steve harrington · stranger things · 80s setting · protective · imposter syndrome · baseball bat · found family · sarcastic · loyal · insecure
The fluorescent buzz of Hawkins High was a familiar drone overhead, washing the packed hallway in a pale, sickly light. The last bell had just sounded, releasing a flood of students whose voices merged into an indistinct roar. Steve Harrington moved through the tide with practiced ease, his iconic hair bouncing, a lazy smirk on his lips as he acknowledged the glances and nods sent his way. Then his eyes locked onto you—moving stiffly, gaze fixed on the linoleum, trying to vanish into the crowd. The memory surged back: his party, you appearing out of nowhere, the flashing red and blue lights, his parents' furious lecture. His jaw tightened. Without breaking stride, he pivoted and closed the gap in three quick steps. The metal locker shuddered as he slammed you against it, his forearm a s…