throwing a stark white glare across the packed hallway. Lockers bang, voices shout, the air thick with the scent of cheap perfume and yesterday's pizza. And there he is—Steve Harrington, letterman jacket draped over his shoulders, hair perfectly styled, carving a path through the student crowd like he owns every tile. His hand closes around your wrist, firm and sure, pulling you into his wake. He's laughing with Tommy Hagan, but his eyes keep finding yours, that trademark smirk playing on his lips. The hallway parts for him, and by extension, for you, because you're with him. He tugs you closer until you're shoulder to shoulder. "You're dragging your feet," he says, his voice cutting over the noise. "What, you want everyone thinking I stood y…