Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

October 1982
Hawkins, IN
-

"Can you believe it?" Heather Holloway proceeded to babble, turning to her best friend. "I can't believe she's letting him grab her ass like that!" Heather spat, pointing towards Molly Kevins and Jake Duncan. "Gag me with a spoon." Allison Byers mumbled, snickering along with it. "I mean, seriously? In front of the entire cafeteria?" The curly haired brunette gestured to the sea of students, then shielding her eyes.

Allison Byers and Heather Holloway have been friends since elementary school, both rising to popularity in their High School Years. They both didn't care for the title, but it meant everything to their boyfriends, especially Allison's. Steve Harrington, the King of Hawkins High, no one knows how he got his reputation, maybe it was the hair, but he had been popular since the beginning of time. Sure, he was a douche bag to the majority, but he made Allison feel seen, and she loved him for that. They had also known each other since elementary school, almost always in the same classes seeing as they were the same age. They hadn't clicked until freshman year, and then they had slowly tethered together.

The Byers family was poor, unlike the Harrington's and Holloway's. Allison's brothers, Jonathan and Will, were both somewhat of an outcast in their own schools. Allison somehow was the only one to be seen as something more than a Byers kid, more than the quiet freak in the back of the classroom; but that never deterred her from calling people out when they would attack her family. The start of her sophomore school year, after her parents divorced, she had signed up for Hawkins Cheerleading; much to her surprise, she had been accepted. Being the oldest sibling, she tried to set a good example for her family name, but it seemed she was the only Byers that had been deemed normal.

"Hey beautiful." Steve said from behind Allison, startling her with the sudden kiss. "Ack, move your lovers quarrels elsewhere." Heather laughed as Tommy and Carol joined the table alongside Steve, and Christopher Evans, Heather's boyfriend. "And why would they do that? You should've heard them at the party last weekend." Tommy Hagan chuckled, looking over to his red headed girlfriend. "Oh Steve! Harder Steve!" Carol cackled aloud, disrupting the silence of the cafeteria. "Okay, cut it out Carol." Steve whispered as Allison's cheeks grew to a Crimson red, looking down to her food with a small smile.

"See, no denial." Tommy finished, slinging his arm around his girlfriend. "I can't believe I missed it!" Heather exclaimed, slouching in her chair as she poked at her mushy cafeteria food. "It's okay babe, we had our fun, didn't we?" Christopher teased, leaning in to kiss her blushing cheeks. The bell rang with that, signaling that lunch was over and fifth period was starting soon. As usual, Steve laced his fingers within Allison's, walking her to her Geometry class. "I'll see you after school, ok?" He whispered into the brunette's ear before pulling her into a kiss.

As the end of school came around, she'd hop in Steve's car, and he'd drive her home. Joyce had offered to drive her home, since she drove both Jonathan and Will, but Allison preferred to be with Steve.

Their relationship meant everything to her. After Lonnie left, she became so co-dependent on Steve that she naturally became attached to him. She wasn't the clingy type, but being without him for too long was overwhelming at times. He made her feel complete, like the piece that was ripped out of her was filled up again. She was utterly in love with him, and gave herself to him. Both of them were broken in their own ways, but being together made them feel whole.

1983

During Allison's Junior year, Joyce had invited Mike and his older sister Nancy over more frequently. While the two girls had known each other growing up, their friendship wasn't anything near Allison and Heather, or Nancy and Barbs relationships. It wasn't until Nancy and Allison started hanging out more frequently that things began to change. Allison had noticed how Steve always wanted her to bring Nancy around, how the gap between her and him grew over time, how he slowly started to slip out of her grasp and into another's.

Come October 1983, the couple had split, shocking Hawkins High. Steve had said he needed space, which she understood, but she was still hurt deep down. The two still had the same friends, but Nancy had joined along, and the tables had split. It was barely two weeks later, when November had strolled around that things started to go downhill for Allison Byers.

"Oh my god-" Heather said from their table in the cafeteria, looking from the doors to her best friend. Allison had been trying her best to enjoy her salad, feeling much more drained and sorrowful than usual. "Hm?" Allison pondered to her best friend, poking at her greens with a plastic fork. "Oh babe, I don't know how you're going to take this but um... cafeteria doors.. look." Heather said solemnly, grabbing the other brunette's hand with her own. One look was all it took for Allison's heart, and stomach, to sink. There stood Steve Harrington and Nancy Wheeler, hand in hand. He was whispering something into her ear as they strolled over to the table Tommy and Carol were sat at, pulling her chair out for her.

The look of heartbreak and betrayal was painted all over Allison's face as tears welled in her eyes. She tried so desperately to hide them, but they ran down her cheeks before she could catch them. She was speechless if anything, unknowing of where to start. "Oh... Allison I'm sorry." Heather whispered, holding her best friends hand tighter with a pitiful expression. "Let's go to the bathroom, hm?" She gestured, and Allison nodded.

The two exiting the cafeteria didn't go unnoticed by Steve's table. He caught a glimpse of her broken face, swallowing his guilt. He tried to ignore the remarks Tommy and Carol made, nor the hate he felt for himself in that moment, but he couldn't let it show- nor could he let his reputation be ruined over something like this.

"Scram, this is urgent." Heather demanded in the ladies bathroom, shooing the girls skipping classes out of the stalls as she pulled Allison along with her, moving to a stall. "Babe, I know what you saw out there was absolutely devastating, but listen to me. He's not worth it, he's not worth the pain. I know you love him doll, but if he's going to stoop that fucking low, you don't give him the time of day, okay hun?" Heather stated, crouched down so her hands were on Allison's knees, as Allison was seated upon the toilet.

Allison had begun to nod, but quickly burst into tears. "Speak to me babe." Heather said, holding onto Allison's hands. "I knew- I fucking knew it." The broken hearted girl stated, grasping Heather's hands back. "I asked him about... about if there was something there earlier this semester... that I saw the way he looked at her. It was the- the same way he used to look at me. He said I was being paranoid! Need space my fucking ass." She laughed through tears and frustration. "I can't believe I believed it. I knew it wasn't about space... it was because he was looking at her, and not me."

"What a fucking dick!" Heather gasped, frustration rising within her as well. "Explains why he always wanted her around." She finished, grabbing tissues from her backpack to wipe Allison's tears away. "What's wrong with me? What was I doing wrong?" Allison whimpered, eyes barely meeting her friends. "Look at me babe. There's nothing, and I mean nothing wrong with you. Okay? It's him, and it's always been him. He couldn't put on his big boy pants to own up to his actions. So, we're gonna clean you up, re-do your makeup, and you're going to walk back out there and show him how big of a mistake he made. Okay?" Heather nodded, bringing the two up from their sitting positions.

The Byers girl nodded in return, leaving the stall to go bring herself back together, and strutting back into the cafeteria right before the bell for fifth period rang. Now that she had her license, she drove herself home most of the time, or shared a ride with her brothers. Jonathan knew about his sister splitting up with the same douchebag that's friends nagged him for not meeting the 'right' expectations, but he was more glad than anything. He absolutely despised Steve, he always had. All Jonathan cared about was that his sister wasn't hurt; although he was a year younger than her, he was always extremely protective.

When Allison had gotten home, she had fallen apart all over again in her mom's arms. The Byers family, aside from Lonnie, were all extremely close. All of them got along despite their differences, and that was one thing they were all most thankful for; Lonnie leaving brought them even closer together. Joyce knew exactly how her daughter was feeling and was shocked to hear about Nancy being the one to take her daughter's place. Though Allison mainly went to his place, he had spent numerous occasions and even holidays over at the Byers residence, seemingly a kind boy, but now she disliked the boy as much as Jonathan did. Will just reassured Allison in the best way he could, being there for her whenever she needed someone.

That night, they watched Grease since it was one of Allison's favorites. They all did their best to be there for her in their own way, just as they had for Jonathan when he had first gotten picked on, and pushed around a couple times. Joyce would play with her daughters hair, and rub her back as Will let her hold his rabbit stuffed animal, Thumper, that she had given him when she was in middle school; Jonathan being there was enough, sharing the popcorn with her.

For a while, Allison thought she'd be okay with the reassurance of her family and best friend being there for her, but the events that would soon come would flip her world upside down.

Chapter Text

November 6th, 1983

Hawkins, IN

-

It was 11 p.m. on a school night, and Allison Byers remained in Heather Holloway's living room, watching movies with a bowl of popcorn. The girls didn't care much for the time, nor that it was a school night. Heather just cared that her best friend was okay after everything that had went down in the past three weeks. It was a rather windy night, and every Byers kid had been out of the house with Joyce working out late.

"What if we dyed my hair?" Allison propositioned, propping herself up on her elbows. "What color?" Heather inquired, matching Allison's movements. "Blonde..? I'm in desperate need of a change... I want a Sandy moment." Allison referred to the movie, tossing some popcorn in her mouth. "You know that it won't change how you're feeling... right?" Heather cautiously went on, not wanting to upset her best friend in her fragile state. "No shit... but it could make me feel at least a little better." The Byers girl said, reaching into her backpack.

To Heather's surprise, Allison had pulled out a bottle of bleach, setting it between the two. "Holy shit! You've premeditated this and everything!" The curly haired brunette laughed, snatching the bottle from its place on the couch. "Are you sure?" She asked, looking to her best friend who was stuck in a contemplating state. "Positive." Allison declared, and the two got up from their spots on the couch, hauling the blankets and bowl of popcorn into the bathroom with them.

Allison didn't get home until around two in the morning; The house was still and silent as she climbed into her bed after taking one last look at her new head of hair, drifting into slumber like her mother and Jonathan before her. Unfortunately for the Byers family, Will had disappeared into the night after searching for his family, which none had been there for him.

-

"Where the hell are they? Jonathan?" Joyce yelled from her bedroom, startling Allison awake. It was fairly early in the morning, and she was exhausted from staying up so late the night before. Getting out of bed, she met with Jonathan who was making breakfast in the kitchen. "Check the couch!" He yelled to their mother before turning to face his sister. "Holy- what the hell happened to your hair!?" Jonathan exclaimed as Joyce expressed that she had already checked, before finding them under the cushions. "Allie! Wow- what happened here?" Joyce asked, nearly bumping into her daughter as she gestured to her daughter's hair. "I bleached it... over at Heather's last night. I told you I wanted to a couple days ago... remember?" Allison yawned, sitting down at the table. "I thought it was just an impulsive thought at the time... I like it." Joyce responded, running her hands through her daughter's hair with a reassuring smile.

"Anyway... I will see you guys tonight- Where's Will?" She continued, pointing to the empty chair beside Allison. "Oh, I didn't get him up yet, He's probably still sleeping." Jonathan stated, turning to face his mother as Joyce looked to Allison. "Don't look at me!" Allison groaned, trying to wipe the tiredness away from her eyes. "Guys! You have to make sure he's up!" Joyce exclaimed, looking between both of her eldest children. "Mom, I'm making breakfast." Jonathan stated, looking to his sister. "I just got up!" Allison chimed in, putting her hair up with a hair tie.

A groan escaped from Joyce's lips as she rushed to Will's bedroom, ready to wake up her youngest. "I've told you guys a thousand times. Will! Come on, honey. It's time to get up." Joyce clapped, pushing her son's door open to reveal an empty bed. "He came home last night, right?" She questioned her children as she made her way back from Will's bedroom. Both the eldest Byers kids eyebrows raised at this, exchanging looks to one another. "He's not in his room?" Jonathan asked, setting a plate of eggs down in front of his sister. "Did he come home or not?" Joyce asked again, arms raised in questioning. "I don't know." Jonathan stated, looking to his mother. The tension in the room had begun to raise as Allison's stomach dropped, hoping her youngest brother was still at the Wheeler's house.

"You don't know?" Joyce asked, face twisting in confusion and frustration. "No.. I- I got home late. I was working." The Byers boy answered, stammering under the pressure. "You were working?"

"Eric asked if I could cover. I said yeah, I just thought we could use the extra cash." Jonathan admitted, slouching as he stood. "And you?" Joyce asked her daughter who was eating her breakfast. "I already told you mom, I wasn't home until after midnight..."

"Guys! We've talked about this!" Joyce exclaimed as the two Byers kids simultaneously agreed that they knew. "You can't take shifts.. or go to a friend's house, when I'm working!" She continued, her voice raising. "Mom, it's not a big deal. Look, he was at the Wheelers' all day... I'm sure he just stayed over." Jonathan proposed, raising his hand as he talked. "Would you like me to call Mrs. Wheeler?" Allison asked, starting to get up from the table before Joyce motioned for her to stay seated. "I can't believe both of you. I can't believe you guys sometimes!" Joyce announced before picking up the phone, and dialing the Wheeler's house.

As the Byers and Wheeler mom's spoke, both Jonathan and Allison couldn't help but feel anxious after hearing that Will hadn't stayed the night with Mike. When Joyce hung up, she began to feel the same way too, exchanging unknowing glances to her children. "What do we do..?" Allison unnervingly asked through the silence of the room, fingernails anxiously digging into her palms. "Just.. stay here. I'm going to the Police." Joyce announced, picking up her bag and heading out the door.

Allison couldn't help but feel scared that her littlest brother could be out there, alone. All she could do was hope that he was at school, somehow leaving earlier than Jonathan and Joyce had gotten up, knowing that possibility was unlikely.

-

Once Joyce had returned home, the three set out to their backyard, searching anywhere they could for the youngest Byers. Through all the desperate calls of Wills name, only silence returned, and the aroma of anxiousness taking over every acre of the forest. The only option left that they could think of was to call Lonnie, which Allison knew deep down that Will wasn't there, but for Joyce's sake, she kept quiet; it was better to hope anyway.

"Bitch!" Joyce yelled, slamming the yellow corded phone back onto it's spot, startling the Byers kids who sat on the couch. "Mom! You have to stay calm." Jonathan said in his gentle voice, fiddling with the markers he and his sister had been using to draw 'have you seen me' posters. Joyce tried Lonnie again, rambling on the unanswered line before slamming the phone back onto the receiver, shouting 'damn it.'

Allison kept her eyes on the posters as Jonathan perked up in his spot. "Mom?" He asked, staring ahead of himself. "What?" Joyce asked through a deep exhale, as Jonathan stood. "Cops."

The three Byers rushed outside, stopping on the front stoop as cop cars approached them. Ahead was Chief Jim Hopper, holding what Allison had known too well to be Will's bike; since it had once been her own. Her heart sunk within her chest as she grabbed onto Jonathan's arm, letting out a small gasp. It meant nothing and everything at the same time.

"It was just laying there?" Joyce asked once everyone was inside the Byers house, standing by the front door. "Yeah. Cal?" Hopper stated, motioning for one of his deputies to go somewhere. "Did it have any blood on it, or-" Joyce had started before getting cut off by the Chief. "No, no, no, no.. Phil?"

"If you found the bike out there, why are you here?" Jonathan piped up, following after Hopper. "Well, he had a key to the house, right?" The Chief inquired, walking around the kitchen. Jonathan had confirmed so, letting the Chief finish his statement. "So.. maybe he came home."

"You think I didn't check my own house?" Joyce stammered, stopping in her tracks. "I'm not saying that.... Has this always been here?" Hopper asked, pointing to a dent in the wall. "What? I don't know. Probably, I have three kids, two being boys, look at this place." Joyce went on, confused just as much as her children were. "You're not sure?" Hopper continued before their dog barked, breaking the silence. Joyce followed the Chief out as Jonathan and Allison remained in the house, slumping in their spots.

-

That night, search parties searched the woods for Will Byers, as the Byers family remained home, picking photos out for the posters they hoped they wouldn't have to hang up. Allison sat to the side on her own as Jonathan and Joyce shared the couch, talking quietly to one another. "I know I haven't been there for you.. either of you.. I- I've been... working so hard and I.. I just feel bad. I don't even.. barely know what's going on with you guys. All right? I am sorry about that." Joyce spoke aloud, so Allison could hear. Allison looked desolately to the ground before Jonathan began to cry, catching both Joyce's and her attention. "What is it honey?" Joyce asked as Allison got up from her spot, sitting on the other side of Jonathan.

"Nothing." Jonathan sniffled, shrugging his shoulders. "Tell me. Come on- you can-" Joyce tried to say before Jonathan said 'no.' He had always been the one to try and stay strong for everyone, especially after Lonnie left. He was the man of the house now, and it felt too vulnerable to show his emotions. "J, it's okay." Allison said from beside her brother, gently placing a hand on his back for reassurance. "It's just... I should've been there for him."

"Hey, this isn't on you.. you had to work and I- I was wasting my time being too absorbed over myself that I wasn't here, when I should've been. I should've been here.." Allison said through voice cracks, tears now pricking at her eyes as guilt began to surface. "No.. Oh, no.. You can't do that to yourselves. This wasn't your faults, do you hear me? He is... close. I know it. I.... I feel it in my heart. You just have to... You have to trust me on this, okay?" Joyce declared, rubbing Jonathan's arm with one hand, while holding Allison's with another. The two siblings nodded as Allison rested her head on Jonathan's shoulder, blinking back her tears.

"Oh, look at this- Look at this one." Joyce said, grabbing onto a colorized picture of Will, drawing the other two's attentions. "Look at this one." She continued, gently stroking the picture with her thumb as the three let out small, broken hearted laughs. "I mean, that's it, right? That's the one." She finished before the phone rang. Jonathan and Allison remained seated as Joyce raced to the phone, answering as soon as she got there. Allison's heart felt as if it were shrinking as she picked up a photo of her and Will on her bed, reading one of her magazines. He was so little then, barely seven. A small laugh escaped her lips as she recalled the memory, seeing another photo of Will on his bike, Allison standing over it behind him with her arms wrapped around his tiny frame, both of them sharing the same wide smile. While Jonathan and Will shared the same eyes, she shared the same smile as Will. Now, she desperately wished she could see it in this devastating moment.

"Will?" Joyce's frantic voice spoke, pulling Allison out of her thoughts. She hadn't even realized that Jonathan was no longer beside her, but now at Joyce's side. "It's Will?" Jonathan asked as Allison pulled herself to her feet, now standing by Jonathan's side. "Is it Will?" The Byers daughter echoed, watching her moms face twist in fear. "Who is this? What have you done to my boy?" Joyce frantically asked as Allison's heart began to race. "What?" The Byers kids asked in unison; "Give me back my son!" Joyce exclaimed before letting out a scream, dropping the phone.

Jonathan rushed to pick up the phone, trying to talk to whoever was on the other line as Allison brought her mother into her arms, who was shaking terribly. "Mom, who was it? Who was it, Mom? Look at me, Mom. Was it Will?" Jonathan asked rapidly, grabbing onto Joyce's arm. "It was him... yes." Joyce sobbed, shaking her head. "What did he say?" Jonathan continued.

"He just breathed. He just breathed." Joyce cried, pulling herself out of her children's grasps to get a hold of the phone once more. "And was someone else there? Mom, who was there? Who was it?" Jonathan questioned as Allison stood speechless, frozen in place. "It was him. I know it was his breathing- I know it was his breathing." Joyce sobbed as Jonathan pulled her into a hug, thunder booming throughout the atmosphere.

Allison continued to stand there, shock and confusion consuming her at the sight of her unraveled family.

Chapter Text

The next day, Allison remained in her room as Jonathan and Joyce waited for Hopper, and the news on if anyone found Will. She had heard her mom's frantic voice from the other side of the wall, and the booming voice of the Chief. From the sounds of it, Will hadn't been found, fueling Allison's angst and guilt. Now more than ever, she wanted to seep into her bed, to sink into an abyss and stay there, with no emotion, no fear, no anxiousness, nothing.

She wished that Will would be in his bed, or looking through his sisters magazines beside her. She had almost felt empty; crying herself to sleep exhausted her to limits she didn't even know were possible. What she dreaded most was hanging up the posters that she had wished to not be needed around town, and in her own High School. She was stuck between grieving and denial, unable to make up her mind on which one weighed down on her more.

Two knocks echoed from her door, before Jonathan opened it gently a couple of seconds later. "Hey..." He quietly said, sitting down on her bed. He hated seeing his sister like this. He had seen it when Lonnie left, and then when Steve broke her heart- twice. This was different, this was worse. He shared the same pain too, but he knew how heavy it was on her and their mother. Allison rarely showed emotion like this upfront, but only in private. Jonathan had started to become the same after the absence of his father, and it was hard. He looked up to his sister in that way, knowing deep down that she was truly strong, even if it didn't seem so.

"Look... um... there was-"

"No sign of Will... I know, I could hear." Allison cut him off, sniffling as she sat up, sitting beside her brother now. "Oh... well we need to go hang posters around town.. I figured we could start with Hawkins High to get it over with." He suggested, hands on his knees. Allison only nodded, and that sent him out of the room so she could get ready.

It took a long moment of looking in the mirror for Allison to pull herself together, only having hatred for her recently bleached hair. She still felt guilty over it, blaming herself for his disappearance- for not being there for him even though it wasn't her fault. She didn't apply too much makeup like usual, just a few strokes of mascara through her damp eyelashes, and thorough combs through her hair. She didn't put on a preppy outfit like she always did either, rather, she threw on a sweater and jeans.

She had barely recognized herself in the mirror as she dragged a hand gently across her cheek, and under her eyes with her fingertips. Staring at herself wouldn't get anything done, and it surely wouldn't help find Will, so she pulled herself away, climbing into Jonathan's car.

Her new hair didn't go unnoticed by every teenager that passed, but no one dared to come and talk to the two, knowing that they were already dealing with enough.

Steve stood with his friends, features softening upon seeing Allison's disheveled state. The bags under her eyes were darker, her skin pale. He almost didn't recognize her with the blonde hair; she looked like a completely different person. He swallowed hard, watching her and her brother push pins through one of their posters. Tommy snickered from behind him, hitting Steve's arm to egg him on. The Harrington boy turned to look at his friend, really not finding this moment to be an appropriate one to say anything, but as Tommy nudged him again, gesturing his head towards the siblings, Steve turned to face the two Byers.

Allison could hear his familiar voice say, "Oh God, that's depressing." A slight turn of her head, she could see Carol, Tommy, Steve, Nancy, and Barb standing not too far away. Rage filled her as her breathing became heavily, fists creasing the edges of the paper she held. Jonathan picked up on this, observing her angered expression as her jaw clenched. He had been used to their half-assed whispers, having become accustomed to it. "Don't let it get to you." He whispered, knowing Allison had never been on the receiving end.

"I'm gonna go hang one up on the other end." Allison spoke, very evidently letting it get to her as she made her way past the group before Barb called out after her. "Allie!"

The blonde slowly turned, keeping her eyes directed at the friendly redhead, knowing looking at any of the others would only make her angrier. "Um... How are you?" She softly asked, taking a couple steps towards her acquaintance. "I'm sorry.. stupid question." She continued, looking to the ground. The eyes of the rest of the group were on the two, leaving Allison uncomfortable. "No... no it's okay. I'm hanging in there." The Byers girl stated, letting out a half-ass laugh. "I'm really sorry about Will... I hope you find him." Barb continued, offering a sad but genuine smile. "Thank you." Allison replied, eyes looking from Barb to the others.

"What's up with the hair?" Tommy snickered from behind Barb, earning a sideways glance from Steve beside him. "What does it look like?" She replied quickly, her tone harsh and impatient, making Carol cackle. "It looks good." Barb finished.

"It was good seeing you, Barb." Allison sent a final smile only to the redhead before she started to make her way down the hall again, not looking back.

-

Jonathan had left to go see Lonnie, dropping Allison off at Heather's. She didn't want to go home, which he understood, so there she was. Heather was worried sick, holding Allison close to her once again. She couldn't imagine what her best friend was going through, but she knew that now more than ever, someone needed to be there for her.

So, there Heather was, as always. She played their shared mix tape on her stereo, sitting in her vanity chair as Allison was passed out on Heather's bed. Heather knew she probably wasn't getting any sleep, so any opportunity she could give, or any help that she could be, she tried to be.

Allison was scared that with how much was going on with her, Heather would leave. But Heather wasn't like that; they'd stayed strong through thick and thin, even when Tina made rumors up about them saying things behind each other's backs. Their friendship was unbreakable, and after everything, it was one of the most important things in both girls' lives.

Chapter Text

The night before, Jonathan had come to pick his sister up from the Holloway house, after he himself hid in the bushes of the Harrington's backyard, snapping away pictures with his camera. And then there was Barbara Holland, who had just been snatched away by the same creature that had taken Will Byers, too.

Hawkins didn't know of the girl's disappearance yet, no one did. The two Byers returned home, climbing into their beds. Although Allison once again remained in slumber the next morning, Jonathan and Joyce sat in the next room over, sitting on Will's bed as Joyce tried to convince her son that Will was there, speaking to her through the lights. She knew how crazy she looked, but she also knew it was no coincidence.

Slumber was stripped from Allison quickly as Jonathan woke her, reminding her of the dreadful school day laying ahead. A heavy feeling weighed within her gut, a sense of impending doom. They had already missed a day of school, and with nothing to do about their missing brother, going back to school was the only option. Allison didn't take too much time to look in the mirror, only a few quick glances when her mascara brush would hit the bridge of her nose, and she'd need to wipe the black spots away.

She put more effort into her outfit today than she had the other, not wanting to look like a complete miserable mess after everything. It didn't take long to scarf down her breakfast, say goodbye to her mother, and hop in her blue 1978 9 AMC Gremlin, driving herself off to school. The parking lot was full of teenagers avoiding the bell as usual, making it difficult to drive around, but a spot next to a car like Christopher's was open, so she took it; Jonathan filling the parking spot beside her.

Walking inside the hallways of Hawkins High had been the same as yesterday; Stares followed as she made her way to Algebra II, whispers surrounding the entire area. Allison began to feel the nausea rising within her, wishing everyone would just look away. But she held her head high, strutting past them as she pretended to pay no mind.

"Hey! You're here!" Heather's voice came from her right, startling her. Allison let out a shaky exhale, clutching on to her backpack tighter. "Whoa, you okay babe?" The brunette asked, gently placing her hand on the blonde's shoulder. "Yeah... yeah I'm fine. Can we stop at the bathroom before class?" Allison asked, looking to her best friend for confirmation. "Of course hun, we can skip for all I care." Heather laughed back, pushing the ladies room door open. Allison just needed a second to breath somewhere that others weren't, and definitely not in a classroom where Steve and Tommy would be.

The last thing she needed to do was face them before taking a moment to fully collect herself. Three full breaths in and out is what it took, just as her mom had taught her. Departing from Heather as they reached the classroom, she took a seat in the back, as she had the past two weeks. The seat changes were perfect, especially since she used to sit next to Steve, although he and Tommy were now at the table on the left of hers now.

Steve's eyes drifted to the Byers girl several times throughout that class, wondering if he should say anything to her, seeing as she had been going through so much. He used to be her safe space, and he knew that. Now, he didn't know that she had anyone.

-

Five class periods and a much uneventful lunch had passed, leaving one class period left. Straight away, Allison had noticed that Barb wasn't next to Nancy in their shared U.S. History class. Barb never missed classes; everyone knew that. She was practically a straight A student, like Nancy. Allison had been that way in her first two years of High School, but things started to slip once her focuses were elsewhere. The blonde wanted to ask Nancy where Barb was, having genuinely cared for the red head, but she bit down on her tongue. She hadn't talked to Nancy since before finding out about her and Steve.

Nancy knew that Allison was in love with the Harrington boy, but she proceeded to break their friendship and trust by simply saying 'yes.' She knew that Steve had broken her best friend's heart for her; The feeling of having Steve Harrington be interested in you was enough to make you turn against everything, Allison knew this too. The Wheeler girl shoved her pride and guilt aside, leaning forward on her desk. "Pst.. Allison." Nancy's whispered to the Byers girl, shocking her.

Allison was surprised she had the nerve to say anything, especially now. All Allison offered was turning her head slightly to the side, not saying anything in return. "I... I just wanted to say that I'm sorry... about Will... and... and yeah." Nancy stated, secretly wanting to apologize for much more than just that, but biting down on her own tongue too, knowing it wasn't the right time or place. Allison took a moment before saying anything as her fingernails dug into her palms, creating crescent marks. "Thanks." She offered before turning her head back to the front. The Wheeler girl wanted to continue, opening her mouth to say something more, but the bell ringing sent Allison off before a breath could even exit her lungs.

Returning to the bathroom, Allison sat in one of the stalls for a long moment. She had really hoped Nancy was genuine in her apology, knowing about the gossip and whispers spread from people like Carol and Tommy, thanks to Heather. It pained Allison to hear that some people genuinely were sprouting the idea that Jonathan had murdered Will, or that he had something to do with their little brothers' disappearance. She could handle rumors being spread about her, but not about her brothers.

Changing into her Cheer uniform for the assembly, she gathered her things together, heading out to the parking lot; thankfully she didn't have to stay the full time since her coach agreed to letting her alone go early. As she took a deep inhale of the cold November air, ahead, she could see Steve, Carol, Tommy, a red head she knew as Nicole, and an approaching Nancy Wheeler standing around Jonathan. Ripped paper laid by their feet, coming clearer into view as Allison drew nearer. She knew that whatever was happening in this interaction was no good as Tommy pushed Jonathan back, and as Steve held Jonathan's camera out in front of him. Within seconds, Steve dropped that very camera, shattering at contact with the ground.

Anger fueled through Allison as she picked up her pace, seeing the broken expression ridden on her brother's face. "What the hell!?" She shouted, causing the group to turn around as they were walking away; Jonathan crouching to the ground as Nancy stood there, guilt and sorrow painted on her delicate face. "Hey Nance! Come on." Steve finally called, and Nancy followed, meeting back up with Steve and his goons. "What the hell was that all about, J?" Allison asked, finally by her brother's side. She looked to the pieces of ripped paper and broken lens, crouching to pick up something.

She held a picture of Nancy half naked in her hands as her eyes widened at the sight. "Jonathan... tell me you didn't take this." Allison whispered, standing up. Jonathan offered no response, proving that he had in fact taken the photos. Although Allison didn't tolerate Nancy, she still wasn't okay with the idea that her brother, or any guy for that matter, was taking pictures, or stalking Nancy, let alone any other woman. "I can't believe you..." Allison finally said, clutching the photo closer to her, and away from Jonathan as she placed her stuff in her car, then headed to the assembly.

The group, minus Nicole sat on both sides of the hallways as Allison passed by, hearing Carol snicker something to Tommy. She then remembered the photo of Nancy that she had been holding firmly in her hands, so she turned back around, striding over to Nancy. "Um," She started, stopping in front of the brunette. "I... I thought you should have this. I don't condone what he did... just so you know; but breaking his camera was a low blow..." Allison finished, holding the ripped paper in her outstretched hand, directing the last part of her sentence to Steve who had already been looking at her.

"Oh come on, your freak of a brother deserved it, allie." Tommy cackled from behind, making an effort to look up Allison's skirt from his seated position. "Don't call him that." Allison spat in a low tone, turning to face the boy. "What, would you prefer pervert? That's more accurate anyway, right?" Tommy continued, furthering the Blonde's anger. Allison only bit at her lip, clutching her fists in a ball as she took a deep inhale through her nostrils, trying to keep herself calm. "Go fuck yourself Tommy." She laughed, releasing her balled hands. "What's your damage Allie?" Carol perked up, face scrunching.

"All of you. You're all fucked up in your own twisted ways. You go from being my best friends to complete assholes in a blink of an eye. But hey, at least I see your true colors, and I don't have to deal with your bullshit or hide the fact that I know you guys cheat on each other all the fucking time." Allison directed at the two in front of her, receiving a gasp from Carol, and a contorted expression of Anger from Tommy as the couple faced each other in disbelief. She turned around to face the other two, shaking her head, eyes directed at her ex-boyfriend. "I don't think I even have to rip into you for you to feel the guilt of what you put me through. I hope knowing you're a shitty person helps you sleep at night."

With that, Allison turned her backs on them and exited out to the field. It's almost as if calling them out, or having someone to lash out on, lifted a large weight off of her chest. All she could do was laugh, surprised that she had even gotten away with doing that. Steve and Nancy were both utterly shocked and speechless after that interaction, but didn't bring attention to it, seeing how angry Tommy now was. The Harrington boy swallowed hard; her words having hit him right in the chest.

Gathering with her fellow cheerleaders, Allison warmed up behind the bleachers as everyone filed into the stands, preparing for the assembly. All she needed to do was run out there, do a school chant, sit through some of the assembly, and finally after that, she could go home. That was the part she was looking forward to. "Alright girls, let's get out there." Coach Adam's announced, sending the team out who wriggled their pom-poms in their hands above their heads. It didn't take long for them to do their chants, and finally seat themselves. Allison found herself zoning out on the bleachers before being snapped out of it by her cheer coach.

"Allie, you're free to go now... you don't have to stay." She whispered, offering a sad yet understanding smile to the blonde. Allison nodded, climbing down the bleachers, and headed to her car. While driving through downtown, she saw Hopper and one of his deputies ahead racing out of the library, hopping in their police car. When the sirens turned on, she knew something was wrong, and curiosity got the best of her. Despite wanting nothing more than to collapse in bed, she followed the car with the blaring sirens and lights down through the forests. She knew they would catch on to her if she continued driving, so she parked, hopping out of her car and chasing after the vehicle on foot. Once she had reached the stopped vehicle down by the water, she also saw several other emergency vehicles surrounding the area.

The feeling she had earlier that day had once again returned; that pit in her stomach. Something was being pulled from the water; that much she could see as she approached. Once the police and fire men pulled the inflatable gurney from the water, Allison's entire soul fell from her where she stood.

Wearing the same clothes from the day he went missing, the body they pulled from the river had been Will. Suddenly, everything came crashing down on her. A sob left her mouth as she raced forward, bringing the attention of everyone nearby. Arms wrapped around her from behind, the force yanking her back as she fell to her knees. Uncontrollable tears streamed down the Byers girls face at the sight of her little brothers deceased body as pure pain stung at her heart, an ever-longing aching. She wished that she was the one that had been pulled from the lake, not her little brother. Not Will. He was too kind and innocent for this world, and it had ripped him and his good heart away; Hopper tried to pull her up from the ground, his words coming out incoherent to the distressed girl. She was shoving against him, ultimately surrendering as he pulled her into him, holding her in an embrace.

"I'm so sorry kid."

Chapter Text

The ride to the Byers home was silent. Allison had been sitting in the passenger's seat of Hopper's car, desolately staring off into the distance, attempting to ignore the pounding in her head. She knew what she saw, but she was still trying to find ways to rationalize it, to contradict that Will was dead, after all. Jonathan and Joyce lay ahead on the road in an embrace as the blaring sirens approached, unprepared for the news they were about to receive.

Allison had shakily stepped out of the car, revealing her emotionally battered face. The same look was displayed on both Joyce's and Jonathan's faces when they had saw. Allison immediately stepped forward to hold her mother in her embrace as Jonathan stood behind, standing helplessly at the scene. Hopper could only look down, unable to form words. "I'm so sorry mom." Allison whispered into her mom's ear, shutting her eyes tighter, wishing everything would just go away.

-

In the Byers house as Hopper explained everything to Joyce, Allison remained in her room, hands on her knees as she sat at the end of her bed. She held Thumper, Will's rabbit stuffed animal that had once been hers, close to her chest, as she held the picture of Will and her with his 'new' bike in the other hand. This was all wrong. Him being gone was wrong.

She couldn't even allow herself to think of what life would be like now, now that little innocent Will was gone. Her brain couldn't comprehend anything about it at all; nothing felt right. That night, she had barely slept. She simply couldn't, and she wasn't the only one. Joyce had been in the living room, firmly gripping on to an axe. Joyce knew her son wasn't gone, but no one believed her; not just yet. But they would.

-

"Hey, Allie. Get up." Jonathan's gentle voice shook Allison awake. "I already saw him, J. I don't want to see him again." She groaned back, knowing that they had wanted to go to the morgue. "We need to be there for mom, Allie. Plus, Hopper said you stood back; we can see it up-close-"

"It was him, Jonathan." Allison interrupted, sitting herself up. She looked drained, exhausted. The eyebags under her eyes were darker than before; The puffiness of her bottom eyelids didn't help either. "I'll go... but I don't need to see him again." She finalized, getting herself out of bed and not bothering to change. She had been in her cheer uniform from yesterday, dirt and gravel residue still stuck to her knees.

She remained in the waiting room with Hopper, looking down to the floor in a trance, just as Hopper had been. When Jonathan burst out of the door, looking as if he was going to be sick, it confirmed that the body had been Will's after all. It didn't faze Allison much, because she knew. Seeing her brother have the same realization as she had made her feel awful, so she offered a hand to her brother, having him sit next to her. The two held hands for reassurance and comfort, if that was even possible, Allison leaning her head on his shoulder.

"How's your mom doing?" Hopper broke the silence, sniffling. "I don't know." Jonathan spoke as Allison nodded in agreement. "How long's this stuff been going on? With the lights and, uh... Will and the thing in the wall?" The Chief with his hat in his hands continued. "Since the first phone call, I guess." Jonathan softly spoke, eyes still trained on the ground as his grip on his sisters hand loosened. "Long enough." Allison added with a cracked voice, turning to face Hopper. "You know, she's had anxiety problems... in the past.. But this... I don't know." Jonathan said after a long pause, taking a deep breath in at the end of his sentence. "I'm worried it could be.. Ugh, I don't know. She'll be okay. We'll be okay." He finished, tears forming in his eyes as he tightened his grasp on Allison's hand. All she could suffice was a nod in return, with a quick squeeze on his hand.

"Our mom... she's tough." Jonathan stated, looking from Hopper to his sister. "Yeah, she is." Hopper said before placing a hand on Jonathan's shoulder. "Hey, she is." He finished, making Jonathan smile. As if on cue, the door slams open, and the gentle atmosphere is disrupted. "Ma'am! I need you to sign!"

"I don't- I don't know what you think that thing is in there, but that is not my son!" Joyce frantically pointed towards the morgue, startling everyone in the room as the other three raised to their feet. "Joyce, wait a second." Hopper had tried to begin, but got quickly shut down by the furious Byers woman. "No!" She hastily exclaimed. "Mom, come on." Allison tried before Joyce reached the door, but she had already made her way out. "Mom!" Jonathan called out, following after her. Allison let out a weak exhale as the boy called out for Joyce. She looked to Jonathan, unsure of what to do, but she could tell her already had a plan. "I'll follow after her. Go home, Allison. Get some rest." Jonathan exclaimed before racing out the door.

She stood in silence, slightly jolting as Hopper laid a hand on her shoulder. "Sorry, let's get you home kid, okay?" His voice was gentle as he slowly nodded, waiting for her response. She nodded in return, following him out to his vehicle. After he opened and shut her door for her, climbing in the driver's side, he put the radio on to diffuse the silence. Before they could get too far, she spoke up. "Hey, do you think you could take me to my friend's house instead? I just... can't really sleep at home."

"Yeah... yeah I can do that." He affirmed as she told him Heather's address, resting her elbow on the windowsill. "I know this is hard, but you, and your family, will get through it." Hopper prompted, turning his head slightly to see her drained expression. "You hear me?"

She turned to face him, nodding. "Yes sir."

"Your mom is tough, and if what I've heard about you and Jonathan is true, you take after her in that aspect. Family is important, and you guys have to stick together through this... I'll be there in anyway I can to help you guys, and I know others will too." He offered, looking to her once more. She gave a small smile in return, nodding slowly.

-

At this point, sleep wouldn't fix the exhaustion Allison was facing. She could barely fall asleep due to the constant anxiety. The Holloway family, who had been like a second family to her, welcomed her inside as soon as she arrived. Janet made her a cup of tea after a warm embrace, followed by a fatherly embrace from Tom, nearly causing her to crumble. "We're so sorry to hear about Will, Allison. It's truly devastating. If Joyce, you, or Jonathan ever need anything from us, we're here for you." He spoke, rubbing her back gently before joining sides with Heather, who hugged her tightly.

The two went up to Heather's bedroom, sitting themselves on her bed. "Do you want me to turn out the lights?" Heather asked, getting up from her place, but Allison quickly shook her head. "No, no that's okay. I just wanted someone to talk to." She spoke, fiddling with her fingers. Heather nodded, sitting herself back on the bed and taking her best friend's hands into hers. "You got the right girl for that." She smiled, rubbing her thumbs over Allison's shaky hands. "This just all feels wrong. Everything feels wrong, and I don't know how to explain it. But it's driving me crazy." The blonde stated quietly, eyes focused on their intertwined hands. Heather nodded in response, giving Allison the indication to go on. "I just can't believe he's gone Heth." She started before tears formed in her eyes, removing her hands from Heather's grasp, she covered her face and cried in them. "Oh Allie." Is all Heather could muster as her eyes teared up, too, and she brought her friend into her embrace, holding her tightly.

"I should've been there for him Heather. I should've been home. I can't believe that I picked wanting to make Steve jealous by dying my fucking hair over Will. No matter how good or bad this hair color looks, I can't appreciate it, because whenever I look at it, it just reminds me of it all. And here I am, talking about myself and my stupid hair when I should be at the funeral home with Jonathan picking out a casket for our dead little brother." She shook her head in disbelief over herself. "Hey, Al, look at me babe. This is not your fault, okay? You have feelings and desires too, and they're important. You were not at fault for his death, okay?"

"But I was supposed to be home, I was supposed to make sure he was in his bed when I came later that night, but I didn't. I always do, you know that- and I didn't. The first time in my life, I didn't, and it was when he needed someone most." She ranted, sadness turning into frustration quickly. "His death doesn't even make sense! He just goes out and ends up in the quarry? Will's a smart kid, he wouldn't just go out on his own in the first place, let alone somehow drown!" The Byers girl ranted, her fingers digging into her palms. "Nothing bad happens in Hawkins. Ever. Why Will? Why is he the only person in this entire town to be the one to disappear and end up... dead."

"Well, he's not the only one..." Heather chimes in, wondering if her statement was insensitive. "What do you mean?" Allison asks, confused by what her friend was saying. "Barbara?" The brunette states in a cautious tone. "Holland?" Allison finishes, now more confused than before. When Heather nodded, the blonde grew quickly concerned. "What about Barb?" She asked with a shaky voice, her eyes searching Heather's face eagerly for an answer. "Haven't you heard? She went missing around the same time Will's body was discovered, she hasn't been seen since." Heather quietly stated, knowing Allison and Barb's past friendship. "Oh my god- I- I had no idea." The blonde whimpered, realizing despite her current situation with Nancy, that she needed to talk to her, immediately. "Thank you for telling me, Heth. I have to go home."

-

As night approached, she had gone to the Wheeler's residence, only to find out Nancy wasn't home. After many condolences from Mrs. Wheeler, Allison drove back home, defeated. As she parked in the drive way, an unfamiliar car was parked alongside Joyce's. Getting out of her car, her heart began to race as she headed inside the house; Her heart dropped as she was met with one of the very last people she wanted to see, someone she told she didn't want in her life anymore.

"Dad?"

Chapter Text

"Allie bug, you look so... different." Lonnie said, approaching Allison. Before he could reach her, she took a step back. "Don't touch me." She spat, blood boiling within her. The disheveled state of her house had her taken aback, seeing the Christmas lights strung all over the ceiling, a hole in the wall, and the alphabet painted in black above the sofa Lonnie and Joyce had been sitting at. She scolded herself for calling him dad and giving him the opportunity to think he was forgiven after everything he had done to them. Not only was Lonnie an absolute piece of shit, but he was also abusive and hateful. When he drank, which was frequently, he'd become hostile, mostly hitting Allison or Jonathan because they always protected Will and Joyce, sometimes even each other. He was a sad excuse for a father, and pretended to care about his family, but really couldn't give two shits'. He never bothered to be a stable parent in the children's lives, especially after the divorce. Once the Byers couple split, he was never to be seen or heard from again. Allison hadn't seen him since the divorce, and this certainly wasn't the time she would be open to changing her mind.

"What the hell is he doing here, Mom?" Allison questioned her mother, lip curling at Lonnie's look of appalment. She stood from the couch, opening her mouth to speak before shutting it again. "I'm here for Will's funeral." He stated, looking as if he wanted to yell and banter with his only daughter, but deciding against it. "But you couldn't be here for him when he was alive? I mean, I'm not surprised- given that you have always pretended to care about us and call yourself a father when really- you're a piece of-" Allison had begun to degrade before Lonnie landed a swift and harsh smack across her face, sending her backwards. Joyce had screamed at Lonnie before he nudged her back, warning her to keep her distance. "Never speak to me like that again. I am your father-"

"Bullshit! When you chose to do all of those things to us- including what you just did to me, you stripped yourself of that title. You don't deserve to be called dad. When I told you that I never wanted to see your face again, I meant it, and I still mean it. Now get away from her." The blonde seethed, pointing towards Joyce. "You watch your fucking mouth." Lonnie warned, pointing his course finger towards the blonde. "Allie- sweetheart- He's willing to be here for us now. Let's just talk this out-"

"I bet he already told you that you need to see somebody about how you're dealing with your grief, didn't he? Is he not looking at you the same way everybody else is?" Allison said, her voice cracking with emotion at the defeat of her mother submitting like she had when her and Lonnie were married. "I-" Joyce tried but knew she couldn't lie about what her daughter had already figured out. "Unbelievable." Is all Allison said before storming off to her room and locking herself in it. The frustration she was feeling bubbled up into a rage, but she kept herself composed, taking three breaths in and out. After her attempt at calming herself down, she looked to her photo wall, where one remaining photo of Steve and her resided, buried beneath other pictures and magazine cut outs. Taking the picture in her hand, her heart ached as a memory presented itself within her brain.

~

"He hit you again?" Steve asked, taking his girlfriend's face into his hands. "Baby, you gotta tell someone, and I don't mean me." Steve said, his eyes full of hurt, seeing the state of Allison with her bruised cheek. "Who? I can't tell the police, Steve. He would just come for us again. What if he hurt Will? I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I was the cause of that!" Allison whisper yelled as Steve's thumbs rubbed across her cheeks. "Allie, listen to me. He's hitting you, and that's one hundred percent not okay. You shouldn't have to keep defending your brothers or mom from him. He's a danger to you guys and should be kept away from you. And if he somehow did get to Will, that wouldn't be your fault. If you don't go to them... I will."

"You can't go to the police, Steve." Allison defended, pulling his hands away from her face and into her own hands. "Why? I can't just keep this a secret, especially if it gets worse, and frankly, it has been. What happens if one day you come to me with another black eye? Do you know how hard it was for me that first time to not call the cops in the very first second that I saw you?" He argued, squeezing Allison's hands. "I don't care how bad he hurts me. I can deal with that. You know I can't deal with him hurting the other three."

"That's the problem! You don't care if you get hurt, Allie! I've already told you that him hurting you is not okay. End of story. And I'm not just going to sit by and let it continue!" He cried; his face painted in emotional distress. "I love you, Allison. I need you to promise me that if it continues, you will tell someone, someone who can help you and your family get out of the situation. Somebody who can do something about it. I hate seeing you like this, it hurts me so damn bad, and I need you to start caring about yourself and what happens to you, too." Steve ranted, keeping his eyes locked on Allison's. "Okay?" He asked one final time, his hands moving to her upper arms. "Okay." Is all she could muster before tears poured from her eyes. He bit his lip to hold back his own emotions as he pulled her into her, wrapping his arms tightly around the girl he cared so deeply about. "I love you, Steve."

~

She let out a sigh at the memory, before sitting herself down on her bed, and grabbing onto Thumper, which had already been lying on her bed. The picture of her and Will on his bike laid on her bedside table, set up right against the lamp placed on top of it. Her hand reached out for it, and took it in her grasp, holding it tightly as she laid down on her bed, and shut her eyes. The funeral was tomorrow, and she didn't want to think about it, about all the people that hadn't cared before and how they would be there, tissues in hand wiping their facades off their faces, faking condolences to a grieving family. She wasn't tired, she just didn't want to be awake.

-

Jonathan had woken her up, letting her know that it would be a good time to begin getting ready for the funeral after she slept half the day away. When it was her turn to use the restroom, she looked at herself in the mirror for several seconds; the rouge tint that had once been on her cheek from Lonnie's slap had thankfully faded after her nap. Her heart raced, and she began to feel nauseous. Allison had been shoving the feeling of understanding Will was truly gone away from her until today, and now it was all catching up to her. Once everyone was ready, they made their way to the cemetery, where a few people had already been gathered.

The Byers family had all been seated, facing the coffin and Pastor Charles, who read out of his Bible. Upon realizing the anxiousness within his sister, Jonathan grabbed a hold of her hand, giving her a short reassuring nod. Her eyes glanced around, unsurprised but hurt to find that Steve couldn't find it in himself to make an appearance. After they tossed their roses down to the casket, the condolences made their way to the family. Heather and her family had been there, each giving Allison sympathetic hugs and words. They had been like a second family to her after having known them for so long, making her feel somewhat better than when she had originally arrived. It had been the first time Allison had seen Will's friends Mike, Lucas, and Dustin in a while. She was shocked to see them so unbothered, but she understood that everyone grieves differently. "Allison?" Nancy's voice came from behind the Blonde, startling her out of her trance. With a sharp breath in, Allison managed to pull her lips into a small smile. "How are you holding up?" The Wheeler girl asked, eyebrow cocked in concern. "Oh uh, I'm not really sure. It hasn't fully... hit me yet." Allison stated, holding her hands against her stomach. Nancy gave a slow nod, her lips in a thin line. "My mom said you stopped by to see me the other day?"

"Oh, yeah. I just- can we talk somewhere private?" Allison asked, wanting an escape from the surrounding crowd. Nancy nodded in return, and the two sat by a grave with a metal fence around it. "What happened to Barb?" Allison questioned, clearing her throat beforehand. Nancy looked taken aback, as if what Allison had asked offended the girl. "I don't know." She replied, looking down in defeat. "From what I heard, you were the last person with her, were you not?" The blonde pried, grasping the Wheeler girl's attention again. "I was, sort of." Nancy answered, making Allison more concerned than before. "What do you mean 'sort of?'"

"We were at Steve's. He had a party Tuesday night. Tommy and Carol were there besides the 3 of us, and that was it. Barb had cut herself after I stupidly pressured her into shot gunning a beer, but I should've known better than to put that pressure on her. I um... went up to Steve's room... with him... and told her to go home. But she never went home, and nobody knows where she went." Nancy stated, and several emotions ran through Allison. "You left Barb for Steve?" Allison asked, shocked at the statement. When Nancy shamefully nodded her head, Allison shook her own. "That's honestly shocking... I would've never expected you to do that." The blonde said, still in disbelief. She could tell that the brunette was ashamed, so she bit her tongue from shaming her any further. "The police think she ran off, but I know Barb, you do too. She would never do that." Nancy sniffled, locking eyes with Allison, who gave her a knowing nod. "Nancy-" Jonathan said from behind Allison, startling the two. His face showed that he was desperate and knew something Allison didn't. She was confused by why they were looking at each other in a way she hadn't recognized before, as if they both were in on something that was a secret to anybody else.

"Don't stop because I'm here." Allison stated, wanting to know what was going on between the two. "Allison, this isn't the time. I need to talk to Nancy." He began, but Allison quickly shut him down. "Well, I'm sure whatever it is doesn't have to be kept a secret from me." When the two exchanged more glances, Allison grew more curious and uneasy. "Should we tell her?" Nancy asked him, looking from one Byers sibling to the other. "Don't talk about me as if I'm not right in front of you." The blonde stated, looking between the two. Jonathan sat himself by his sister, clearing his throat as he pulled out of paper from his pocket. "Okay, Al, I need to tell you something but you can't tell anyone else, are we clear?"

Allison nodded slowly in return before Jonathan explained everything Nancy and him had been picking up on, including a 'faceless monster' seen by Nancy and Joyce, and the correlation of it all. As she processed the absurd information, he points to the paper, starting up again. "This is where we know for sure it's been, right?" He asks Nancy, who leans forward. "So that's..."

"Steve's house." Allison and Jonathan say in unison, as he nods his head. "And that's the woods where they found Will's bike and that's our house." He continues. "It's all so close." Nancy states, observing the markings on the paper. "Yeah, exactly. I mean it's all within a mile or something. Whatever this thing is, it's... it's not traveling far." He finishes, looking over to his sister and Nancy. "You want to go out there." Nancy states, eyes trained on him. "Wait- so let me get this straight. There's a potential monster creeping around Hawkins, which could somehow be related to Barb's disappearance based on the photograph you took of her right before she disappeared into thin air... and you want to go after this... thing?" Allison asks, unsure of what to believe.

"Look. When mom was going on about it, I didn't believe her at first either. But with Nancy seeing it too, and it being in that picture, it can't just be a coincidence. We might not find anything." He continues, his breathing becoming heavier. "And if we do..., what do we do about it?" Allison asks, not quite convinced on the matter. "We kill it." He ends, getting up from his spot. Confused, Allison stands too, but Jonathan puts his hand out. "No way, you're not coming."

"Like you get to tell me what to do, I'm older than you, remember." Allison retorts, crossing her arms. "I don't care. Nancy and I will get a feel for it, and then, when we know what we have to do and how to do it, we'll get you. Look out for mom in the time being, please." He states before walking off, not giving his sister the chance to respond. "Trust him on this one." Nancy quietly offers, giving a small smile before following after Jonathan, leaving Allison standing alone.

-

Allison avoided her parents as she sat in her room, shoving her window up to allow cold air to filter in. She sat herself against it, resting her arms on the windowsill. Shortly after Lonnie's hammering came to a halt, and she heard the shower water start, two knocks came from her door. "Come in." Her voice came out hoarse as she cleared her throat, watching her mom enter the room, immediately shivering. Joyce didn't need to say anything for Allison to see the pity on her face. The petite woman crossed the room, bending down beside her daughter.

There was silence for a while before Allison turned to face her mom, scootching closer to be held. Immediately, Joyce wrapped her arms around her daughter. "I'm sorry I didn't do anything." Joyce's meek voice came out as she kissed her daughter's head. "What do you mean?"

"I froze... just like I used to. I didn't defend or protect you, as a mother should."

Allison pulled away from the hug, holding her mom's hands within hers. "That wasn't on you, mom." The blonde reassured, shaking her head. "We all react differently... sometimes, we freeze. It's a defense mechanism... I was egging him on... testing him. I was waiting for it, basically, just so he could prove yet again that he doesn't deserve to be considered family, cause a dad who loved his children wouldn't do that."

"I just wish I would've done something- I let him do it and tried to tell you that he's changed... that he's willing to be here for us. But I know that's far from the truth." Joyce replied as she pulled a blue flyer out of her pocket. "He's not staying. Should've known the bastard was only in it for the money." She sighed as Allison observed the paper, shutting her eyes tightly. Even though she didn't believe in Lonnie, seeing her mother's misplaced hope in him having a change of heart crushed her. "You're my baby. As a mother, I'm always going to protect you from harm. If that hasn't already been done, it starts now." She announced, kissing Allison's forehead before coming to a stance, hearing the shower shut off. The blonde nodded to her mom, as if to say, 'I'll be right here.'

-

The shouting prolonged back and forth as Joyce confronted her ex-husband. The blonde leaned her ear against the door, listening in incase she needed to exit the room. Through it all, she finally heard her mother yelling at Lonnie to get out. Slowly, she twisted the doorknob exiting the room.

"You need me here, Joyce."

"Oh, brother, I have not needed you for a long time!"

"Oh, no? Look what happened." Lonnie's voice came out taunting as Allison's gut twisted, her feet wanting to carry her around the corner, to yell at him. This was her mother's battle, not her own, and she knew Joyce was capable, so she stayed planted.

"Don't you dare. At least I was here!"

"Oh come on, Joyce. Just look around this place. All your Christmas lights. What the hell am I supposed to think? You're such a great mom? You're a mess!"

"Maybe I am a mess. Maybe I'm crazy. Maybe I'm out of my mind! But, God help me, I will keep these lights up until the day I die if I think there's a chance that Will's still out there! Now, get out!"

Allison turned the corner at this, crossing to the front door, swinging it open. "Get out of my house!" Joyce screamed at him, shoving his bag into his arms. He turned, looking to his eldest daughter. She offered no sympathy or expression, keeping her glare cold and unforgiving as she widened the door. "Allie bug..."

"Goodbye, Lonnie." She cut him off, looking outside. His tongue glided across his teeth as he nodded, walking out the door. Allison slammed it behind him, locking the door. She turned to her mother immediately, the two embracing each other with smiles and sighs of relief.

"I'm so proud to have you as my mom." Allison whispered, receiving tightened hands around her.

Chapter Text

The next day had come around, and Jonathan had stayed true to his word. He and Nancy had filled her in on everything that had happened the night before and seeing Nancy's distressed state made it more believable. The description of what she went through sent shivers down Allison's spine. It had explained why Jonathan never returned home that night, leaving Allison worried that he had gone missing too.

As they parked downtown, the three filed out of Jonathan's car and down the street to Army Surplus, where Jonathan claimed they could find everything they needed. "Take this one." Jonathan said, handing a machete to his sister, who raised her eyebrow in return. "Why...? " Allison questioned, staring intently at the weapon in her younger brothers' hands. "Just take it." He said, shoving it in her hand and walking towards Nancy. It was a bit odd picking out different traps, weapons, and several other supplies at the check-out, which didn't go unnoticed by the man behind the cash register. "What are you kids doing with all of this?" He asked, the look of 'do I really want to know' displayed within his facial features. The three teenagers looked from one to the other, unsure of what a good explanation would be. "Monster hunting." Nancy stated, breaking the silence, causing Allison to laugh, which she quickly turned into a cough once the man looked at her judgmentally.

The man pressed no further questions, letting the teens carry their supplies out to the car. "Monster-hunting?" Jonathan and Allison said in unison before laughing together. "You know, last week... I was shopping for a new top I thought Steve might like. It took me and Barb all weekend. It seemed like life or death; you know? And... and now-" Nancy had started saying, stopping in the middle of her sentence. "You're shopping for bear traps with the Byers?" Jonathan asks, shutting his trunk. "Yeah."

"What's the weirdest part? Us or the bear trap?" Jonathan asks her, looking from Allison to Nancy. "You. It's definitely you guys." She smiles, looking between the two siblings. "Hey now, I'm just coming along for the ride." Allison chimes in, shaking her head. Honks come from a car passing by, calling out to Nancy. "Hey Nance, can't wait to see your movie." The boy in the passenger's seat laughs before they drive off. "What the hell was that?" Jonathan asks her before she tells the two that she doesn't know, turning around to face the opposite direction. "What is it Nancy?" Allison asks her, clearly being able to tell that something is wrong. "What? Hey! Where are you going?" Jonathan calls out after her once she starts running, so the two siblings follow after her, calling out to her. She stops in front of the theatre, where 'starring Nancy the slut wheeler' is spraypainted in red on the overhead sign. "Oh my god-" Allison mutters, shaking her head in disbelief.

Nancy starts heading off in a different direction, and Allison follows on her tail, leaving Jonathan behind. Once Allison turns the corner, with Nancy up ahead, Steve, Tommy, Carol, and Nicole are revealed down the alleyway. Allison's stomach turns with the all too familiar feeling of hatred towards the group of people Steve chooses to hang out with, and how heavily they influence the worst of his decisions. Nancy has a hot lead, marching angrily towards the group. "Now this is a duo I thought I'd never see." Tommy says, drawing the attention of the rest of the group. "Aw, hey there princess- with ex-princess?" Carol taunts. "Uh-oh! She looks upset." Tommy states as Nancy gets close to Steve, and there's a couple seconds of eye contact between the two before Nancy slaps him across the face, sending 'Oh's!' around his group. Allison is shocked herself, having never seen Nancy this angry.

"What is wrong with you?" Nancy questions Steve, venom laced in her tone. "What's wrong with me? What's wrong with you? I was worried about you. I can't believe that I was actually worried about you." Steve rants, shaking his head at the petite brunette. "What are you talking about?" Nancy asks as Carol takes a step forward. "I wouldn't lie if I were you. You don't want to be known as the lying slut now, do you?" Carol taunts. Tommy speaks up again, saying: "Speak of the devil. Hi."

Allison and Nancy turn to see Jonathan joining the rest of the group, looking on edge. "You came by last night?" Nancy asks, looking to Steve. "Ding Ding Ding! Does she get a prize?" Carol speaks again as Tommy puts his arm around her. "Look, I don't know what you think you saw, but it wasn't like that." Nancy states. "What, you just let him into your room to... study?" Steve asks, looking from Jonathan to Nancy. "Or for another pervy photo session?" Tommy adds, chuckling. "You sick fuck." Allison says under her breath, giving the horribly annoying couple a death glare. "We were just-" Nancy tries before Steve cuts her off. "You were just what? Finish that sentence. Finish the sentence."

Nancy doesn't finish it, knowing she's unable to explain the true situation, leaving her speechless. "Go to hell, Nancy." Steve scoffs, backing away. "Come on Nancy, let's just leave." Jonathan tries grabbing her arm, but Steve begins talking again. "You know what, Byers? I'm actually kind of impressed. I always took you for a queer, but I guess you're just a little screw-up like your father." Steve taunts, pushing Jonathan continuously as the three were attempting to walk off.

Allison whips around, almost slamming into Steve as she veers in front of her brother. "Back off." She hissed, giving him a bitter glare, sending chills down his spine. "Nah, keep telling him Steve!" Tommy instigates, patting Steve on the back in encouragement. She knew then that he'd keep going, as long as he had an audience.

"Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah that house is full of screw-ups." He goes on, causing Allison's heart to crack. But he didn't stop there, because he knew he had to prove himself to the Hagan boy. "You know, I guess I shouldn't really be surprised. A bunch of screw-ups in your family I mean, your mom- I'm not even surprised what happened to your brother. I'm sorry I have to be the one to tell you, but the Byers, their family, it's a disgrace to the entire-" Steve goes on until Allison turns, punching Steve square in the face. He stumbles back a bit, clutching his face with an expression of utter shock. There's exclamations of disbelief as the alley falls silent.

"Allison let's go-" Jonathan starts, trying now to pull his sister away, knowing how defensive she becomes when it comes to him, she always had been. "What the hell is your problem?" Carol shouts, smacking on her gum as she glares.

"What's my problem? What the fuck is your guys' problem?" Allison shoots back, breathing heavily. "I already told you. You guys used to be my best friends. There wasn't a day we all weren't hanging out. Yet you turn around and pretend like you never even knew me... turning my little brothers death into a joke." She balls her hands into fists, betrayal and hurt overwhelming her as her eyes slowly move to Steve's. "I used to see a future with you." His throat bobs as her eyes stare into his soul, eye contact unwavering. "We knew everything about each other." She laughed, shaking her head as her chest began to tighten, her bottom lip quivering. "You knew how much my family meant to me... how much Will meant to me."

The alley falls silent again as Steve's groups eyes avert to the ground. "You were there for two of his birthdays." Her voice was bitter, holding resentment against the boy she once loved. "But you couldn't even show up at his funeral." A tear fell from her eye as guilt washed over his face, eyes dropping to the ground. He felt sick to his stomach, trying to ignore the shame and self-loathing he felt in the moment. When he looked back at her, seeing her broken expression, his mouth laid agape, her name slipping from his lips.

"Don't let the bitch make you go soft Harrington." Tommy shouted, gesturing towards the blonde with his hand. "Call my sister a bitch one more time and see what happens." Jonathan stands up taller, walking in front of his older sister. "And what are you going to do, freak. Take pictures of me in my house from my back yard?" He laughs, the two girls next to him laughing along. Jonathan's jaw clenches as Allison fights the urge to charge at them. "Let's go guys." Nancy attempts from behind the Byers siblings, pulling on Jonathan's sleeve.

"Steve, come on man." Tommy yells, shoving his friend forward. "Weren't you just saying how Allison was just a placeholder for the right girl? That she's a desperate slut just like Nancy?" The Harrington boys' eyes widen at the lie. "What are you-" He tried to make out, but he didn't finish as Jonathan whipped around, punching Steve across the jaw. It was too late to reveal the lie as adrenaline and anger pulsed through the brunette; Steve charges at Jonathan, knocking him into a car, then onto the ground. The two roll around as everyone shouts for them to stop besides Tommy, who tries to gang up on Jonathan, sending a rage throughout Allison's body.

She snaps, charging over and grabbing his lettermen jacket, using the grip on him to shove him down. Unfortunately, she underestimated his abilities, as he gets back to his feet, shoving her into the brick wall so hard that it knocks the air from her lungs. To her surprise, Steve yells for Tommy to keep his hands off of her, and to stay out of it. Jonathan attempts charging at Tommy, but Steve is quicker, landing a strike across his face. Jonathan sends one right back, then two, leading them to the ground. Cops come from around the corner, and the group runs off after Jonathan lands a few more harsh punches, including elbowing one of the officers in the nose. Nancy helps Allison to her feet as she covers her mouth, watching Jonathan get shoved on the hood of the car, followed by being handcuffed.

-

Nancy and Allison sit in the Hawkins Police Station, waiting for Jonathan to get out of questioning. "Here's some ice, how's your back?" Nancy says to Allison, gesturing to her bruised spine. "Sore. But I'll be fine... thank you." The blonde states, applying the plastic bag filled with ice covered with a piece of cloth on the area that collided with the wall. "I'm sorry... about what Steve said." Nancy spoke softly, looking down to her hands. Allison's body tensed at Steve's words replaying in her head. She would've never suspected for him to go that far, and to say those things, given the two's history. When Tommy or Carol would bring up Jonathan in front of Allison, Steve would always tell them to cut it out, immediately. He always defended her and her family; something that irked Tommy every time. Tommy had been the main motivator in Steve's bad intentions. He was an instigator, and persuaded Steve that he should be too. Allison had been there to tell him when he had crossed a line, but after their breakup, she had no say in what he said or did. "I'm sorry about what they wrote about you. That just... isn't right." Allison responded, sighing.

"Yeah... me too. Thanks..." Nancy mutters, fiddling with her fingers. The blonde nodded, looking off in the opposite direction. "Hey Allison?" Nancy said, drawing Allison's attention back to her. "Hm?"

"I'm really sorry about everything, Everything I did to you. I knew you were in love with Steve, and yet when he started paying attention to me, I selfishly chose to make a decision that would only hurt you. We had just become friends too... and I blew it. For Barb and me both, and I'm just really sorry. I should've apologized sooner, and I guess what I'm really trying to say is that I miss you. I miss us." Nancy confessed, looking into Allison's eyes solemnly. Her words seeped themselves into the Byers girls' heart, yearning for the friendship they had once had before. She knew it was petty to hold a grudge against the brunette for doing something she understood, no matter how much she would've denied it. Once Steve's attention was on a girl, they couldn't get enough of it. They would feel as if they were the only girl in the world. They felt seen; special. They become so absorbed in it that it becomes the only focus. Both girls had fallen into that. So, Allison knew, but it didn't subtract the initial betrayal of that action. "I miss us too... but I think I still need time." She replies, receiving a nod from Nancy. "That's understandable. Take your time... I'll be here."

The two smiled at one another for a few seconds before Allison outstretched her hands, gesturing for Nancy to hug her. Without hesitation, Nancy closed the space between them, and embraced her acquaintance tightly.

Chapter Text

It hadn't been too long before Jonathan was finally able to return to the two girls who had been sitting anxiously. Upon seeing him handcuffed, Allison questioned the younger police officer, who gave her an unrealistic excuse. Once Joyce, along with Hopper, had arrived at the police station, she too questioned why her son was in handcuffs, gaining the same 'He assaulted a police officer' justification. The three teens were questioned about the box of supplies they had retrieved earlier that day, bringing frustration to Jonathan. "Why are you going through my car?" The bruised-cheek boy questioned Chief Hopper. "Is that really the question you should be asking right now?" Jim responded, leaning himself down to meet Jonathan's sitting position. "I wanna see you in my office."

"You won't believe me." Jonathan testifies, painting a bewildered expression on Hopper's face. "Why don't you give me a try?"

After the group filed into Hopper's office, the teens knew that they had no choice other than to explain their bizarre theories and experiences. The only proof besides their words that they could use to attest themselves was the picture Jonathan had miraculously captured. Other than that, they just had their suppositions to go off of, like blood being the key factor in summoning the monster. Upon discovering that the unknown girl Hopper has been searching for had been hiding with Mike and his friends, the Chief orders the group to get in his car.

Once they had arrived at the Wheelers residence, parked from afar, Agents could be seen transporting boxes of Mikes stuff out of the house, and into their car trunks. The Byers siblings remained sitting the back of the car as the other three viewed the site ahead from outside of the vehicle. Allison hadn't been able to wrap her head around all the information she had been taking in from the different individuals. First, it was the monster, then Will's 'dead' body being fake, proving the possibility that he was indeed alive and in dire need of help, then a secret experiment who was being sought out by the very people who ran unimaginable tests on her, and she had been squatting in the Wheeler's basement, unbeknownst to any of them but Mike. Once Nancy had returned to her sitting position beside Allison in the backseat, the blonde returned to awareness and away from thoughts. "Look, we need to find them before they do. Do you have any idea where he might have gone?" Hopper asked Nancy from the driver's seat, urgently desiring to know where her younger brother was currently located.

She had no clue though, because her and Mike didn't talk much. The other four grew anxious from their lack of knowledge, but fortunately, Jonathan was fresh minded. "I might- I don't know where he is, but I think I know how to ask him."

As soon as they arrived at the Byers residence, all five scattered around the house in search of Will's Walkie-Talkie. With luck, Joyce was able to find it under Will's bed, handing it to Nancy. From there, the brunette tried consistently to receive contact with Mike, gaining no success. The chief took his turn before placing it back on the dresser with no responses coming through. "Anybody got any other ideas?" He asked with a sigh. The five looked hopelessly at one another before their attention was quickly brought to the two-way radio. "Yeah, I copy. It's Mike. I'm here... We're here."

-

Hopper had left after further communication with Mike, leaving the Byers and Nancy back at the house. They sat in silence out on the couch as night approached, and crickets began to chirp. When headlights seeped through the window, and the sound of a car approaching came, the remaining four got up from their seats and rushed out the front door. Nancy, who had been full of worry, embraced her little brother upon reuniting. Allison looked at the group, feeling despondent over Will not being among them. She only hoped he would be again, eventually. The girl with shaved hair and Allison met eyes, and the blonde could tell that she was on edge, so she offered a small smile; the girl smiled back before the now larger group filed inside.

Mike explained everything to the five, about Will and Barbara being in the Upside Down, displayed as a flea under the red line drawn on his paper, whilst the rest were above, as the acrobat. The gate was apparently the only way to get to this other world, which had been tracked to Hawkins Lab. The girl, Eleven, confirmed that she could reach, even talk to Will and Barb. Allison's heart leaped with hope at this statement. She would give anything to hear her youngest brothers voice again, and maybe Eleven was the key after all. They filed over to the kitchen table, turning the Walkie-Talkie to a channel that radiated static. Eleven shut her eyes, and the others kept quiet. After a couple minutes of staring intently at the girl, the lights flickered, and her eyes were open in an instant. At the eeriness of it all, Allison shifted her gaze from the overhead lights to Eleven, who's facial expression shifted from concentration to dismay. "I'm sorry." Is all she mustered, leading Allison to believe something horrible had happened to Will, or Barb.

"What? W- What's wrong? What happened?" Joyce questioned, clutching on to her children's hands who had been standing beside her. "I can't find them." The young girl admitted, her voice full of sorrow. Shutting her eyes, Allison's heart lurched. The thought of losing Will for certain would be too much; mainly because his family just discovered that he was alive after all, and his death had been a lie- a cover-up. Eleven went into the bathroom to freshen up as the others talked around the table, and Mike explained the girl's situation- how she functioned like a battery. When they couldn't figure out a way to make it better, Eleven returned to them, for she had known what to do. "The bath. I can find them... In the bath."

After a phone call to Mr. Clarke, and a supply list from Dustin, the gang headed to Hawkins Middle school, moving into the gymnasium and setting up a 'bath,' which was just a stored away kiddie pool the Byers had stashed away from a while ago, followed by pouring extraordinary amounts of salt into the water. Joyce sat with Eleven in a classroom as Allison stood by the door, observing from afar so the two could have their moment. After whole-hearted statements and promises, Joyce helped Eleven to her feet, and walked her towards the door.

Before the two could leave, Allison lightly rested her hand on the small girl's shoulder. Though she didn't know the girl, she knew that there was an immense amount of pressure and expectations on her shoulders from the group, despite how young she was. "Are you going to be okay?" The blonde asked, eyes softening as she looked to Eleven, who nodded in response. Allison went to her knees to be closer to Eleven's height, gently holding on to the girls upper arms. "If at any point you don't feel okay, don't push yourself. I'm very thankful for what you're about to do, and I believe you can do it. I know you believe helping us is important, but your well-being is important, too, understood?" The blonde spoke gently, maintaining eye contact with the young girl. "Understood." Eleven replied, and the two smiled softly to one another one last time before heading out to meet with the others.

With the static already on, Joyce and Hopper helped Eleven into the pool, where she climbed in and let herself float. The lights immediately flickered, and ultimately went out within a few seconds. Seconds of silence passed, until Eleven muttered 'Barbara.' Nancy and Allison exchanged a look, before returning their focus on the floating girl. More silence came, along with the pulsating of the overhead lights. Nancy grew more unsettled and impatient by the second, asking if Barbara was okay, or safe. Eleven repeated Gone, growing more and more distressed by the second. Joyce and Allison both reached out and grasped the girls hands as Nancy covered her mouth, tears forming in her eyes. While Allison was sad upon hearing of her friend's death, she was focused on Eleven. "Hey, hey, you're okay, we're right here." The blonde whispered as her mom reassured Eleven all the same, reminding the girl that she was right there, and not to be afraid.

"Castle Byers." Eleven mutters once again, sending a genuine chill throughout Allison's body. She perked up, holding Eleven's hand tightly. "Will?" She asks, gaining a gasp from Joyce and hopeful expressions from the Byers siblings. "You tell him... tell him I'm coming. Mom is coming." Joyce said, tightening her grasp on Eleven's other hand as the opposite one loosens it's grip from Allisons. "Hurry" Comes from the Walkie-Talkie, loud and clear. Allison was stunned, knowing that the voice was indeed Will's. Eleven's cries come through the two-way radio after Joyce has her send a final message to the youngest Byers sibling; Eleven jolts up and rips the goggles off, her breath heavy as Joyce pulls her into her grasp, reassuring her. Everyone is quiet; shocked and remorseful.

-

Allison and Nancy sit against a painted brick wall within the middle school, quietly grieving over their now deceased friend. Allison hadn't really been close with Barb, so she was nowhere near as devastated as Nancy. The blonde looked to her friend who was in tears and wrapped her arm around the grieving girl. "I'm so sorry. I know how close you guys were." The Byers girl offered as Nancy accepted the embrace, hugging Allison back. She had opened her mouth to talk, but Jonathan had interrupted the two, coming through one of the doors. "Oh- sorry." He apologized, stopping in his place. "No, it's fine." Nancy sniffled, removing herself from Allison's grasp, and patting the floor beside her.

He made his way over and sat on the opposite side of Nancy, placing his hands on top of his knees. Silence took over the room for good minute before Nancy began again. "We have to go back to the station. Your mom and Hopper are just walking in there like bait. That thing is still in there. And we can't just sit here and let it get them, too. We can't."

"You still wanna try it out?" Jonathan asks, turning to face the brunette. "I wanna finish what we started. I want to kill it." Nancy states, looking over to him. After mentally weighing out their options, Allison ponders the situation, finalizing on a decision. "Then we kill it."

Chapter Text

After unloading the box of supplies from Army Surplus in the Byers house, the Byers siblings and Nancy began setting up their carefully planned trap. The three stood in a circle, knives in hand. "You ready?" Jonathan questioned, looking to the two girls beside him. Nancy and Allison exchanged a final look, nodding to one another. "Ready." The two confirmed, returning their gazes back to Jonathan. The three held their hands out, palms up while the other hand clutched onto a kitchen knife, or in Allison's case, a box cutter, hovering just a few inches above the opposing hands skin. "On three. One... two..." Jonathan counted, cutting himself off seeing the fear in Nancy's face. Allison breathed heavily, placing the sharp object on to her skin in anticipation for three to be uttered. "You don't have to do this-" Jonathan stated, worried for the Wheeler girl. "Jonathan, stop talking." Nancy replied, not meeting his eyes. "I'm just saying, you don't have to-"

"Three!" Nancy shouted, shutting her eyes, and dragging the blade across her palm, the Jonathan following her lead as Allison froze, quickly grabbing for the bandaging, tossing the roll to the two. "I'm sorry- I froze." She apologized, scolding herself. "It's okay, ours will do." Nancy reassured as her and Jonathan moved to the couch, wrapping each other's hands delicately. A faint creaking noise came from outside, alerting Allison. She snapped at the two, cocking her head to gesture to the outside. "You heard that too?" Nancy whispered, clearly on edge. "It's just the wind. Don't worry. Mom, she said the lights speak when it comes." Jonathan reasoned, mostly directing his attention to Nancy. "Speak?" The brunette asked.

"Blink. Think of them as alarms." He corrected himself, looking into Nancy's eyes. There was a couple seconds of silence, with the two just looking at one another, and it was only those couple seconds that Allison needed to realize that her younger brother liked Nancy. She had thought of it before, but hadn't seen it, not until now. Nancy continued to wrap his hand, stopping when he shifted. "Is that too tight?"

"No, it's fine. Thanks." Jonathan responded softly. Nancy placed tape on the wrap, securing it for now. Her fingers traced his palm gently, before meeting his fingertips. His fingers slowly touched hers, and Allison felt like she wasn't meant to be in the room, or even that they had forgotten she was there too in the first place. "Nancy?" He somewhat whispered her name, looking intently at the girl. "Yeah?"

Several loud knocks came from the front door, startling the teenagers inside. "Allison- Jonathan? Are you there? It's... it's Steve! Listen, I just want to talk!" Steve shouts from the outside, continuing to bang on the door. Allisons heart pounded within her chest, loosening her grip on the machete she had grabbed when the pounding first began. Exchanging glances with the other two, the blonde debated whether or not she should go to the door, but her dilemma was solved when Nancy got up from the couch, crossing the room, and opening the door a smidge. "Steve, listen to me."

"Hey. Nancy? what-" Steve's voice came from the other side, concern laced in his tone. "You need to leave." The brunette stated, eyes focused on the boy. "I'm not trying to start anything, okay?"

"I don't care about that. You need to leave." Nancy had tried, but Steve continued. "No, no no. Listen, I- I messed up, okay? I messed... I messed up. Okay? Really, please. I just want to make things right, with all of you. Okay? Please. Plea-" Steve had rambled, stopping mid-sentence. Allison couldn't see beyond Nancy but could hear the sincerity in her ex-boyfriend's tone. It was clear that he meant what he was saying. She was relieved knowing he had come around after all to make things right. "Hey, what happened to your hand? Is that blood?"

"Nothing- It was an accident." Nancy stated as Steve's tone turned worried. "What's going on? Wait a sec- did he do this to you?" He asked, beginning to push on the door as Nancy denied it. When it came to Steve, the well-being of the ones he loved was always one, if not the most important thing to him. He was extremely overprotective and cared a whole damn bunch. He was always making sure Allison was okay and could tell when she wasn't from being with her for so long, just as she had with him. The two eventually adapted to learning the others behaviors, something they both thought would've left the second they broke up, but to this day, they still knew. It had stayed with them after everything. It was their mutual lasting connection, and the only thing that kept them tethered besides that longing feeling within their hearts.

He rushed forward, pushing the door open and running in. His eyes moved from Jonathan to the supplies, to Allison, where they stayed resting. He shook his head in confusion, looking down to the machete in her hand, and the nail covered bat resting on the table beside her. "What is... What the..." He began, face twisting in distress. Jonathan rushed forward, clutching onto Steve's shoulder while attempting to get his attention. "Listen to me. I'm not asking you, I'm telling you, get out of here!"

"What is that smell? Is that gasoline?" Steve questioned, frantically looking around. "Steve, you need to go. Now, for your own good." Allison spoke up, receiving Steve's attention. His eyebrows furrowed as the two looked at one another. The sound of a gun cocking drew their attention away; there stood Nancy, aiming a gun at Steve. "Steve, get out!" Nancy shouted as Jonathan took a step back in shock. The Byers were equally as stunned at Nancy's move, unsure of what to do, or how far she would go. "W- Wait What!? What is going on?" Steve questioned with a raised voice, putting his hands up in surrender. "You have five seconds to get out of here."

"Okay, is this a joke? Stop. Put the gun down." Steve tried to reason, panic rising in his tone. The lights began to flicker, drawing Allison and Jonathan's attention. "Nancy stop-" Allison tried, worried not only that she would shoot him, but also that the demogorgan could be coming at any second. Nancy's focus remained on the fluffy haired boy, ignoring Allison. "I'm doing this for you." Nancy stated, gun still aimed at him. "Nancy." Jonathan tried, looking anxiously from the flickering lights to the girl. "Hold on! Wait- Is this a... What is this?" Steve desperately spoke, hands still put out in front of him. "Nancy." Jonathan tried again as the flickering picked up in pace, sending a gasp out of Allison's mouth. "Three."

"No, no no!" The panicking boy shouted, shaking his hands. "Two."

"Nancy!" The Byers siblings shouted, finally getting her attention. "The lights!" Jonathan yelled, finally giving notice to Nancy, who lowered the gun as she looked around her. "It's here." Allison uttered, backing away from the wall to be closer to the group. "Wait, what's here?" Steve questioned, reaching for Allison's arm to get her attention. She pulled herself from his grasp, grabbing the lighter from the table, and tossing it to Jonathan. "Where is it?" Nancy asked as her and Jonathan circled around each other; Allison adjacent to them, next to Steve. She stood in front of him, machete in hand as she positioned herself protectively ahead of him. "I don't know- I don't see it." Jonathan voiced, continuing to circle around. "Where is what? Hello!? Will someone please explain to me what the hell is going-"

The ceiling where Allison had once been standing collapsed, the Demogorgon climbing through it. Allison took a shocked breath in; she had her doubts of this monster, but seeing it face to face removed them all. The four were in shock, before Nancy took a step forward, aiming the gun at the creature, and firing three shots until Jonathan wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her away. "Go! Go! Run!" Jonathan shouted over the commotion, pulling Nancy along with him towards Will's room. Allison grabbed Steve's hand, who was frozen in shock, leading him down the hallway. "Jump!" She yelled, hurdling over the bear trap. "Oh my God oh my God!" He exclaimed, never breaking his hold on her hand as they ran into Will's room, shutting the door. "Jesus! Jesus what the hell was that? What the hell was that?"

"Shut up!" The other three shouted at him before turning back to face the door, holding their weapons up. Screeching could be heard from the other side of the door, along with ineffable noises. "What is it doing?" Nancy asked, breaking the groups silence. "I don't know." Jonathan replied, holding the lighter up in front of him. The electricity jolts, and it goes quiet. "Do you hear anything?" Nancy questions, gun still aimed at the door. "No." Jonathan replies, closing the lighter. The four exit the room, cautiously making their way into the hallway. The Demogorgon was gone, nowhere to be seen.

It made no sense; it had just vanished. As they gradually reached the living room, still in defense mode, Steve began mumbling to himself from behind Allison. "This is crazy. This is crazy, this is crazy!" He yelled, dashing over to the house phone, and trying to call somebody. Allison quickly took the phone from Steve's hand and launched it across the room. "What are you do- What are you doing? Are you insane?"

"It's going to come back! So you need to leave. Right now." She demanded. His eyes moved to Nancy's, and the brunette gave him a nod, siding with Allison. His eyes returned to the blonde, and with that, he ran out of the Byers residence. The lights had begun to flicker again; The three remaining teens backed into each other, looking anxiously in every possible direction whilst holding their weapons up defensively. "Where is it?" Nancy questioned, her ponytail whooshing along with her head as she looked back and forth eagerly. "Come on. Come on, you son of a bitch. You see it?" Jonathan asked, tightening his grip on the bat. "No. Where-" Nancy spoke, fear rising in her tone. "Where the fuck is this thing?" Allison shouted, adrenaline coursing through her veins.

"Come on, where are you? Come on!" Jonathan yelled, growing angry in anticipation. The three were breathing heavy as the lights flickered more violently than they had, before all the lights went off. The blonde trembled as she stood, unable to see anything around her; only hearing Nancy silently cry in fear, before spine-chilling growl came from beside them. Nancy had called out Jonathan's name, bringing the Byers siblings attention to a large figure standing right behind the boy. It knocks him to the ground, leaving him helpless as it holds him down. Nancy shoots at it, drawing its attention away from Jonathan, over to Nancy. It stands, making its way over to her; she's used up all of the gun's bullets, firing away to no avail.

Allison steps forward, taking one swift swing at its arm, slicing right into its slimy skin. The blonde gasps in surprise but realizes that the machete is stuck within the creature, and she is unable to pull it out. The Demogorgon screams in pain before swinging its hand harshly at the girl, sending her flying into the wall. The monster begins striding over to her downed figure on the floor who was desperately gasping for air, raising its hand to strike again; but a figure rushes in front, using the nail-embedded bat to collide into its chest. "Steve!" Allison calls out in shock, watching him dodge a hit from the monstrosity, before landing another strike on it. He backs into the hallway, the monster hot on his tail, attempting to grab at him, failing to do so. With one final twirl and swing of the bat, Steve manages to back the Demogorgon into the bear trap, where it latches into its leg. "It's in the trap!" He exclaims, Nancy rushing to his side. Jonathan pulls his sister up, rushing over to the other two.

"Jonathan, now!" Nancy commands, standing behind Steve as she watches the creature struggle against the trap. The Byers boy tosses the opened lighter down the hall, where it lands on the carpet, setting the floor along with the monster ablaze. The teens cover their eyes and mouths from the heat and smoke seeping down towards them. "Get back!" Jonathan yells, using the fire extinguisher to put out the growing flame. With a few coughs, the group prod forward, waiting for the smoke to clear; the Demogorgon is once again gone, with only bubbling liquid left on the closed bear trap. After a few seconds, the Christmas lights above start to individually turn on, as if a path was being led. The four looked from one another to the lights in confusion, following it to the living room.

"Mom?" Jonathan called out, tears in his eyes. The blonde let out a breath of relief at the possibility of their mom finding Will in the Upside Down. The group walked outside, following the lights out to the stoop. The street light illuminates, flickering for a few seconds. "Where's it going?" Nancy quietly asks, looking down the dark street. "I don't think that's the monster."

-

The sound of the hospital monitor beeping seems to grow louder by the minute, or maybe it had been because it was the only sound occurring in the room. With three breaths in, three breaths out, Allison looked from her hand, which was grasped around her youngest brothers tiny one to his face; Jonathan and Joyce sat on the opposite side of the hospital bed, staring just as intently at the unconscious boy as Allison had been. It had been a couple hours since Joyce and Hopper had rescued Will from the Upside Down, and brought him to the hospital, where everyone met up. Everyone had remained in the waiting room as the Byers sat in prolonged silence.

The blonde rubbed her thumb gently across Will's, as her head rested on her opposite arm, which had been placed on the siding of the bed. His small head turned slightly, followed by his eyes slowly opening. Allison's heart jumped, tears forming in her eyes from the gratitude she was feeling. "Hey, Hi Sweetheart." Joyce whispered, rubbing her hand on the top of his head. "Where... where am I?" His tiny voice whispered, looking from his mom and brother, over to his sister, who was smiling wide with tears falling down her cheeks. Jonathan and Joyce both let out a joyful sigh, looking to one another. "You're home. You're home now. You're safe." Jonathan reassured his little brother, smiling just as wide. "Jonathan-" Will smiled softly, excited to see his brother again.

"Yeah, it's me, buddy. We missed you, we really missed you." Jonathan smiled, tears making their way down his cheeks, too. "More than you know." Allison smiled, gently squeezing Will's hand. "Whoa-" His smile widens as he looks to his older sister, something that she had so badly wanted to see for so long. Her eyebrows furrow as she smiles just as wide, rubbing her thumb across his small hand. "Is this real?" He says, reaching for Allie's hair, gently tugging on it. "Yeah, it's real." She laughs as her both her mom and Jonathan do the same. As Will rested his hand back down, going to hold his brothers, he notices the bandage wrapped around it. "Are you okay?"

"What, this?" Jonathan asked, holding up his bandaged hand. "It's just a cut, it's nothing." He grinned. "You're worried about my hands." He gently laughed, as did Allison and Joyce. Will always cared, he had such a big heart. Of course he would be worried about his sibling after everything he had gone through. "Oh, hey, uh... We uh... We brought you some stuff, so you don't get bored in here, so, I made you a new mix tape. There's some stuff on there I think you really might like."

The two shared smiles, as the others shared tears of joy. "Do you want to see your friends?" Allison sniffled, wiping the tears away from her eyes. "They're here?" Will asked quietly, looking excitedly at his sister, who nodded to him. He nodded in return, so Allison and Jonathan got up from their spots, and made their way to the waiting room. Through the glass, the blonde could see everyone sitting around in silence, lost in their thoughts. Jonathan opened the door, looking to Mike, and giving him a nod. Mike woke his two friends, and the three ran out of the room quickly. Jonathan and Allison turned to follow after them before stopping abruptly; "Allison?" Steve's voice came from beside the door, eyes softened.

The two turned and faced him, standing in awkward silence. The blonde could tell that Steve was asking to talk with her without saying anything, so she turned to face her brother. "I'll be in there soon." She stated, nodding for him to go ahead without her. He nodded, giving Steve a final glance, before walking the other way in pursuit of the kids. "Come on." Allison gestured for the brown-haired boy to follow after her. Stepping outside, Allison shifted to face Steve, who had his hands shoved in his jean pockets. "So... are you going to say something?" Allison asked after he continued to remain silent, shifting from one foot to the other. "Yeah... I just, I wanted to apologize, for everything I said- and did." He sighed, meeting Allison's eyes. "I shouldn't have said what I did about your family back in that alleyway. I didn't mean what I said... and what Tommy claimed I said, wasn't true. He wanted to get a reaction... and he got it." He gently spoke, keeping his eyes on hers. She slowly nodded in return. "I could never think or speak lowly of you, and I understand if you don't believe me. You have no reason to believe anything I'm saying, but what I'm trying to say most is... what I did to you, I shouldn't have done it. Any of it. I hurt you, I lied to you, I broke our trust. I broke us. And I'm so sorry."

"Steve..." Allison had whispered, several emotions flowing through her. "No, I need to say this, before I don't have a chance to. You were so good to me Allison, and you brought out the best of me, and I am immensely grateful that you showed me how to be better. How to fix my many mistakes... and I just took advantage of that. I don't know why I did- nor do I know why I listened to Tommy. I know that just because Tommy told me to do something doesn't excuse what I did, because I am still at fault for my own decisions and actions. I can recognize that now." He admitted, moving his hands as he talked.

"But I just want to tell you that you were not the reason I left, and I am extremely sorry for hurting you as bad as I did. We went through so much together, and you were my safe space... You told me things you didn't tell another soul, and I did the same. I knew I meant everything to you, hell, you meant everything to me, and yet I just stepped all over you. I broke your heart in a way I knew you were afraid of... and I'm a complete piece of shit for that. I want to change, for you- for Nancy, for good. I have a lot to apologize for, but you were the first I wanted to make things right with. It's okay if you don't forgive me, if you're not ready, or if you're completely done with me. I will understand... I just wanted you to know how I felt before that happened." He expressed, his eyes softening as Allison's eyes began to water. She opened her mouth to say something but lost her words. "You don't have to say anything right now." Steve spoke, his lips forming a thin line.

The blonde nodded in acceptance of his words. All she had wanted to hear was an explanation for why he left. She wanted closure. She offered a small smile and could tell that he felt relieved. "I can't say I'm ready to forgive you, but I'm willing to try, Steve." She said quietly, sniffling. He nodded with a smile; "Thank you. I'm happy with that, and I understand... H-How's Will?" He stammered, chewing on his lip. "He's good. He's alive." Allison responded, letting out a small laugh. "Good. That's good to hear." Steve nodded, a small smile crossing his lips. "Better get back inside... it's pretty cold out here." He stated, gaining a nod from the blonde.

Before he reached the door, Allison called out to him. "Steve?" He turned to face her, his eyebrows furrowing. "Yeah?" He asked; The blonde hesitated for a second before walking towards him, wrapping her arms around his waist. "Thank you." She said as his arms wrapped around her in an instant. "For saving me back at my place, for everything you just said- recognizing your wrongs... thank you."

"Of course... thank you Allie." He whispered, placing his chin atop her head as hers rested against his chest. "I want you to know that if you ever need somebody to talk to... I'm here. I'll always be here." He reassured, holding her close. "Ditto." Allison replied, tightening her grasp.

"Also, I have got to say you throw a mean right hook- I mean, that shit really knocked me to my senses." He admitted as she burst out into laughter, retreating from the hug. "I'm sorry-"

"No, no don't apologize. That was completely deserved." He replied, earning a nod of her head. "Yeah, you're right. I'm not sorry." She chuckled as he did the same in return. The two stood there laughing for a few more seconds, both grateful for closure they had both yearned for. Even if it wasn't the same as it had been before, knowing that they had cleared the tension between them made up for it.

-

One Month Later

"Are you gonna go down and get him or am I?" Allison asked Jonathan, standing by the basement door in the Wheeler's house. "I will, don't forget to thank Mrs. Wheeler." Jonathan spoke, making his way down. Allison crossed over to the kitchen, a Tupperware of homemade Christmas cookies in hand. "Hey hun!" Mrs. Wheeler smiled, decorating a cake at the island counter in the kitchen. "Hey Mrs. Wheeler." Allison smiled, setting the Tupperware with a sticky note writing: 'Christmas cookies for the Wheelers' beside her. The mother thanked Allison as Jonathan and Will made their way upstairs, meeting with their sister. "Ready?" The blonde asked, gaining nods from the two boys.

"Thank you for letting Will come over." Allison smiled to Karen, nodding. "Of course- Hey, wish your mom a merry Christmas for me, okay?"

"Will do. Merry Christmas." Allison replied, placing her hand on the small of Will's back, gently guiding him forward. "So uh, did you win?" Jonathan asked Will as the siblings crossed to the front door. "Yeah!" Will exclaimed, smiling to himself. "Awesome."

"Hey, wait up." Nancy called out, making her way down the stairs. She handed Jonathan a wrapped gift, smiling to him. "Merry Christmas." Nancy said with a small smile. "Thanks, um... I- I didn't get you anything. I feel bad."

"No, no. It's uh, it's not really a present. It's um, well, you'll see." She says, kissing him on the cheek. "Merry Christmas." He replied, smiling back. "Wish Steve a Merry Christmas from me, will you?" Allison requested, knowing that the gift was from him based off of the horrible wrapping skills. Nancy nodded with a smile before turning around to go back upstairs, leaving the Byers siblings alone. "Ready? Let's go." Jonathan asked, urging the other two outside.

They got in the car, buckling up as they shivered from the cold of December. "Can I open it?" Will asked Jonathan, who obliged. "Whoa, pretty cool." Will announced after unwrapping the present, revealing a new camera. The blonde smiled, knowing Steve had still been working on his list of people to set things right with.

Back at the Byers house, Jonathan snapped photos with his new family as Joyce and Allison set the table. The four sat themselves at the table, listening to Christmas music and finally feeling peace again, relieved to have no more monsters or chaos dealing with the Upside Down to worry about, or at least they thought so. Flickers of the Upside Down were taunting Will, who had just escaped that torment, that God-awful place. He most of all hoped that it was over, but it was far from it.

It was just the beginning.

Chapter Text

September 1984

"Alright, smile girls!" Joyce beamed, snapping photos of Allison and Heather, side by side outside the Byers home. It was the first day of their Senior year, a thought that both excited and terrified the two. The year prior had been rough on her family, with Will's disappearance, Barb's death, having awareness of another world living alongside them, interdimensional monsters nearly killing them, a girl with unnatural abilities due to experimentation, and all of it being hushed and locked away from the world in the end. After Will was rescued from the Upside Down, everyone involved in this complex dilemma had to swear not to tell a soul of it; Something proven to be extremely difficult when it came to Heather.

Heather, being Allison's lifelong best friend, was always by her side- even at Will's 'funeral.' Something she would not be able to explain when it had been discovered that Will had never died at all. Allison deeply wished she could fill her friend in on everything but knew the consequences of that choice if anyone found out about it. She wasn't even sure if Heather would believe her anyway, but that was not what was important. Naturally, the brunette had questions on the matter, but all the Byers girl could do was brush them off, claiming she too had no clue.

Over the summer, Steve and Allison worked towards a friendship, as had Nancy and her. Both were successes; She had spent a lot of time with the two, Jonathan tagging along periodically. While Allison still held a smidge of feelings for the brown eyed boy, she knew it would be for the best that she moved on, in any way she could. Heather and Christopher had broken up during the summer, after she had caught him with Vicki Carmicheal, a friend of Carol and Tina's. Allison and Heather had agreed that men were bullshit, setting their focuses on making the most of senior year, and their plans for the long run. Allison was to finish her last cheerleading season, figure out what she wanted to do with her life, and focus on herself in the meantime. Joyce had taken up a new love interest, Bob Newby, and Will had begun seeing Dr. Owens for evaluations at Hawkins Lab in secret. As for the rest of the group, life resumed.

At school, Allison was lucky to have Steve in her first block English class along with gym, and lunch with Heather, giving them time to catch up every school day. It was nice to have Steve to talk to though, seeing as she could talk to him about all the crazy stuff that took place the previous year. Sure, she could talk to Nancy or Jonathan too, but talking to Steve was different. They had figured themselves out, moved passed prior judgements, and started new again. A fresh start to a platonic relationship is what each thought was necessary, at the time.

October 1984

Once Allison and Heather arrived in the Hawkins High School Parking Lot, the two sat within Allison's car, wasting the twenty minutes they still had before school started. "I'm not going to lie, I kind of miss my blonde hair." Allison stated, looking at herself in the rearview mirror. Her natural brown tinted tones had started sprouting from the roots back before summer, and now, having almost been a full year since everything, her hair had almost fully been back to how it was; a little shorter now that she cut off the dead ends. "We could always bleach it again; it did look good." Heather noted, earning a quick shake of the head from Allison, who didn't want to jinx another event playing out. "No, letting it return to normal is good. I heard it's not good to bleach your hair consistently anyway."

"Someone's reading too much Cosmo." Heather smiled, nudging her friend with her elbow. The sound of a revving engine came from down the lot, growing louder the nearer it came. "What the hell is that?" Allison asked at the disruptive sound, leaning forward in the driver's seat to see. The two girls watched as a blue Camaro parked in front of Allison's car, two figures exiting it. From the passenger seat, a red headed girl around Will's age shut the car door, zooming off towards the middle school on her skate board as the other figure, facing the opposite way, leaned against his car, taking a look around.

"More importantly, who the hell is that?" Heather added, looking to the boy with a mullet, wearing jeans topped off with a jean jacket. The two girls got out of the car, watching the seemingly new teen walk around his car, taking in the attention everyone had been giving him in the parking lot. With a final turn, his face is finally revealed to Allison. His deep blue eyes latch onto hers, a slow smirk appearing on his thin lips, a cigarette between them. The two took each other in from their spots, Allison's head flooding with curiosity's. This boy was nothing short of trouble, Allison could tell that much as soon as he stepped out of his car; but she didn't know if it was trouble in general, or just for her. "Hello? Earth to Allison?" Heather's voice drew Allison back; the brunette whipped her head to the side, facing the Holloway girl.

"Oh no. I know that look. We agreed men were bullshit!" Heather laughed, pointing her finger in Allison's face. "I- I did! I agreed. Doesn't mean I can't admire... from afar." Allison stated, turning to look back in the mysterious boy's direction, who had already made his way inside the building. "You know afar doesn't mean hanging out with your ex and his girlfriend, who initially snatched him away from you... right?"

"That's different Heth. We're just friends now. I've pushed my feelings aside, I swear. And Nancy apologized already for that- they both did." Allison corrected, giving her friend a look as she hooked arms with her. "Just saying. Still doesn't make it right." Heather protested, walking in Hawkins High side by side. The two walked to Allison's first period, where Heather would depart from her friend. "See ya soon babe." She smiled, kissing her friend's cheek before turning down the hall, going to her own class.

English was pretty easy to Allison, and it hadn't been dreadful so far, given that Steve was her table partner. She sat down in her seat, waiting as the bell rang, Steve's seat remaining empty. She figured he was walking Nancy to class, which was regularly the cause of his tardiness. The teacher begins going on about his day as usual, before the door clicks open, the new boy walking in. "Right... class, this is William Hargrove... our new student... all the way from?" The old English teacher drawls boringly, lowering his glasses away from his eyes. "Cali. And it's Billy." Billy droned, looking as if he would rather be anywhere but here. Allison had been slouched down over her desk, head resting on her arms as she took the blue-eyed boy's information, mentally repeating 'Billy' over and over.

"Hm. Well... Billy... you can have a seat by Miss Byers." Mr. Dorten sighed, gesturing towards Allison. Realizing what the teacher had suggested, she raised her head. "Sir, Steve sits here." She reminded, placing her hand on Steve's chair as Billy once again met eyes with the girl, his expression changing slightly. "I'm sure Mr. Harrington will be able to adapt elsewhere. He'll just have to learn that you don't get rewarded for being continuously late." The old man humored, gaining snickers from Allison's classmates. Unable to plead further, Allison draws her hand away from what had been Steve's chair, now being occupied by the brooding but captivating male. The smell of intoxicatingly strong cologne filled the brunette's lungs as he sat down beside her, manspreading his legs. Mr. Dorten had begun to speak again as Billy turned to face the doe-eyed girl, his golden locks resting on his shoulders. He just looked at the girl for a second, a vague smile embracing his lips. Allison smiled back, feeling awkward at the transaction whilst also intrigued by the boy's mannerisms. "Ah, Steve. Good of you to finally join the class." Mr. Dorten sighed, drawing Allison and Billy's attention to the brown-haired boy. Steve and Allison shared eye contact after seeing an unsuspecting guest within his seat, to which Allison slowly shrugged, mouthing 'sorry.'

"My apologies sir." Steve acknowledged, scanning the room for an available spot. Conveniently, an empty singular desk had been placed behind his shared one with Allison, which logically could've been the golden-haired boy's seat, but seeing as Mr. Dorten heavilu detested him, he knew this was his was of punishing him. With a grunt, the old man began speaking again, lolling on about his day. "Does he usually talk this much?" Billy's warm voice whispered, cigarette smell heavy in his breath. Allison's head twisted to meet his eyes once again, a small smile forming on her lips. "Unfortunately." She replied in a whisper. A small chuckle escaped his lips; it was warm- comforting. "I never caught your first name." He divulged, his tongue gliding across his bottom lip. "Allison." She answered, eyes following his tongues movement. "Allison... what a pretty name."A smile crossed his lips after noticing he had caught her attention, her cheeks turning red.

"Psst." Steve snapped Allison's attention back, her body turning in her seat. The brown eyed boy spectated the two's interaction from behind, carefully studying the new guys' every movement. Steve gave a look to Allison, gesturing his head towards Billy. With one look to the front, making sure Mr. Dorten wasn't looking, Allison scooted her chair back a smidge, resting her elbows on Steve's new desk. "Who's the new guy?" Steve whispered quiet enough for only her to hear, eyes locked on Billy, who glanced at the girl beside him. "Oh, Billy- he's from California."

"Oh, so he thinks he's a hot shot?" Steve quipped, realizing Billy might've heard when his eyes shift away from Allison, and lock on Steve's. The two boys share an bitter glance before the Hargrove boy turns his attention back to the front of the classroom. "Don't be rude, he seems nice." Allison muttered, giving Steve's arm a smack. "Allie, 'nice' doesn't look or dress like that." The fluffy haired boy implied, his thumb pointing quickly towards the boy.

Even if they were just friends, Steve couldn't help being protective of Allison, probably more than he should've been. He was with Nancy now, but whatever he felt for Allison hadn't really gone away. He couldn't lie to himself, so he just stored them away, as did she. The two had no idea of each others feelings, though, both seeing it best that they remain friends. "Miss Byers and Mr. Harrington, is your conversation more important than your education?" Mr. Dorten announces, causing focus in the room to shift to the two.

"No sir." The two say harmoniously, facing the man with a receding hairline. "Then I suggest you quit. Turn around in your seat Allison." The man ordered with a sigh, continuing his one-sided dialogue. "He your boyfriend or something?" Billy whispers to the girl, turning his head slightly to glance at her. "Steve? No. We're just friends." She responds, awkwardly laughing. "Do you have a girlfriend back in California?" Allison asks with a raised eyebrow. "Nah. I'm not really one for commitment." He admits, scanning the girls features after his words. She prevents herself from physically frowning but feels disappointment within herself. Maybe what she needed was a distraction, maybe no commitment was better. "Fair enough." Allison simply whispered back, as if in agreement. The two direct their gazes back to the front for the rest of the period, boredom overtaking the two.

After the class ended, Allison exited after Billy, intending to spark another conversation. "So, do you need help finding your way around the school?" She questioned out of generosity, but also in interest of learning more about the boy. "Yeah, why not." He replied, flashing a toothy grin as Tina made her way from Jonathan and Nancy's classroom, over to the other students roaming the halls, passing out flyers for her Halloween Bash. She handed one to Allison, eyes darting between the two before greeting the girl. "Allie, how are you?" The brunette asked, her eyes focused on the Californian male behind her. "I'm fine... thanks?"

"That's so good to hear, considering everything that happened with your family last year. Hopefully your zombie-boy brother is well. Anyway, I'm Tina. You should totally come to my Halloween party, it'll be sick." The intolerable girl spoke to the Hargrove boy, giving him a flyer after taunting the brunette, heading off the other way in the end. "Bitch." Allison mumbled, turning to face Billy, who had an amused expression on his face. "So... are you a party person?" The Byers girl asked the blue-eyed boy, acquiring a smirk from him. "I'm from California, come on now." He chuckled, leaning against the lockers behind him. "Right. Well, Mr. California, just know Hawkins parties are probably nowhere near as exciting as the ones you're used to."

"Well, that's a given sweetheart." He smiles, looking intently to the brunette, who blushes at his last word. She clears her throat; "We should probably start making our way to your second period, so you're not late... what's the room number?" She questioned the boy in front of her. After telling her, the two made their way to his classroom, Allison directing him. "So... what was California like?" The brunette asked as they walked down the halls together. "Better than here, that's for damn sure." He mumbled, realizing his words came out harsher than he had intended. "I just mean that it was, well, everything- to me. I had grown up there, so it had been all I'd known. Y'know?"

"I can imagine, yeah. I've heard the beaches are beautiful." Allison replied, looking to Billy as he spoke. "They are. I used to surf a lot, so when I found out Hawkins didn't have a single beach, shit hit the fan." The golden-haired boy sighed, eyes full of despondency. "I'm sorry to hear that. There's really nothing... special... about Hawkins." Allison offered, trying to ignore the memories from last year. "Yeah. It's whatever. After I graduate I plan on going back there and leaving this shithole- no offense."

"No it's okay. I've dreamed of getting out of this place for longer than I can remember. I just have no idea where I'd go since my family is here." The brunette replied, approaching his class. "I can meet you back here after this period to show you to your next one, if you'd like. My class is just two rooms down." Allison stated, pointing to her classroom. "Yeah- yeah. We could do that." He responded, sending a wink her way. "See you soon then, Darlin'." He smiled, making his way into his second period. Allison let out a small laugh, wondering if all men from California address girls they just met with pet names.

-

At lunch, Allison and Heather sit together, rambling on about their classes and assignments, per usual. After Heather finishes talking about Spanish class for the third day in a row, Allison fills her in on her first period, and how she had been meeting Billy at each of his classes to direct him to the next, including lunch, where he was sat next to Tommy, already having found his group... with the people she despised most. Tommy had already filled Billy in on Steve, Nancy, and Allison, answering the curious boys' questions. The two already conspiring to dethrone the Harrington boy. "Babe- It's only his first day and it sounds like he's totes into you. I mean, I don't blame him, but I swear you're like a male magnet." Heather giggles, whispering to the Byers girl. "Yeah right. I've only been with Steve. I was just being nice to him Heth."

"Oh come on. Nice? We all know you're a huge flirt girl. And I'm serious about the magnet thingy- half of the guys at our school had a crush on you at one point. Even the freaks like Munson." Heather concurred, rolling her eyes playfully. "Heth, that was like middle school... and don't call him a freak." Allison insisted, hating that term that had been used on both her brothers. "Yes ma'am... Girl, Billy's totally looking at you." The curly haired brunette mentioned, using her fork to point behind Allison. "Yeah, yeah." Allison replied, continuing to eat. "No like, he's literally looking at you right now."

Shifting in her seat, Allison's eyes met with Billy's, locking on to one another. His bottom lip was pulled between his teeth, confidently maintaining contact. The brunette smiled in return before turning back to face Heather, her cheeks fading into a crimson red. "Oh my god, you are totally into him, aren't you? I knew it!" Heather stated in awe, a smile spreading across her lips. "It hasn't even been a day Heth, how can you possibly know that?"

"Because dingus, feelings don't always require time. They just come and go. But seriously, I'm your best friend, and I've known you forever. Don't you think I'd be able to understand your looks and mannerisms by now? He's totally going to be the Danny to your Sandy! It's been your dream forever." Heather laughed, shrugging her shoulders. Allison just smiled and shook her head, knowing Heather was right, as always. At the end of lunch, she waited at the cafeteria doors, smiling to Billy once he appeared at her side. "I see you've met Tommy..." Allison ventured, leaning against the wall. "Yeah, he's in my second block." Billy replied, leaning against the wall in front of her. "You gotta problem with him or something?" He smirked, raising an eyebrow.

"One could say so, he's a huge asshole. And a bit of a perv." Allison countered, gesturing for Billy to follow her. "Oh?" Billy pondered, looking intently to the girl. "I can tell you more about that after you tell me what your next block is." She stated, to which he nodded with a smirk. "Gym."

"Well good news, that's my next block." Allison noted, making her way to their shared class. "I feel like everything bad about Tommy is pretty obviously displayed, but I'll let you form your own opinions of him. If him and his girlfriend are your type of crowd, as that one expression goes- to each their own."

"That bad huh?" Billy smiled, opening the gym door for the brunette. "Like I said, one could say so." She smiled back, her eyes moving from his to Steve's who was sat at the bleachers by his basketball buddies. He looked inquisitively at the girl, moving his gaze to the intimidating boy beside her. Allison shrugged to the brown-haired boy who was looking at her as if she was with the enemy, and looked back to Billy, who had watched her and Steve share looks.

"Is pretty boy always this concerned when you're talking to another guy?" The blue-eyed boy asks, glaring at Steve. "He's just a little overprotective, that's all. Plus, he has his own girlfriend to worry about." The brunette tried to convince the two of them, questioning her own judgment. "You guys couldn't have just been friends to have him acting like that... or to be lookin' at us like that." He stated, crossing his arms, though he already knew the answer from his new friends. "I mean, we've almost always been friends. We dated freshman and sophomore year, but he's dating my friend now."

"Your friend? And you're okay with that?" Billy asks, a curious glimmer shining within his eyes. "It doesn't matter what I think. If they're happy together, I'm happy for them." Allison suggests, her heart feeling a small prick of pain. "Bullshit." Billy protested, letting out a small breathy chuckle. "Excuse me?" Allison scoffed, tilting her head in response. "I think that's bullshit. I mean, I might be dense, but you're telling me that you guys dated for two years, and now he's with your friend... sounds pretty fucked to me; It also looks like he still thinks he has some sort of claim on you, but you don't look like you're the type of girl that wants to be anyone's claim."

"I'm not." Allison tested, waiting for him to get to his point. "So, I can help you. How about you come to that party with me?" Billy offered, looking attentively at the girl. "How will that help me?" The brunette inquires with crossed arms. "In first block, you agreed with me. No commitments. So, go to the party with me, and I can pretend to be whatever you want me to be."

"Like a distraction?" Allison questions the blue-eyed boy, looking up at him. "Exactly. And I can promise you, I'm one pretty damn good distraction." He smirks, his eyes moving from hers to her lips. The brunette's cheeks rose to a crimson again, heating quickly. "What's in this for you?" Allison asks, wanting to know the ulterior motive. "I get the privilege of going to my first party in Hawkins with you, darlin'."

"Oh, now you're definitely full of shit." Allison snickered, walking towards the women's changing room. "Is that a yes or no?" Billy called out after her, to which she waved it off and walked away.

-

After school, Allison and Heather walked to her car out of Hawkins High. "He seriously said all of that?" The curly haired brunette asked eagerly, clutching onto her school notebooks tightly. "You said yes, right?" She questioned again, nudging the other brunette with her elbow. "Not yet." Allison replied, unlocking her car. Her head whipped towards the spot in front of hers at the sound of a skateboard. A small redhaired girl, who Allison presumed to be Billy's little sister, stood impatiently by the blue Camaro, clearly looking as though she would rather be anywhere but here.

"Byers." Billy's warm voice projected from behind Allison, who turned around to face him. "So... will I be taking you to the party tomorrow night?" The golden-haired boy questioned, his hands in his jean jacket pockets. "Fine. But swear to me that this- that I'm not just some part of a power trip, or ulterior motive."

"I swear." He chuckles, shaking his head. The brunette holds up a pinky to him, motioning for him to lock his with hers. "A pinky promise? What are we in, second grade?"

"Just do it Hargrove." Allison demands, raising her eyebrows. "Alright. I promise, darlin'." He smiles, locking his pinky with hers. "You and your stupid pet names." Allison laughs, getting inside her car. "Would sweet cheeks work better for you?" Billy chuckles, leaning on her rolled down window. "Definitely not." Allison grimaces, reversing out of her spot. "See, Darlin's not so bad after all." He declares, shrugging to her as she starts driving away, biting on her lip.

"Oh you're so into him!" Heather giggles from the passenger's seat, nudging her friends arm having watched the whole scene play out in front of her. "Shut up." Allison grins, driving Heather home.

Chapter Text

The sound of a blaring alarm clock stole Allison from her slumber as she rubbed at her eyes, sitting up on her bed. Taking a deep breath in, the smell of toast filled her lungs as the wind rustled through the changing trees outside. It was a perfect fall day, a wave of nostalgia rushing over the brunette as the warm feeling inside her fizzed, a true contentedness. As the girl dresses, she can't help but feel giddy over her and Billy's interactions the day before. It hadn't made much sense to her how they had jumped from just meeting each other to friends so quickly, but she wasn't one to complain, especially not when he was making her feel the way she was feeling.

After greeting her mother and Jonathan, who had been sitting at the kitchen table enjoying breakfast, she took a piece of toast for herself, sitting alongside the two. "You missed movie night last night hun. Bob was really looking forward to it." Joyce spoke up, munching on a half-burnt piece of bread. "Sorry, I just wanted to head to bed early last night."

"You feeling alright?" Joyce asked, her eyebrows furrowing. "Yeah, mom, I'm fine. Where's Will?" Allison asked, noticing the absence of her youngest brother. "Got it!" Will's tiny voice hollered from his room, before joining the family. "You look great Will!" Allison smiled, getting up and hugging her little brother. "Spengler?" The girl questioned, reading off of the name tag on the costume. "Yeah- Egon." Will replied, sitting in Allison's seat. "Nice- how did your visit go yesterday?"

"Allison." Joyce cautioned, widening her eyes. "It was okay." Will replied sheepishly, eating the eggs Jonathan placed in front of him. Joyce and Allison shared eye contact, as worry flooded within the hazel eyed girl, wondering what her mom wasn't telling her. "Okay... well I'm going to head out early today- oh, is it okay if I hang out with this new guy I met around 7pm tonight? I'm trying to help him settle in after his move from California." Allison asked her mom as she grabbed her car keys, walking to the front door. "Guy?" Joyce questioned, one brow raising. "Yes mom, guy. I'm almost eighteen, and I'm just trying to make him feel welcome."

"Okay, okay." Joyce smiled, getting up to hug her daughter goodbye. "See you guys after school." Allison spoke before exiting through the front door.

-

"So, you plan on dressing up as the terminator tonight?" Allison teases Billy in their gym class, having been unable to speak in their first block due to Mr. Dorten's persistence that the room should be silent as they worked on their essay's, something Billy was luckily excluded from. So, he just sat there and watched Allison write away, finding her concentration and dedication to be cute. "What's wrong with the terminator?" Billy laughs, standing in front of her as she sits down on the bleachers. "Technically nothing, but it's just a dull costume choice for someone from California."

"And what's that supposed to mean?" Billy flashes his toothy grin, his blue eyes seeping into hers. "I just wouldn't have expected you to choose something so boring, that's all." The brunette admits, smiling up at him. "Believe me when I say nothin' I do is boring." The golden-haired boy states, tilting his head. "I'll believe it when I see it." Allison responds, tightening her shoe laces. "Oh you will, when I pick you up from your house tonight."

"You don't even have my address." Allison laughs, looking back up to him. "So, write it down." Billy replies, taking a folded piece of paper out of his back pocket, handing it to the girl. She does as he tells her, handing it back to him. "Wasn't so hard, was it?" The curly haired boy smirks, placing it back into his back pocket.

"Allie, hey- could I talk to you?" Steve's voice came from behind the Hargrove boy, gaining both of their attentions. "She's busy." Billy quickly replies, standing up straighter. "I'm sorry, is your name Allie?" Steve inquires hastily, placing his hands on his hips. As Billy begins to open his mouth, Allison stands up and strides over to the two who were acting as if looks could kill. "Whatever the hell kind of dominance bullshit test this is, it makes you guys look like idiots." The brunette states, standing between the two. "What do you want, Steve?"

"To talk to you... alone." The brown eyed boy states, looking from the Byers girl to Billy. Allison nods, pulling Steve aside. "What is he, your personal bodyguard?" Steve whispers once the two are away, earning an annoyed look from Allison. "I don't need a personal bodyguard." The brunette rolls her eyes, leaning against the wall. "Then is he your new boyfriend or something?"

"No- what does it matter to you, Steve?" Allison questions, noticing the change in his behavior. "I just- It's only been a day since he's been here, and he's already trouble. He's hanging out with Tommy and Carol, and I know you know how they can influence the shit out of you, so I just don't want you around him." The brown eyed boy muttered; eyes directed towards the Hargrove boy who was now playing basketball with the other guys. Her eyebrows raised in appalment as she scoffed. "You're joking, right?" Her tone was serious as she crossed her arms. "What?" Steve asks, focusing his gaze on her. "You can't just decide who I can and can't be around, you know that, right?"

"I know I can't, I'm just trying to tell you that he's not a good person, and I'm trying to look out for you." He states, talking with his hands. "I appreciate that you want to 'look out' for me, Steve, but I can make up my own mind and opinions on people... and I don't need anyone trying to make it up for me." The brunette replies, shaking her head. "I'm sure Nancy would say the same thing." She adds before making her way back to the bleachers, shaking her head.

Steve stood back and watched her walk away, mentally scolding himself for being the way he was, and coming off the wrong way. He only wanted what was best for Allison, and he always wanted to protect her from this cruel world, starting all the way back to when he had learned of the abuse Lonnie had inflicted on her and her family. Sure, deep down he was a little jealous considering their history together, and how they had finally regained their friendship.

"He causing you trouble sweetheart?" Billy asked the brunette, tossing the basketball to Tommy. "No, he was just talking about the English essay." Allison lied, looking over to Steve, who was already looking at her. Drawing her eyes back to Billy, he nods as his tongue glides over his top teeth. "If he's causing you trouble-"

"He's not causing me any trouble, Billy. He's one of my best friends." Allison rolled her eyes, not understanding the sudden tension between the two boys, nor why Billy seemed to care so much. "He can still cause you trouble, darlin'." He replied, looking down at the brunette attentively. "Well, if he does, I'm sure I can manage Hargrove." Allison responded, giving Billy a pat on his shoulder before turning on her heels and joining the other girls in the class who were playing volleyball.

-

After school, Allison rummaged through her closet for a last-minute costume. She had an idea in her head but realized she had come up with a better one when she pulled out a flapper inspired dress that she had purchased with Heather a while ago, never using it until now. With the sound of a revving engine approaching, Allison looked to her bedside table, where a small clock was placed. It was only 6:40; twenty minutes before Billy was supposed to be here.

As she left her room, the doorbell rang, alerting the other members in the house. "I'll get it." Allison announces quickly, shuffling over to the door. With a twist of the doorknob, she's met with Billy's gleaming eyes, and a warm smile. "Hi Darlin'." He grins, eyes focused on her. "Well, are you going to invite your friend in, hun?" Joyce's voice comes from the kitchen table, sucking Allison's mind back to reality, and out of Billy's eyes.

"Right, come on in." The brunette mutters, widening the door for the golden-haired boy. He was wearing a leather jacket, with a white tank top underneath, along with black fingerless gloves. As Joyce and Bob approached, Billy switches his smirk to a welcoming smile, holding his hand out. "You must be Mr. and Mrs. Byers, it's lovely to meet you."

"Oh... It's nice to meet you too." Joyce greets with a warm smile, surprised to hear him acknowledge Bob as Allison's father, whilst wishing her daughter would have told her his name. Bob greets him as well, shaking his hand. "This is my friend from California, Billy; we have a couple classes together. And uh, that's Bob, my mom's boyfriend." Allison buds in, placing her hand on Billy's shoulder. "Hargrove?" Jonathan's voice comes from the couch, drawing the three others attention, his eyebrows furrowing at the sight of the blue-eyed boy next to his sister. "That would be my last name, yeah." Billy states, looking to Allison. "That's my younger brother Jonathan." She gestures towards him, searching the room for Will. "And my youngest brother must be in his room getting ready." Allison stated, turning back to face Billy. "You can come with me." The brunette suggested, pulling Billy by his forearm to her room, before shutting the two in.

"Eager, are we?" Billy smirks, sitting down on her bed. "In your dreams, Hargrove." The brunette remarked playfully, throwing a pair of high heels from the bottom of her closet at the boy. "You're quite early, so I haven't really been able to get myself ready." She states, pointing towards her clock. "I didn't tell my mom that I was going to a Halloween party, so I can't really walk out the door with a costume on, especially not the one I have planned."

"That risqué, huh?" Billy smirks, propping himself on his elbows. "Well, I have grown quite a bit since I got the dress, so hopefully it'll be fine. I still have to do my makeup and hair, though." The brunette states, pacing around her room to collect different palettes and lip sticks. "What is the costume exactly?" The golden-haired boy questions her, watching her every movement. "I was thinking a flapper? Something not too flashy, but noticeable enough. Is it fine if I change in your car on the way to the party?"

"Yeah, sure thing. I have to take this tank top off before we arrive, it's not part of the costume. I was just trying to be more modest for your family; wouldn't want to set a bad tone right away with your mother, let alone what I had assumed to be your father." Billy chuckles, pulling at the hem of his white tank top underneath. "Well, you won't have to worry about my father. He didn't bother to be one."

"Shit, I'm sorry." Billy sympathized, understanding her struggle internally, but unable to admit it to her. "Oh, don't be. That's on him. Plus, Bob is better for my mom, he makes her happy. As for my family, I'm sure they'll like you just as much as I do." Allison shifted the subject, putting her dress into a backpack, along with throwing some makeup in. "And how much might that be?" Billy inquired mischievously, a smirk slowly spreading across his lips. "Don't get ahead of yourself Hargrove."

"I could never Darlin'." He smiled, sitting up. "Will you be okay in here while I go curl my hair?" The brunette asked him, earning a nod. "Okay... do you think you could do me a favor?" Allison questioned again, grabbing her bag. He raises his eyebrow playfully, a smirk toying at his lips. "Oh my god, not like that." The brunette states with a smile. "Alright, alright. Your loss. I'm also good at favors." The blue-eyed boy teases, to which Allison smacks his arm. "Careful Hargrove, I'm starting to think you've got a crush on me."

"Wouldn't want you to think that, would we?" Billy playfully replies, making his way over to Allison. "What was the favor?" He asks, looking down at her. "My mom will probably ask what the backpacks for, so, could you sneak out of my window and put it in your car? You can sneak back through the window, just try not to get caught." Allison inquires, gesturing to her window across from her bed. "Yes ma'am." He replies, taking the backpack from her hands, and dragging the window upwards, climbing out.

Turning on her heels, she shuts her bedroom door on the way out, meeting eyes with Jonathan. He motions his head in signal for her to come to him, so she does. "You can't be serious. Billy Hargrove? Don't you know the reputation he's already set for himself?" Jonathan whispers, shaking his head. "God, you sound just like Steve. Am I suddenly not allowed to have my own thoughts and perspective?"

"I never said that. Just why him? He's just as bad as Tommy, if not worse." Jonathan hastily whispers back. "I highly doubt that J. He's been nothing but nice to me, just as I have to him." The brunette whispers back, rolling her eyes at her brother. "Have you ever thought about how he's probably just trying to get in your pants?"

"What's your damage, Jonathan?" Allison asks harshly, crossing her arms. "Have you?" He whispers again. "Not every guy that takes interest in me has to view me as nothing more than a possible notch to add to their belt." She states, her blood beginning to boil. "Look, Allison. Even if I'm a year younger than you, I still feel like I should be protecting you, and I don't want to see you go through what Steve did to you again. That shit broke my heart, and I didn't know what to do. You were just... broken, and absent. I don't want that for you again."

She let his words seep into her, trying to understand where he was coming from. Although she was tired of hearing the 'protection' and 'best interest' bull shit, she knew Jonathan and Steve both cared for her in their own ways. But she wanted to give Billy, and spontaneity a chance. "I understand, but just let me try this. We all get hurt, and most times we move on. I've been able to do it once, so if worse comes to worse, I can do it again."

Chapter Text

After curling her hair, Allison said farewell to her family and Bob, following Billy out to his car. The two got in, and with the booming metal music, and a revving engine, they were already on their way to the party. "So, I was thinking, we should probably set boundaries for what you're comfortable enough to do... you know, so I don't overstep or anythin' like that." Billy mentions, looking over to Allison in his passenger seat. "Right... um, I don't really oppose anything; I like spontaneity."

Billy chuckles to himself, placing a cigarette between his lips. "What?" The brunette asks the boy, who was reaching in his center console for a lighter. "Nothin'. Just didn't really imagine you to be a spontaneity type. Would you mind?" He presumes, holding up his lighter to her. "What is that supposed to mean?" Allison asks as she lights the end of his cigarette, putting the lighter back where he got it from. "You just seem like you hold yourself to higher standards than most girls." He states, taking a drag from his cigarette, before offering it up to Allison. "No thanks."

"Point proven." The boy grins, taking another drag. "Hey, I'm just being smart. Those things are death sticks." Allison replies, climbing into the back seat to change. With Billy's eyes presumably on the road, she reaches into her backpack, pulling her dress and high heels out. As she quickly unbuttons her blouse, leaving her in her bra, the car swerves slightly, startling the two of them. When she looks up, Billy's eyes are looking directly at her in the rearview mirror, a sort of astonishment in his eyes. "Eyes on the road Hargrove." Allison blushes, tugging her shorts off, and pulling the dress over her head.

As she climbs back into the passenger seat, Billy puffs out smoke, eyes trying to stay focused ahead. "Can I look now?" He asks, eager to know what the dress looked like. "Yes, you dingus." She laughs, pulling it down her thighs. The dress was quite provocative in a way; her chest had been more visible than ever, and it had been shorter on her legs than she had remembered it to be. When she looked over to Billy, his cheeks were rose tinted, and his eyes were trying to advert from her chest. "It looks great on you."

In return, Allison just smiled, applying her lipstick gingerly. He was making her feel all swirly inside, as she had her doubts on the costume, but seeing his reaction and hearing his words made all of those uncertainties go away.

Once they arrived at the party, the sky had already grown dark, and Tina's house had very much been alive. Toilet paper was thrown into her greenery, cars stretched down the entire block, and several teenagers surrounded the immediate area. "Looks like the party started without us Darlin'." Billy spoke as he parked along the street, taking his leather jacket off. As he pulled the white tank top over his head, Allison couldn't help but admire his extremely toned body. He had abs for days, and more muscle than she had seen on any teenager in Hawkins high. "Take a picture sweetheart, it'll last longer." He grins, tugging his leather jacket back on.

He steps out of the car, crushing the cigarette under his boot, before crossing around his car, and opening the passenger door for Allison, lending his hand. She takes it, eyes focused on his the entire time. The two stand rather close, with only a little space left between them as their eyes are latched onto one another, hands still clasped. "So... should we go inside?" Allison mutters, her heart beat picking up in pace. "Yeah- yeah. We should, right." Billy clears his throat as Allison slowly removes her hand from his. "Ready?" He asks, fixing his posture. With a nod from her, he slings his arm around her shoulder, hauling them forward.

The two walk in together, drawing immediate attention from the party-goers. Although the two had been seen together in the classes they shared, no one had actually given a thought to them being a 'thing.' Now that Allison was practically attached to his side, all the observers could do was gawk. Of course, Carol and her friends couldn't refrain from being envious, despite having boyfriends or lovers of their own.

"Hey man... Allison..." Tommy approached, eyes trailing themselves down her body as Carol stood on his left side, red solo cup in hand. "It's about time you showed, we've been waiting on you man. You have a reputation to crush." Tommy shouted over the loud music, patting Billy's shoulder roughly. "Is pretty boy even here yet?" The blue-eyed boy replied, looking around the room. "Negative, haven't seen him or the priss."

Allison pieced two and two together, figuring they were talking about Steve and Nancy. Internally, she was angry at Billy for proceeding with his mission to steal Steve's reputation, questioning her part in all of this, but she knew that she couldn't control what he did or didn't do. "Wait until he's here, strip him of his Keg King title, and shove it in his face." Tommy proposes, eyes moving to Allison's as Carol chewed on her gum, nodding her head ferociously. "Good idea, amigo." Billy responds, turning his head from Tommy to face Allison under his arm. "Wanna go get a drink?"

"Yes, please." The brunette tried to hide her desperate tone, feeling uncomfortable under the gaze of the Hagan boy. "God, he has no shame- like, he's right next to his girlfriend but eye fucking me." Allison rants, grabbing two red solo cups from the counter, and scooping punch into both. As she hands Billy his drink, her eyes drift to the front door, where Steve and Nancy enter together dressed as Joel and Lana from Risky Business. With that, she downs her first drink, dipping her cup in for another. Billy turns around and sees the two, analyzing the change in Allison's behavior. "He's one idiot to choose her over you, that's for damn sure." Billy speaks up, returning his gaze to the brunette in front of him.

"You don't know Nance." Allison tried to defend, unsure why. "Don't need to. I never would've made the mistake of letting you go." He affirmed; his eyes locked on hers. "Careful Hargrove, all this flattery could give me an ego as big as yours." Allison playfully teased, receiving a small chuckle from him. As she fixed her dress, she noticed he was still gaping at her, appearing to be awestruck. "You really like to stare, don't you?"

"You make it hard not to." He states with a serious tone and a small smile; Allison's cheeks grow red and hot as she lets a laugh slip from her lips. "You're really good at that." She grins, shaking her head at him. "At what?" He questions, eyebrows furrowing. "At making me want to do things I shouldn't." Allison replies, noticing the shift in his expression. "Who says you shouldn't?" Billy speaks with danger laced in his tone, leaning forward slightly. "Common sense." The brunette mumbles, noticing the space between them was thinning. His eyes moved from her eyes to her lips, as hers laid agape, her breath trying to catch up with her heartbeat.

"Yo man, let's go!" Tommy breaks the trance between the two, using his thumb to gesture outside. The golden-haired boy waited on approval from Allison, to which she nodded, sending him away. Once they were out of sight, she let out a shaky breath as the sensation of butterflies swarmed within her stomach. As she finished off her second drink, the shouted countdown began.

Once it approached past thirty, the brunette made her way outside, wondering if Billy really would take the title of Keg King. With a count of forty-two, he takes it, spitting the remainder of beer within his mouth out, shouting in triumph as the surrounding crowd goes wild. Allison smiles with crossed arms, observing the boy in front of her who had in fact been the partier he claimed to be. As he takes a drag from a cigarette handed to him by Tommy, he declares: "That's how you do it, Hawkins! That's how you do it!"

With a glance in Allison's direction, he stops in his tracks, a smile engulfing his face. "Don't tell me you doubted me Darlin'." He inquires at the brunette's expression of something close to surprise. "I had my hesitancies." She replies as he bends his knees, picking her up into a bridal-style hold as he trudges inside with Tommy, maneuvering themselves through the dancing crowd as the brunette held on to him. She noticed the beer that had poured down his torso after placing her hand on his chest, shaking her head at him. "We're going to have to clean you up already, and we haven't even been here twenty minutes!" She shouts over the blaring music, receiving a smile from him.

"We've got ourselves a new Keg King, Harrington." Tommy's voice comes from in front of the two, drawing Allison's attention away from Billy's face, to whoever was ahead. Steve and Nancy stood by the wall, eyes shifting from Billy to the girl they both knew as their friend, somewhat shocked to see her in his arms. The blue-eyed boy seemed to notice Allison's change in attitude, as he set her down beside him. "Yeah. Eat it, Harrington!" A boy on their left shouted to the brown eyed boy removing his sunglasses, revealing a facial expression that matched that of betrayal, or disbelief. His eyes moved continuously back and forth between Billy and Allison as Nancy walked the opposite way, having enough of the stand off.

Allison had wished to join her, feeling guilty for being under Billy's arm, whilst under the gaze of Steve, realizing she most likely was meant to be shoved in his face to add to his humiliation, and maybe that was one of the reasons Billy was so insistent she came. A hand placed itself on the brunette's forearm, tugging her backwards lightly. Allison was relieved to turn around and see Heather, who was dressed as Cher. "Thank god, you just saved me from one of the most uncomfortable interactions." Allison sighed in relief as the two migrated to where everyone was dancing, before starting to dance themselves. "I could tell, you know I've always got your back babe." Heather smiled, swaying with the music.

Nancy approached close to the other two girls, clutching onto an empty solo cup. Eventually, Steve joined her, looking just as distressed as he had five minutes prior. "I told you that you weren't over him." Heather voiced, shaking her head at her best friend. "What?"

"You're blatantly gawking at them right now- and I know what jealousy looks like, especially on you." She observed, pointing at the Byers girl. "Babe, you literally have the fresh bait of the season focused on you- why not reel him in?" The curly haired brunette emphasized, questioning the hazel eyed girl. "Believe me, I've wanted to... I just don't know-"

"If you're ready to move on yet?" Heather finishes, her facial expression softening. "Not only that, but also if he's only pursuing me to get under Steve's skin." Allison sighs, lips forming a thin line. "Well... maybe taking a leap is what you need to move on, and if not, at least you'll know. Steve deserves to be humbled anyway, who does he think he is acting like he can control who you hang out with?" The Holloway girl states, gesturing towards Billy, who was receiving praise by Tommy's guy friends. "I'm telling you doll, take that leap." Heather insists, nudging Allison. As the Byers girl nods her head, she receives a grin from her best friend. "I'm going to get a drink, and when I come back out here, I better see Billy with you." She finalizes, walking away swiftly.

With a quick, heavy breath out, Allison strides over to Billy, standing in front of him and several other guys. They all look to her, either raising their eyebrows or gaping at her tight dress. "Wanna dance Hargrove?" She asks with a smirk; Billy flashes his toothy grin in return, handing his cigarette to Tommy. "You don't even have to ask, Darlin'." The blue-eyed boy smiles, taking Allison's delicate hand within his, pulling her into him.

"You look...tense." Billy notes as the two become submerged within the sea of dancing teens, his hands placing themselves on her hips. "Did Harrington say something to you?" He questioned, looking from the brunette to Steve, who was dancing next to Nancy not far from them. "What? No." She replied, bouncing with the music. "Ohh, I see."

"See what?" Allison inquired, tilting her head in confusion. "You see them together, and you get jealous. It's only natural Darlin'." He pauses, biting on his lip. "Do you trust me?" He asks the brunette, hands tightening on her hips. "Should I?" She replies, eyes looking into his intently. "Let's find out." He finishes, twisting her around by her hips, and pulling her against him. "Just feel the music, sway with it- follow my hip movements."

Her breath becomes heavier as his hips press against hers; his hands holding onto her hips as he uses them to direct her movement. The two synchronize, their hips swaying together as his hands move from her hips, up her waist. "If you want me to stop, say so."

"I never said I wanted you to... but I do want to know something." She responds as her hands place themselves on his, sliding them slowly back to where he left off. "Hm?" His chin rests itself in the crevice of her neck as his hands tingle at her touch, craving more. "Are you only doing this to taunt Steve?"

"As much as I do enjoy seeing him grit his teeth, no, I'm not doing this to get at him. I happen to be fond of you, Allison." He spoke into her ear, though she wasn't fully convinced he was telling the truth.

Allison's eyes meet with Steve's, his dancing coming close to a halt as Nancy sways beside him, not paying attention to her boyfriend's change in stance. Tension between the two grows as Billy's hands glide themselves around her body. Steve's eyebrows furrow, his expression changing to one of emotional distress.

The brown eyed boy swallowed hard at the sight before him; another guy's hands slithering themselves up and down his ex-girlfriends body, feeling as though his heart was being twisted and torn to shreds. He didn't know why he was jealous; she wasn't his to be jealous of, not anymore.

As the sight became too much to bear, he had realized Nancy had gone off presumably for another drink, and fled after her, breaking the eye contact with the Byers girl. A lingering guilt built inside the brunette's body, but the feeling of Billy's hands tracing themselves on her waist washed it away. Sighing in relief, turned to face him.

Maybe it was the alcohol settling in her system, but everything that told her to withhold before had withered, and all that was on her mind now was him. Billy looked down at Allison, his eyebrow raising dangerously. "Trust me now?" He questioned with a smirk, his hands moving to her back, resting there. "I might need a little more convincing." She humored, a smile forming on her lips. "Lucky for you, Hargrove, I can easily be convinced."

His eyes grew hungry, the feeling of her skin under his fingertips and the smell of her perfume filling his lungs quickly became intoxicating. Their faces inched closer together, eyes trained on each other's lips as the space thinned; as their lips brushed lightly, the sound of gasps, followed by unnerving silence pulled the two away from one another. Nancy stood by the counter, looking down at her white, now red-stained shirt, frustration engulfing her face as Steve stood before her, his hair disheveled.

Nancy says something to him before marching off through the crowd, Steve following on her tail. "Always seems to screw it up somehow, huh?" Billy states once the silence ends, fixing his leather jacket. "Do you want to get out of here?" Allison inquires, ignoring Billy's words. "Yeah, sure. Besides you, this parties a total bummer." He replies, taking her hand to lead her through the crowd. "Told you it probably wouldn't compare to what you're used to."

"And I told you that was a given sweetheart." He smiled, pausing to tell Tommy he was heading out. Allison glanced around, hoping to say goodbye to Heather, only for her eyes to land directly on Jonathan, who returned his glance. The two siblings raised their eyebrows at each other, not expecting to see the other at this party. "Ready Darlin'?" Billy's voice came from beside the brunette, startling her. "Yeah- yeah I'm ready." She replied, giving a final glance to Jonathan as the blue-eyed boy slung his arm around her shoulder, drawing her into him.

The Byers boy only offered a disappointed look to his sister before returning his gaze to the girl in front of him. With that, Billy and Allison left the party, heading towards the blue Camaro.

Chapter Text

"I had a great time with you tonight, you made it not so terrible." Billy softly smiles from his driver's seat, parked outside the Byers residence. "Glad to know I could be of some help." Allison joked in return, beginning to feel the effects of the alcohol she consumed at the party. "But seriously, me too... thank you- for all of it."

"Anytime Darlin'." He grinned, leaning his elbow on the center console. The two shared a final gaze at one another before the brunette got out of the blue Camaro, leaning on the rolled down window. "You know, we never got to get you cleaned up." She pointed towards his abs, sticky from the beer residue. "Are you suggesting that I come inside with you Byers?"

"Am I?" The brunette replied, her fingertips tingling as she became woozy. "My window is always unlocked." She hinted to him before turning around and walking through her front door. The sound of a revving engine and gravel under tires alerted Allison that Billy was taking off, leaving her feeling disappointed. Bob and Joyce laid together on the couch, fast asleep in each other's arms.

After gently closing the front door, the brunette quietly tip-toed to her bedroom, setting down her backpack before removing her heels, rubbing her aching feet. The nausea came swiftly, practically picking her up on her feet and carrying her to the bathroom, where she knelt by the toilet, puking what felt like her remains out. The wave left her as she flushed the puke down, eventually enabling her to get back on her feet. She felt disgusting; her skin was sticky and damp from sweat- the thought of a hot shower sounded delightful, so she quickly drew back the curtain, twisting the knob to hot.

Once she was undressed, tossing her costume into a pile, she pulled the knob atop the faucet upwards, sending water down and out of the showerhead. Standing under the hot water as it cascaded down her body felt incredible as thoughts of Billy penetrated her head. How they danced, the way his hands felt on her skin, his eyes wandering her body, how they had almost fucking kissed- she felt way in over her head. She had no clue what it was about him that was so enthralling, but she couldn't help but want more. Then there was Steve, the boy she still harbored feelings for, who cared too damn much.

Following the end of her shower, steam swelled throughout the bathroom, leaving the mirror fogged up and condensation gathering on the walls. With a couple rings of her hair to remove excess water, she wrapped her towel around herself, picking her belongings up and quietly sneaking out of the room into her own. As silent as she could, she shut her bedroom door, cold breeze meeting her exposed skin. The brunette glanced over to her window, now wide open. "Something bothering you Darlin'?" Billy's voice came from her bed, startling the hazel eyed girl enough to drop the dress in her hands.

"Jesus Billy! Gave me a damn heart attack." Allison clutched at her quick-beating heart with one hand as the other held her towel up. "Sorry doll." He chuckled, standing from his seated position on her bed to stand in front of her. The blue-eyed boy knelt down, grabbing the dropped dress. He looked up at her, eyes trained on hers as he brought himself back to a stand, extending his hand holding the costume out to her. "I thought you left." She admitted, taking the dress from him before walking over to her closet, placing it in a laundry bin. "How could I turn down an offer from Allison Byers to spend the night?"

"I never offered for you to spend the night; I just said my windows always open." The brunette remarked, scavenging through her closet for something to sleep in. "My apologies sweetheart. I just parked down the block... figured you'd prefer not to be confronted about the car of the guy you just met being in your driveway overnight." He noted, sitting himself back down on her bed. "You're either smarter than you lead on or have a lot of experience when it comes to sneaking around." Allison stated, letting a small laugh out.

"Eh, a little bit of both." He smiled, watching the girl before him. Once she pulled a longer t-shirt out, along with undergarments, she turned around to see the smirking boy laid back on her pleated bedding, an assortment of pastel pink and purple flowers sewn all over it. "Do you mind?" Allison smiled, gesturing that she wanted to change. "I thought you trusted me."

"And I told you I could be convinced. We're not quite there yet Hargrove." She stated, using her pointer finger to motion him to turn around. With a chuckle, he rolls over on the bed, facing the wall that it had been pushed against. "Cute Rob Lowe poster." Billy laughed as Allison dressed herself, climbing onto the bed next to him. "Matt Dillon too?"

"I loved the Outsiders, what can I say, Grease too." The brunette grinned, leaning back on her bed as she looked from one movie poster to another. "You can look now Dingus." She stated tugging at his shoulder. "Thank you, having to stare at all of the men littering your walls was becoming agonizing." The Hargrove boy spoke, propping his elbow on her pillows as he turned to face her. "At least I know I'm your type now."

"How would you know that?" Allison questioned with a curious smile, leaning her head on her pillows as she looked up at him next to her. "Well, both of their characters are 'bad boys,' especially Dally, who dresses like me-"

"You dress like him." Allison cuts him off, shaking her head. "Whatever. We dress alike, we have similar personalities, etcetera. Danny too." He notes, watching as a drop of water from the brunette's hair lands on her cheek, slowly gliding down to her chin. "Now that you say it... yeah. You really do remind me of them." She smiles, looking to the posters behind him. His thumb gently meets her chin, wiping the water away as his pointer finger rests curled under her chin, tilting her head up to face him.

Silence fills her room as the two gaze into each others eyes, which had been something they did relatively often. The cold breeze from Allison's open window glided over her bare legs, sending shivers throughout her body. As Billy started to lean into her, she pulled her face away, much to her disliking. "I want to kiss you, believe me, but I'm ninety-nine percent sure the alcohol has not completely left my system yet and it would be incredibly gross if I puked all over you." Allison sighed, ending with a laugh as she held Billy's hand in hers, resting them on her crossed legs. "That would probably suck, huh?" The blue-eyed boy grinned in return, raising his eyebrows.

"Definitely... how the hell do you hold your alcohol so well?" The brunette questioned, cocking her eyebrow. "I used to party a lot in California. It takes practice- but to be completely honest, I don't know if I'm one-hundred percent sober right now." He responded, removing his fingerless gloves. "Think you could get me a rag with water and soap on it for this?" He pointed to his torso, receiving a nod from the hazel-eyed girl. Turning on her heels, she sneaks into the bathroom, putting a hand towel under the running water. After ringing out the excess water and adding soap, she returned to her room, looking to Billy who had a smirk displayed across his face.

As she held out the rag to him, he looked from her hand to her eyes, his smirk growing. "If I remember correctly, you said 'we're going to have to clean you up already,' as in you'd be helping me." He grinned as Allison rolled her eyes, kneeling in front of him. "Move your jacket." She demanded, using her hands to explain. "Here, it's easier if I just remove it."

"Now you're just trying to show off." She replied as he situated himself to where he was sitting on the edge of her bed, leaving room between his legs for Allison to fit herself in. Placing the rag against his chest, the brunette began wiping gently against his abs, placing her opposing hand on his shoulder for support. His arms were placed behind him, watching her every movement and concentrated look. "God you're sticky, it's disgusting." She grimaced, moving the rag farther up his chest. He gave her a humorous look, raising his eyebrow at her statement. "Ew Hargrove, don't make it out to be like that."

"Can't help it Darlin'." He chuckled as she came to a stance between his legs. "You know... just because you can't kiss me doesn't mean I can't kiss you." He propositioned, hands resting themselves on her hips once again. "It's the same thing, dingus." Allison pointed out, laughing at his words. "No, no. I mean this." He whispered, pulling her on to him, to where her arms wrapped around his neck, legs now knelt on the bed as his hands met her waist, and lips placing themselves on her neck. A small gasp slipped from the brunette's mouth, her fingers lacing through his silky golden hair.

"Billy." She whispered back as he softly sucked on the skin of her neck, one of his hands holding her dripping hair to the side as the other lowered to her ass; "Hm?" His muffled voice came from her neck before relocating his lips to a higher spot. "We're not in the right mindset- we shouldn't do this." She mumbled, pulling away from him. "Oh.. right, probably not a good idea." He muttered, placing a hand on his face.

"I... We should do this when we know for sure that we're sober." The brunette suggested, wondering if it was the alcohol or her talking. "Yeah. Yeah, we should- I'm sorry for doing that." He apologized, dragging his hand down his chin. "No- it felt good. I just want to make sure we're in our right minds, and not halfway drunk." She whispered as a second wave of nausea hit her. "Speak of the devil." The Byers girl clutched her stomach, quickly rushing out of the room and into the bathroom.

After the wave passed, she brushed her teeth and returned to her bedroom, offering a smile to the boy on her bed. "Sorry about that." She pardoned herself, moving her sheets back to climb under. "You don't have to apologize, believe me- I had my fair share of interruptions and vomiting back in Cali. It was painfully embarrassing, but it happens." He shrugged with a grin, remaining seated at the edge of her bed. "That picture on your bedside table, is that you?"

"Yeah- it was from last year." Allison replied, looking over to the photo as she situated herself under her covers. "Who is that with you?" He questions, looking intently at the picture. "It's my youngest brother, Will. It was our first picture together after everything." She noted, smiling to herself. "What did Tina mean when she said your zombie boy brother?"

"He uh, he went missing last year. A body in the quarry was thought to be his... so there was a funeral for him, but it wasn't him, and he was found. It all feels like a blur." Allison explained in the only way she could without hinting at the other dimension living alongside Hawkins, and the ties to Hawkin's lab. "Oh... well that..."

"Makes no sense. I know, it never has." Allison lied, placing her head down on her pillow. "Well, the blonde hair was a look, too bad I missed it." He grinned, looking back to the brunette. Allison had remembered it all as if it were yesterday. It was still fresh in her mind, just like the memory within that photo.

~

"Since they wouldn't let me take him to the Hospital, I've been waiting for you to come back home so he could be with you again." Allison smiled to her little brother, handing him Thumper, the stuffed animal she had slept with every night that he had been gone. A precious smile spread across Will's little face before he hugged his sister tightly. "I like it a lot."

"What? Thumper?" She questioned, looking to the stuffed rabbit within her youngest brother's hands. "No, your hair. It looks good." He pointed, offering a small smile. Although it was a small, simple compliment, tears formed in Allison's eyes at the fresh memory of self-hate and loathing over her selfish decision the year prior, when she was supposed to be home, making sure he got home safe; but she had been too busy caught up in her own world, dying her stupid hair for 'change,' as if that would have somehow brought her back to Steve's mind. It had been the only night she didn't show, and the night Will had needed her- or anyone, most. His approval reminded her that the trial was over, and that he was finally home, and safe.

From there, she was able to appreciate the alternated hair, but made sure that it was the last time she would do so; too afraid to jinx another catatonic event as if it played any role in Will vanishing. Now it was just them, a family once more, making sure to incorporate more time for each other, starting with movie nights.

~

"Yeah, it really was a look." Allison replied quietly, eyes growing heavy. Billy had observed several pictures on the girl's walls, seeing how happy her family seemed to be, and wishing he too could have known what that might have been like. With a small, broken smile, he returned his gaze to the brunette laying in her bed- her doe eyes shut. Leaning forward, he places a short kiss on her forehead, turning out her lamp on her bedside table. "See you tomorrow, Darlin.'" He whispers, crossing her room, and shutting the window behind him after exiting.

Chapter Text

After reluctantly pulling herself out of bed, Allison rubbed at her eyes, hoping the fatigue would dissipate. Her mouth felt dry, and her head had begun to slightly ache; Groaning at the grogginess and sensitivity to the early morning light seeping through her window, she slid her closet door open, revealing Billy's leather jacket hung within. A smile embraced the brunette's face as she slid her hand down the material, hearing the voices of her family in the hallway.

Following getting dressed, the Byers daughter exited her room, grinning at the sight of her family and Bob seated at the kitchen table. "Goodmorning." Allison greeted, crossing over to the kitchen counters to grab a slice of toast, inserting it into the toaster. "Morning honey." Joyce replied with a smile as the others repeated a simple 'morning.' "How was your time with Billy last night?" Joyce questioned as she felt her pockets for her missing keys. "Oh! It was good. I had a great time." The brunette replied, lathering jam onto the toasted piece of bread before shoving it in her mouth.

"Looks like it..." Jonathan mumbled, giving his sister a bland look. In return, Allison raised her eyebrow at him, unsure of what he had meant. "How was trick-or-treating with Will?" The brunette questioned her brother, receiving the same look from him that she had given. Will shifted his eyes down to his plate, poking at his eggs. He had clearly been distraught but wasn't going to speak of his experience the night prior. "Okay... well, I'm going to head out now since I'm picking up Heather, so I'll see you guys this afternoon." Allison broke the silence, retrieving her bag from her room before tugging a pair of high-top converses on.

As she crossed to the front door, she kissed the top of Will's head and received a hug from Joyce, wishing them all good days before shutting the front door behind her. The ride to Heather's was fast, and the curly haired brunette looked just as dazed as Allison had. "Rough night?" The Byers girl asked her best friend as she heaved herself into the car, slumping her head against the headrest. "Oh girl, you have no idea. You'll never guess how bad I screwed up." Heather whined, rubbing at her eyes as she chugged water from her bottle, offering it to Allison. "Hit me." The brunette obliged before guzzling down almost the remainder of Heather's water. "I hooked up with Christopher right after I told you that I'd better see Billy with you when I came back."

"Oh my god. I was wondering where the hell you went- but Christopher? Really? I thought you were done with him!" Allison stated in shock, passing the bottle back to the brown eyed girl. "I know, I thought I was too- but those green, dreamy eyes- I just can't help it babe!" Heather exclaimed, placing her head in her hands. "Long story short, I got blackout drunk after it and here I am, a fucking mess." She continued, shaking her head at herself as Allison offered a sympathetic look towards her friend. "Wait, look at me again-"

"Heth, I have to keep my eyes on the road." Allison responded, clutching onto the steering wheel. The curly haired brunette ignored the response, reaching towards her friend and pulling Allison's chin to face her, gasping in shock. "What!?" The hazel-eyed girl inquired with a hint of startlement, her eyes growing wide. "Did you and Billy fuck!?" Heather questions with a smile, shifting in her seat to face the brunette. "What? No-"

"Then did y'all at least make out?" Heather asks desperately, her grin growing wide. "No, we didn't do anything." Allison replied, intently looking ahead. "You are such a liar, Allison Byers." the brown-eyed girl laughed, back-handing Allison's shoulder. "What do you mean? We didn't do any of that, I swear."

"Tell that to the hickeys on your neck." Heather giggled, receiving a bewildered expression from her best friend. As the two pulled into Allison's parking spot at Hawkins High, she quickly pulled out a pocket mirror from her glovebox, pulling the collar of her blouse down. Small splotches of purples and reds were visible on the left side of the Byers girls' neck, memorably from the night before. She realized that her family had probably seen the love bites, now making Jonathan's words to be understandable. Sighing out loud, she recalled the previous night to Heather, telling her that Billy had snuck in her room, given her permission, and the two had a small moment together before Allison shut it down, realizing that it would be best if both are fully in the right mindset to truly consent.

"Well, now you definitely have to hook up with him since you told him you wanted to do it when you're sober." Heather stated, exiting the vehicle, followed by the other brunette. "I said 'we should,' not 'I want to.'" Allison corrected, walking inside the school with Heather on her side. "Well, do you want to?"

"I don't know. I mean, don't get me wrong, he's gorgeous and extremely attractive, I just would want to get to know him better first- like building the trust and relationship before jumping in and throwing it all away." Allison admitted as the two approached her first period classroom. "I keep forgetting you're not the hook-up or once-and-done type. Girl, you should at least try it once, but make sure it's not for the sole purpose of getting over a guy, because that'll never work."

"Well... that's the thing. You know I've only ever... done it... with Steve. And I don't want to just sleep with Billy if I'm still thinking of Steve. I just need time, or something." Allison whispered, stopping in front of her class. "That 'something' is some good dick, and I'm guaranteeing you Billy is exactly that." The curly haired brunette paused with a quiet laugh; "See ya at lunch!" She whispers back before turning on her heels and sashaying away. With a roll of her eyes, Allison enters the classroom and sits down in her seat, both Billy's and Steve's seats empty.

As a time passes, Billy is the first to enter, followed by Steve minutes later, right before the bell rung. "You feelin' any better?" Billy's voice came from beside the brunette, drawing her attention. A small smile tugged at her lips at his question, reminding her how reassuring he had been the night before. "Yeah, thank you." She replied, getting shushed by their teacher. Getting a stack of notecards from her bag, she takes one, writing, 'talk in gym?' on it before sliding it his way. A couple seconds pass, and he slides it back, reading 'sure thing Darlin.' She sends a smile and nod his way, leaning her head in her hand as the old man babbles on.

As lunch approached, Heather and Allison sit together, eating the flavorless cafeteria food. "Did he notice them?" Heather asked before drinking some water. "Not that I'm aware of." Allison blankly replied, letting out a sigh. "Steve?" The brown eyed girl questions, stabbing her fork into the salad in front of her. "Hopefully not... actually, you know what? I don't care. I'm not his girlfriend, I mean, it's not like I'm cheating on him. I'm just hanging out with the only guy he doesn't want me hanging out with."

"I don't understand why you're friends with him, he's so toxic babe!" The Holloway girl states, shoving more greens into her mouth. "He's not toxic, Heth. He's just... overprotective."

"Toxic." Heather corrects, shaking her head. "Being friends with him and the princess doesn't do you any good. They both wronged you while knowing it would hurt you, and as your best friend, I think you'd be better off without them. If it were me, you best believe I would've been the pettiest, most cruel bitch towards them." Heather rambled, rubbing at her temples. "You know I can't just do that. I can't just move on after everything." Allison mentioned, running her fingers through her hair. "Yeah, yeah. I know. You have a good heart babe." Heather laughed quietly. "I just don't want you to get hurt again by either of them. I hated watching you tear yourself apart as if it were your fault in any way. I love you too much to see you go through that again, so if either of them do something, you tell me."

With the nod of Allison's head, Heather smiled, holding on to the hazel-eyed girl's hand. Once lunch had concluded, Allison split from Heather and headed towards the gym, changing into her gym shorts and t-shirt. She had planned on throwing her hair up into a ponytail, but after seeing her reflection in the mirror, realizing there was no collar to hide the purple-tinted love bites on her neck, she left her hair down and returned to the gym from the locker room. The female coach instructed the girls to be seated on the bleachers for the period, seeing as the male coach would be having the boys play shirts vs. skins. Allison had been half relieved that she wouldn't be participating in any physical activity for the day until she realized it had meant Billy would be on the floor playing, and unable to talk to her.

As she made her way to the bleachers, the boys were being sorted into two teams, separating into two lines. When the coach approached Billy, he pointed to the skins team, to which Billy happily tugged his shirt up and over his head, tossing it to the side. Although Allison had already seen his perfectly toned torso before, it still sent electric shivers through her body. As she seated herself, she continued to observe the two fully divided teams, placing themselves in the appropriate areas.

The brunette's eyes skimmed over to Steve, who was on the shirts team; his eyes meeting hers. There was something different about him, but she couldn't quite place it. He offered a small, thin-lipped smile to her with sad eyes, sending a little nod. She nodded back, shooting him a thumbs up for luck. She'd seen him play before in his time of basketball, and hers as a cheerleader, and a supportive girlfriend. He was good, but never quite had his heart fully in it. The Hawkins Tigers won games, but never a championship.

Allison wondered if Billy had taken up Basketball back in California as he had with surfing, shortly being proven once the game began. As the game progressed, Billy pressed himself against Steve, appearing to be speaking to him as the brown-haired boy's facial expressions shift, wearily dribbling the ball in front of him. In mere seconds, Steve is pushed to the ground as Billy snatches the ball, shooting it into the hoop. The whistle blows, and Billy turns to face Allison, sending a wink and point her way. His eyes move back to the brown-eyed boy, tauntingly licking his bottom lip. A call for Steve comes from the right of bleachers, drawing both Allison and his attention. There Nancy stands, one hand in her pocket as the other clutches onto a textbook.

The brown-eyed boy stands in place for a couple of seconds before walking her way, and the two exit the gymnasium together. "You wanted to talk to me?" Billy's warm voice comes from the left of the Byers girl, gaining her attention. "Aren't you supposed to be out there right now?" Allison points to the court, raising her eyebrow. "Eh, they can wait a few more seconds." He replies, smiling to the girl. "Thank you, for last night- it meant a lot that you understood... and I'm sorry for passing out."

"You don't have to apologize; you needed the rest." He responded, looking up into her eyes. "Right. I didn't know you played basketball." Allison mentioned, smiling at him. "Well, you do now... impressed?" He questions, a smirk forming on his lips. She rolled her eyes playfully at his words, before observing how the sweat on his tanned skin made him look shiny and somehow magnifying. "Not yet." Allison replied with a grin as Billy placed one of his hands over his heart, mouthing 'ouch.' "Hargrove! Let's go!"

"I'll impress you eventually." He finishes, walking backwards before turning on his heels to join the others. Steve still hasn't returned as the game continues, the shirts team losing heavily. Billy scores several points for the skins team, absolutely crushing the others. Eventually Steve walks back in after being retrieved by one of his teammates, looking utterly crushed. Allison notices this immediately, recognizing his heart broken look immediately. Her smile drops at this, but she redirects her gaze to Billy, watching him until the game concluded. She hopped off the bleachers to wish him a 'good job,' but he had been swept away by Tommy before she had the chance. As everyone filed into the locker rooms to change, Allison observed Steve retrieving his water bottle by the wall. Despite her previous thoughts, she made her way over to him, placing her hand gently on his elbow to get his attention. The brown eyed boy quickly turned to face her, his facial expressions relaxing upon seeing her. "Hey." He quietly spoke, tucking his water bottle under his arm. "Hey um, are you okay?"

"Oh... yeah. Yeah, I'm alright." He replies, offering a thin-lipped smile. "Steve... you know I know when you're lying, right?" Allison responded softly, pulling her arms into a crossed position. He lets out a breath, his eyebrows raising as he nodded. "Do you want to talk about it?" She questioned, giving a sympathetic look to him. "Not here."

"Okay... did you want to meet somewhere after school?" The hazel-eyed girl inquired, shrugging her shoulders. "No, it's okay. I don't want to bother you, it's really nothing." He lied, biting down on his bottom lip. "Steve..."

"It's okay. I'll be fine." He spoke, trying his best to smile reassuringly as he made his way over to the men's locker room. She remained standing in the corner for a few seconds, watching him walk further away. The brunette was saddened at the feeling of a withering friendship that she had tried so hard to regain. Whether it was because of her and Billy, or something else, she couldn't help but feel as if it was her fault that there was a growing gap between them, and it killed her.

Chapter Text

"You'll never guess what I heard." Heather spoke from the passenger seat as Allison drove her home. "Hm?" The brunette noised, keeping her eyes on the road ahead. "Apparently Steve and Nancy broke up." Heather revealed, looking at herself through a pocket mirror. "Who told you that?"

"Oh, it's all over school. Someone spotted them behind the gymnasium, and the conversation looked pretty heated. Anyway, Steve walked away from her, and she looked super devastated." The curly haired brunette told, glancing over to her best friend. Allison thought for a few seconds, realizing it would make sense based off of Steve's behavior once he returned to the gym. "He looked really sad when he came back from talking to her, but when I asked him if he was okay, he told me he was- he knows I can tell when he's lying and persisted on doing so anyway."

"Well, he did ditch her at Tina's halloween bash." Heather noted. "What?" Allison asked, not aware of anything that went down after her and Billy had left. "Right, you weren't there! So, basically something went down between them in the bathroom, and then he left. Your brother took her home." Heather spoke, inserting a piece of gum into her mouth. "Jonathan?"

"Can Will drive?" Heather sarcastically asked, sending an annoyed look towards the Byers girl. "Of course, it was Jonathan. I thought you knew he was like totally into her." She resumes, smacking her gum as she talks. "Well, I picked up on that, but I had no idea that he took her home." Allison stated, pulling into the Holloway girls' driveway. "I swear. Steve doesn't talk to me, and apparently, neither does my brother. It's like I'm so distant from them these days- both of them don't agree with me wanting to give Billy a chance, and frankly the thought of me moving on. I mean, Jonathan doesn't like Steve, but it's almost as if he'd prefer me to be with him over Billy when I'm one hundred percent sure they haven't had a single conversation alone before."

"Like we agreed, men are bullshit." Heather concluded, unbuckling her seatbelt. "Well, we both really didn't go through with that agreement." Allison noted, receiving a smile and eye roll from Heather. "Christopher was a one-time thing." The brown-eyed girl protested, grabbing her backpack from the backseat. "Famous last words." Allison replied, shooting her a smile. "Yeah, yeah. Love ya always!" Heather exclaimed before shutting the door. "Love you!" Allison shouted back, blowing a kiss to her best friend as she reversed from the driveway.

-

Once she had gotten home, she found Joyce on the phone, looking somewhat panicked. "What?" Her shaky voice uttered, followed by her hanging up the phone. "Hey mom... is everything... okay?" Allison questioned as she cautiously placed her backpack on one of the sofas. "Get in the car." She replied, quickly walking to and from her room as she clutched on to her car keys, opening the front door. Allison followed after her mom, getting into the green pinto. "What's going on?" Allison worriedly asked, buckling quickly. "Will, he- he told me one of his drawings wasn't from one of his episodes, but the tape from Halloween- it glitched, and the same... shadow thing... was on the screen. It was almost identical, and I know that something's wrong, I can feel it." She rambled with a shaky voice, speeding towards the middle school.

"I thought he was getting better?" Allison stated, clutching onto the car door at Joyce's unsafe driving. "I did too." She replied, tears forming in her eyes. Allison's heart began to race at the thought of Will being in danger again. They had just gotten him back, and everything had seemed to be fine besides the episodes, which Dr. Owens had claimed to be an anniversary event; post-traumatic stress.

"The last episode Will had; how did he describe it?" Allison inquired; she had never been informed of how his visits at Hawkins lab went, and Joyce had cautioned her not to directly ask him about it; it would only bring back the frightful memories and experiences. "He said he felt... frozen, not cold, just- scared. And there was evil- looking at him, and it wanted to hurt everyone else." Joyce voiced, her voice cracking. "Oh my god." Allison muttered, growing angry at the fact that she wasn't being told of any of this. "Mom- How could that possibly be getting better?"

"I had hope that it was just the post-traumatic stress- hope that he'd be okay and that it was really all over. All of this god-awful stuff." Joyce admitted, speeding straight through the school zone, coming to a screeching halt on the grass. The two quickly exited the car, running in the building to find Will. They entered into the AV club room, where Will was supposed to be, only to find it empty. Familiar voices of Will's friends came from the halls, alerting the Byers women.

As they turned the corner, they met face to face with Dustin and a red-haired girl holding a skateboard; it was the same girl Allison presumed to be Billy's little sister. "Dustin!" Joyce exclaimed, halting before him. "Mrs. Byers? Allie?" Dustin looked surprised, looking from Joyce to Allison. "What's going on? Where's Will?" Joyce frantically asked the boy. A loud noise from behind the group startled them, gaining all four of their attention's. Lucas had quickly opened the door, rushing down the hallway towards them. "The field!" He exclaimed, panting heavily. They all didn't waste a second before rushing off after Lucas, following his lead.

Down the hill, Mike could be seen standing next to Will, shaking him desperately. The youngest Byers boy appeared to be in a trance, frozen in place. "I just found him like this! I think he's having another episode!" Mike shouted, continuing to shake Will's shoulder. Joyce and Allison rushed to his side, the two calling out his name, trying to break him from his trance. "Sweetie, wake up! It's Mom! Will!" Joyce desperately tried, holding her sons shoulders. "Will, please wake up! We're right here Will!" Allison cried out from beside him, clutching his small hand within her own. His skin was cold to the touch- colder than any human should be. "Can you hear us? Will, please, just wake up! Please, wake up! It's Mom! It's me!" She practically screamed, her face full of distress and anguish. Will's eyes snap open as he gasps, shaky breaths exiting his mouth.

Allison lets out a sigh of relief, shutting her eyes tight as her heart pounds loud enough to be heard in her ears. She puts her arm under his, pulling him into a hug as Joyce joins, the two women clutching onto him as they let out anxious breaths. "Are you okay?" Allison asks Will, pulling away from the embrace to look at him. His face is blank; impassive. "I'm fine." He mumbles, looking from his sister to his mom. Joyce and Allison exchange worried looks before returning their gaze to the boy, who remains emotionless. "Let's get you home." Joyce uneasily replies, gently pulling Will along with her. Allison remains frozen in place, the preteens next to her. "How long was he... out of it?" She asks Mike, a chilling sensation running through her veins. "I don't know how long he had been in it before I found him." Mike quietly replies, his tone filled with worry.

With a hesitant nod, she begins walking after her mother and youngest brother, the others following after her. "What just happened?" The red head asks from her side, looking to the brunette. Allison shoots the red head a glance, raising her eyebrow at the girl before looking to the boys. "Oh, that's Max, she's new to the group." Dustin buds in, trying to keep up with the hazel-eyed girl's pace. "Nice to meet you..." Max spoke, looking extremely confused and alarmed. "I'm Allison- Likewise, I wish it was under different circumstances." The brunette replied, watching as Joyce grabbed Will's backpack, continuing with her mission to get out of the school. "I'll catch up with you guys another time-" Allison spoke, walking down the steps outside of the school. "Is he going to be okay?" Mike's concerned voice came from behind her, his small eyes eagerly looking into the brunette's. "I don't know... I hope so." She responded, parting from the kids, and running over to the car.

-

"I can't remember." Will's small voice came from the end of the table, where Joyce and Allison sat beside him. "We need you to try." Joyce softly says, her arms crossed and placed on the table. "I... I was on the field and... and then it... it all just went blank, and... and then you guys were there." Will's shaky voice states. "Will, I need you to tell me the truth." Joyce replies, looking intently to her son. "I am." He responds, his small voice cracking. With a sigh, Joyce stands from her seated position, crossing over to the kitchen counter where she retrieves his drawing, bringing it back to the table. She places it in front of him, patting it twice to bring his attention to it. "This shape, I saw it on the video tape from Halloween night. It's the same shape as... as your drawing. These episodes you're having, I think Dr. Owens is wrong. I think they're real. But... but I can't help you if I don't know what's going on. Neither of us can." Joyce rambles, gesturing her hand towards her daughter. "So, you have to talk to us. Please. No more secrets, okay?" She continues, receiving a slow nod from Will. "Okay. Did... did you see this thing again on the field?"

"Yes." Will admits, fear prominent in his small, brown eyes. "What is it?" Allison questions as Will turns to face her, water forming on his waterline. "I don't know. It's almost more like a feeling." He whimpers; Allison bites on her bottom lip, distressed at the sight of her youngest brother being so afraid and wretched. "Like the one you had that night at the arcade?" Joyce inquires, brining Will's attention back to her. "Yes."

"What does it want?" Joyce questions, her eyebrows furrowing. "I don't know. It came for me, and... And I tried. I tried to make it go away. But it got me, Mom." He begins to cry, breaking Allison's heart as Joyce placed her hand over her mouth. "What does that mean?" Allison asked, shivers running up her spine. "I felt it... everywhere. Everywhere. I- I still feel it. I just want this to be over." He sobs as Joyce pulls him into her grasp, eyes meeting her daughters. Allison kept her composure as her teary-eyed mother tried to reassure Will, rubbing his back gently.

"Listen, Look- look at me. I- We will never, ever let anything bad happen to you ever again. Whatever's going on in you, we're gonna fix it. I will fix it. I promise. We're here." Joyce reassures, holding Will tighter into her grasp, holding the back of his head.

-

That night, Joyce slept next to Will as Allison laid awake in her own room, the lights out and crickets chirping. She was angry at herself for believing that everything was over and done with as easily as it had been the year prior. She didn't understand why out of everyone in Hawkins, her youngest brother, who happened to be one of the purest souls, was being tortured in a way no one else could understand; and she had wished more than anything that it would all end, and he could be okay- or even that it would be her instead of him.

A couple of hours into the night, she heard Jonathan arrive home, and call out to his family. Crawling out of her bed, she entered the hallway, where Jonathan was shutting the door to Will's bedroom. He turned and looked to his sister, seemingly startled to see her. His face dropped when he observed the tears forming in her doe-eyes; he knew something was wrong right away, walking over to her quietly. The two stood facing each other in the dark hallway as she broke, his arms immediately embracing her. She was surprised at his gesture, but quickly wrapped her arms around him, silently crying into his chest.

After several long minutes, she withdrew from the embrace and pulled him into her room, where she sat on her bed. He followed her movements, sitting himself next to her. Allison explained everything as quietly as she could, from what Joyce explained to her, all the way to what Will had admitted. The Byers boy quickly became as worried as his mother and sister, sitting silently beside the brunette. "We have to do something. I don't know what, but we have to fight this somehow." She whispered, wiping the tear stains off of her rosy cheeks. "We'll figure this out. We've done it once... we can do it again." He reassured, trying to convince himself that it was possible. She nodded in return, looking to the ground.

"Okay, I want us to be honest with each other in order to stand together. I'm sorry for being... a dick. It's unfair of me to judge your choices without giving them a chance to unfold." Jonathan speaks gently after minutes of silence. "Thank you. I forget you're the younger one sometimes because of how protective you are... but I do appreciate you trying to look out for me, even if I don't agree." Allison quietly replies, offering a small smile. "Always." He smiles back, standing from his seated position. Before he goes off to his own room, the two siblings hug once more, letting out small sighs. "We can do this. I know we can." Jonathan states as the two pull away, sending her a final nod before he exits the room.

-

Once morning approached, Allison begged her mother to let her stay home following the events of yesterday. She wanted to be there for Will now that he was given the chance. Joyce agreed, and the two desperately called Hawkins police department in hopes of reaching Hopper, who was absent and unavailable. "No luck!" Allison shouted from her room, placing the cordless 'go fone' she had boughten for her 16th birthday down on her desk. "Damnit why isn't he there!" Joyce shouted back, frustration heavy in her tone. The brunette joins her mother in the dining room, leaning against the wall as Joyce stands impatiently by the phone on the wall. "He told me to call him first, and damnit- that's what I'm doing. Why the hell is he not at work yet?"

"I don't know mom, just give it another thirty minutes. Flo's already pissed off at us for the numerous calls we've dialed." Allison gently replies, rubbing her forehead. "I'm going to go check on Will in the meantime." She states, nodding to her mother. As she approaches Will's room, she observes his frozen-like stature as he lays on his bed, facing the ceiling. Goosebumps raise on Allison's pale skin, as she crosses the room to sit next to him. "You're finally up... you feeling any better?" She questioned with a gentle but cautious tone. He continued to stare above, as if in another trance. "I'm okay." He responds, his voice small and quiet. She can hear her mother start to talk on the phone again, her frantic but frustrated voice raising.

"You want some breakfast or anything?" She inquires, placing the back of her hand on his forehead. He didn't feel as though he had a fever, but his body temperature was definitely abnormal. "I don't know..." He mumbled, turning to face his sister. "Okay... well if you decide you do want something, let me know... okay? I'll get it for you." She softly reminded, receiving a nod from him. With a small kiss on his forehead, she left his room, anxiety welling up within her. "Just tell him to call me the seconds he gets in. Please. Thank you." Joyce impatiently speaks, hanging the phone up.

"Still nothing?" The Byers girl questions, crossing over to the kitchen to retrieve a piece of bread. "Nope. Is he up yet?" Joyce inquires, turning to face her daughter. "Yeah, yeah he is... his body temperature doesn't feel right." Allison stated, shoving bread slices into the toaster atop the kitchen counter, waiting for it to heat. "I'll have to take his temperature." She replied, turning around to see Will exiting his bedroom. "Hey, how are you feeling sleepyhead? Any better?" Her caring tone voices, rubbing his hair. He shakes his head, sitting himself down at the kitchen table. "Same as last night? Still weird?"

"Yeah." He replies as Joyce kneels in front of him. As the toast pops, Allison slices it in half, just the way she knows Will likes, as Joyce retrieves the thermometer from their shared bathroom, placing it in his mouth. The hazel-eyed girl joins the two at the kitchen table, placing the breakfast plate down before him. "Okay, let me see." Joyce speaks, pulling it from his lips, observing the glass tube in front of her. Her eyebrows furrow, looking confused as she holds it in her fingertips. "Is it a fever?" Will asks as Allison raises her eyebrows, wanting to know what was causing her mother's bewildered expression. "No uh, actually... it's cold. Do you feel cold?"

"No. Just a little out of it. Like I haven't fully woken up yet. You promised no doctor." Will admits, noticing his mother's concerned shift, and the glance that his sister and mother shared. "And I meant it. No doctor. You know what? I'm gonna run you a nice bath and it'll warm you up and hopefully get you feeling better. How's that sound? Okay?" Joyce proposes to her youngest child, receiving a small nod from him. She looks to her daughter, gesturing her to follow with a nod of her head. "Here's some toast for you... might make you feel better." She offers a small smile, placing her hand on Will's shoulder as she stands from her seated position.

He thanks her as she joins her mother in the bathroom, water already running. The brunette sits on the toilet across from Joyce, who's sat on the tub. "Yesterday on the field, when he was in that... episode, I grabbed Will's hand- it was ice cold mom." She whispers, her eyes full of distress. Joyce lets out a shaky breath, her hand splashing through the streaming water as she tries to find the right temperature. "Hopefully this'll get his body temperature back up, if not, we're going to have to talk to Owens or... or something." Joyce states, meeting her daughters' eyes. "Hopefully." Allison responds, placing her hands on her knees. "Make sure this fills up, I'm going to try Hopper again."

With a nod, the Byers mother leaves as Allison observes the filling tub, waiting patiently for it to meet the appropriate height. Once it does, she shuts it off, popping her head out of the bathroom door. "Will, it's ready." She announces, acquiring a nod from the boy. As she leaves to join her mother's side, Will enters the bathroom, shutting the door behind him. Joyce places the phone back on the wall, shaking her head. "He has to come around sometime today." Allison states, crossing her arms. Before Joyce can respond, Will draws both of their attention, calling out for them. "It's too hot."

The two women exchange confused glances as they make their way back into the bathroom, Will standing at the doorway. The water has already been almost fully drained down by the time they make it in, as Joyce sticks her hand in the remaining water. "I... I can cool it down a little bit baby, but we gotta get your body temp back up." Joyce states, reaching over to start filling again. "No." Will's voice comes from the doorway, demanding and unfamiliar. Chills spread through the hazel-eyed girls' body as she exchanges looks with her mother. "What?"

"He likes it cold." Will declares, his voice deeper and harsh. Within seconds, his face softens, seemingly unaware of what had just happened. He blinks for a few seconds before turning and walking away to his bedroom, leaving the Byers women confused and afraid.

Chapter Text

"That's it, I'm going down to the station." Allison tried, attempting to exit the bathroom before Joyce tugged gently on her arm. Joyce reasoned with her daughter, pointing out that the best they could do for Will right now was accommodate him. The two women opened doors and windows, letting the cool Indiana air flow into their home, wrapping themselves in warm jackets.

Will sat on his bed, facing his desk in a daze. Joyce had lit a cigarette, pacing in the living room as Allison sat with Will in his room, observing her youngest brother from behind. In truth, she was scared for him, and a tiny part of her was scared of him. The way his voice changed as if someone else had been in his body sent chills down her spine. She had hoped that everything had been over with, but with Will's sudden change in behavior, she was fearful that it was anything but that.

The door to Will's bedroom had been shut, trapping the cold breeze flowing from the square window above his desk inside. The room was silent, and the brunette was worried for Will, confused by how he wasn't freezing as she had been; yet she was bundled in warm clothes while he sat shirtless, staring ahead. Her leg bounced as dreadful thoughts filled her head, hearing hushed voices from the hallway. She perked up, turning to face the door beside her as it opened from the other side, Joyce and Hopper stepping in. "Hey, knock knock... we have a visitor." Joyce's small but comforting voice muttered, her expression sharing the same concern as Allison's.

Allison got on her feet, now beside her mother as the police chief and her shared eye contact. He nodded slowly with a sympathetic thin-lipped smile, just as he had at the morgue when the two had been left alone in the lobby as Jonathan and Joyce examined Will's 'body.' "Hey kid." He whispered as she nodded back, the group filing towards Will. As they sat themselves by the boy, Joyce handed Will and her's drawings to Hopper, now sitting to the left of Will. "So this thing, this shadow thing. You told them it likes it like this? It likes it cold?" The police chief gestured to the cool air, looking down to the boy beside him. "Yeah." Will whispers, eyes focused on the ground below him. "How do you know that?"

"I just know." Will replies, peering at the drawings in Hopper's hands. "Does he talk to you?" The man asks as Allison looks between the two, hands clamped together. "No. It's like... I don't have to think. I just know things now. Things I never did before." Will admits, his eyes unfocused and nervous. "And uh... what else do you know?" Hopper inquires as he stands, moving to sit across from the brown-eyed boy. "It's hard to explain. It's like old memories in the back of my head, only... they're not my memories." Will's voice begins to shake as his eyes remain unfocused, tears beginning to well withing them. "I mean, I don't think they're old memories at all. They're... they're now memories, happening all at once, now."

"Can you describe these now-memories?" Hopper asks as Will seems to be recalling something; seeing fear grow in his doe eyes made Allison dolorous, biting on her bottom lip to hold back any sounds from her mouth. "I don't know. It's... it's hard to explain."

"I know it's hard, but can you just... can you try? For us?" Joyce whispers from his right, moving to sit beside him. "It's like... they're growing and spreading... killing." Will utters, larger tears forming on his waterline. "The memories?" Joyce asks, placing her hand on his left shoulder. "I don't know." Will's voice breaks, a tear sliding down his cheek. It feels as though a pang strikes through Allison's heart at the sight of her traumatized brother; she reaches for his hand, taking one in her own, biting harder on her bottom lip to keep it from quivering. "I'm sorry." He cries, Joyce pulling him into her as she looks from her daughter to Jim. "No, no, no. It's okay, sweetie."

The small boy cries into his mother's shoulder as she holds him close to her, examining his drawings on his wall. An idea sparks within her as Hopper looks solemnly at the two, and Allison looks to the ground, hand still clasped with Will's. Joyce proposes the idea of Will drawing what he's experiencing instead of explaining it, and it takes no time for Will to work away with his crayons at his desk. Paper upon paper drops to the floor, variations of colors scribbled in random patterns and lines on them, different on each one.

Hopper and Joyce sit out in the living room as Allison delivers newly dropped papers to and from, examining each as she transfers them. It made no sense, all these scribbles of color but no clear meaning or message. At the sound of her mother calling out her name, Allison rejoins Joyce and the Chief, handing them the three new papers. "Anything?" The brunette asks the two now standing, moving furniture back against the walls. "The lines- they connect." Joyce points out, holding up two papers for an example. "So?"

"So, help us connect them." The Byers mother demands, ushering her daughter towards the pile. The three of them work away at scattering the papers around on the floor, as if it were some sort of puzzle to be put together and solved. Hours passed as the three worked away, knelt on the hard floor throughout different parts of the house. With more paper being added as Will drew away, more lines were connected, stretching down the halls and up the walls. Once they had finished, the three stood examining the floor below, having connected all papers together. "Does this mean anything to either of you?" Hopper asks between the women, standing tall above them. "No." The two said in unison, looking to each other.

It was just a bunch of paper with blue shaded lines connecting in root like forms, but it made no sense. Allison hadn't seen anything like that in her life. "I mean, is it some sort of maze or a road? I mean, it's sort of forking and branching like... like lighting." Joyce states, throwing up her hands as she talks. "You think it's that storm?" Hopper questions, turning back to face the brown-eyed woman. "No, the storm he drew was completely different. He used red. And this is all blue and it has some weird dirt color." Joyce mentions, shaking her head as her eyebrows furrow in confusion. "What about roots?" Allison inquires, observing the papers below.

"It could be- he was saying it was spreading and-" Joyce acknowledged, her voice stammering. "Killing. He said they were killing. Vines." Hopper interrupts, his deep voice drawing both Byers women's attention. Before they could respond, he's already heading towards the front door, placing his hat on his head as he pulls his arms through his jacket. "He's drawing vines."

-

As night approached, Joyce attempted to call Hopper as Allison sat in her room, knees curled to her chest. She was anxious and confused; the whole situation felt blurry and off. Their house looked unhinged; papers strewn in every crevice. Some had even reached her room, now taped to her walls. Mike had come over shortly after Hopper had abruptly left, concerned for his friend. Allison had wished that she could talk to someone about this entire situation, but in truth, she didn't have anyone to talk to it about. Heather was clueless of everything, and had to stay that way in order to keep the terms Allison agreed to, Nancy was probably off somewhere with Jonathan, given his current absence, and Steve, well, he was distant- and the last thing she wanted to do was worry him with the possibility of more Demogorgon's or creatures threatening their entire being again. He had been pretty shaky after fighting one off the year prior, and admitted to having restless nights at the thought of being hunted down by one. Allison had reassured him though, reminding him it was over, but now she was beginning to think it was far from it.

He had told her that she could always talk to him, but given their current situation, it felt inappropriate or off limits. It hadn't made sense, and she so badly wanted to reach out and ask him if he was okay, if the rumors really were true, or just to confide in him. She wanted to call Steve; settle their state of affairs, but as she crawled off her bed, a figure climbed through her open window, startling the brunette.

As soon as she saw the golden locked head of hair, she relaxed her shoulders, slumping against her closet doors. "Jesus Hargrove." Allison breathed out, her heart thudding rapidly. "Didn't mean to scare you Darlin.'" Billy whispered, getting on his feet. He straightened his leather jacket, facing the hazel-eyed girl who wore a sullen expression, eyes puffy from the tears she shed in secret. "Hey, you okay?" He questioned, his smirk dropping as he examined the brunette's face, walking slowly towards her. "I'm fine, you just scared me."

His fingers met her chin, pulling up to face him. "Don't lie to me doll." He softly says, eyes seeping into hers. "It's easy to tell when someone has been cryin'. And you have definitely been cryin'." He whispers, hands moving to her upper arms. She had hoped it wouldn't be obvious, but her fair skin was eager to expose her. She sighed, trying to come up with a reasonable excuse before one of his hands left her arm, placing itself on her cheek. "You don't have to talk about it if you don't feel like it, but I just wanted to come and see what's goin' on. You didn't show today." He mentioned as his thumb glided in small movements on her cheek.

"My uh, my littlest brother is sick. I just wanted be here for him today." Allison whispered back, looking up into his vibrant blue eyes. "Oh, I'm sorry to hear that doll. Is he feelin' any better?" Billy asked, removing his hand from her face. "We don't know yet." Allison stated, moving to sit on her bed. He followed after her, kicking off his shoes before putting his feet on top. "We?"

"My mom and I." Allison replied, hugging one of her pillows. Will and Mikes voices could be heard from the other side of her wall, drawing the two's attention. It sounded like Will was crying, which made Allison want to go to his room and hold him, but she knew that he wanted to be with Mike, alone. Her shoulders had been tensed, noticed by Billy beside her. Billy wasn't the comfort type, more of a suck-it-up kind of guy, but something about the brunette in front of him made him feel sympathetic; soft. "Hey, I'm sure he'll be fine in a day or two." Billy tried to reassure, scooting closer to the girl.

She bit down on her bottom lip again to hold back her emotions, blinking rapidly as she nodded her head. "I hope so." She muttered, voice shaky as emotion climbed up her throat, eager to burst out. For a few seconds, Billy watched as Allison blinked back tears beside him, her gaze focused on her door. Something within was urging him to wrap his arms around her and hold her close, but he hesitated. He didn't know how to comfort, truthfully. He hadn't been comforted since his mom had lived with him, but that was long ago.

He was forced to be self-reliant since then and didn't know how to handle his own emotions. When he felt anything, it was anger. Anger at his father- anger towards the world. He'd punch things; break them. It's the only way he knew how to handle what he was feeling; it was exactly what Neil taught him. He hated that he was like his father, angry and hostile, but didn't know how to change. Now, seeing the state of this girl he strangely felt gravitated and gentle towards, he wanted to be good; now more than ever, he wanted to change; but didn't know if he was capable. His arms wrapped themselves around Allison's smaller frame, pulling her into him. She had been surprised at first, but quickly reciprocated the hug, nestling her head under his chin as she shut her eyes tightly.

He didn't say anything, simply because he didn't know what to say, but he just held her, and she held him. It felt comforting for both of them, having another to hold on to.

Chapter Text

They stayed like that for a while, breaking apart when she pulled away, facing him. "Thank you." Allison softly spoke, offering a small smile as he nodded in return. "So, uh... what's all of those for?" He whispered, pointing to Will's drawings on her walls and floor. She realized that she had no reasonable explanation for it, scratching at the back of her neck as he looked intently down at her. "Will, my brother, he loves to draw. I told him I'd hang up any drawings he wanted in my room as long as he took his medicine. I don't know what the drawings are though." Allison lied, feeling relieved at the nod of Billy's head. "So, I met your sister yesterday. I didn't know she knew my brother and his friends." Allison mentioned, watching as Billy quickly became bothered.

"I don't have a sister." He bluntly stated, nostrils flaring. "Oh... I'm sorry- I just saw you taking her to school, so I had just assumed-" Allison started, feeling awkward for the misinterpretation before the golden-haired boy cut her off. "Don't assume. Maxine's my step-sister, but she's not my family." He snarled, scooting himself away from the brunette. Allison had never met someone beside her father to become so quick tempered. "Sorry." Allison mumbled, cautiously scooching towards the corner of her bed, sitting herself against the wall to be further from him. She doubted he would hurt her, but she had always observed her father's behavior from a young age, and could pick up easily on mood changes, and when things would go from rocky to violent- and if Billy was her father, a slap across her face was in line within the next ten minutes.

Allison clenched her teeth together tightly as her heartbeat picked up in pace, analyzing the position the boy before her was placed in. Here, he had just been holding her close to him, and she had felt the most comfort she had felt since that night where Steve held her in his arms outside the hospital, right after Will was found. Now, he was fuming, and anger was practically radiating off of him, filling the air with tension, just over a mention of Max. The blue-eyed boy turned to face the girl behind him, clenching his fists to hold back his heightened emotions. He was breathing somewhat heavily, clearly impacted by her words in ways she couldn't understand- not just yet. When his eyes met hers, he studied her intimidated expression, realizing that he had made her feel uncomfortable- maybe even afraid. He immediately scolded himself internally, cursing under his breath. "She's not family by choice, none of my family is. They're all pieces of shit, and once I've graduated, I'm fuckin' out of here. I- I didn't mean to be like that doll." He quietly replied, feeling guilty once her eyes averted from his.

If there was one thing Billy didn't know how to do- it was saying sorry. He hadn't been taught proper affection or basic human decency through his teenage years, nor how to reciprocate it. It often made him uncomfortable when it was given to him, finding himself unsure of how to respond. He definitely wasn't a hugger- but something about Allison made him want to hold her forever- and to be held. Billy sighed, placing his hand on his forehead. "I really didn't mean to." He quietly stated, keeping his eyes on her bedsheets.

Allison looked over to the boy with a golden mane, picking out the truth in his words. He seemed to be honest, but she wasn't going to crawl over to him and wrap her arms around him just like that. "If you knew my family- the piece of shit I'm supposed to call 'father,' you'd understand." He muttered, pulling his head back up to face her. "Help me to understand." Allison tried, keeping her voice gentle but serious. He shook his head in return, throwing his legs over the edge of the bed. "Billy- my father is a piece of shit too, you know. I already told you he left us high and dry, and I have no problem shit talking him to you or anyone for that matter-"

"You and I aren't the same." He interrupts, realizing his voice had been harsher than he had intended. "I know. What I'm trying to say is that if you need someone to talk to- or relate to- I'm here, even if your father and mine are nothing alike. What we talk about in here stays between us." Allison implies, crossing her arms. He looks at her for a moment, not understanding how he's supposed to respond. The brunette sighs, uncrossing her arms, moving into a crisscross position. "If you don't talk about what you're feeling or experiencing, it'll eat you from the inside out. No one can help you unless you reach out, because no one will know what you're going through. Not until you tell them. All I'm trying to say is that I'm here. I'll be here to listen or to talk it out, but you can't just let your frustration consume you."

Billy stares impatiently at the hazel-eyed girl, wanting to deny or deter her words. He knows he can't, because they're reasonable and honest. He doesn't have a single soul to talk to in this world, and as much as it sucked, he had been fine with it, because he had been independent for as long as he could remember; He was used to it. "You should be a therapist or some shit." Is all he said, receiving an eye roll from Allison as he smirked. "Seriously, you're good at that wordy shit." He joked, plastering a smile on his face. "Billy. I'm serious." Allison responded impatiently, her expression remaining unamused. "Right." The blue-eyed boy continued to try and be humorous, growing frustration within Allison.

"Please just know that I'm here." The brunette's voice came out shaky, her eyes speaking her emotions for her. Before he could speak, two small knocks come from Allison's door, followed by a twist of its knob. The door is open before she could process, Mike's voice coming from the other side. "Allie-" The Wheeler boy begins, before his eyes meet Billy's. "Oh uh- sorry-" He looks between the two, mouth agape as if he had walked in on something much more intimate than two teens talking to one another at a practical distance. Allison gets on her feet, ushering herself and Mike out of the door, closing it behind her. The dark-haired boy remains silent, his cheeks turning rouge from embarrassment. "Hello? What?" Allison whispered impatiently, snapping her fingers to catch his attention. "I didn't know you were... preoccupied, I'm sorry-"

"Mike it's fine, what is it?" Her tone remained calm and quiet, looking intently to the boy in front of her, who finally met her eyes. "Will wanted to know if you had Thumper? He said he can't sleep without it." He whispered back, his face scrunching. "Uh, not that I can recall... is he sure it's not in his closet or under his bed?" The brunette crosses her arms, hoping that Billy wasn't crawling his way out of her window as she discussed a stuffed animal with her younger brother's best friend. "He's sure... we checked everywhere for it."

"Just tell him I'll try and find it, okay?" Allison replied, placing her hand on her doorknob as Mike nodded in return, heading back to Will's room. "Mike-" The hazel-eyed girl quietly called out, receiving his attention. The boy raised his eyebrow in return, his lips formed into a thin line. "Keep him between us, okay?" Allison gestured towards her door, gaining a nod from the Wheeler boy. She quickly opened her room, sliding herself inside of it and shutting the door. When she turned, Billy had been leaning against the wall beside it, his lips pulled into a frown. "Ouch." He quietly voiced, placing his hand on his heart. "What? I don't need him getting any ideas."

"Darlin', you're breaking my heart over here." He jokes, laying himself on her bed. "Poor thing." Allison simply replies, opening her closet door. "So... what's Thumper?" The blue-eyed boy questions, propping his elbow on her pillows to hold his head in his hand. "It's my old stuffed animal rabbit that I gave to Will, eavesdropper." The brunette responded, pulling pajama's out of her closet. "Is your brother four years old?" Billy joked, getting a pair of bundled socks thrown at his face from Allison. "No, he's 13- and it's perfectly normal to sleep with a stuffed animal at any age in your life. I don't want to hear any bullshit from you." Allison pointed towards the golden-haired boy, who held back an eyeroll. "It's how I first bonded with him; I hadn't really become close with my brothers until my parents began to seriously fight; I was probably only in eighth grade... maybe the same age as him right now. Jonathan and I always felt the need to protect Will from the truth that our family was nothing but a failed mess, so... while him and Jonathan blasted music together, I gave him things that meant a lot to me, or things that were once mine. I gave him my bike, crayons, art supplies, etcetera. Thumper just happened to be the first of those things." Allison explained, sitting herself beside Billy once she had placed her night clothes aside.

"We were right here. My bed is the only thing that's really stayed in the same place. He had been crying after my father... lashed out. That's when I locked us in here and gave him Thumper. I told him that as long as he had Thumper in his arms, he'd always be safe- like I was hugging him or protecting him, even when I wasn't physically there." She continued, placing her hand directly on the spot where she had sat, smiling at the memory she brought to words. "You're a good sister." Billy quietly stated, offering a small smile. "I try to be." Allison replies, letting out a sigh. With a glance towards her clock, she realizes how late it is, turning back to face the Hargrove boy. "I'm going to go get ready for bed... it's getting late." She mentions, getting up from her spot. "It's only 9:45 sweetheart." Billy chuckles in return, shaking his head at the girl. Unfortunately for her, someone had already been in the bathroom, the sound of running bath water coming from the other side, leaving her only option to change in her room, unless she was willing to wait a half hour, which she wasn't.

Billy raised his eyebrow at the brunette re-entering her room, locking the door behind her- a smirk tugging at his lips. "Before you come up with a snarky comment, the bathrooms occupied. So... I have to change in here." Allison awkwardly admitted, holding her pajamas in her hands. The smirk on Billy's face never left as he sat himself upright, gripping onto the edge of her bed. "Some privacy might be nice." Allison remained standing in her spot, her thoughts contradicting her words. A part of her wanted him to watch, while the other wanted him to turn away. "Or... I could help you." He proposed, slowly standing from his spot. She tilted her head at him, raising an eyebrow at his suggestion. "With your permission... of course. We never got to finish what we started on Halloween."

Allison continued to stare at the boy in front of her, thinking of Heather's words to give things she wouldn't normally do a try. Billy takes a cautious step towards her, taking the clothes from her hands and tossing them to the bed behind him. He pulls his leather jacket off, throwing it with the other articles of clothing now piling up. Taking her small hands within his, he places them on the bottom hem of his white t-shirt, keeping his hands over hers as he pulls it up and over his head, leaving him shirtless. Allison's eyes glue to his abs, before glancing up at his face. He wore a smile, relishing in the silent approval that she liked what she was seeing.

When Billy's hand slowly met her own shirt, she pulled his hand away, looking into his eyes. "I'm more than capable of doing it myself." She dangerously smirked, receiving one from him as well. Her hands clasped onto her sweatshirt, tugging it over her head; although she was wearing a bra, she felt bare and exposed, wanting to cross her arms over her chest. His eyes wandered from her eyes to her chest as his bottom lip pulled itself between his teeth. Allison's breath was heavy; unsure of whether this was a good idea or not- given the situation her family was currently in; and although she had told Heather that she wanted to build a bond first; she wanted to dive in, knowing he did too.

His hand met her cheek, pulling her into him. Their lips crashed together, harmoniously moving in action. It wasn't romantic or clean- it was sloppy and heated; passionate, even hungry. Allison's hand quickly met his curls, tangling her fingers within them. His larger-warm hands met her bare waist, gripping onto them as she pulled at his hair, their tongues slipping into each other's mouths. "Jump." He orders between kisses, to which she obeys. He hoists her up into his arms, as her legs wrap around his waist.

Billy begins making his way over to her bed, plopping her down on her back as he crawls over her, trailing kisses from her lips to her collarbone, pulling his head slightly back at the sight of her neck. "Looks like I left my marks here already." The blue-eyed boy smirked, eyes meeting hers. "I'll have to leave them in a different spot." He continues, lips meeting her chest. The brunette bites down on her lip to prevent any noise slipping out, shutting her eyes tightly as she smiles. His arms slither under her back, unclasping her bra. He takes a few teasing seconds to slowly pull the straps off her shoulders, slowly revealing her breasts as he tosses the brasserie to the side.

He wastes no time to trace circles around her nipples with his tongue, holding the opposing breast in his hand. Her skin is pulled between his teeth as he softly tugs at her skin within his mouth, making sure to do it long enough to leave marks in the morning. Billy slowly trails kisses down her torso, moving his hands to her jeans, eventually unbuttoning them. His kisses across her hips are ticklish, making her squirm. Slowly, he pulls her jeans off of her legs; His blue-eyes glance up at hers, looking for approval to remove her underwear. The brunette nods quickly, and with that, he grasps the hem resting on her hips, tugging it off.

While his eyes take in the sight before him, he quickly removes his own pants, leaving his boxers on. The hazel-eyed girls' mood quickly shifts from confused to exhilarated when he kneels between her legs, pulling them apart gingerly. His hands tug her hips toward the end of the bed, placing small kisses on her inner thighs, inching closer to her core with each one. He begins sucking on the skin of her inner thighs too, eyes looking towards hers. "Quit teasing Hargrove-" She begins, feeling desperate for that euphoric warmth bubbling within her. He smirks, pulling away from her thigh to directly face her. "If you say so Darlin'." He acknowledged, keeping his eyes focused on hers as his tongue met her clit, sending a moan out of Allison's lips. The brunette quickly covered her mouth, feeling the golden-haired boy smile against her as he practically devoured her.

"God, you taste so fucking good." He stated, wrapping his arms around her legs. Before she could even begin to think of a reply, one of his fingers inserted itself within her, curling at the perfect angle. Allison whimpered under her hand, shutting her eyes tightly at the amount of pleasure she was feeling- and god, was it intoxicating. "Billy-" The brunette tried to say, temporarily drawing his attention. As good as it felt, she wanted him to fuck her- not with his fingers. When she looked down at him, his eyes were already facing her. He continued to work away, sloppily eating her out in a way she hadn't thought any one was capable of. Her delicate hands reached down to pull his face away from her, eagerly sitting up. "Please fuck me already." Allison desperately breathed, receiving a smirk from the boy. "Well, when you ask so nicely-" He begins, getting to his feet and tugging his underwear off. His size is large, leaving the Byers girl gaping at it. After retrieving a condom from his pants pocket and sliding it over his cock, he makes his way back to the bed. "I'll be gentle baby." He whispers, crawling back on top of her.

Allison's legs wrap around his waist as he positions himself at her entrance, eyes meeting hers once again. "Ready?" He inquired, receiving a nod from the brunette. Slowly, he pushes himself inside of her, both of them fighting the urge to make any noise. "Fuck Allison-" He whispers down at her, rolling his hips into hers; leisurely picking up the pace. When she brings her hand up to his face, he takes it within his own, pinning it above her head. "You feel so good Darlin', so fuckin' good." He groans quietly, keeping his eyes locked on hers. As much as she wanted to maintain eye contact, she couldn't help but throw her head back in pleasure.

Billy's thumb placed itself on her clit, rubbing in a circular motion as he grinded into her, making it nearly impossible for her not to moan. His other hand released her own above her head, placing it on her pelvis. A pressure built within Allison's stomach as she clenched around his cock, sending whimpers and groans alike out of his mouth. He continued to roll his hips into her, applying more force with each one as he picked up his thumbs pace, watching Allison arch her back from beneath him. He continued doing exactly as he was doing; her climax approaching quickly. She couldn't even form words to tell him that she was going to come, only heavier breaths and muffled whimpers. When she began to shake, Billy knew he had done it, thoroughly enjoying the sight of her.

The brunette's hand met his chest, attempting to grip onto it before he removed his thumb from her clit, tightly clutching her small hand within his own, pinning it back above her head. Her legs shook as he continued to pound into her, eventually reaching his own climax as she whimpered his name, eyes tightly shut. Once he pulled out of her, he removed his now used condom, tossing it in the bin beside her desk. Allison remained laying on her bed, trying to catch her breath. He quietly chuckled, pulling his boxers back on. "Holy fuck, Billy." Allison whispered, swallowing hard as she placed her hand over her rapid beating heart. As she sat up, he tugged his shirt back over his head, followed by his pants. "Where are you going?" She jokingly asked, retrieving her pajamas and putting them on.

"Oh, figured I should get going since it's almost 10:30 now. I have to take Max to the arcade tomorrow. If Neil sees that I'm not there tonight he'll... I'll never heart the end of it." He stated, pulling his leather jacket back on. Disappointment settled within the Byers girl, hoping that he would stay around. "Oh... oh okay." Allison quietly spoke, now fully dressed and standing in front of him. He pulled her in for a final kiss, this one less intense then the first. "I had a great time; we should definitely do this again Darlin'." He smiled, making his way towards her window. As he pulled it up and climbed out, he sent a final wink her way, closing it behind him.

The brunette sat herself down on her bed, suddenly feeling emotional in an odd way. She didn't know why she expected him to stay around and provide aftercare, especially since she didn't communicate how it was important to her. She also couldn't help but feel as though sex was the only reason he had come at all- not to see why she missed school that day. She'd hoped she was wrong, and that he was just flaky after intimate interactions, but her gut burdened her and tried to convince her otherwise.

Chapter Text

Upon waking up the next day, Allison sat on her bed, holding one of her hands against her forehead as the memories of the night before flooded her brain. Her intimate moment with Billy had happened so fast, leaving her wondering if it even happened at all. The hickeys littering her chest and inner thighs proved it to be real, along with the guilt that never left her. The brunette partially wished she would've held on to waiting instead of giving in as soon as she did, despite how exhilarating and refreshing having sex again was; If he hadn't left so soon, Allison felt that her thoughts would've been much different. Steve was the only other guy she had experience with, and he always provided aftercare, so with Billy leaving as soon as he had without reassurance or anything, a different taste was put in her mouth. Figuring that cleaning herself up and replenishing her body with food would increase her mood, she pulled herself out of bed.

After a warm shower, she found herself in the kitchen, carefully observing her mother who was sitting on the floor in front of the turned off television, with the phone sitting beside her. Mike and Will had wandered out into the living room, joining her side as Will called out her name, not receiving a response. As he called it again, Allison left her standing position by the kitchen counter, moving to stand behind Mike. "Mom?" Will called once more, shaking her shoulder while finally gaining her attention. The Byers woman gasps, swiftly turning around as she reaches for her shoulder, observing her children and Mike behind her. "Yeah?"

"I saw him." Will states, leaning over to be at eye-level with his mom. Curiosity spikes through Allison, feeling as though she missed an important detail before quickly learning she wasn't the only one. "You saw who, baby?" Joyce questions with a hushed tone, eyebrows furrowing. "Hopper... I think he's in trouble." Will warned, dropping his hand from his mother's shoulder. "What kind of trouble...?" Allison asks from behind, receiving his attention. "I think he's going to die."

At this statement, the four hurriedly move to Will's room, where he begins to draw. When he abruptly stops, Joyce takes it as a cue that he's finished, as she leans down to examine the scribbled papers. "Hey, is this where you saw him? Is this where you saw Hopper?" Joyce inquires, her breath shaky. "I think so. Yeah." Will offers as Joyce begins to search the house for an open spot, twisting it to find the right angle. Mike and Allison accompany her, following the 'vines' throughout the house to find an absence. Mike is the one to find it, alerting the two women who rush over. Joyce bends down, holding the paper in place. "Okay, so... so Hopper is here?"

"Yeah. Now we just need to find out where here is, right?" Mike asks, pointing to the alluded location. "Right." Allison and Joyce say in unison, trying to come up with an answer. "Did he say anything? I mean, before he left?" Mike questions, his hands places on his knees as he leans over, observing the newly added drawing. "Uh, some... something about vines?" Joyce recalls, looking to her daughter for back-up. "Yeah, he said that Will was drawing vines, then... then he just left." Allison added, her eyebrows furrowing before the sound of an approaching car traveled through the air, drawing their attention. Joyce mumbles Hopper's name as the Byers daughter looks through the blinds, recognizing the car to be Bob's. "Mom... it's Bob." She claimed, the other two joining her at her side. "I'll uh... I'll take care of it." Joyce puts forth, examining the state of her house. The Byers woman makes her way outside, shutting the door behind her. The two engage in a conversation, Bob's eyes drifting to the window, sending a wave to Allison. In return, she waves back with a partial smile, before his attention is pulled back to Joyce.

"He's gone too long without catching on to all of this..." Allison mutters, crossing her arms as she anxiously observes the two adults outside. "What do you mean?" Mike's voice comes from beside her, expectantly looking up at her. "I mean that he has gone so long without being involved with any of this. I was hoping he'd stay that way for his own safety... that all goes away the second he steps foot in this house." The brunette implies, shaking her head as her mother kisses Bob's cheek, sending him towards his car. Allison lets out a sigh of relief, quickly vanishing when Joyce's voice calls out to him. Within seconds, he's inside the house, Will joining them in the living room. "Hey kiddos." He greets with a warm smile, hugging Allison and nodding to Will, who he presumed to have a simple sickness. Allison was heavily against bringing him into this from the beginning, knowing that he made Joyce happier than Allison had seen her in a long time. Dragging him into this would surely either drive him away, or ruin the relationship in some way. Joyce had set some ground rules for him upon seeing his amused expression of the current state of the Byers house.

The five stood in the living room, Bob looking to the drawings as the others looked to him, wondering what he was thinking. "Huh. Hmm. You drew all these yourself?" He queried, turning to face Will behind him, who gave him a nod. "Why, exactly?" He questions again, turning back to face the drawings. "I... I told you the rules. No questions, okay? We- we just need you to help us figure out what... Bob? Bob? Over here." Joyce states, pacing over to the new drawing, waving him over. The other four slowly make their way over to Joyce as Bob hands Mike his brain teasers. "Where... where this is."

"That's the objective. Find the X." Mike chimed in while Bob leans over, examining the newly red drawn 'X' Joyce just scribbled. "Yeah? What's at the X? Pirate treasure?" Bob chuckles, receiving a serious expression from Joyce. "Bob, no questions."

"Okay... Let me talk to you for a second. Hang on, guys." Bob replied, pulling Joyce into her room, leaving Allison and the two younger boys out in the kitchen. Moments later, the two come back out as Bob points to different papers, naming locations throughout the house. "Don't you get it? It's not a puzzle, it's a map! It's a map of Hawkins!" He announces, leaving the other four speechless.

After pulling tape measures throughout the house to measure distance from place to place, Bob estimates a location for 'X.' With that, Joyce and the two boys rush out of the house, leaving Bob and Allison behind. The two look at each other with unsure looks, shrugging as they follow after the other three. Outside, they're already filing into Joyce's car, where there is only one spot left to fill. Bob and Allison look to one another, both hesitant to move. "I can take my own car-" Bob begins before the brunette shuts him down with the shake of her head. "No, no you go. You're the brains, you know what you're doing and will be a better help than I can be." She attests, looking from him to her mother, who revs the engine on. "Let's go!" She calls out, looking between the two. "Go, I'll catch up." Allison responded, gesturing towards her car. After a nod from Bob, and a pat of the back, he gets in the passengers seat, and the four are off.

As Allison rushes back inside to get her keys, she realizes they're not placed on its designated hook on the wall, sending her through the house, searching everywhere. She thoroughly searches her room, finding nothing, before moving to the living room. As she looks underneath the couch, she finds Thumper. The brunette pulls the stuffed animal into her grasp, clinging on to it while moving the pillow cushions, before searching the kitchen and finding them placed on the fireplace mantle. In seconds, she's rushing out to her car, bringing Thumper with her before speeding off. Using only her memory of the map Bob had drawn on, she finds herself down a bare road, the dark sky making it hard to make out any surroundings. As she slowly drives along, she observes two car-like figures to her right from afar, gambling her chances. As she pulls up behind the cars, she sees two small human-like figures, revealed to be Mike and Will once her headlights shine on them, along with her mom's and a Hawkins police vehicle.

Turning off the car, she swiftly steps out, joining the two boys ahead. "Where is Bob and Mom?" The brunette aims towards Will, who points to a hole ahead of them. "Down there." He adds, gulping. "W-What's down there? Is Hopper down there?" She continues, looking between the two. "Apparently." Mike answers as the three slowly begin to approach the dipped in ground, keeping a cautious distance. "That's not... that's not the upside down... is it?" Allison shakily questions, shivers racing throughout her body. Neither boy answers her as Mike looks to Will, examining his worried expression. "Do you see anything? I mean, in your now-memories?" He asks, receiving a shake of the head from the Byers boy. No further conversation is made as the sound of several vehicles approaching alerts the three, bright headlights practically blinding them. Hawkin's lab is displayed on the side of the series of white vans; seeing this is enough for Allison's gut to twist upon recalling what she had heard about the experiments that very lab had conducted on Eleven, and other unknown children. Men in uniforms and silver tinted hazmat suits jumped out, torch like devices in hand. Allison quickly moves in front of the boys, bringing them both behind her.

The strangers quickly surrounded the area, some descending downwards while the others stayed with Allison and the boys above, scavenging the area. It was like they weren't even there; the men completely disregarded the three, doing whatever it is that they were doing. The brunette's heart raced at the scene before her, hoping that her mother, along with Bob and Hopper were okay below, and that these men would help them if anything. She had wanted to walk towards the entrance to the underground for a closer examination before one of the official men held his palm out to her, telling her to stay back. The hazel-eyed girl bit down on her bottom lip, anxiously waiting for some sign that her mother was okay. As she turned on her heels to make her way back to the younger boys, Will fell to the ground, grunting in pain. Mike had knelt down beside him as Allison quickly raced over, dropping to her knees. "Will! what's wrong?" The Byers girl anxiously grabbed on to her brother's side as Mike held his shoulders, asking him if he was okay. Neither received a response from the boy as he continued to groan in pain, before completely flipping on his back.

The brunette had fallen back while the dark-haired boy had quickly stood, taking a couple scared steps back. The sight before Allison and Mike's eyes was simply traumatizing. Will's small body was convulsing- shaking violently as his face contorted in a strange way; his eyes rolled to the back of his head while his mouth laid open, screams sent out of it. The screaming never stopped, completely infiltrating Allison's ears; attaching itself to her in a way that would come back in nightmares. She was frozen in fear- unable to move as she just watched the sight in front of her, feeling as though she had completely lost the ability to breath.

Chapter Text

Blood pounded in Allison's ears as her breathing became harder to regulate. Her feet could barely carry her as she ran after Will down the lab hallways, watching as he sobbed and cradled himself in agony, an unknown force terrorizing him from within.

Once in one of the rooms, Will was transferred from the gurney to the hospital bed, quickly getting his vitals checked. His heart rate and body temperature were far from normal, dumbfounding the nurses who had been desperately asking him where he was hurting. Whilst he screamed uncontrollably, Allison's eyes were darting around the room in a panic, watching as her mother practically crumpled, crying for her youngest boy; Bob holding her in his arms. Mike was utterly terrified, watching as his best friend hopelessly tried to squirm the burning sensation out of him, letting out gut-wrenching cries. Tears threatened to prick at the brunette's eyes at the sight before her, whilst her throat tightened. She felt as though she was suffocating; her vision distorting as though she was looking through a fish-eye lens.

A high ringing pitch rang within her ears, censoring the surrounding screams and shouts. Within seconds, it was silent. The nurses had given Will a shot, rendering him unconscious. All that could be heard now where the silent cries and heavy breaths.

-

Three breaths in, three breaths out.

Even if it had been the next day, not a single second of the night prior hadn't haunted the brunette's mind. Her body hadn't stopped shaking, while her throat felt dry from the silent cries that she shoved down; She felt detached from the whole situation, unable to decipher or grasp how much time was passing, or what was even going on as a whole, yet she remembered all of it.

She, along with the others excluding Mike were forced to change into scrubs and wait for an answer; an explanation to what was going on with Will. Joyce had tried to speak with the so-called doctors while Mike, Bob, and Allison remained in the room with Will, who was still motionless. The brunette hadn't been able to succumb to slumber that night; her brain wouldn't give her a break as it continued to fill with unwelcome thoughts.

"Here, you must be cold." Bob's voice comes from beside Allison, snapping her out of her gaze that rested on Will. The man beside her had an outstretched hand holding a brownish tinted blanket, offering a sympathetic smile. "Yeah um... thanks." The brunette quietly replied, wrapping the material around herself. Her expression was quick to change, dismay and worry painted all over. "Allie, hey. It's going to be alright." Bob tries to reassure, bending down on one knee in front of the chair she was sat in, while one of his hands held on to her mid-arm. "We don't know that."

"While that may be true, you know your brother can fight whatever this is. Will is a smart kid. He's strong, just like you and your mother. Someone will figure this out- There's a solution to every problem." He informs the girl in front of him, taking a small breath in. "I may not understand absolutely anything going on right now, but I want you to know that I am going to be here in any way I can for you, your mother, and Will. You guys are what is most important to me right now. If there's any way I can help, I- I promise I'll try. They don't call me Bob the Brain for nothing." He smiles, slowly nodding his head. Allison offers the closest she can to a genuine smile towards him, nodding in return.

She felt bad for disregarding Bob's kindness towards her in the past, always thinking his only interest laid with Joyce, and not her family. He had proven himself numerous times to make it clear that he in fact had cared for her children, including now. While movie nights hadn't been Allison's forte, she still enjoyed the couple of times she decided to stick around for them. When Bob had learned that she wasn't running off to her friends the first time she stayed, he chose Grease, knowing it was her favorite through Joyce. The brunette had secretly been thrilled, and that night as the five of them watched her favorite movie, she had felt a sense of what her family would've been like had they of had a stable father figure.

Bob was extremely kind-hearted, but easily looked over. She was happy that Joyce had chosen him to bring into their lives, and not some other man, because the man in front of her showed her glimpses of what a father could be. The brunette stood, hugging the man in front of her; he was shocked at the affection but was quick to hug back, offering some comforting back rubs. "Thank you, Bob." Allison started, retreating from the embrace, blinking back tears. "For being there for us."

He smiled warmly in return, swallowing hard with a nod as if he had been trying to keep his emotions in control. As Joyce re-entered the room, Bob checked once more that Allison was okay, handing her a mug with water for the dryness in her throat. The two adults conversed in the corner as the brunette sat back down, returning her gaze to Will and Mike, both fast asleep.

When she had finally attempted to close her eyes minutes later, she was pulled back to reality with Will's small voice calling out to his mother. Bob took his cue, quickly exiting the room to call out for a doctor as Joyce and Allison went to Will's side, asking how he was feeling. Mike was the last to wake, sitting up in his seat as Bob joined at Joyce's side.

"Hey." He smiled down at the boy, who's facial expression remained impassive. "Who is that?" Will questioned, confusing the group surrounding him. "It's me, big guy. It's Bob."

As Bob reached for Will's hand, the brown-eyed boy quickly pulled away. "Are you a... doctor?" Will queries, looking from his mother to the man behind her. Mike and Allison share the same vaguely frightened expression, not understanding the current memory wipe; Joyce just as concerned.

-

Shutting the light off and away from Will's eye, Dr. Owens places it in his lab coat pocket, three new men- including Hopper- now in the room. "Do you know your name?" Dr. Owens asks Will, who's quick to respond with his name. It was good to know that he knew his own name still; but he was unable to remember the doctor in front of him, or if they had met before. Dr. Owens points to Mike next; Will takes a few, long seconds before answering. "That's my friend. Mike."

"And me? Do you know who I am?" Allison steps forward, placing a hand on the edge of Will's hospital bed. It feels like time drags as the little boy looks to his sister, his eyebrows furrowing as he tries to recall. The brunette's heart almost shatters before Will speaks up; "You're my sister. You're Allison- Allie." He states, clutching on to Thumper, which Dr. Owens thankfully let Allison take up when they'd arrived. Seeing him hold the stuffed animal tighter was somewhat reassuring, considering he was still able to connect the two.

"What about me, kid? You remember me?" Hopper questions from beside Joyce, smiling towards Will, who proceeds to shake his head. "They tell me you helped save me last night. You remember that?" Hopper continues, receiving another shake of the head from Will. "Do you remember anything about last night? About what happened?" Dr. Owens begins again, drawing Will's attention back to him. "I remember they hurt me."

"You mean the doctors?"

"No. The soldiers."

"The soldiers hurt you?"

"They shouldn't have done that. It upset him." An angry gleam appears within Will's brown eyes, as his tone changes to a dangerous, taunting one. "You say, 'upset him.' Is that him?" Dr. Owens asks, showing a picture of Will's drawing to him. Will slowly nods in return. "Okay. Okay, I wanna try something. It's gonna seem a little odd at first, but I think it's really gonna help us understand what's going on. Is that okay?"

"Okay." Will quietly replies, looking down. At his approval, a slimy form is wheeled in on a cart, the man who brought it in igniting a flame torch, lowering it to the 'creature.' As the heat presses closer, the organism screeches, and Will's heartbeat begins to rise. The boy claims to feel a sting in his chest, clutching at it. The man lowers it closer, affecting Will with a burning sensation coursing throughout his entire body. As the man lowers it again, Allison feels as though she can't bear the sight of her little brother in any more pain. "He's in pain! Stop!" She raises her voice, gesturing to her brother beside her. To no avail, the man continues, now worsening the situation. "That's enough!" Joyce shouts, receiving the same acknowledgment as her daughter. When she tries again, Hopper speaks up, finally being the one to get it to stop. Will looks sickly pale and sweaty- almost ghost-like. It's physically painful to see him this way for Joyce and Allison both; neither of them knowing how there could be a single possible solution to Will's unknown sickness.

-

Following waiting a tedious amount of time for Dr. Owens to provide an answer, Will had claimed to know how to stop this 'shadow monster' that had an unseen hold on him. He, along with the others had been escorted to a meeting room, where Will examined several photos and polaroids in front of him. Upon pointing to one of the photographs, declaring it to be important- but in a way that he wasn't meant to know, Dr. Owens signaled his men to head through the open gate to the Upside Down, leaving to observe with Hopper.

Night had approached as the five waited back in the hospital room, anxiously waiting for some sort of information, the sound of Will's heartbeat on the monitor being the only sound to fill the room. Allison's slightly shaky hands were clasped together, placed on top of her knees. The silence was almost unbearable, along with the unawareness of anything going on. She wished they could just be at home, watching one of Bob's cheesy movies in the living room together instead of here, in this god-forsaken lab. Nothing about this situation felt right, as the uneasiness of it all creeped in, haunting all of them.

"I'm sorry." Will's small, weary voice spoke, drawing everyone's attention. All were confused at his random apology, Joyce being the first to speak on it. "What? What do you mean, sweetie?" She questioned, leaning towards her son whose breath shuddered in fear, his expression quick to match. "He made me do it."

"Who? Who made you do what?" Joyce inquired with a worried tone as Allison sat up in her seat, leaning forward while her eyes darted from her brother to her mom. "I told you. They upset him. They shouldn't have done that. They shouldn't have upset him." Will began to cry, his voice harsh but shaky. Uneasy silence weighed in the room, Will's words troubling the ensemble. "The spy. The spy!" Mike spoke out, jumping from his seat and running out of the room. Bob was quick to follow after him as Joyce and Allison kept their eyes glued on Will, both of their hearts pounding hard within their chests. Mike's voice could be heard down the hall, warning the men that this was a trap. "Will, sweets, talk to me. You got to help me understand." Joyce whimpered, holding on to her son's shoulders.

"It's too late. You should go now, they're almost here."

Chapter Text

Silence was quickly replaced with the blaring of alarms, and flashes of yellow lights down the hallway. Mike raced back in the room; Bob quick to follow.

"We're under attack." The dark-haired boy stammered, grabbing a syringe. "We need to make Will sleep."

"What?" Joyce questioned frantically, clearly as disturbed as her daughter. "He's a spy. If he knows where we are, so does the shadow monster." Mike exclaimed as Will looked from his friend to Joyce and Allison beside his bed, appearing to be alarmed as he sits up in his seat; "He's lying!"

"He killed those soldiers. He'll kill us too!" Mike shouts in return, making Will angrier than he had been before. The boy claimed that Mike was lying, yelling it repeatedly. Allison, along with her mother and Bob attempted to hold Will's squirming form down as gunshots fired in the distance, startling the group. "Those are gunshots!" Bob pointed out as Will continued to yell in return; "Okay, Will- Will! Listen- Do you know who I am?" Joyce questioned, keeping her son's attention directly on her as she lowered her head to be at his level. When she asks him again, Allison observes her little brothers face, immediately being able to recognize that he was blanking; that had been enough to make her heart drop. "You're... You're... You're Mom." He stutters, sounding as if he was unsure.

"Hold him down." Joyce demands Bob as Allison backs away, now next to Mike after handing the syringe to the older woman. Will begins to protest, shouting to be let go as he frantically attempts to squirm away, his screams becoming tormenting. Allison's shakiness worsens as her heart picks up in pace, now unable to hold back tears at the sight before her. Mike quickly placed his hands over his ears, face full of terror; the image burning in his brain. As Joyce shouted her apologies, pulling up her sons' sleeve, Allison turned away, drawing Mike's trembling form into her to block the view ahead. He was quick to clutch on to her, as she covered his ears with one of her arms, the other holding him close to her.

If Will's screams weren't soul stirring enough, Mike's whimpers and the shouting of Bob and Joyce overwhelmed Allison enough to let out a sob; tears quickly falling down her cheeks. With a slight turn of her head, she watched as consciousness slipped from Will; the sound of the alarms being the prominent one now. The brunette's chest grew tight as bile rose to her throat; She thought she might throw up until the door beside her burst open, startling the thought right out of her.

Hopper, with Dr. Owens behind him, stopped in his place, examining the current state of the room, his attention being pulled to the growling noises behind him. Allison watched as the man spun around, hearing the sound of wood breaking and snarls coming from afar. "We gotta go- we gotta go!" Hopper fearfully declared, rushing over to Will's bedside, picking the boy up into his arms. The group swiftly followed behind him with no questions, racing down the hallways as petrifying screams bellowed from ahead. Right in front of them, a smaller version of the Demogorgon Allison had seen before launched itself on an officer, followed by the sounds of gunshots firing behind them. They were placed in the dead center, having no option but to run in the room beside them, seeing as both ends were un-survivable.

Dr. Owens shut the door behind him after all had filed in; "Oh my God." Bob's voice echoed, drawing the room's attention to him, and what he had been looking at. Several screens showing live surveillance footage had been placed on the wall ahead; Allison's eyes were quick to draw towards one of the many loose demo-dogs, currently feasting on one of the workers. The lights began to flicker from above, before completely shutting off, along with the once illuminated screens. The power had presumably shut off, leaving the group in darkness.

-

"Look, this is us, and this is the nearest exit. But even if we somehow make it there, there's no way out." Dr. Owens states, circling on the map below him. "What do you mean?" Hopper questions from behind, clutching on to a flashlight. "The locks are fail secure."

"Fail secure?" Joyce chimes in, notably confused. "If there's a power outage, the building goes on lockdown." Dr. Owens explains, trying to bring understanding. "Can it be unlocked remotely?" Bob inquires, looking intently to the man in the lab coat before him. "With a computer, sure, but somebody's gotta reset the breakers." The gray-haired man replies, his hands moving along with his words. "Where are the breakers?" Hopper questions, his expression displaying one of contemplation. "Breakers are in the basement, three floors down."

The police chief steps forward, swiftly grabbing the map and moving towards the door. "Hey, where are you going?" Bob questions him, gaining Hopper's attention. "To reset the breakers."

Bob quickly stopped the man, bickering back and forth about knowing something called 'BASIC,' finding out that he alone was the one with knowledge of it. "I got this." Bob nodded his head repeatedly, trying to convince himself over his own words.

"No- Bob." Joyce steps forward, her tone heavy with weary. Allison had slightly shaken her head at his words but knew that he was the only capable contender to get the job done. "It's okay." He reassures, bringing the woman into his embrace. "It's gonna be okay. Remember, Bob Newby, superhero." He asserted after pulling away, moving his gaze to Allison's. The brunette nodded in return before taking a step forward, wrapping her arms around him. He quickly returns this motion, holding her into him before extending an arm to Joyce again, bringing her into a little group hug. The three hold each other for a couple seconds, splitting a part once he mustered the courage to back away. "You've got this." Allison offered a smile, receiving one back.

-

After several long minutes, the power was shut back on, signaling that Bob was successful. The screens had been powered back on, giving the group a third eye. Dr. Owens and Bob conversed before the doors were all unlocked by the press of Bob's finger. He had planned to meet back with the group until one of the creature's reappeared in the West stairwell; Bob was smart though, enabling sprinklers in one of the hallways as a distraction, working perfectly.

As Hopper heaved Will's limp body over his shoulder, Joyce dug into her pockets, starting to freak out. "Shit." She voiced, clutching on to them. "What?" Hopper and Allison had harmoniously asked, looking to the Byers woman. "I didn't grab the syringe or more anesthesia in- in case we need it." She stammered. "We don't have time-" Hopper voiced, inching closer to the door. She nodded in return as a taunting gut feeling weighed inside Allison, remembering that Thumper too had been left in the room. Sure, it was a stupid stuffed animal, but it meant more to her and Will that any other inanimate object. She maybe would've considered leaving it behind if her mother had the syringe and anesthesia in hand but knowing that whatever had a hold on Will- how he was a spy- wouldn't just vanish upon exiting this lab.

He'd surely wake up sooner than later, and would alert the monsters of their new location, implementing harm to himself and everyone around him. Allison couldn't take that chance. With a glance to the screen, she observed the surveillance camera of the room they had been cooped up in not even an hour prior, seeing that there was no current threat of harm. There, the brunette finalized on a decision. As she followed her mother out the door, she quietly split from the others, being as cautious and silent as she could. The room was just around a couple corners, and thankfully close to the exit, permitting an easy escape when she had successfully obtained the items.

Once she arrived in the room, Allison grabbed the syringe and bottles first, shoving them in her scrub pockets before moving to the bed where Thumper had been left. The brunette let out a sigh of relief, clutching the stuffed animal rabbit close to her, attempting to bring her heartbeat down. As she turned to make her way back out of the room and to the exit, a shadow of one of the creatures slowly approaching the corner was visible on the white tiled walls; it felt as though her heart had stopped beating all together, and the breath had left her body.

Allison's eyes darted around the room, looking for anything to defend herself with. It had quickly dawned on her that there was not a singular weapon in sight, leaving her defenseless. All she could do was use her brain, play it right, and make it out of here. Low-guttural growls were sent out of the creatures' mouth as the brunette hid behind the door, clutching Thumper with one of her hands as the other held the doorknob tightly. The slimy beast slowly inched its way into the room, stopping in its place to analyze its surroundings through its senses. Allison's heart thudded in her chest, pounding so hard that she was able to heart it- sure that the monster would be too. All she could see was the tip of it's head, before it continued to prod forward.

The brunette scolded herself for thinking that this had been a good idea, realizing her life was on the line. It was hard to keep her breathing regulated as her stomach churned, observing the creature in front of her, slowly making its way inwards. As it inched closer to the windows, she took her chances, swinging herself around the door, pulling it closed. She didn't give a second before darting down the hall, her heart plummeting at the sound of the door bursting open from behind. Once she had turned the corner though, she came to a halt, seeing a second creature in front of her. In that moment, she knew that the chance of making it out was slim. Without time to react, she's knocked to the ground from behind. The first creature had launched itself on to her, sinking its claws into the soft flesh of her side.

The pain was like nothing she had felt before- sending an agonizing cry out of her mouth, drawing the attention of the monster ahead. As the creature hovering over her raised its hand to attack again, Allison flipped herself on her back, flailing her arms around to shove the monster away whilst managing to keep a hold of Thumper and not crush the objects within her pocket. It had been short lived though, as the creature clasped onto her free arm, ruthlessly clawing at her skin. The brunette's eyes dashed from the first creature to the second, pulling her arm as forcefully as she could away with a wail, sending a kick to the creature's abdomen. Although it hits the wall with a distorted yelp, it's quick to get back on its feet, the other joining it at its side.

As one jumped at her, she dashed to the side, hitting against the tiled wall. While it skidded down the hall, Allison pushed herself off the wall, dashing down the opposite way with the other monster on her tail. While attempting to use her adrenaline to push her forward, her foot slid through the blood of previous victims, sending her to the ground flat on her back. Her body crashed next to a lifeless guard, Thumper tumbling out of her hold. The breath had been knocked out of her as she desperately gasped for air, black spots inking in her eyes. Sharp pain tethered at her abdomen as one of the creatures climbed on top of her, opening its face like a flower. Several razor-sharp teeth were revealed to her as it growled, placing its other hand on her shoulder, holding her down for good.

It pulled down at her flesh, shredding the surface layers of her skin away. The brunette's gut-wrenching screams bounced off the walls as she attempted to push the creature away to no avail. It was slimy, cold, unworldly. An overwhelming sense of dread washed over her, feeling hopeless. She felt like there was no reason to fight, or that she didn't have any fight left in her; but she couldn't give up. Not now, not yet. She needed to fight for Will- for his life. She needed to make it for him.

Her head slanted to the side, looking to the body beside her for a gun. Upon seeing none, her eyes rested on a black rod, presumably a baton. As the creature dug into her flesh, she reached for the baton, pulling it from the man's belt as her breath hitched, sucking air in through her teeth. Returning her gaze to the monster above, it growled a final time, opening its face up, drool dripping all over her. Acting quick, before the creature could chomp on her flesh, she shoved the baton into its throat in such a forceful motion that it stabbed straight through its head. More saliva and blood splattered onto Allison's face as it released its grip from her; the brunette took her chance, shoving it away and attempting to get on her feet.

Her side throbbed in agonizing pain as a searing sting traveled up her scratched arm, sending her slumping against the white walls, clutching at the discomfort. The Byers girl peeled herself from the tiles, blood smearing across it as she quickly picked up her previously dropped item as the other, uninjured creature returns, chasing after her as she scampers down the dimly lit halls, shutting two large doors behind her to barricade the monster in. With that, she stays on course, racing to the exit as quickly as she can, trying her best to disregard the pain as her ears pounded. It had been nearly impossible as she clutched at her mildly torn side, the dread alleviating as she bursts through the final big doors, meeting face to face with Hopper, who's gun is aimed straight at her. "Where the hell did you-"

Joyce had been beside him, her expression matching his startled one. "Allie- oh my god-" Her eyes widened at the sight of her daughter, drenched in blood from herself and others. The brunette could hardly muster words due to the searing pain as she shook her head, drawing towards them. She had almost hit the floor before Hopper caught her, pulling her upwards. "I got you kid- I got you." He reassured, pulling her outside quickly. "Holy shi-" Mike had begun as Hopper placed her beside the two boys, retreating back into the building. "Stay here!" The chief ordered, pointing to the two that were conscious.

"Allie are you okay?" The dark-haired boy asked, clutching on to Will's limp form. Allison shook her head, shutting her eyes tightly at the pain spreading through her body, grasping at her wounds. A sob left her throat as she looked down to her bloody hands and clothes, noticing a wet stain on her pocket that had been holding the needed supplies. Quickly, she checked her pocket, feeling relief wash over her as two bottles and the syringe remained intact, only the third bottle having broken.

After the ringing in her ears died down, the sound was replaced by screams and gunshots from the building. She had thought it was her brain recalling the events from earlier, but when Hopper and Joyce bursted out the door, she wasn't so sure it had been. Joyce was wailing, reaching her hand towards the door as Hopper held her around her waist, keeping her back. "What happened!?" Mike had shouted, more creatures running to the door, clawing against the glass.

"He's gone! He's gone." Hopper exclaimed to Joyce, making Allison realize that Bob wasn't by their side. Her heart plummeted at the realization that he hadn't made it, hence why her mother was in such a distressed and emotional state. All of this was happening too fast, and the brunette felt like she couldn't keep up as her vision began to fade. A horn started honking from the opposing direction, drawing the groups attention ahead. It was Jonathan, with Nancy in the passengers seat. "Come on! Get in!"

Mike helped Allison up as Hopper heaved Will over his shoulder, trudging over to the car. As Will, Joyce, and Mike filled the available spots in the car Jonathan was driving, Hopper had helped her into his car, speeding after the others. While Jonathan kept driving ahead, Hopper came to a screeching halt, leaning forward past Allison to speak; "Let's go!"

Steve opened the car door as Allison winced in pain, continuing to apply pressure to her wounded side. Hopper had tossed a spare shirt to her upon getting in the car, ordering her to scrunch it up and apply pressure to her wound, and prevent more blood from seeping out of the new indentations. Max filed in first, followed by Lucas and Dustin who all moved to the back, Steve being last to get in. It had taken him a moment to notice that Allison was injured, his expression immediately dropping. "What the hell happened!?" He exclaimed, his body turning in his seat. "I don't know- she- she went off on her own, and I don't know what happened from there." Hopper answered after only receiving winces from Allison in response.

The brunette held up the syringe and one of the bottles in her hand, gaining a sigh from Hopper. "That wasn't more important than your life, kid." He tried to say gently, but it came out harsher than intended. "I- I know." Allison managed, a small cry slipping from her lips. "Hey, hey look at me, look at me." Steve spoke from her right side, his hand meeting her cheek, turning her face to look at him. Her eyes met his soft brown ones; "How did this happen?"

"They attacked me." Allison replied quietly, struggling to keep her eyes open for long. "The demo dogs?" Dustin chimed in, leaning forward. Allison assumed that was the nickname for the creatures, so she nodded her head in return, her hand covering Steve's hand placed on her cheek. "Uhh, Steve, she's losing a lot of blood- like an abnormal amount." Dustin points out, leaning over the seat. Hopper and Steve's eyes dart to her abdomen, observing that she had in fact been losing quite a bit. "Keep her awake." Hopper demanded, pressing further down on the gas, accelerating their speed as Steve continued to hold her face, trying to follow his order. "Hey, hey stay with me Allie." He spoke, slightly shaking her to keep her conscious, observing her nodding out.

"Is she gonna be okay?" Max's small voice comes from behind, worried for the girl she barely knew. "Yes- yes she's gonna be fine. You're going to be fine, okay? I'm right here, stay with me, stay awake." Steve tried before Allison succumbed to unconsciousness, falling limp into his chest.

Chapter Text

"Keep pressure on her wound!" Hopper exclaimed from the driver's seat, Steve quick to follow his orders. He had taken the crumpled-up shirt from Allison's limp hand, cradling her body against his. Her head had been tucked under his chin as panic rose in the children's souls; all but Max unable to bear the thought of losing someone who had provided an older sister role in their lives, let alone one of their best friends.

The Harrington boy held Allison's head against him with one of his hands, as the other squeezed the cloth tightly against her waist, her blood spreading to his hand. "You gotta stay with me, please stay with me." He whispered in her ear, regretting his decision to push her away after his break-up with Nancy, and letting his defensiveness get the best of him when she simply wanted to talk to someone new. It wasn't his place to judge, but he had anyway.

Once they had arrived at the Byers house, he had pulled her into his arms, holding her in a bridal carry, placing her on her bed as the color drained from Jonathan's face, realizing both of his siblings were at risk of slipping away, and he hadn't been there to save either of them. He knew Allison would want him to stay by Will's side, and that no matter how much he hated Steve, he'd trust him to look after her, so that's what he did. The house was silent as remorse filled the air, each individual being conflicted in one way or another.

A half hour had passed before Allison's eyes slowly fluttered open, the pain throughout her body being a reminder that she was alive. Her hazel-eyes darted around the room, looking to her newly bandaged side and arm, her scrub top now cropped. She couldn't manage to sit up on her own without a sharp pain shooting through her, so she stayed laying there. The doorknob to her room twisted, creaking open to reveal Steve, bandages and a pill bottle in hand. He stopped in his place as his eyes landed on the brunette, his breath hitching in shock. Allison tried to sit up again upon seeing him, wincing as she failed to do so; The brown-haired boy quickly paced over, placing the items on her bedside table as he sat on the bed next to her. "Hey, hey don't try that on your own; We just got you wrapped." He gently spoke, wrapping his hand under her arm, slithering it around her back. "I got you." He whispered, helping her sit up as she winced again.

"How are you feeling?" Steve asked, his eyes soft as he looked to her, holding her waist. "Like I'm in pain." Allison humored, returning her gaze. "I- I got some pain medicine for you thanks to Jonathan... figured you'd want some when you woke up." He gestured towards the plastic bottle, biting down on his lip. "You really had us all worried back there. I was incredibly relieved when Hopper told me you had most likely passed out from the pain... and not from the blood loss- but I gotta say that was a lot of blood." He went on, letting out a small chuckle. Allison smiled in return, eyes never leaving his.

"How long was I out?" The brunette inquired, removing her hand from his waist as he did the same. "Maybe an hour." He simply replies, nodding his head as he speaks. "What did I miss?"

"Will's still unconscious, and the party came up with a plan. He's connected to the Upside Down somehow, something to do with a Hive Mind, so they're transferring him out to your shed soon so he can't spy? I- I don't know; Mike said he couldn't spy if he didn't know where he was... so they're going to attempt to reach him or some shit. They're out there setting up right now. Hopper wanted me to run in and check on you, and I- I wanted to anyway. Having to look over those little shits and listen to them go on about whatever game they play while trying to connect it to everything going on right now is physically painful." He rambled, reaching for the pills and a glass of water, handing them to her. "And my mom?" Allison asked, throwing two capsules to the back of her throat, swallowing them down with a glass of water. "What about your mom?"

"Is she okay?" The brunette asked, her throat feeling as if it was closing as she recalled her mother's screams, imagining what she had to witness back at the lab. "I don't think so." Steve softly responded, offering a sympathetic glance. The Byers girl nodded slowly, guilt kicking in. "God I was an idiot. She's already being put through so much with Will... and if I slipped up somehow back there, she could've lost two people tonight." She sighed, placing her hand against her forehead. "But she didn't- and neither did you." He reassured, taking her wrists in his hands, pulling them away from her face. "What you did back there for Will was incredibly brave. I'm sure when he gets better, he'll be grateful that you risked everything for him. He's lucky to have a sister like you in his life; Anyone who knows you is." He comforted, his hand holding her cheek. "And I'm sorry for putting a distance between us for no good reason. It was a dick move on my part... I should've talked to you."

"It's okay... we all need some space sometimes, but just warn me next time." Allison smiled, receiving a nod from the boy in front of her. "So, now that you're awake there's only one more bandage to put on... and I won't need Hoppers help now that you're capable." Steve mentioned, removing his hand from her cheek, taking the large bandage in hand. "You and Hopper did this?" The brunette inquired, looking to her wrapped waist and bandaged arm. "Yep. He's the only one who really knew what he was doing... I probably should've gotten Jonathan to take over my part, but I just left him to watch over Will... sorry."

"No, no it's okay. I'm glad he's looking after Will; He probably feels terrible that he wasn't there for him at the lab." Allison replied, taking a deep breath in. "You just have a few puncture wounds on your shoulder." He pointed out; Allison looking down to see them, recalling being held down by one of the beasts. "Your shirts in the way though... and we didn't want to undress you." Steve added, fidgeting with the bandage. Allison observed her already torn shirt, deeming it a piece of trash, not like she was going to keep it anyway. "Right... thanks. Could you close the door?" The brunette gestured to her left, gaining a nod from Steve as he got up from his seated position, crossing to the doorway. Once he shut the door, he moved to her closet, pulling a sweater out of her dresser, along with a pair of sweatpants from her chester drawers, bringing it back over to her. "A little help?" Allison questioned, wincing as she lifted her injured arm above her head.

The brown-haired boy nodded again, grasping the hem of her torn shirt, tugging it over her head gently. As he held the shirt in his hand, unsure of what to do with it, Allison gestured towards her trash bin. The used condom placed at the bottom didn't go unnoticed by Steve, nor had the leather jacket in her closet and hickeys littering her chest and neck, but he remained silent, respecting her choices. Allison saw the hurt in his eyes when he turned back to face her, knowing something was taking a toll on him. He gently disinfected her puncture wounds, muttering sorry's as she hissed. Finally, he pulled the flexible sheet off of a large bandage, placing the sticky side over her collarbone and shoulder, delicately rubbing the edges down. "All done." He smiled, tossing the sheet in the trash.

As he stood, Allison grasped his forearm gently, pulling his attention to her. "Thank you." She softly spoke as he looked down at her with his doe eyes, smiling tenderly. The brunette was thankful that he not only was taking care of her, but also the fact that she could read him like an open book, knowing he had pieced together that Billy and her had done more than just put on a front; and yet he didn't question or berate her.

She stood from her bed, wincing slightly as she wrapped her arms around his waist, tucking her head under his chin. His arms were quick to reciprocate, holding her close. "You ready to go out there?" He mumbled, rubbing her upper back before pulling slightly away to see her face. "Yeah, yeah I'm ready."

Chapter Text

"Oh, thank god." Jonathan had spoken upon seeing Steve and Allison exiting her room once she had changed, quickly walking in their direction. He had been next to Joyce, who also turned around, expression matching that of gratitude. Steve removed his hold from under the brunette's arm as Jonathan wrapped his arms around his sister, holding the back of her head as he shut his eyes tightly. Joyce took her turn after, examining her daughters injured state with a solemn look. "I'm so glad you're okay sweetheart." The Byers woman spoke into her daughter's ear, gently rubbing her back as she pulled from the embrace, moving her hands to hold Allison's face. "You too." The brunette replied, looking from her brother to her mom.

"We... we have a plan. Do you think you'll be able to support yourself?" Joyce questioned the hazel-eyed girl, who looked to Steve. "I think so. It hurts like hell, but I can move." Allison replied, returning her gaze to her mother. "We're going to the shed, Hopper already took Will in. All we have to do now is wake him up... and try to get him back." Jonathan chimed in, gesturing towards the shed behind. "Okay... then let's get him back." Allison responded, nodding to her family.

Joyce and Allison headed outside as Jonathan stayed back for a moment, thanking Steve for taking care of his sister. He, along with Mike, joined Hopper, Joyce, Allison, and Will in the shed, preparing themselves. "Alright, you ready?" Hopper asks Joyce, gaining her approval. He opens a container of Bo Peep ammonia, pouring the liquid onto a cotton ball, and placing it under Will's nose. Within milliseconds, the boy jolts awake, gasping for air.

His eyes wander the room, struggling against the ropes restraining him. "What- What is this?" He stammers, squinting from the bright light facing him as he continues to squirm. "What is this? Why am I tied up!?" His tone raises, becoming aggravated. Joyce leaves her spot next to her eldest children, crouching down in front of her youngest. "Will, we just wanna talk to you. We're not gonna hurt you."

"Where am I?" He shouts angrily, disregarding Joyce's words. Hopper joins her side, leaning over to be at the boys' eye level as he holds up Will's 'mind flayer' drawing; "You recognize this? Do you recognize this?" He questions, asking harsher the second time. The brown eyed boy shakes his head in return, his attention being brought back to his mother. "Hey. We wanna help you... But to do that, we have to understand how to kill it."

"Why am I tied up!?" Will shouts in her face, startling Allison. He proceeds to shout it repeatedly, his voice becoming louder as Hopper attempts to hold him down when he begins to throw himself back and forth against the restraints. The lights begin to flicker as the Byers boy yells, drawing the rooms attention away from the boy, and to the lights. "Let me go! Let me go!"

Will's voice becomes demonic, twisting in a deeper, unfamiliar tone, squirming violently. It feels like Allison's back in the lab, watching as her younger brother struggles against Bob, now Hopper; a stranger taking over his body. Jonathan's hand clasps onto his sisters as fear washes over him, new to this experience. He had tears in his eyes as his heart panged at the sight before him; Will slowly beginning to calm down as the lights return to normal. Heavy breathing fills the room, with racing hearts and dry throats, terror tolling on their hearts.

Joyce sits in the chair across from her son, beginning to attempt to reach him, followed by Jonathan, who spoke of the day Lonnie had left, when Will and him had built castle Byers- an experience Allison missed out on since she was away with Steve. She stepped up next, standing beside Jonathan as he finished talking, trying to reach him too. "Will, do you remember when I gave you Thumper? Mom and Dad were fighting in the kitchen... and you must've been only been in third grade... but I- I told you how important he was to me, and how you were too. I told you that by giving him to you, I was giving you my heart- and my love... that no matter where you might be, as long as you had Thumper, you were safe. My love would protect you from anything- all you had to do was squeeze him tight, and I would be with you."

Tears began to prick at Allison's eyes as she recalled the memory, and the warm feeling that filled her heart when she thought of it. Everything she had said to her younger brother in that moment, no matter how young and afraid they might have been, she meant everything she said to him. Will's lip quivered at his family's words, trying so hard within to signal that he was there in some way. As Mike stepped forward and put in his attempt, tears fell down the dark-haired boy's pale cheeks; small whimpers exited the youngest Byers boy's mouth, his expression heavy with emotion, but his presence still feeling as though it was absent.

"Will, baby... if you're in there, just please... please talk to us. Please, honey, please, can you do that for me? Please? I love you so much." Joyce whispered as the boy in front of them tried so hard to cry, before his face turned emotionless, uttering three words; "Let me go."

Hope had been fleeting within his family before Hopper cleared his throat, gaining the room's attention. "Inside." He uttered, pacing towards the door. The rest followed after him, retreating back inside the house, leaving Will behind. "What happened?" Dustin questioned upon seeing the disheveled state of the returning individuals, assuming the worst. As Hopper sits at the kitchen table, retrieving a pen and paper, he begins to write while the others gather around him. "I think he's talking, just not with words." Hopper states, scribbling an un-verbal language down.

"What is that?" Steve asks, joining Allison's side behind Hopper. "Morse code." The rest of the room says in unison, leaving the Harrington boy looking around the group, his eyes wide. "H-E-R-E." The police chief spells out, as the rest of the group say 'here' together. Allison's mouth opens slightly in surprise, looking to Steve beside her, his eyes already on hers. His hand meets the small of her back in reassurance as Jonathan and Joyce look from one another to the brunette, relief displayed on their faces. "Will's still in there. He's talking to us."

The same groups split once again, Allison returning to her brother with memorabilia in hand. Mike and the Byers family continued to keep sharing memories that Will had been a part of to him, as he tapped against his chair, signaling to the group inside. The brunette had held up one of the pictures of her and Will that had been on her nightstand, taking place after she gave him her bike. He had been so excited as she stood over the bicycle behind him, their smiles the same. After showing one picture, she'd show another, sharing a moment that they had shared in their pasts, hoping to bring something out of him- even if it was the smallest reaction.

When her turn had ended, Mike came next, cycling to Joyce all the way back to Mike again while Hopper signaled away at his walkie-talkie. Before finding out what Will was signaling, the ringing of the house phone rang away, causing the brown eyed boy to perk up, his eyes going wide. Seconds later, his eyes began to shut, moving back and forth beneath his eyelids. "Hey. Hey, can you hear me?" Joyce inquired, placing a hand on his exposed knee.

"It knows. It knows where we are." Hopper chimed in, sending Joyce out of her seat, retrieving the syringe and bottles Allison had risked her life for, sending him into unconsciousness once again. He falls limp, everyone but Joyce and Will exiting the shed quickly, stopping shortly outside of it. As the four look around in alert, the sound of distant screeching emits through the forest, loud and spine-chilling. "We need to get Will inside... now." Allison stammers, rushing back into the shed, followed by the others. After untying the boy, the six rush back inside, gathering in the living room. "Is that- do they know we're here?" Steve asks from beside the brunette after returning from her bedroom, machete from the year prior in hand. Although a little warped after lighting the Demogorgon on fire with it still attached, it would do. "Yes. Will heard." Allison whispered back, gripping the handle tightly in her hold, wincing at the stinging in her predominate arm.

The group form into a defensive stance, Steve staying close to the brunette as he holds the nail-embedded bat upright, swinging it in circles while Nancy cocks the shotgun; everyone's eyes trained on the windows. Growling becomes louder and near, before the sound of one screeching travels from the front to the left, each person in the room shifting to face the direction, high on alert. "What are they doing?" Nancy asks with fear in her tone, as adrenaline begins to rush through Allison's veins, biting down on her bottom lip as ripples of pain shoot throughout her side. The bushes shake from outside the window, before the screeching emulates from the front of the house again, causing the group to shuffle in fear. Unholy noises of all sorts ripple through the air, before the screeching comes to a halt, leaving the sound of heavy breathing dominate.

While the group may have been on high alert, the demo dog being thrown through the window, shattering the glass, startled all of them as they jumped back, one of Steve's arms quickly pulling Allison behind him, holding the bat in front of him with the other. Not one of them held back a startled scream, shuffling closer together as the brunette practically clung to Steve's outstretched arm, her heart thudding in her ears. "Holy shit." Dustin mutters as the group slowly prod forward, examining the limp creature. "Is it dead?" Max questions from beside the Henderson boy, her eyebrows furrowing. Hopper takes a step forward, pressing one of his feet cautiously against the creatures' head, gun still aimed. The monster doesn't move, indicating it had either been unconscious, or truly deceased.

Before they had even been able to come to a conclusion, the sound of the porch creaking drew the attention of the entire group, as they all twisted their bodies in the direction, stances shifting back into a defensive one. The brunette watched from behind Steve as the door unlocked, the chain miraculously being pulled out of its secure place from the inside of the door, clanking against the wood as it fell. The knob twisted, followed by the door being pushed open slowly; A much more mature looking Eleven stepping through the door.

Her hair was slicked back, black eyeshadow matching her dark clothing, as blood leaked from her nose. Allison's grip quickly loosened from the weapon she had in hand, side-stepping Steve as relief found itself in her anxiousness; this whole time, she had thought that Eleven had died, as Mike had said. The brunette had been truly disheartened to hear about the Wheeler boys' experience of witnessing the girl vanish in front of him, having wished more could have been done for the poor girl. Now, knowing she was well after everything, even if the brunette had barely known the girl, Allison was extremely relieved to see her, as had Mike and most of the others.

He took a step forward, uttering the girls name as she in return gasped his name, warmly embracing him. The moment was truly bittersweet as they cried into one another, Mike being the first to pull away. "I never gave up on you. I called you every night. Every night for-"

"353 days. I heard." Eleven replied, tears in her soft eyes. "Why didn't you tell me you were there? That you were okay?" Mike asked, clearly conflicted. "Because I wouldn't let her." Hopper's brassy voice interrupts, as he steps forward, lowering his gun. Allison pieced the situation together, figuring he had been keeping her with him this entire time, somehow, to protect her from being found. "The hell is this? Where you been?"

"Where have you been?" She questions as Hopper pulls her into an embrace, resting his head on top of hers. "You've been hiding her. You've been hiding her this whole time!" Mike shouts, shoving Hoppers back in anger. "Hey! Let's talk. Alone." Hopper replies, pulling him off to one of the bedrooms.

"Okay... what the hell did I miss, and who is she?" Steve whispers quiet enough for only Allison to hear as Eleven hugs her friends, conversing with them. "Remember- oh shit, you weren't there... I'll explain it another time, it's too much." Allison sighs, examining the confused state the Harrington boy had been in, his bat still in hand. "Did she do that?" He asks, pointing to the limp creature by their feet, gaining a nod from Allison. "How-"

"Another time." Allison smiles, crossing over to her mother, who was now embracing Eleven. After they pulled from their embrace, the brunette placed her hand on the girl's shoulder, who quickly turned around. It had only been a year, but the young girl looked as if she had matured so much. "Hey." Allison softly said before Eleven wrapped her arms around the brunette's waist; Allison quick to reciprocate whilst letting out a wince. The young girl was quick to notice, pulling away. "You're hurt." She spoke, eyes full of concern as Allison lifted her sweater slightly, revealing the red stained wrap. "A little." The brunette joked in return, only receiving a serious but concerned look from the girl and Joyce. "Blood- on your face." Eleven muttered, reaching for the hazel-eyed girl's cheeks, running her thumb across it. "Oh- oh it's not mine."

Eleven nodded slowly in return, looking over her shoulder to face Joyce. "Can I see him?" She quietly spoke, receiving a nod from Joyce. The two retreated down the hall, entering Will's room as Allison returned to Steve, who was now next to Jonathan and Nancy. "So she has mind powers?" The Harrington boy questioned, looking from Jonathan to Allison joining at his side. "Something like that."

Chapter Text

"It's not like it was before. It's grown. A lot. And, I mean, that's considering we can get in there. The place is crawling with those dogs." Hopper announces to the group surrounding the kitchen table, all trying to figure out a plan. With Eleven back, the circle had felt complete- Steve and Max being new additions to the inner circle, given that the Harrington boy hadn't been at the bath test, but only to fight off one of the interdimensional creatures. "Demo-dogs." Dustin corrects, turning around to face the police chief. "I'm sorry, what?"

"I said, uh, Demo-dogs. Like Demogorgon and dogs. You put them together, it sounds pretty badass-" Dustin explains, rambling on before the chief cuts him off; "How is this important right now?"

"It's not. I'm sorry." Dustin apologizes, turning back towards the table. "I can do it." Eleven states, drawing everyone's attention to her, including that of the irritated Police Chief. "You're not hearing me."

"I'm hearing you. I can do it." She protests, nodding her head firmly to the man across from her. "Even if El can, there's still another problem. If the brain dies..." Mike chimes in, looking to Allison next to him. "The body dies." Allison nods, her voice shaky as chills spike up her spine. "I thought that was the whole point." Max notes, her red eyebrows furrowing. "It is, but if we're really right about this... I mean, if El closes the gate and kills the mind flayer's army..." The dark-haired boy rambles, swallowing hard. "Will's a part of that army." Lucas utters, glancing to Max at his side.

"So... he'll die too." Allison declares with unsureness, her throat tightening at the thought of losing him again. "Exactly. Closing the gate will kill him." Mike speaks from beside her; her eyes looking to her mom, who's clearly at a loss of words. Joyce gets up from her seat, leading the group into her bedroom. As they make their way, Allison becomes lightheaded, slumping into the hallway wall as her vision distorts, pain reverberating throughout her body. "Hey, you alright?" Jonathan quickly steps to her side, Nancy and Steve appearing next to him. The petite brunette, along with Jonathan, outstretch their hands, helping Allison into a supported stance. "I'm fine- I just lost my balance." The brunette lies, shutting her eyes tightly as she feels faint. "Your skin is paling- are you lightheaded?" Nancy questions from Allison's right, her expression matching that of concern. "Just a little."

"You need to lie down, drink some water." Jonathan suggests, receiving a scoff from his sister. "I'm fine, It's just the pain. I need to be there for Will." Allison replies, trying to join the rest of the group in the bedroom so Jonathan can't protest. "I got her." Steve nods towards the two teenagers, following after the brunette who had only made it a couple paces ahead. "Careful there, wouldn't want you to faint on us again." The brown eyed boy jokes, wrapping his arm gently around her upper back, avoiding contact with her wounds. "One time thing." She replies, stepping through the threshold, Jonathan and Nancy making their way past them, over to Will.

"He likes it cold." Joyce mutters, the others fully filing into the room. "What?" The tall police chief inquiries from behind her, planting his feet in the middle of the room. "It's what Will kept saying to me. He likes it cold. We keep giving it what it wants!" The Byers woman states, pacing over to the window before shutting it. "If this is a virus, and Will's the host, then..."

"The we need to make the host uninhabitable." Jonathan states from his crouched position beside Will, finishing Nancy's previous sentence. "So if he likes it cold..."

"We need to burn it out of him." Joyce vocalizes, face twisting in eager frustration. "We have to do it somewhere he doesn't know this time." Mike addresses, looking from his sister to Joyce. "Yeah, somewhere far away." Dustin adds, sprouting an idea in Hopper. The man walks over to Will, wrapping him up in a blanket, followed by hoisting him over his shoulder. It had been like everyone but Allison was comprehending the unsaid decision occurring as she watched Joyce and Jonathan file out after him. The brunette glanced up at Steve, her expression full of confusion as she left his grasp, faintly waltzing after her family who had already exited the front door. "Hey- where the hell are you guys going?" She called out, Steve quick to catch up to her, keeping his hands at a ready stance, as if to estimate that she would faint into them.

Joyce had already been in the car with Will as Jonathan made his way over to the two on the stoop, stopping Allison from walking any further. "You're not coming, no way." He declares, shaking his head at the brunette in front of him. "What do you mean I'm not coming? Of course I am! It's Will, Jonathan!" She exclaims, her anger wiping energy as if she was running on a battery. "Allie- we don't know what's going to happen out there when we do this. You're injured, and you need to rest. You're safer here, with- with Steve, and the kids. Please don't fight me on this, you know I'm right."

"He's my brother too, J! I want to be there to fight this with my family- not being left back here, unaware if he's going to live through whatever you have planned or not. I wouldn't be able to go on knowing I didn't at least try and fight for him." Allison cried, her heart beginning to beat faster. "You already did! You almost died putting your life on the line for the anesthesia and- and a stuffed animal back at that lab. You were able to keep us safe this long because of it. You did your part, now please, stay here." The meek boy tested, practically pleading his sister to agree. "No- it can't just be you two. Someone else should be there-"

"I- I'll go. I'll make sure they're safe." Nancy steps up, exiting from the house with a heater in hand. "We'll let you know the second it's out of him, I promise." Jonathan swears, nodding his head to Nancy. The brunette opened her mouth to protest, but as the unpleasant feelings within her sprouted like fireworks, she closed it, shutting her eyes tightly and looking to the ground. "I promise." Jonathan speaks gently, grabbing his sister's hand quickly in reassurance. "Make sure she stays here, please." He adds, directing towards Steve. The Harrington boy nods in response as the brunette in front of him looks up to the other two teens climbing inside of Jonathan's car.

"My cars back at the lab anyway dingus." Allison muttered, taking a step back into Steve. "I think he just meant in general... I'm already babysitting these other shitheads, and I think you just got added to the list." Steve smiled, a warm sensation traveling through his body as hers raked against him. "Just help me inside already." The brunette replied after watching the two other groups depart, driving off into the night.

"One of you guys get some water for Allison please." Steve ordered, shutting the door behind the group with one hand as the other rested under Allison's armpit, her uninjured arm slung around his shoulder. "On it!" Dustin shouted, practically racing over to the sink.

Stopping in the bathroom first, Steve helped her to wash the blood and saliva residue off of her face, wiping away gently with a towel. His arm moved to her upper back again and she clung onto him; As the two entered her bedroom, he gently let her down on her bed, pulling the covers over her legs while she nestled against her pillows. "Hey... they'll be fine. Will's strong... he'll fight this, just like he did last year." He whispered down at her, sitting down on the bed beside her. "Glass of water for the lady." Dustin's voice came from the doorway, all of the kids filing in after him.

As Steve sighed, he took the water from his new companion's hand, offering it to the brunette lying beside him. "I've never actually seen your room before- it almost looks like Nancy's!" The Henderson boy exclaimed, inviting himself to walk around and open her closet. "How do you know what Nancy's room looks like?" Mike spoke up, furrowing his eyebrows at his friend. "Uh- oh last year- I offered her our last slice of pizza and she had an attitude because she was dating- never mind." Dustin had begun, realizing the Harrington boy was also in the room.

"Because she was dating Steve?" Lucas questioned, receiving a scoff from Dustin. "What? No... not Steve."

"Nancy wasn't with anyone else at that time if I remember correctly." Allison noted after gulping down water, attempting to place it on her nightstand before Steve took it from her hand, placing it himself. "Well, she was and is still going off with Jonathan." Lucas noted, tightening the tension of the room. "The water was great. Thank you, Dustin." The brunette tried to change the subject, noticing the pained expression making its way on Steve's face. "I'm pretty sure it's just your same old tap water- but great to hear. Anyway, Steve, my man, all I'm trying to say is that you weren't as cool last year as you are now to us. You just happened to not be everyone's favorite." Dustin shrugged, smiling to the older teen whose eyebrow had been raised. "No one's favorite." Allison mumbled.

"Hey? Whose side are you on Byers?" Steve turned to face Allison beside him, her lips tugged into a small smile. "I made up for my assholery, didn't I?" He questioned with a smile, looking gently down at her. "I guess."

"Cool jacket!" Dustin exclaimed, pulling Billy's gifted leather jacket out of the brunette's closet. Steve had already recognized it earlier, keeping his focus on Allison below him instead of letting his jealous feelings get in the way. However, Max was quick to notice that it had been her stepbrothers, her eyes widening at the realization. Lucas had been the first to notice her shift in behavior, questioning if she had been alright. The redhead looked to Allison, who had already been looking to her; both knowing who the jacket belonged to. "What? Oh- I'm fine. Just uh... just thought of something." She shook her head, offering Lucas a small smile.

Max had picked up on Billy's behaviors, knowing he'd often sneak off with some girl- or girls. He had been acting differently than usual, more uptight and secretive when someone would try and pry into his personal life. He had always seemed to get that way when there was a girl secretly involved- but the Mayfield girl had been clueless as to who. She didn't care either, seeing as it hadn't been her business, but after realizing that it had been Allison, who was directly tied to all of this bizarre stuff she had just been let in on, was worrisome. Not that she was extremely fond of Billy or anything, but she didn't know what part he'd play in all of this if he had somehow gotten roped in through the Byers girl. The same concern had been felt for Allison; a girl who was visually already going through enough, and seemed to be a girl who was smarter than to run off with guys like Billy- especially after thinking Steve had been her boyfriend this entire time, with the way they acted, looked, and felt together. "Wait... so are you guys... not... together?"

"Uh... we were, once. Long story." Allison sighed, offering a thin-lipped smile to the kids in front of her. "Wait, when?" Dustin questioned, sitting down beside Steve, who glared at the intrusive Henderson boy. "Our freshman and sophomore year..." She replied, her eyelids growing heavy. "Is that why you stopped being fun!? I knew it! Steve man, you really gotta stop taking the best girls and making them lose their fun." The curly haired boy rested his hand on Steve's shoulder, his lips forming a thin line. "Hey, I didn't stop being fun- I just wanted to hang out with people my own age more than my youngest brothers. People change... I'm sure that was Nancy's reasoning too."

"Yeah, yeah. Lame. I'll be playing D&D for life." Dustin replied, getting up from his seated position. "Well, they do have a club at Hawkins high for it..."

"Didn't you have the hots for the freak leader in middle school?" Steve questioned, receiving a glare from the brunette. "What did I say about calling him a freak. Seriously, you and Heather with your title bullshit. Eddie is actually nice when you get to know him... and it was just a childish crush." Allison responded, their conversation excluding the kids even if they had been in the room with them. "Right, how about you get some rest now." The Harrington boy replied, patting the brunette's hands before standing up, rounding the kids together, and ushering them out of the room.

The brunette took a deep breath in and out, shutting her eyes as she attempted to block out the pain. She silently prayed to herself that Will would get through this, and she'd see him again. She couldn't bear the thought of finding out he was overtaken by this 'mind flayer' entity, and she would've never been able to say goodbye. It was torture. The brunette's mind continued to wander before she eventually fell asleep, the others sitting helplessly in the living room for the next half hour. Upon realizing they could in fact do something in this situation, the kids had been trying to conspire a plan, being shut down by the Harrington boy; "I said does everybody understand that?"

An engine revving came from nearby, the uproar drawing nearer to the house. "It's my brother. He- He can't know I'm here. He'll kill me- he'll kill us." Max exclaims as she crouches by the window, glancing over to Lucas beside her. Steve cursed under his breath as the blue Camaro's tires screeched to a stop, the bright lights shutting off. "Stay here." The older teen demanded, stepping outside the house. As the Californian boy stepped out of his car with a cigarette between his lips, his eyes quickly found themselves on his rival, standing under the stoop with his hands on his hips. A flicker of jealousy spiked through Billy, wondering why in the hell Steve would be at Allison's house. "Am I dreaming or is that you, Harrington?"

"Yeah, it's me. Don't cream your pants." Steve cockily replied, his tone impatient and short. The golden-haired boy tugged his brown leather jacket off swiftly, tossing it in his car. He stepped forward as Steve had, the two drawing closer to one another. "What are you doing here, amigo?"

"I could ask you the same thing. Amigo." The Harrington boy taunted, crossing his arms as a shit-eating grin slithered across Billy's smug face. "Don't tell me Allison already rebounded with you." Billy smirked, taking a drag from his cigarette. "If you're here for her... she's sick. So, you can go home knowing she's being taken care of." Steve hastily replied, receiving a puff of smoke in his face. "You know... it was a shit move to break her heart the way you did, knowing she's in love with you and all. I don't understand why she'd possibly forgive you- I mean, I know Nancy dumped your ass, but it's real shitty to lead Allison on again. She shouldn't be a second choice, and you sure as hell shouldn't be her first." Billy taunted, his expression shifting to a serious one. The brown-haired boy hadn't even thought of the possibility of Allison still being in love with him and hearing the other teenage boys' words sunk into him. "Did you not hear me? She's sick, and I'm just here as a friend. Now what did you really come for?"

Billy tilted his head at the boy in front of him, becoming testy at his taunts. "Looking for my stepsister. A little bird told me she was here."

"Huh, that's weird. I don't know her."

As the two converse, Allison awakens at the panicked yet quiet chatter of small voices, sitting up on her bed. She had figured they were whispering for her sake, so she continued to remain in her room, not wanting the intrusive attention of them. As she stands, crossing over to her mirror by her door, she observes her sweater, red splotches appearing from the blood seeping from her wounds through the bandage. "Shit." She mutters, knowing she'd need help from Steve to rewrap and clean. As her hand hovers over the doorknob, wincing at the pain, she quickly jolts away, flinching at the loud sound of a door being slammed open, then shut.

The brunette could hear another male voice as she placed her ear against the door, clutching at her side with her uninjured hand. Once the kids began to shout, along with the familiar name of 'Billy' slipping from Max's lips, Allison takes a couple steps back from the door, wondering if she had been fully awake or not as a lethargic feeling weighed on her. Glass breaking echoes from the kitchen, followed by slamming, more shouts, and manic laughing. At all of this commotion, she pulls the door open, observing the blood she left on the handle.

Looking down at her hand, she sees it had been stained rouge, wet splotches smearing on anything she touched. Shaking the sight out of her head, she continued to prod forward, having to continue to clutch at her waist. As she turned the corner, she almost directly ran into the four kids who had been looking ahead at Steve, with Billy next to him cackling away. "Looks like you got some fire in you after all, huh? I've been waiting to meet this King Steve everybody's been telling me so much about." Billy shouts, widening his arms as he steps closer to the Harrington boy, blood making its way out of his nose. Mike had turned around, being the first to notice Allison's presence. He, along with Dustin, had ushered to her side, holding her up under her arms for support- in case she needed it. Steve's attention was torn away from Billy and brought to the movement adjacent to him: "What are you- you're supposed to be resting-" He breathed out, keeping a defensive hand out to the boy in front of him, who quickly looked to the kids, and Allison behind them.

The two teens hadn't interacted since he had abruptly left her; His eyes widened at the sight of her, seeing a blood-stained sweater covering her pale skin, clearly lost in this situation. "You said she was sick-" He rose his voice, anger engulfing his face as he turned back to the Harrington boy, balling his fists. "She is!" Steve shouts in return, glancing at Allison with pleading eyes. "What the hell happened to you doll?"

"I- I can't." Allison breathily responded, not sure of what would make this scenario make sense. "Did he have something to do with it?"

"You think I would lay a fucking hand on her?" Steve growled, puffing his chest as anger rose within him. "I wouldn't put it past you shit bird."

"Deflection isn't attractive, pal. You just threatened and laid your hands on a kid, and you think I'm the one who'd hurt her?" Steve spits, gesturing his hand towards the kids. Allison's eyes widened, observing Lucas's alerted state, piecing together that Billy had inflicted some sort of pain on him. "You what?" The brunette spoke up, hurt in her voice. "The kid didn't do as I told him, and Max didn't follow my orders."

"So you threatened him?" She angrily questioned, turning away from him when he didn't respond, looking to Lucas. "Did he hurt you?" Allison asked the boy, who's eyes averted from hers, over to Billy. The Hargrove boy glared daggers at his stepsister and Sinclair boy, taking a daunting step forward. The brunette was quick to pull from the two boy's grasps, moving in front of the other two kids defensively whilst holding a hand out. "That's far enough... I draw the line when it comes to the kids, and I think you should leave."

"I came to get Max, and I'm not leaving without her." Billy continues to glare at the redhead, eyes never meeting the brunettes in front of her. "I said, I think you should leave. Don't make this harder than it has to be."

His blue eyes finally met hers, fury wallowing within them as an expression of resentment spread over his face. "And what do you mean by that, Darlin'?" He sneers, inching forward. Allison extends a handout to Steve behind the Hargrove boy, who had taken a heated step forward. He stops in his tracks, furrowing his eyebrow at the Byers girl. "Why do you have to make this difficult. Please Billy, just leave."

"Apparently I didn't make myself clear enough. I'm not leaving without her, I can't." Billy tested, his voice cracking at the last words, knowing what would happen if he didn't return home with Max. "Hey man, listen to her and get your ass out of here." Steve barked, balling his own fists. "Are you fucking him?" Billy questions, eyes trained on the brunette. "What?" Allison asked in confusion, furrowing her eyebrows. "You heard me. Are. You. Fucking-"

"No, I'm not- What has gotten into you?" Allison replied, shaking her head at the heated boy. "I don't know, I come here, find not only my stepsister with the one person I told her not to run around with, but also Steve at your house, you're covered in blood, won't explain shit to me, and nothing fucking makes sense. You could've told me that one fuck was enough for you." He rambled, burying the hurt he was feeling with anger. The kids were just as shocked as Steve to hear Billy's words, although Steve had already known without being told. "Can we not talk in front of everybody about this?"

"What? Are you ashamed to admit it? Did you not want Steve to know? I thought getting back at him for what he did to you was the whole point." He seethed, the strong smell of alcohol wafting from his lips as he drew closer to Allison, his words slurring. "You're drunk- you aren't thinking clearly." The Byers girl stated, trying to keep her voice calm as the tension intensified. "Maybe I am, maybe I'm not. I wanted y- you to be mine. Not his. Mine."

He was dangerously close to Allison's face as his eyes raked down her body, examining all the bandages and bruises. He reeked of cigarettes and beer, and the brunette could see the slightest bruise forming on the boy's cheek as he drew closer. His eyes were pain-stricken yet bitter, meeting Allison's as his fingertips ghosted over her bandaged arm. He was a mix of emotions, and the brunette couldn't tell which one was weighing on him most. "She's not some property to be owned by either of you." Max chimes in, receiving a glare from Billy.

"Why don't you take a step away from her, quit acting as if she's an object, and get out." Steve took a step forward, pulling at Billy's shoulder, who attempts to send a punch his way; Steve ducks in time, landing a swift hit across Billy's face, sending him into the kitchen table. The kids chant for the Harrington boy as Allison takes a shocked step back, nearly being crashed into as Steve throws another punch Hargrove's way, who manically laughs as he's hit yet again, alcohol coursing through his vines, sending fiery through his bones. Once Billy had been cornered into the counter, he grabbed on to one of the plate's, crashing it across Steve's head.

The kids go quiet as Allison remains standing in shock, her breath seemingly absent. As the brown-haired boy staggers over to the bookshelf, Billy hits him square in the face whilst Dustin ducks, nearly being hit. The Hargrove boy grabs Steve by the collar, growling in his face: "No one tells me what to do." He knocks his head into the staggering brown-haired boy, sending him sliding across the living room floor. The kids resume their yelling as Allison finally snaps back into reality from behind them, taking a sharp breath in at the sight. Billy repeatedly knocks against Steve's face, roaring in anger.

The brunette charges forward, pushing through the children; Mike attempts to hold her back, but she's quick to shake him off, pacing over and grabbing onto Billy's red collared shirt. "Stop it Billy! Stop!" Allison wailed, horrified at the bloodied sight of Steve from under the Hargrove boy. Billy turned, his hand snapping around her wrist. "I don't want to hurt you- stay out of this."

"You'll fucking kill him!" She whined back, desperately attempting to free from his grasp. Before he could say anything, Steve crashed his fist against Billy's head, knocking him to the side. Since the golden-haired boy's grasp hadn't been let loose from her, she toppled with him, letting out a wince at the pain. When she attempted to move, the pain worsened, as if she was being attacked all over again. Blood trickled down her abdomen as tears prickled at her eyes, unable to stop either of the boy's from brutally injuring one another. Steve's fight was brief from above Billy as the blue-eyed boy grabbed his throat, maneuvering his legs quickly to where he rolled from his back to straddling above Steve, continuing to beat the living hell out of him.

The brunette had shouted for Billy to stop as she miserably tried to flip herself around; Max had trudged forward, stabbing the syringe into her stepbrother's neck, startling all of the boys. As she threatened Billy to leave her and her friends alone, Allison painfully dragged herself to Steve's unconscious body, taking his bloody face in her hands. "Oh god." She muttered, wiping gently at his busted face. He wasn't going to wake up any time soon with the severity of his pulped face. "Let's go." Max announced, drawing the girl's attention. "Hey, where do you- fuck- where do you think you're going?" Allison winced, hands still holding the Harrington boys face. "To do our part." The redhead attested, crossing to the front door with the Camaro's keys in hand.

"Our part was to stay here, and I'm in no condition to drive-" The brunette replied, groaning at the expanding pain. "Correct, but no need to worry, I am."

"You... driving?"

"Yes, I'm the zoomer. I learned to drive when I was- you know what, it's not important. We're losing time, where's your gasoline?" Max stated, ushering the shocked boys forward with the wave of her hand. "Uh- it was in the shed, but I think it was moved to the pile outside?" Allison replied in confusion, not sure whether to question the young girl or not. "A little help?" She asked, Lucas and Mike quick to come to her side, bringing her to a stance. "Got it?" The Sinclair boy questioned from her side, careful to make sure she wouldn't fall as the brunette nodded in response.

Dustin had returned from the bathroom, band aids, a new wrap, and towels in hand. "For you-" He spoke, tossing bandages to the brunette; "and for him." He finished, crouching down beside Steve. Lucas had gone out to help Max retrieve gasoline as Dustin and Mike wiped the blood away from Steve's beaten face, placing Band-Aids across the open slits; Allison unwrapping her waist beside them. The sight of her open wounds was honestly mortifying and disgusting, as blood oozed from the gashes. "Gnarly!" Dustin exclaimed as Mike groaned, looking away.

"Just pass me the damn towel." The brunette sighed, holding the coral, now rouge colored material against her, biting hard on her bottom lip. After dropping the towel, she stuck a bandage over the open gashes, followed by wrapping her waist tightly for more pressure.

"You coming?" Dustin asks as the other two return, all three boys pulling Steve up, dragging him towards the doorway. "You're taking him with you?" She responded in question, not sure if that would be a good idea for when he'd wake in a completely different area. "Obviously- are you coming or not?"

"Uhm... No... I- I should stay here for when he wakes up. Someone should be here." She replied, looking down to Billy across the room. Max nodded to her, as if to silently thank her, before they rushed out the door, leaving her behind. She had prayed for their sake, Max did really know how to drive, being blindly proven when she heard the engine rev, and race off into the distance, silence following.

Allison slowly crossed over to where Billy had laid unconscious, his features more relaxed than she had seen in the past minutes of chaos. She had no clue what she'd even say to him when he woke, or how he'd react, but she knew their relationship wouldn't be the same after the behavior he displayed in this night.

Chapter Text

Her breath was shaky as she sat in silence beside the unconscious Hargrove boy; her back was placed against the wall, with her legs tucked into her as far as she could without being in pain. Allison had no clue what to do as she remained alone, waiting eagerly for a phone call, even if the home phone had been ripped off of the wall, or the sound of an approaching car- fucking anything.

For all she knew, Will could be out there dying, Eleven could be in danger, or even the group that had departed from the house almost an hour ago. As she held her head in her hands, the lights began to flicker, fear dawning on her. The flashing became more intense by the second, Allison's heartbeat beating as quick. She thought they'd burst until it all stopped, completely going dark in the house.

The brunette cautiously stood from her seated position, flipping the lights on to re-illuminate the darkened room, her breath heavy. As she looked to Billy on the floor, she remembered how Hopper had awoken Will from his blackout; she paced out to the shed, on alert as she examined her surroundings, retrieving the ammonia, followed by racing back inside. The Byers girl doubted that it would end well when he'd awake, realizing Max was gone, along with his precious Camaro. Allison didn't understand why he couldn't return home without Max as he had stated, but she gambled her chances, pouring the chemical onto a cotton ball and placing it under his nose.

The Hargrove boy was up in seconds, shoving Allison to the side. His head whipped left and right, searching the room for Max, only to see Allison, alone. His hand snapped up to his neck, feeling at the irritation; His blue eyes landed on the brunette, anger slowly dissipating upon seeing her. He realized he had been the one to shove her away, swiftly inching over to her to comfort with actions; Allison had crawled away, stopping him in his place. "I- I'm not gonna hurt you Darlin'... I didn't mean to..."

"Why couldn't you have just left?" She gently questioned, a sorrowful frustration engulfing her face. "It didn't have to be this way. You could've just walked away..."

"You- you don't get it Allison. I told you that I couldn't leave without her- where the hell is she?" He questioned, irritation rising in his tone. "Tell me why." The brunette demanded, clutching at her side as she brought herself to a stance, keeping a cautious distance. "Where is Maxine."

"Don't avoid my question. Why couldn't you leave without her?"

"That's not important-"

"Yes, it is. You were clearly drunk, and probably still are, meaning you're not fit to be behind a wheel- I could've taken her home when she was ready."

"God, you don't fucking get it! If- if she's not with me when I go home, Neil will fucking kill me. Where is Maxine?" Billy stammers, throwing his hands around as he speaks. His words sink into Allison, remembering the night he'd hinted at his father being a piece of shit that he despised, and how she'd tried to get him to open up, but failing to do so. Maybe, just maybe if she played her cards right, she could get through to him tonight. "Billy... do you remember the night when we talked before... you know?"

"How is that important?" He questioned, gaining impatience as he raised his eyebrow. "When I told you my father was a piece of shit... you told me you and I are nothing alike, and... and while I agreed, I don't think that's entirely true." She softly spoke, watching as he shifted his weight from one foot to the other, licking his bottom lip impatiently. "I may be reaching... but I think we can relate to something that no one, and I mean no one should have to."

His eyes met hers as his eyebrows furrowed, arms crossing. "I used to live in terror when my dad was living with me. He was a drunk... and a hateful human being. He didn't care about his wife, nor did he care to be there for me... or even my brothers. But that wasn't why I was terrified. When he'd drink, he'd become... violent." She spoke, trying to think of a way to phrase her words carefully after realizing Billy had been the same way when he was drunk. She swallowed hard, her throat feeling as if it was tightening, his eyes burning on her. "My mother and Will were easy targets. He knew they wouldn't fight him. Jonathan had been that way at first too... but eventually he'd just go off somewhere on his own when my father would get home. I didn't blame him but... because no one could stand up to my father... I did. I was the one protecting my family when it should've been him. It should've been Lonnie." She rambled, tears threatening to fall down her cheeks as she recalled the painful memories of her past.

Billy had remained silent, giving her the opportunity to go on. "I um... I had to be sent to the hospital once. He broke my wrist... and we had to lie and say I fell off the monkey bars at recess. I was only twelve. Twelve fucking years old. The only other person who knows about this is Steve. Not even Heather, my own best friend, knows of the years of the shit I went through, and the only reason I'm trusting you enough to tell you this is because I've been able to analyze the way my family has reacted to that trauma and abuse... and if my reach is right... that bruise forming on your cheek was from Neil, and you can't go home without Max because he'll do something worse... am I wrong?"

The golden maned boy doesn't speak, but instead looks to the ground. In his silence, she finds her answer, knowing she had been right. "I don't know what he's done to you, but you don't even have to tell me. What's been done to us, to you, is unforgivable, and heart breaking... but we keep fighting, and we keep going on. You may not have the strength now to stand up to Neil, but you will find it, and... even if all you did tonight made me change the way I view you... I'll still be here to confide in, if you want to talk to someone, I'll be here to listen." Allison softly speaks, wishing he would look up at her. His eyes remain on the floor, his chest heaving. The brunette couldn't tell if he was struggling to breath or crying, but as his eyes finally made their way to hers, her expression softened, seeing the tears in his eyes.

He looked as if he wanted to walk to her and drown in her embrace, but he assumed she wanted to keep a distance after his harsh behavior. She disregarded it in this second, pacing over to him and wrapping her arms around his sinking shoulders. The brunette never thought she'd see him of all people break, but here he was, silently sobbing in her arms. "I'm here." She whispered, placing a hand on the side of his head, holding him close to her chest. "I'm right here."

The lights began to brighten, practically blinding the two as they shielded their eyes; In that moment, a gut feeling reveled within Allison. She had known Eleven had done her part on closing the gate, relief flooding through her as she held Billy close.

-

December 1984

Returning to school hadn't been easy after the events occurring from October to November. In the past month, Billy and Allison continued to talk in secret after she swore to help him, as long as he agreed to work on changing the way he behaved, and didn't ask questions about the unusualness that occurred at the Byers house, starting with Will's drawings and 'illness,' along with Allison's injuries. When her family had returned that one night, Allison had nearly fallen to the ground seeing Will again; an indescribable joy overcoming her. She was cautious to not hurt him as she held him close, shedding tears of gratitude as she silently thanked God, any higher power, or the universe for bringing him home. With the agreement of Hopper, he took Billy and Max home, reassuring Neil and Susan that there had been no trouble; Neil hadn't cared though, being revealed to Allison two nights later when Billy crawled through her window with a busted lip. She had begun to take care of him without anyone but Max being aware of it from there.

Unfortunately, she wasn't able to let Heather in on any of these details like last year, besides Billy and her hooking up. Heather had almost lost her mind at this information, reminding Allison that it was a big deal, even it really hadn't been. The Holloway girl had grown concerned for her best friend after her absence, being the one to call the Byers home phone, before it was ultimately ripped off the wall by Nancy. All Allison could use to justify was that she had gotten sick after Will had. Even if it was suspicious, Heather didn't question; she always respected privacy.

A funeral was finally held for Barb as a cover up story was released, being tied to Hawkins Lab, which had also been officially shut down. The Byers family were still grieving over their loss of Bob, but it weighed heaviest on Joyce. She wouldn't talk about it, but it was evident that she missed him. They still held their tradition of movie nights in his memory, now including the kids and Steve.

The group had grown closer together as a whole, becoming almost like a large family. With Steve's parents always being away, movie nights had become something he thoroughly enjoyed. Although Joyce and Jonathan had held a silent grudge against the boy, they slowly let it go after persistent praise from the kids, who raved about his bravery on defending them from Billy. Joyce had been shocked to hear that it was the same Billy she had met a week or so before.

Hopper had also adopted Eleven through Dr. Owens, and she now lived with him at his cabin. Sometimes, very rarely, Hopper would bring Eleven over to the Byers, and the two would join the others in movie night. El wasn't able to go into the public eye, and going to the Byers house, granted when Joyce was there, was the only exception for leaving the cabin. When they'd get that chance, Allison would take the opportunity to sneak the same old Cosmo magazines she'd shown Will when he was extremely young over to Eleven, which the girl had been fascinated over. Eventually Hopper had found them, but he didn't have a problem, knowing Eleven hadn't properly been educated or introduced to girly stuff, figuring it to be beneficial.

Once the snowball had arrived, Hopper had given Allison money to buy a dress for Eleven, before inviting the Byers girl over to do El, or legally known as 'Jane's' makeup and hair. The brunette had Eleven pick a style and look she liked out of one of the several Cosmo's, settling on a purplish eyeshadow to match her belt, slight lip gloss, and curling her hair.

"Annddd done." Allison stated, closing the eyeshadow palette, placing it beside her, pulling Eleven to a stance. The two shuffled over to the mirror, Allison holding the younger girls' shoulders to keep her facing away from the mirror. "Ready?" She questioned, receiving a nod from El. The Byers girl spun Eleven around, dropping her hands to the side. "What do you think?"

"Pretty." The Hopper girl smiled, looking up to Allison through the mirror. "Very." The hazel-eyed girl agreed, grabbing her polaroid. "Alright, quick picture, and then we show Hopper." She stated, snapping a picture of the young girl as she posed, her smile youthful and full of joy. As she shook the developing photo, she ushered Eleven out of the room, clearing her throat for the police chief's attention, who had been sitting impatiently on the couch. Hopper looked surprised, complimenting his new daughter before thanking Allison.

Once they had left to go to the Snowball, she returned home, Steve already in the driveway. The two teens had remained platonic whilst still having amicable feelings for one another. The Harrington boy had yet to explain his breakup with Nancy, but at the same time he didn't speak of it, Allison kept her continuation of communication with the Hargrove boy a secret, understandably. While Billy and her maintained a comforting relationship consisting of taking care of him when he'd get hurt, secrets, and slightly strained, Steve and Allison on the other hand had maintained a mostly open, comforting relationship. They were able to talk about anything and everything, both being reeled into this chaos one way or another.

With all but Allison of the Byers being at the Snowball, it left her home alone; Steve agreed to come over after dropping Dustin off to physically be with her. The two had fallen asleep on the couch together after watching a movie they had watched countless times before, just happy to be reunited in a way again.

Chapter Text

April 1985

With the new year beginning, and the passing of three, almost four months, things in Hawkins had finally simmered down. Although it had been viewed as cursed by outsiders, the locals went on with their day by day lives. Allison had finally gotten back in her groove at school, keeping on top of her grades while helping Steve too. Basketball season was approaching its highest point, with only a week left to go before the championship game.

Tension hadn't cleared between Steve and Billy, which had created quite an issue on the Hawkins Tigers team; Because Billy had been a great player, Steve frequently got benched to keep them from going at one another. It had been at times unbearable to watch from the sidelines, where the Cheerleaders had practiced their chants for the upcoming games.

Although Billy and Allison had continued to somewhat talk in secret, it had been awkward mostly at school. Whenever Steve was around, all the two could do was share looks and smiles, apart from first block English class with Mr. Dorten, where the Hargrove boy and Allison had been stuck sitting together.

Heather on the other hand had been acting differently lately, a way that Allison knew too well. The Holloway girl had feelings for someone at the school, but when she was asked about it, the girl would deny any sort of emotion, claiming that she was just excited for senior year to be over. As unbelievable as it was, Allison remained unintrusive.

As for the kids, Steve and Allison had begun taking them out every third Saturday to the destination of their choosing. It had mostly been the arcade, but the movies, diner, or Hawkins community pool, just opening up for the spring and oncoming summer, had been opted in too.

After the third Saturday of April, the Byers house had been the last stop, dropping Allison and Will off for the night. "See you Monday Allie." He smiled, watching as the two went inside, the brunette sending a final wave his way. Joyce had warmly greeted her children, returning back to the kitchen where she had been cleaning. "Did he get you guys dinner?" She questioned, resting her hands on her hips. "As always." The brunette replied, kicking off her shoes after Will had, quickly rushing off to his room.

"Good. You know, he's really been proving himself lately." Joyce smiled, leaning against the counter. Allison simply grinned in return, walking into the kitchen where she could stand by her mother. "You still have feelings for him, don't you?"

The brunette looked to her mother beside her, not fully knowing whether she had been ready to admit to it. "It's complicated." Allison laughed, crossing her arms in front of her. "How so? I feel like we don't talk as much as we used to, and I miss our talks." The Byers woman comments, rubbing her daughters back gently. Allison wanted to tell her mother about how she had continued to speak to the Hargrove boy in secret, and a part of her still had feelings for him too. Joyce wouldn't be angry with her, but there would be a good chance she'd be disappointed, and Allison couldn't handle knowing that.

"It's just that we keep finding ourselves at odds... and I don't want to screw it up again. We're doing really good right now, and I just feel like telling him that a part of me still... likes him... would mess it up." The brunette admits, leaning into her mother's grasp. "Take your time. If it seems to soon, then count it too soon. Just listen to your heart, like I taught you. It will tell you when the time is right." Joyce gently speaks, rubbing small circles on the small of Allison's back. The hazel-eyed girl nods in return, hugging her mother goodnight before departing to her bathroom.

Once Allison had gotten ready for bed, she moved to her bedroom, climbing under her cool sheets. Three knocks reverberated from her window; the signal that it had been Billy. With a sigh, she stands, pulling her window upwards. The Hargrove boy crawls through as silently as he can, revealing a bloodied face full of defeat and shame. It had been almost a month without this, so the brunette had hoped his home situation improved. Billy wasn't a vulnerable guy whatsoever, but he entrusted Allison to take care of him after proving that she'd understand. She had been the only girl he'd ever met that could relate to his situation in a way, and all the girls he'd go around with had just been for hook-ups and quickies, never to be seen or heard from again afterwards. He hadn't complained half the time, but it got lonely, and the sex, along with alcohol didn't fill the void inside him, no matter how hard he'd tried to make it.

As always, he'd reeked of cigarettes, expression clearly distressed. He sat on top of her bed as she dug under it, pulling out the first aid kit she had stored underneath. "Do you want to talk about it?" Allison questioned with a hushed tone, sitting herself down beside him. When he shook his head in response, she didn't press any further, although she sighed. Billy hated when people would pry, which was something Allison had come to learn in their silent nights together, but the brunette hated the silence. She had been taught to express her feelings, which was something the Hargrove boy had been reprimanded for, if he had done the same thing. As Allison pushed his golden locks to the side, she wiped at his wounds with a cotton pad dipped in rubbing alcohol, receiving little to no reaction from him as the sting amplified.

Neil had undoubtably socked him in the face three to four times, leaving the Byers girl wondering if there had been an inexcusable reason for it, or if it was just one of the times Neil just felt like doing so. Billy's gaze remained impassive, staring ahead of him in a sort of trance. The only readable expression was through his posture- on alert. He looked as if he was about to run off into the night, or that Allison was going to hurt him. He flinched as she placed a Band-Aid across the cut, holding on to his chin to keep his face steady. "Hey, you're safe. You're safe here." Allison softly reassured, placing a hand on his shoulder for comfort. His shoulders slumped as he nodded in return, biting down on his bottom lip. "I know I said I'd be here for when this sort of thing happens, but I also said I'd be here if you needed someone to talk to."

"I know. I just don't want to talk about it." He replied, letting out a harsh breath. "And I'm not forcing you to. I just, I feel like this... like we wouldn't be as awkward... if we just talked. It doesn't have to be about what happens when you're at home, it can be anything." Allison suggests, bringing her legs into a crisscross position. "Like...?" The blue-eyed boy questions, finally pulling his attention to the girl beside him. "How you feel, what's going on with you... what you want to do. Anything."

He remains silent, still looking at the brunette for a further comment. "Okay... I'll start. I feel like you should talk to me, because sitting here in silence is often insufferable." Allison expressed, fiddling with her thumbs as she hoped she wouldn't receive a negative reaction from him. He furrows his eyebrows for a second, letting out a breath. "I don't know what to say, doll."

"Like I've already said two times, anything. Say anything." Allison responds, sighing at his inability to understand. "Anything I'd want to say, you wouldn't want to hear." He claimed, placing his palms on his kneecaps. "How could you possibly know that?"

"Because they wouldn't be easy to listen to. You'd get angry, or you'd tell me I'm full of shit."

"And what about the stuff I want to say to you that would evoke a reaction, and probably not a good one?"

"Like what?"

"Like the fact that you made me feel as if you only came over that one night to get in my pants, not to check up on me. I hated that you left me before I could even catch my breath. I felt so... wrong. I guess I should've told you that aftercare was extremely important to me, but I didn't, and it's not like you were expected to provide it, but it just made me feel horrible. I wished you would've stayed; And- and what you did back in November here made me question my prior judgement of you. I don't know why in the hell you thought it was okay to attack a thirteen-year-old boy, but I can guarantee you have no justifiable reason, though I'd really like to know what in the hell possessed you to do so. You know, so many people warned me about you, but I refused to listen, because I wanted to give you a chance; And now, I'm giving you a second chance. You agreed to work on your anger, and your behavior whilst also letting me help you. Communication is extremely important, Billy, and I need you to communicate with me. I want to know what you're thinking or feeling so I can help you, but I'm not a mind reader."

"Fine. I didn't come that night to have sex with you, initially. It just happened. I genuinely found interest in you, so sue me for worrying about you. I didn't- I never wanted to hurt you darlin'. That was never my intention. My family, including Max, made my life miserable. The second Neil brought her home, I knew it wasn't gonna get fucking easier. And it didn't. She'd get me in trouble all the fuckin' time before we moved here- and still has. For god's sake, Neil thinks she needs a damn babysitter at thirteen when he turned a blind eye to me when I was nine. I was just trying to get my revenge and make her life as miserable as she was making mine, and the only way I knew how to do it was driving any possible friends she'd make away from her when we'd move to this stupid fuckin' town. Sinclair just happened to be the one she was with. Maxine didn't listen to me, so I had to tell him."

"That didn't sound like you told him anything. It sounded like you threatened him after shoving him into the dish cabinet- and then you beat the shit out of Steve for what!? For sport?"

"No, because he's a dick, and clearly in love with you, and I can't stand thinking that you might go back to him before I even got the chance to tell you that you deserve better than him." Billy whisper-yells, his nostrils flaring in anger. Allison is taken aback by his statement, unable to shoot some rebuttal back his way for a few lengthy seconds. "So- so you beat the shit out of him for it?"

"You're completely missing the point."

"Maybe I am, but are you serious? You don't want me to be with him so bad, that you'd hurt him so severely to prove your point instead of just telling me!?" Allison hastily questions, eyes wide. He opens his mouth to reply but finds himself unable to deny it. "You're crazy. Literally. This is why I said we need to work on your behavior, because that's not even close to normal."

"And you are?" He inquires, sitting up straight from his slumped position. "What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Allison questions in return, tilting her head at him. "From the little bit I heard, I can clearly state that Steve broke your heart in a way that no sane person forgives and forgets as easily as you did, and yet you are still- are you still in love with him?"

Allison looks at him, mouth open, but no words coming out. "I- I..." She breathily stutters, rapidly blinking at the boy. "Are you in love with him, or are you in love with the idea of being loved?" He asks, raising his eyebrows. "I don't know. I don't know what I feel. I just know that something is there." She quietly replies, shaking her head as she speaks. "If I communicate with you, will you let me prove myself? Maybe even in more ways than one..."

"You're deflecting my concerns, Billy."

"And you're disregarding my feelings. You want me to communicate to you, I'll communicate to you. I hate watching Harrington look at you the way I do. I hate not being able to be around you like I used to. I know I screwed up. I know. I have shit to make up for, and I will. But I need you to know that what I said that night, before I fought Steve, what I told you- I do want you to be mine. I really do. I might've been drunk then, and out of my mind now, but I know I want you."

The Hargrove boy leans forward slightly, his breath hitting her cheek. "Please tell me you want me too, or just fuckin' something."

"I... I want you, but I can't just take your word without proof of growth."

Truth was, Allison never craved attention this much until she tasted his, and she hated it. The brunette knew he was bad for her, yet she found herself wanting him too. He smiled down at her, her words bringing harmony to his ears. "Since I know you take this shit serious..." He pauses, holding up his pinky to her; "I promise to be better, but I want you to be there with me when I try."

The brunette looks down to his hand, then back up to his eyes. She was torn in two inside, truthfully. She was holding out for Steve, yet here Billy was, offering himself up to her on a silver platter. She didn't know it was possible to feel attraction to two people in two separate ways until this very moment, where she was left to decide on it. "But the others... what would they think?"

"Why does it matter what they think? This is you and me. Just us darlin'." He states, moving a strand of hair behind Allison's ear. "You can take this pinky promise and still change your mind later. You don't even have to answer me now. I just want you to know how I feel before I don't get the chance to say it."

With that, the brunette nods slowly, linking her pinky with his. He raises his eyebrow at the girl, wanting to know if any sort of statement will come from her lips. "Sleep on it?" He questions, receiving another nod from her. "Yeah... sleep on it."

As any other night Billy had come over, seeking her services, he'd usually spend the night, sometimes opting out of it. Tonight, he chose to stay, sleeping beside the Byers girl as her mind raced for an answer, knowing whatever she chose would unsatisfy someone in the end; as Billy said, she shouldn't care what others thought, because it really was just her and him, no one else; It ate at her anyway.

Chapter Text

"He said what?" Heather had practically jumped out of her seat in the cafeteria at Hawkins High, drawing attention of nearby students. "Shhhh. You're literally the only person I've told, so please don't tell the whole cafeteria." Allison giggled, using her hands to motion downwards. The curly haired brunette sits back down, placing her head atop her perfectly manicured hands. "He told me the next morning that I could take my time. I'm literally torn, babe. I have no clue what I really want to do."

"Well, obviously him! I know you've already done him, but you know what I mean."

"Good god, Heather."

"Okay. Let's pick out the pros and cons of him and Steve... and maybe you'll find your answer. Like one of the many cons of Harrington is the fact that he swapped you for your less-hot best friend. I don't recall Billy doing that..."

"Heth, we've gone over this before. I know you hate him and Nancy, but I just so happen not to. I don't think I could. Not too much on Nancy, babe, and even after he broke my heart... I could never hate him."

"Bleh. Too sappy and romantic, but we'll start off with him. Pros of Steve are...?"

"He's charismatic, has made up for most of his wrong-doings, really good with my littlest brother and his friends, apologized to Jonathan and myself, usually good with communication, always provides aftercare, almost always supportive, adorable, great personality, protective-"

"Cons?" Heather cuts her off, raising one of her eyebrows. "Uhm... overly protective, can get pretty jealous, a little judgmental of the choices I have made, he's a man-"

"Amen." The Holloway girl cuts Allison off again, receiving a confused look from her best friend. "You said he's a man... as a con... I'm saying amen." She smiles, an understanding settling within the other brunette. "Right. So that's a con that applies to both of them, as well as their testosterone issues. I mean, sure, Steve was a huge asshole back in every other year but this one, but like my own mother said, he's proving himself."

"Not Joyce too! I'm going to have to talk to your mom soon, girl. She's being entranced by the hair just like you. Billy on the other hand... what are the pros?"

"Extremely attractive, great smile, great body, claims he wants to make up for his wrong doings, protective, relatable, charming... see this is the problem. I like Steve because he has a great personality and looks, but I feel like the only pros for Billy I'm spewing out is about his body or looks. I don't want to like somebody only for their looks."

"Okay... what about cons? His personality?" Heather joked, receiving an expression reading, 'basically' from Allison. "He's arrogant, short-tempered, not a family guy- like he absolutely despises his, really big on sexual stuff, has an ego so big you can basically watch it grow, overly protective, unnervingly jealous... and honestly is just an angry-possessive walking red flag."

"So why do you like him?" Heather questions, poking at her salad. "I don't know. I really don't. There's something magnetic about him- he smiles and I just... I lose it. He's puts up this strong front but is actually just a boy who wants someone underneath all those damaged layers. He's not perfect... yet I want him so damn bad."

"Sounds like the walking red flags are looking green to you."

"I don't want them to. I don't want to want him, but I do. And I have absolutely no clue why, and it's driving me fucking insane, Heth. I feel like I'm being hypnotized by him or something."

"He is pretty hypnotizing. But babe, it's your heart. Your heart wants him." Heather put forth, offering a sympathetic smile. Allison thought back to her mother's words, telling her to listen to her heart as she had taught, but it wasn't that simple. Her heart wanted two different people, but only one of them admittedly wanted her. It was childish to hold out for hope on someone that might not even love her back, even if Billy claimed Steve did, he had never come forth and confessed so, and it's not like she could wait until he did to make up her mind. Billy Hargrove wanted her, and the feeling of being wanted was enough to decide for her. She'd agree in gym, and they'd go from there. As much as the opinions of her close ones and Steve had mattered to her, she convinced herself that she'd find a way to block it out.

"Hey Heather." A feminine voice came from behind the Byers girl, pulling her out of her thoughts. The brunette turned around to see that of the familiar face of Robin Buckley, a band geek who Allison had known through Barb. The short haired girl was a year younger than Allison, and possessed different interests than the brunette. The two had never actually had any classes together, but had known of the others existence. The Buckley girl smiled down to Allison, nodding her head as a 'hello.'

After the brunette warmly smiled back, she swiveled around to face the Holloway girl, who had wide eyes and crimson cheeks. "Um... I didn't mean to interrupt. I just wanted to... to make sure that we're still s-studying together for the math final... you know so we can pass the class, and I totally get it if it's off, but I just needed to know if you still wanted to-"

"Robin- yes. We're still on for tonight." Heather cuts off the rambling girl, a thin-lipped smile across her face while her eyebrows raised. "Great. Okay... I'll see you after school at Benson park- I mean- with Benson at- At my house..." The blue-eyed girl stammered, cheeks reddening as she spewed out too much information, turning on her heels and quickly walking away. The expression on Heather's face matched that of embarrassment, as she looked to the tables on both sides of the one she had been sat at. "Uhm... what was that?" Allison questioned, raising her eyebrows at her best friend.

"Just a project for Mrs. Laughlin." Heather smiled, shoving salad in her mouth as the crimson color simmered on her cheeks. "I thought it was a math project?" Allison questioned, placing her fork down on the plastic tray. "It is."

"Heth, Mrs. Laughlin is a science teacher." The Byers girl noted, catching Heather in a lie. The brown eyed girl stops chewing, realizing she had been no better than Robin at her words. "And Benson Park? Why would you go there for a math project... Hawkins is a small town. I think I'd know if a Benson went to our school, and last I remembered, there wasn't." Allison voiced, crossing her arms as the curly haired brunette remained silent. "Heather Holloway. What aren't you telling me?"

"Nothing, there's nothing to tell."

"Hun, we've known each other since elementary school, and I know when there's something going on with you. You've been acting out of the norm lately, like- like when you first started talking to Christopher. Wait a minute... is Benson a cover name for some guy?" Allison inquires, leaning forward. Heather sits in contemplation for a moment, biting on her lip as she observes her excited best friend. "You guessed it." The Holloway girl lies, shrugging her shoulders. "And you told Robin, but not me?" The Byers girl questions, placing a hand over her heart to gesture that it was broken.

"I just didn't think anyone would've reacted positively about it. Sorry, babe." Heather sadly smiled, wishing she could tell the truth that bothered her consciousness for months now. "It's okay. I just want you to be happy after Christopher, and not rebound with his lame ass. So as long as it's anyone but him, I'm going to support you." Allison smiles, brushing her hair out of her face. The brunette hadn't been aware that her words had meant something deeper to the Holloway girl, who had a warm smile smear across her face. She grabbed Allison's hand, squeezing it tightly. "Love you always, Allie."

"Love you always." Allison smiled in return, splitting from her best friend after lunch concluded. Billy had already been waiting outside the cafeteria doors, a smirk already displayed across his face. "You look beautiful." He cooed, smiling down at her. She rolled her eyes in return, a grin embracing her lips. "You're just saying that to butter me up so I'll say yes."

"Me? Never. I'm just telling it how it is baby." He tilts his head, flashing his toothy grin as she blushes, tugging at his denim jacket sleeve, ushering him forward. The two walk to the gym together, his eyes lingering on her. "If you're wondering if I've made up my mind, I have."

"Oh?" He questions with a flirtatious tone, nearly knocking shoulders with a passing student due to his focus remaining on the girl beside him, and not the direction he was going. "Yeah. I can tell you over dinner." Allison proposes, stepping into the gym with the golden-haired boy on her tail. "Tonight?" He questions as the two stop; "If that works for you." The brunette replies, taking two steps backwards towards the changing room as he calls out in return: "Six?"

"Perfect." She responds, turning on her heels to change.

-

After coming up with a lie that she'd be hanging out with Heather for the afternoon to Joyce, she ran down the street, hopping in Billy's cobalt blue Camaro, speeding off to Betty's diner downtown.

The pair had only ordered milkshakes and shared fries, the brunette preparing herself for the upcoming discussion. As Billy offers a gracious smile to the waiter, thanking them for delivering the drinks, he returns his attention to the brunette across from him. "So... you said you made your decision?"

"Mhm." Allison hums, taking her chocolate milkshake in hand. "Well? Don't leave me hangin' doll."

"I want to do this with you. I want to help you, and I want to be with you, but I want to establish some boundaries and rules before we jump in to whatever this is."

"'Course Darlin'." He smiles wide, pausing for a moment. "What do you have in mind?" He questions, sucking on the straw of his strawberry milkshake. "I've never really been someone's secret, and I don't think I want to change that. I prefer to have public relationships... if that's even what you want out of this. I just don't want whatever this is to just be sex and trauma bonding."

"Okay... I think I can work with that. Sex is still on the table though, right?" He asks, genuinely looking concerned. "Yes, dingus. I'm just trying to say I don't want that to be the main focus of our relationship."

"Noted." He contented, propping his elbows on the table. "And with sex comes aftercare, per your request, correct?" He questions, raising an eyebrow. "Yes. Um... we should probably talk about our comfortability levels, so we don't find ourselves in awkward situations." Allison put forth, sucking on her straw. "M'kay... what are you comfortable with?"

"I'm not sure I should discuss it in a... public... setting." She blushed, a shocked expression crossing the Hargrove boys' face. "Allison Byers, you are one surprising yet fascinating woman, and I'm dying to know, or explore your interests." The golden-haired boy mused, gawking at the brunette with a shit eating grin. "So, starting tomorrow, were you wanting to go public at school?" He questioned, taking another sip of his milkshake.

"Why the hell not. Just your typical Tuesday morning that the new, most desired boy in Hawkins is dating the ex-king's ex-girlfriend." Allison humored, smiling to the boy across from her. "Speaking of pretty boy... what are you gonna tell him?"

"I have no clue. If we go public tomorrow, word will spread quickly... and he'll find out one way or another. I want to tell him, but I don't have a good feeling on how that conversation could possibly go. It would be like October all over again." The brunette sighed, rubbing at her forehead. "Hey, look at me." Billy speaks softly, pulling her hand away from her face, holding it in his own. "If he cares about you as much as you talk about, he won't pull that bullshit again. And if he does, or hurts you at all, in any way, you know I'll be there to beat the shit out of him."

"Okay- another rule, no beating the shit out of anyone. Not even for my sake." Allison declares, pushing her milkshake aside. "Also... respect my friendship with Steve, just as I do with you and Tommy. I'm as big as a fan of him and Carol as you are with Steve. Plus, you know how important he is to me." She mentions as he slowly nods. "Okay, my turn. Instead of inflicting pain on Harrington, I will... kindly... remind him that you are mine, and if he so much as oversteps, I will not so kindly put him in his place."

With a sigh, Allison nods, hoping it would never get to that point. "I hope you know that you're going to have to get along with Max if you want us to work." The brunette adds, receiving a disapproving look from the blue-eyed boy. "Why..?"

"Because I've come to like her. She's in Will's friend group, and I just happen to be their designated chaperone here and there, so I would want you to tag along... and get along with all of them, which will require some pretty big apologies." The Byers girl implied, tilting her head at the displeased boy.

"Fine."

-

When Tuesday had arrived, Billy had taken her to school, speeding through Hawkins High parking lot per usual. It never failed to draw attention of the bystanders who were loitering by their cars, engaging in conversation before the first bell would ring. It was weird to have someone else take her to school for a change; something that she hadn't done since her sophomore year.

Max had been sat in the back seat, remaining silent the entire ride. She had known where Billy would sneak off to in the middle of the night after Neil would take his anger out but, hearing the two quietly talk of what people would think the second she exited his car had been enough to make her understand that it had evolved into more than just comfort and reassurance. As she clutched her skateboard that had been placed over her lap, Billy turns the engine off, swiveling in his seat to face the brunette beside him. "Hey, everything's gonna be fine." He attempts to reassure, reaching across to stroke her temple with his thumb. Allison nods in return, taking a deep breath in and out. "Ready?" He questions, the Byers girl looking to him as he speaks. "Ready." She affirms, opening the car door, followed by stepping out, and pulling the seat forward so Max could exit. The redhaired girl thanks her in return, plopping her skateboard on the ground before zooming down the hill, heading towards the Middle School across the way.

Carol, Tina, and Vicki had been leaning against the Perkins girls' car as they had any other day, getting the chance to observe Billy from afar every morning. This morning was different. It hadn't just been the air that finally brought the slightest bit of warmth in it's breeze, but it had been the fact that Allison Byers was with the new King. The brunette had made her way to his trunk, where he placed her on top, standing between her legs. The girls couldn't hear what he had been saying to her, but when he leaned down, intertwining his lips with hers, Tina had practically dropped her binders and notebooks at the sight, all three girls being absolutely baffled.

As the girls scoffed and headed inside, Billy pulled away from the brunette's face, resting his hands on her hips. He had asked if she had been comfortable with PDA, followed by requesting permission to kiss her. The way his blue eyes seeped into hers made her feel as though it was impossible to decline, craving the feeling of his lips moving against hers. Their little moment hadn't gone unnoticed by the sea of highschoolers filing in and out of the building. "Well, we're in too deep now Darlin'." Billy smiled, looking over his shoulder at the amused students watching from afar.

With a tug on his collar, their lips were pulled back together, her arms wrapping around his neck as he gently squeezed at her waist, smiling against her lips. "If you keep kissing me like this, we might have to skip first period." The Hargrove boy hinted, moving to kiss her neck.

"Is that a proposition?" Allison smiled, watching as he pulled away to face her, raising his eyebrows in return. "Perhaps."

Her eyes searched the area, followed by looking through the back window of the Camaro. "As much as I would like to do so, I'm not sure I like the thought of doing it on school grounds." She expressed, sliding off of his car, now pressed up against him. "Hm. Maybe tonight... or sometime this week."

"Can't tonight... It's movie night." Allison revealed, her lips forming a thin line. "Does Max have a ride?" He questions, knowing she goes over sometimes on Tuesday or Thursday nights. "Um... I could get Steve to swing by..."

"Or, I can drop her off." He suggests, looking intently down at her. "You could, but I'm not completely sure that's a good idea." The brunette replies, slipping from his grasp as she pulls him with her in the direction of the school. "You're my girl now, right?"

"Right...?" The hazel-eyed girl replies, raising an eyebrow. "And you want me to get along with Max?" He asks, stopping in his tracks; the brunette stopping too. "Yes..."

"So baby steps. I won't stay for the movie since I know Steve will be there, and those kids obviously hate me-"

"For good reason." Allison interjects, receiving a glare from the Hargrove boy. "What? You know what you did."

"As I was trying to say, I won't stay, but I'll work my way to redeeming myself, starting with Maxine. I'll just drop her off, say hi to my beautiful girl, and leave." He finishes, pulling her waist to be side by side with him, now walking together inside the building. "Does that work?" He questions after nodding to his basketball buddies, who had looked surprised to see a woman next to him. "Yes, that works."

"Perfect. How about you and Heather sit with me and the others at lunch?" He asks, stopping as Allison retrieved her notebooks from her locker. "We'll see. We've kinda grown to appreciating our alone time. Plus, we kinda hate almost everyone you sit with."

"Besides Tommy, Carol, and her obnoxious friends, who?" He inquires as she shuts her locker, leaning against it. "Heather's ex, Christopher, those basketball douches like Jason Carver and his friends." Allison whispers, not wanting others to hear. "I- I don't even talk to those little shits. They sit at the opposite end of the table- and isn't that Carver kids' girlfriend on your team?" He questions as the two begin to walk towards English, his arm wrapping around her shoulders. "I said we hate almost everyone you sit with. Chrissy is fine, maybe Chance's girlfriend Amy too. But that's it."

"Two people is better than none." He jokes, placing his hand on the small of her back as they walk into the classroom, Steve already sat in his desk behind Allison's. He looks up upon hearing the Hargrove boys voice; he had always been on alert it had seemed after their fight, never knowing what could happen in any given moment. Seeing Allison next to him- and so close to him, was immediately confusing and a tad dis-heartening, but he tried to justify it. They sat together everyday, and it wasn't like sharing a desk was incredibly spacious, but at the same time that the two had sat close together, they rarely engaged in conversation unless it was class-related. He shoved his feelings down that threatened to bring negative emotions to the surface, greeting the brunette as he did every week day.

In return, she'd greet him, sending a warm smile his way. He had looked forward to it every morning. It was the same smile he had seen so many times, yet it felt so special each time it was given to him. He'd look at her in a silent awe, watching as she fixed her hair once she sat down, placing her notebooks to the side in the same place each time, the same short pencil being placed beside them. He'd examine every detail of her side profile as her attention was brought to Mr. Dorten, resting her head on top of her hands. Steve looked at her like he just realized what love was, and his soul ached for her.

As Billy leaned his arm around her chair, his hand playing with her hair, he observed the way she looked over at him. It had been the way she used to look at him, which was a look he had grown to know to well. Maybe it was love, or admiration, or some sentimental shit. But something about that moment brought clarity to him, that after all this time, he had never fallen out of love with her.

It was her. It's always been her.

Chapter Text

As lunch came around, Allison had suggested the Hargrove boy's proposal to Heather, receiving a hesitant yes. Once the girls had retrieved their lunches, they walked side by side to the long table, where the mostly junior basketball jocks and cheerleaders hollered and cackled. The atmosphere of the cafeteria was bustling and clamorous, each social group being split into their own sections. You had the nerds, the preps, goth's, hellfire club, band and theater kids, you name it; all placed in a designated area.

Billy was quick to make room for her, firmly telling Tina and Vicki to move. "Hey Darlin'." He smiled as Heather and the Brunette filled up the space beside him, their trays clanking against the surface. "Are the rumors true?" Carol spoke up, smacking on her gum as always. "What rumors?" Tommy questioned, his arm slithering its way around Carol's shoulders. "That they're dating." The redhead implies, looking between the two with a harsh glare. Attention is quickly turned to the two by the members at the table, some leaning forward in anticipation. "Yeah, they're true." He grins, slinging his arm around Allison beside him.

The basketball boys applaud the Hargrove boy as if he had just won the Olympics, Tina and Vicki scoffing. "Man... we're gonna have to have a talk later." Tommy murmurs, looking from Billy to the brunette. "Why can't you say it now?" He questions, using his tongue to pull food from his teeth. "Cause your girlfriend won't be too thrilled."

"Please, humor me Tommy." Allison retorts, crossing her arms in front of her. "Fine. I think you could do better, man. You're practically the King of the school now, since you took Steve's place- and you don't want to follow in that soft-turned bastard's footsteps. He already fucked her man, she's basically sloppy seconds."

The brunette's eyes widen as he speaks loud enough to tell the entire school, though it hadn't entirely been a secret anyway. "Watch your damn mouth, you think I care about that shit?" Billy responds, his eyes narrowing at the Hagan boy, who looked appalled. "You should." Tommy verbalized, looking intently at the golden-haired teen across from him. "Just so you know asshole, women have more purpose than to satisfy yours or any other man's needs. As a matter of fact, that should be the lowest on any sensible woman's list." Allison sneers, scoffing at the dimwitted boy. "Preach." Heather adds, the two girls glaring at the freckle-faced boy. Though Carol was indefinitely desperate, not even she could disagree with the brunette's, even when Tommy looked to her for rebuttal. He scoffed, removing his arm from around her shoulders. "Whatever. You'll go soft just like Harrington did. Allison's no different than that Priss."

"Why don't you shut your mouth, man?" Billy advises, licking his bottom lip as his fist clenches from around Allison's shoulders. "You wouldn't want me degrading Carol now, would you?" The Hargrove boy questions, his tone taunting. "No."

"Exactly. So keep my girl's name out of your mouth, amigo." Billy instructs, keeping himself controlled whilst managing to be intimidating. With a roll of his eyes, Tommy slumps back in his seat, mumbling to himself. The Hargrove boy is quick to take Allison's much smaller hand in his, placing their intertwined hands on her thigh as he gently rubs his thumb across her skin, offering her a look as if to say, 'don't let him get to you.'

-

It had already been seven by the time Billy finally decided to drop Max off at the Byers, which was thirty minutes later than it should have been. It was only the kids, Steve, and Allison tonight. Jonathan was most likely off with Nancy, Joyce had picked up an extra shift at Melvald's that night, and Hopper only brought El over when she was present.

The booming Metallica music along with a disruptive rev of the Camaro practically broke the sound barrier of the once silent surroundings; "Finally, jesus christ." Dustin exclaims, plopping down on the couch next to Steve; from his other side, Allison stands, followed by crossing over to the front door. With a screeching halt, the shiny cobalt blue car stops only a few feet away from her own vehicle; Max climbs out, shutting the door with an unamused expression on her face. As Allison opens the door, Max brings her lips into a thin line; "Sorry I'm late... he wants to talk to you." She announces, stepping over the threshold, meeting with her friends in the living room. "Okay, I'll be right back." Allison voiced, shutting the front door behind her.

Billy's arms are placed over his steering wheel, a smug expression on his face. The brunette places her hands on her hips as he leans one of his elbows on the windowsill, looking earnestly up at her. "You're late." She sighed, crossing her arms in annoyance. "I know, I just couldn't find the right one, so I settled on this..." He stated, pulling a bouquet of crimson roses from the backseat, outstretching his hand, and passing the flowers on to her. "They're generic, but it's the most romantic flower I could think of." He added, flashing a toothy grin her way. As she clutched on to them in her hands, a smile crept across her face, returning her gaze to the Hargrove boy.

"What's taking her so long?" Steve questioned, looking out through the front window, squinting to see her in the distance. The brunette had a soft rouge tint to her cheeks, smiling graciously, her hands and lower body being hidden from view. The brown-haired boy continued to watch as Allison bent down low enough for her to be face to face with Billy, his hand cupping her cheek before pulling her forward, intertwining his lips with hers. At that point, Steve had turned to face the television instead, unable to watch any longer.

With all kids but Will being distracted, he sees the pained expression of his sister's once-lover, curiosity sprouting through his bones. The youngest Byers boy had tried to look out the window, but the front door opened before he got the chance, Allison stepping inside with a bouquet in hand. She glanced around the room, receiving questionable looks from the preteens, in return just shaking it off. "Now that you're here, I'll get the popcorn ready." She directs to Max, waltzing over to the kitchen.

As the Camaro raced off into the darkening sky, Allison retrieved a glass vase from the dish cabinet in the living room, carefully placing the bloomed roses in, gingerly filling the glass halfway with water. "So... are we gonna talk about the elephant in the room?" Dustin questions, looking from one teen to the other. "What elephant?" Lucas inquires from beside Max on the floor, the two quitting their bickering to tune into the conversation. "Hello? The roses? From the antichrist?"

"You and your expressions, Henderson." Steve chuckles, looking over to Allison, who wears a serious but confused expression. "It's why we were late. He dragged me to the flower stand to pick out flowers for you, and when he couldn't decide, I told him roses were a safe bet." Max revealed, shrugging her shoulders as the popcorn is prepared, Will helping Allison carry out the large bowls to the group. "Is he like your boyfriend or something?" Mike questions, remembering the night he had seen Billy in her bedroom, before he even knew who the guy was. Dustin side-eyed the Harrington boy beside him, knowing of the teen's feelings towards the Byers girl, being revealed to him back on the train tracks in November when Steve had given girlfriend advice to him. All attention was now on the brunette as she retrieved blankets from beside the fireplace, tossing it to the different groups. "Yeah... yeah he is." Allison admitted, a weird feeling washing over her as she uttered the truth.

"After everything he's done, why? How long?" The curly-haired boy asked, sensing the downheartedness of his new older best friend. "Because Dustin, you can't control who you like or love. It just... happens. He promised he'd work on himself, and has apologies he wants to make. I'm going to be there to make sure he keeps his word... and only since last night." Allison sighed, sitting down beside Steve. "You're gonna be stuck with him for a while." Steve joked, "You know... since he has a lot to apologize for."

As the two looked to one another, he realized his words were more direct than he had intended. "I just... you know what I mean. I have no doubt you'll keep him in check... you're probably the best thing that's happened to him, and he's lucky that you so much as forgave him." He deflected how he had felt, his eyes soft and honest. He gently smiled, receiving one from Allison in return. "He's not wrong." Max chimed in, Steve thanking her for the backup.

"So... can we watch the movie now?" Will questioned, gaining the two's attentions. "Right... yeah, go ahead." His sister replied, smiling to him. He inserted the VHS tape of Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, sitting down beside the Wheeler boy. Whilst most of the preteens disregarded the new information, Steve and Dustin exchanged looks, the curly-haired boy patting Steve's shoulder with a sympathetic smile; Allison beside them being completely oblivious.

-

Friday had quickly approached, the day bringing anticipation to Hawkins. It hadn't been the first time the Hawkins Tigers made it to the championship game, but they lost each season for the past twenty-one years. Hopes were high as excitement filled the air, Allison and her fellow cheerleaders dressed in their freshly ironed skirts and button-up sweaters, hair thrown up in a neat ponytail.

With any time she'd be wearing her cheer uniform, Billy would gape at the brunette. Besides Halloween night when she had dressed as a flapper, he hadn't seen her wear anything above the knee; now that she was his, he had become aware of the way other guys would gawk at her, from the innocent to disturbing kind. He had to bite down on his tongue with so much as a glance in her direction by any guy. As they sat at lunch, he had been so on edge due to his fellow teammates whistling at her or any cheerleader that passed, making an inappropriate remark.

He had glared dangerously to juniors on his team at the end of the table as a warning, shutting them up quickly. Playing with Billy was one of the most intimidating things they had faced; He was easily angered and didn't always play fair. After a heated argument between the Hargrove boy and a fellow senior, the others backed down; Billy had completely dominated him, breaking his nose back in January. Since then, they had remained cautious, not wanting to over-step.

Warmth tingled across Allison's leg as the golden-haired boy placed his veiny hand on her bare thigh, giving it a gentle squeeze. He began discussing the game tonight with Tommy whilst the brunette glanced Heather's way, who had seemingly been staring off into space. "You alive over there?" Allison questioned quietly; Heather quick to look back. "What?"

"I said are you alive over there?" The Byers girl laughed, examining Heather's strange mannerisms. "Oh, yeah." The curly haired brunette replies, smiling gently before her eyes quickly glanced back in their original direction. Allison had done the same, noticing Christopher talking to Robin Buckley and one of her bandmates from afar. The Holloway girl looked almost jealous as her leg bounced anxiously, fiddling with her freshly manicured nails. Allison places her hands over Heather's, receiving her friend's attention yet again. Once Heather raised her eyebrow, Allison shifted slightly to face her, Billy's hand still on her thigh; "You okay love?" She delicately asked, worried Heather never got over Christopher after all, as she had claimed to. "Of course... of course I am hun." Heather lied, smiling reassuringly while her hands moved from under the other brunettes, now resting on top.

"You know you can always talk to me right... about anything. I would never judge you;" Allison paused, Heather's eyes widening as she speaks. "I don't see what you see in Chris, but I will support you either way." The brunette reassures as the Holloway girl lets a sigh of relief out, nodding her head. "Right. I know."

With a final shared smile, Allison looks back to Billy, treasuring his excitement for tonight's game. When he catches her smiling, his thumb meets her chin, pulling her lips to his. The kiss is short and sweet; He wraps his arm around her waist, using the other hand to pull her legs towards him, laying them over his lap as his fingers grasp her soft skin, rubbing up and down barely. His attention is pulled to Tommy while doing so, picking up his conversation where he left off. Allison's head laid against his shoulder, a placidity reveling within her.

Following lunch, a pep rally was held for the Hawkins Tigers, the cheerleaders inhabiting the court as they shook their pom-pom's, the band playing school spirit rhythms. Allison had been a flier, now almost fully out of breath from being hoisted in the air, holding her leg close to her head, putting full faith and trust into the bases below her. Keeping her knees locked, clutching her hands to her chest, they dipped, tossing her up as she twisted in the air, her fall breaking as she swiftly landed in their arms. As always, applaud followed their small performance, as the cheerleaders cheered their way over to the bleachers.

The basketball team filed in, cocky grins on their smug faces as the sea of students applauded them; Tommy, who had somehow taken as head of the team, though he was a shit player, retrieved the microphone. "How we doing Hawkins?" He smiled, receiving touts from the teens. "Tonight is one of the biggest nights for our school. It has been six years since us Tigers have made it thus far into the playoffs, wedging ourselves all the way to the championship game. We plan to take the champion title tonight and bring pride and justice back to this town. We will bring respect back to us Tigers. Tonight, we will destroy Landrum High!"

The crowd chanted and cheered, eagerness spreading through them. As everyone had slowly been dismissed, the cheerleaders found their way to the team, swarming the boys with words of affirmation. Billy had picked Allison up and twirled her around as she squealed, blushing at the undoubtful attention of others on her. Once he set her down, she playfully smacked his arm that held her at her waist; "You probably just flashed my ass to everyone, thanks."

"It's a nice ass." He grins, kissing her cheek affectionately. The brunette rolled her eyes as a crimson tone rose to her cheeks; "Thanks, I get that all the time." She joked, receiving a smirk from him. "I'll see you back here after school. Don't go flashing that ass to anyone but me while you're away Darlin'." He joked, his hand lowering to her ass, giving it a squeeze before she pulled from him, shaking her head as she turned on her heels, heading off to next period.

-

After school had concluded, the time for the final game to start was approaching. Inside the gymnasium, Allison had been stretching on the ground by her fellow cheerleaders on the sidelines as the basketball players warmed up, shooting hoops and encouraging each other. It was nice to see Steve and Billy be united in a way for once, even if they hadn't spoken a word to one another. Once they were granted a water break, most went into the halls for the water fountain while the Harrington boy crossed over to her, nervously stopping in his tracks a few feet away. Her hazel eyes met his brown ones, a warm smile crossing her face.

She rose to her feet, inching closer to the boy, handing him his water bottle that he had asked her to watch over. "Thanks." He simply spoke, chugging down the liquid. His cheeks were rosy, sweat beads dripping from his hair that had been messy and raked through with his fingers. The brunette took the bottle from him after he had finished, returning it to it's safe keeping spot; "You nervous?" Allison questioned, tightening her ponytail, being held by a forest green scrunchie. "Yeah... before game jitters."

"Have you stretched?"

"Not yet."

"You should; You always regretted not listening to me the day after a game when you'd get aches or cramps." Allison recalled back to their sophomore year. Steve had always been persistent on the idea that he'd be fine without stretching, internally regretting it within the next 24 hours. "Just drink water, and make sure you have your Tylenol or something." She advised, his tender eyes seeping into hers. He was visibly anxious about the game, which had been something she hadn't seen since he had first started his high school basketball career, quickly being able to adapt not even two months later. "Hey, you're going to do great out there, Steve. I know you will."

His mouth twitched before he bit down on his bottom lip, chewing at the inside. "I don't know... this... this is big. If we don't win this, my basketball season is not only over, but I'll have failed. Plus, Coach Larson keeps me as a benchwarmer nowadays, since your boyfriend took my place." He humored, shaking his head as he tried to remain positive about the situation. "I'm barely passing my classes... so I don't know if I'm going to be able to go to college after summer. I might be stuck here, working for my asshole father."

"Is he coming tonight?" Allison questioned, remembering how Mr. Harrington hadn't shown to any of Steve's games after the first one he lost. "No... no he's not. He knows tonight is a big deal, but he told me that with me on the team... we'll never make champions." His voice cracks, emotion filling his last words. If there was one thing Allison had hated more than her own father, it was the fathers of the boys she loved. Steve's parents had always neglected him, and he had often been alone, left to depend on himself. And Neil, well, there was a lot to be said about him.

The Byers girl reached for Steve's upper right arm, gently squeezing it for reassurance. She had wanted to pull him in for a hug so bad, just to make him feel that someone believed in him, but when two firm hands found themselves on her shoulders, she hesitated from doing so. "Darlin'." Billy called from behind, eyeing Steve. As the Harrington boy stepped back, retreating from Allison's grasp, Billy pulled the brunette's chin to face him, planting a territorial kiss on her lips. Allison had quickly been able to realize this kiss had an ulterior motive; that it wasn't a kiss for her sake, but for him to remind Steve of who she belonged to. With that realization, she pulled from him, gently pushing him away. The Harrington boy had already been almost to the other side of the gym when Allison looked for him, frustration rising within her.

Billy's eyebrow was raised, his eyes taunting and possessive. "Don't do that." Allison whispered, crossing her arms in front of her chest. "Do what? Kiss my girlfriend?"

"You know what you were doing."

"Yes, but I was just reminding Harrington that-"

"There was no need to, Billy. He needed reassurance... I was giving it to him."

"Why can't he get someone else to give him that?"

"Because, I'm one of his best friends. It's not like you're going to go out there and wish him luck. I love your kisses, but not when it's for the purpose of hurting someone else."

"You didn't seem to mind at the Halloween party."

"Can we not have this discussion before the game? That was completely different."

"How was that any different?"

"You are getting under my skin right now Hargrove."

"And Steve's getting under mine."

"Seems like someone always is."

"What is that supposed to mean?"

"Nothing. Let's please not argue about this. It's stupid." Allison breaths, her heart beginning to race as he becomes more heated. "Just go out there and play fair. Don't hurt anyone and win the damn title that nobody gives a shit about." She says harshly, realizing it had upset him. "Sorry, I just mean that I don't care if you guys win or not. All that matters is that you tried, because that should be enough to be proud of. Just... good luck out there." She breathes, internally scolding herself for being harsher than she had intended, worried he would be angry with her.

"If what you just said was said by anyone else, I'd probably cause a scene. But because it's you, and you look adorable and sexy at the same time in that outfit, I'll contain myself... in both ways." He states, a slow smirk pulling at his lips, Allison rolling her eyes at his sexual comment. With a quick peck on her temple, he meets back with his teammates. "Is he usually that... possessive?" A small voice comes from below, drawing the brunette's attention. Chrissy had been looking up at her, reaching for her toes as she stretched. "Oh um... the relationship is really new so, I'm not really sure. He just gets that way when it comes to Harrington." Allison replies, kneeling down beside the sophomore girl.

"I get what you mean. Jason can be that way too sometimes." She mentions with her sweet voice, offering a sympathetic smile. "Boys will be boys." Another cheerleader chimes in, sighing at her own words. The girls look from one another, Allison pulling them both up from the ground. "Unfortunately." The brunette stated, hating that it was a phrase justifying any man's behavior, just because they almost had the natural right to be the way they were; to act the way they do.

After almost an hour, the gymnasium was full on both home and guest sides, the band playing away as the cheerleaders stayed on the sidelines for now, shaking their pom poms for the spirit-effect. The noise was clangorous, the atmosphere bustling before converting to silence once the national anthem was sung by one of the choir kids, the game beginning almost immediately after.

From the get-go, the Tigers were losing miserably. Landrum high was notorious for winning, keeping their score at least five to ten points higher than Hawkins. No matter the score, the cheerleaders and bleachers full of home members chanted and cheered, shouting for the players to make the right move. Though Steve had in fact been a benchwarmer for most of the game, he got tagged in when one of the team members had gotten elbowed in the face by the opposing team. Once he was on the court, his eyes instinctively moved to Allison, nostalgia from his underclassmen years swarming him as she nodded in reassurance, shaking her pom-pom with her delicate smile. While he had in fact scored, it didn't bring the Tigers anywhere near the Landrum Wasps. Unfortunately for Hawkins High, they lost 16 to 39.

It had been a tremendous let down, now being twenty-two years without a winning championship game. Many of the players were beside themselves, mostly the seniors, but Billy had surprisingly not given two shits. He shrugged when Allison asked how he was doing; He was quick to wrap his arm around her shoulders, walking out to the parking lot together. None of his family had come either, so there had been no reason to stick around. While Heather had been in the bleachers, her sole purpose of being there was for Allison- being her final time cheerleading for a game, not for the team like everyone else there.

Although her coach hadn't been too thrilled about it, Allison had given Heather one of her Pom-Pom's, having her stand in the row behind them. The two cheered together, though the Holloway girl had no clue what to say. Eventually, she adapted, continually slipping up along the way. The ending of her cheerleading season had been bittersweet, as she group hugged with her coach and the other girls, followed by hugging the younger ones who would be taking over the senior's spots.

After giving Heather one of her pom-pom's, the two shared a hug; Heather saying, "So proud of you for pushing through it, babe" to the brunette who had been torn in the beginning of the year, unsure of whether to continue cheerleading, which she had mostly enjoyed and planned to do the entirety of her high school years, or let it go with the way she had started to barely show up, all dealing with the Upside Down and Will, not that her coach knew that. But Coach Adams was an understanding woman, who had sympathized with Allison's situation since Will initially disappeared. But this was it, the final hoorah.

"How are you feeling over there?" Billy questioned from the driver's seat, pulling in to one of the parking spots in Benson Park. "Old." Allison replied, letting out a small laugh before realizing there was two months left until graduation. "It's so crazy. It feels like I was just in freshman year... or even sixth grade. I didn't realize time would pass this fast." She sighed, unbuckling herself as she kicked off her shoes, followed by pulling her legs on top of the seat, and into her chest. The Hargrove boy's hand rested on her kneecap, offering an understanding smile. "Don't get me wrong. I'm glad I'm done with it, but if I go off to college... I leave everything behind, and nothing will stay the same."

"Where are you thinking about going?" He questions, twisting in his seat to face her fully. "Well... when you told me about California and- and surfing, it sounded like a dream. Figured I could go out there or something- see what you were talking about." She replied, visualizing the sandy beaches and crashing waves in her mind. "USC. That's the dream." He grinned, a gleam appearing in his eyes. "What is that?"

"University of Southern California. I loved surfing there... I could teach you how. Even if USC isn't your forte, we could always meet in the middle. We'd find each other." He claims, smiling at the memory of his mother and him at the beach. "That sounds perfect." Allison replied, honest in her words. "Really?"

"Yeah. The college, the surfing... sounds ideal." The brunette responds, placing her hand over his. "You'll love it." Billy smiles, almost giddy at the thought that she too shared his dream. "We can hit the waves at sunrise... watch the Cali sky show its beauty to us... it would just be us."

"Just us." She smiled at the thought, but then reality came back to her. "I don't know if I could leave my family behind though. Not after everything we've been through together."

The golden-maned boy nodded in return, not being able to relate, but understanding. "Never hurts to try. I'm sure your mom would support you no matter what." He reassured, one of his hands cupping her cheek. "I was being unthoughtful earlier... and I didn't intend to make you angry. I started that argument... and I apologize." He added, his thumb rubbing her cheek. "I'm sorry for disregarding that you have different interests than my own, and that I was harsher than I meant to be." She replied, his eyes flickering from her lips to her eyes. "If you want to kiss me Hargrove, just do it."

With that, he smiles, pulling her face to his before intertwining his lips with hers, moving harmoniously together. When they had retreated from the kiss, their eyes remained locked on one another for a moment, partially leaning over the center console. "You're beautiful, Allison Byers." He hoarsely whispers, kissing her once more before completely pulling away, and turning on the car.

While the car warms up, Allison looks out the window, examining the way the tall trees bounce with the breeze, or the way anything placed under its shade was darker than the night itself. Beneath one of these tall trees had been a familiar car, movement rustling within the vehicle. The brunette squinted, as if that would help, trying to see the color or specific details of the car, maybe even the person inside. As Billy began to reverse, the headlights on their highest setting, two heads popped up within the other vehicle. Allison's stomach had dropped as Heather looked right back at her, Robin in the passenger's seat. The Holloway girl's hair was a mess, lipstick smeared from her lips to her chin, the remainder of it on Robin's mouth.

The brunette realized how incredibly oblivious she had been the whole time; Heather had been alluding to and looking at Robin, not Christopher. The curly-haired brunette's eyes widened, freezing in her driver's seat as the Buckley girl ducked, blood running cold. All Allison could do was turn away, sitting in silence as Billy remained oblivious as to what his girlfriend had just witnessed, thankfully so. In that moment, the Byers girl was beyond stunned, having no clue what would result from this.

Chapter Text

Allison's mind hadn't given her a break after what she had witnessed back at Benson Park. It's not like she was disgusted or appalled in any way, she was just simply shocked. Out of all people the brunette had known, Heather had been one of the last people she would suspect to be attracted to women. Allison had absolutely no problem with it, even if it had been frowned upon in this decade, especially in a small town in Indiana, like Hawkins; the problem had been that Heather was probably thinking Allison had felt much differently, having to hide her true feelings for her own safety, even when it came to her best friend of nine years.

"What's s'matter?" Billy grumbled from beside the brunette in her bed, rubbing his eyes in attempt to rid the sleepiness. The two had been tired from all the physical activity after the game, deciding to crash together at the Byers residence. Of course, Billy had parked down the street, dropping Allison off before doing so. Joyce and Jonathan still had no idea about the new relationship to Allison's knowledge, and she intended on keeping it that way until she was able to figure out how to break it to them. As before, Billy climbed through her window, stripping down to his boxers. Since her family had been home, Joyce getting there while the two were away at Benson Park, Allison decided against inviting him to shower.

Joyce had apologized for not being able to be at Allison's last cheerleading moment due to work, but the brunette hadn't minded. Once she had returned to her room after a brisk shower, Billy had already been passed out in her bed, tucked under the sheets and everything. Now, about two hours later, he had finally realized Allison was still awake, staring up at the ceiling in silence. "Why are you still awake?"

"Oh... just thinking." She whispered, turning her head to the side to look into his eyes. The room had been dark, but she could still see his prominent blue eyes. "About...?"

"Nothing in particular." Allison whispers, shifting her body to face his. "Liar." He smiled, propping himself on his elbows. The brunette rolls her eyebrows before he plants his soft lips on hers, a finger hooked under her chin to keep her still. Her eyelids flutter open, looking up at the Hargrove boy who was now hovering over her. "What was that for?" She questions, looking a small smile embracing her lips.

"You make me question so many things, Byers." He states, confusing the brunette further. "I never thought I could be the commitment type. I even told you that the first time we talked." He mentions, licking his bottom lip as her eyebrows furrowed. "What changed?" Allison inquired, her doe eyes driving him nuts. "I met you, Darlin'." He hummed, tucking a strand behind her ear. The brunette let out a genuine laugh, puzzling the golden-haired boy. "What?" He questioned, smiling down at her. "If only everyone else knew what a sappy romantic you were, Hargrove. They would lose their shit." She beamed, placing her palm against his chest. "I am not a sappy romantic." He protested, grinning widely at the accusation. "Liar." She repeated, Billy quick to shake his head, pulling her in for another kiss.

After minutes of shared smiles and kisses, the brunette lays her head on his chest, looking up at him. "Do sappy romantics ask their girlfriends to prom?" Billy asks, tilting his head down to glance into her hazel-eyes, which lit up almost instantly. "Are you asking me to prom, Hargrove?"

"If that's what sappy romantics do, then yeah, I am." He beams, tracing her face with his finger. "So, what do y'say?" Billy whispers, tilting his head. "I'd love to." Allison smiles in return, pushing herself up to his lips a final time, before resting her head back on his chest, where she would fall asleep in his arms.

-

The following morning, the brunette was quick to notice the absence of Billy beside her, having left at sunrise to prevent Neil from discovering his son's empty bed. Thinking of the night before made her all giddy; The thought of Billy Hargrove asking her to prom seemed outrageous and unexpected, but here she was, having accepted the proposal.

As she exited her room, the brunette observed that Jonathan had finally been home, making breakfast for his family as always. Joyce had been sat at the kitchen table, reading the morning paper whilst Will sat down beside her, placing a sheet of paper and crayons atop the wooden surface. "Morning." Allison greeted, smiling warmly to her family who turned to face her. "Hey! Goodmorning honey!" Her mother beamed, standing from her seat to embrace her eldest child. After the two split, Joyce pulled a chair from the table for Allison to sit down, returning to her own seated position. "How are you feeling? Sore? Sad?" The Byers woman questioned as Jonathan placed a plate of eggs and bacon in front of his sister, joining his family at the table. "A little bit of both I guess... why?"

"Well, I had just imagined that you'd be worn out and sentimental after yesterday. I hadn't been a cheerleader or into any sports... but I remember bigger events in my senior year like prom or such leaving a melancholic feeling afterwards." Joyce answered, reminiscing on her high school years. "Speaking of, are you guys going to prom?" She questioned both Allison and Jonathan, who exchanged glances. "I haven't really gotten around to asking Nancy yet... we aren't really together or anything, so I don't know if she'd want to go, or want me to ask."

"Of course she would, J. Most girls high school dreams are to be asked to prom." Allison noted, shaking her head at Jonathan's underestimation. The brown-haired boy nodded in return, chowing down on his breakfast. "Has Steve or anyone asked you yet honey?" Joyce questioned, taking a sip of her scolding coffee. "Uh... I was asked, actually. Not by Steve though." The brunette announced, her lips forming a thin line as she remembered that her family had no clue about her continuation of speaking to the Hargrove boy. "Oh- well that's great! Who?" Joyce enthusiastically spoke, holding on to her daughter's hand. "Billy." Allison revealed, causing Jonathan to choke on his eggs as their mothers' eyes grow wide. Will remains unphased, practically being able to pick up on almost anything without being told. "The same one you introduced me to?" The brown eyed woman questioned, placing the mug down on the table. "Yep."

"The same one who almost killed Steve?" Jonathan chimed in, clearing his throat. "Almost killing him is sort of a reach... but yes, the one who had a serious brawl with him." Allison replied to her appalled brother, clasping her hands together in front of her. "No need to sugarcoat the severity of harm he caused, Al'." He replied, shaking his head at his sister. "You think I didn't confront him about that? I sure as hell wasn't okay with it, hence why I made him agree to start putting himself together and apologize for the shit he did before we got in a relationship."

"A relationship!?" Jonathan and Joyce asked harmoniously, Joyce less judgmental than her son. "Yes, a relationship. I was gonna tell you guys, but I knew you'd react like this, so I held it off." Allison sighed, slumping back in her chair. "What does Steve think?" The oldest Byers boy questions, enraging his sister. "Who cares what he thinks? Especially you, of all people, who preached for so long that you hated him. Is he your best pal now or something?"

"No. I just happen to think he wasn't as much of a dick as Hargrove." Jonathan admits, crossing his arms in front of him. "When have you ever had a singular conversation with him, huh? Cause last time I checked, you haven't, at all. Not one. You've only bitched to me about rumors. Ironic, since you were always so against name calling and gossip when they were directed towards or about you."

"Guys! Come on, let's not do this right now." Joyce tried, being ignored by her eldest son. "I don't need to talk to him, Allison. I know you choose guys who are bad for you. You always have, and that has never changed-"

"Guys who were bad for me? You're joking, right? My first relationship in middle school lasted for maybe a month and a half, only ending because he and I had agreed to remain friends, which we did for a while. And- and Steve was always supportive. He was there for me through everything, including the divorce and what Lonnie did to me. I don't even know why you're concerned what he thinks when not even he seems to care all that much. He hasn't spoken to me like you are once about Billy, at least not to my face, and has continued to keep our perfectly good friendship."

"Because he's in love with you, Allison, and everyone but you knows that. He knows it's too late, so he can't do anything but accept it." Jonathan blurts, Will's eyes darting between his sibling's interaction. "What?" The brunette questions, her voice small as her eyebrows furrowed, sitting up in her seat. "Why do you think Nancy and him split?"

"I don't know- I just know they got in an argument at the Halloween party, and then broke up at school behind the gym."

"They weren't in love with each other, and they both knew it. All it took was Nancy getting drunk to slip up, and then at school, he confessed that he hadn't been sure he was in love with her either. Of course, it was painful to admit that to Nance, but he knew he had to, but he also knew that you were talking to Hargrove at the same time he was realizing his feelings, and it crushed him. So yeah, he wasn't gonna go and tell you how he felt when you were finally moving on."

"How do you know all of this?" Allison questioned, realizing Steve's jealousy and weariness had made more sense at this statement, but yet she still wanted to write it off. "Come on, Al'. Nancy told me." He gently replied, Joyce and Will sitting silently to the side. "God, I'm so oblivious it's sickening." The brunette sighed, resting her head in her hands. First, it was the obvious signs Heather was unintentionally putting out there, and now, Steve's tender and protective behavior had made so much sense, and both had been right in her face, yet she turned a blind eye to all of it. "Look, I just... I want you to be happy. I don't mean to be so harsh, but I have concerns, as does anyone else. Please know I have only the best intention when I say these things... but who knows... Hargrove might end up surprising us all, and I hope he does. Because you deserve happiness and love, Allie."

Following Jonathan's words, Joyce's hand places itself on her daughters back, rubbing reassuringly. "Well uhm... I'm off tomorrow. We can go dress shopping for you, and- and if you want, we can get Heather to tag along, hm?" Their mother questions, receiving a nod from Allison. "Yeah... yeah uh, I think I'm actually going to go over to her house now, and I'll invite her myself. I've been meaning to talk to her." The brunette responds, standing from her seat, crossing to the front door. Though Jonathan had just directly revealed Steve's true feelings to the brunette, she had mentally continued to try and deny it. For her own sake, she didn't want to accept the fact that the man she had loved for so long had loved her back, and now she was only finding out after getting involved with someone else. She figured if Steve didn't say it to her himself, it wasn't true.

When she had arrived at the Holloway residence, Tom had been the one to answer the door, smiling to the daughter like figure he had known since she was very little. Janet had pulled Allison into a warm hug, accompanying her up to Heather's room. Once heather opened her bedroom door, her eyes went wide at the sight of her best friend, panic settling within her. She had been quick to fix her expression and invite Allison in, closing the door behind the brunette. As Heather listened to her mother's footsteps fade down the hall, she paced over to her bed, sitting herself down beside Allison. "Look- what you saw back there- I-"

"Heth, I came here to check up on you. You don't have to explain anything to me... I just wanted to make sure you were okay." The Byers girl interrupts, placing a hand over Heather's. "Why?" The curly-haired brunette questions, withdrawing from Allison's grasp followed by tugging her sweater's sleeves down, swallowing her arms whole. "You were constantly there for me through- through everything hun. My breakups, starts to relationships, my parents' divorce, Will's disappearance, everything. Why wouldn't I be there for you?"

"Because of what you saw. I know you saw me, don't pretend you didn't."

"Heather... I don't care what I saw. This entire time, everything you were silently going through was right in front of me, and I still couldn't see it. I was utterly oblivious to all of it- I had thought you were still in love with Christopher, but it had been right in front of me that it was anything but that. I wish the world wasn't how it was, and you could feel safe enough to tell me about Robin. I don't care if the world is against your decisions, Heth. I never will be. Even if I don't understand what you're going through, or what you feel, I never want you to think that you can't talk to me." Allison whispered, eyebrows furrowing with emotion as she spoke, the sight of Heather's eyes watering making her heart ache. "What I said before, about how I would never judge you... how I would support you, that still stands. It always will, because I love you always." She finished, biting on her bottom lip as a stray tear cascaded down Heather's cheek; Her head falling into her hands as a silent sob left her lips.

Even if the current society had been filled with homophobia, racism, sexism, etc., there were some who had been more intelligent and evolved than the rest. Allison had hoped to be one of them, having been taught nothing but love from Joyce; All she wanted to give was love in this world, no matter who the person was, she hadn't cared all that much. The brunette wanted to make sure Heather was aware of this as she embraced the distraught girl, holding her close to her own frame. "I will forever love you always." Allison whispered to Heather tucked beneath her chin. "I've always thought there was something wrong with me. There's been this... feeling... inside of me for as long as I can remember, and I didn't know what it was or how I could get rid of it. No matter how hard I tried, it never left. It's like I like guys, but I feel the same way towards women... and no one knows what that's like. I've never met someone who feels the same, and I don't know what's wrong with me-"

"There's nothing wrong with you, Heather. You can't choose who you love. And it's not wrong to feel the way you do, even if the news or school say differently." Allison states as Heather withdraws from the embrace; Nodding slowly, a small smile embraces her trembling lips. "Thank you." She mutters, sniffling before wiping her dripping nose with the sleeve of her sweater. "So.... are you and Robin together or...?"

"No... no we're not together. We've just been talking and, well, now kissing. That's it." Heather replies, pulling her legs to her chest. "Well, it's a start to something at least." Allison offers a small smile; The brown eyed girl nods in return, a concerned expression crossing her face. "Nobody can know about it, okay?" Heather mutters, her gaze serious and solemn. "Of course, Heth."

After another hug, Heather had asked for the newest intel on Billy or Steve, being obliged by her best friend. The Holloway girl wasn't shocked to hear of Steve's possible true feelings, knowing that it would make his previous behavior explanatory, but was surprised that Billy had asked the brunette to prom. "Like I said girl. Male. Magnet. The two Kings of Hawkins high are solely devoted to you, savor it for the next month and a half." Heather chortles as she wipes her tears away, grinning hard at her best friend. "So, do you still have feelings for Steve?"

"It feels wrong to confirm that in any way now that I'm in a relationship." Allison replies to the other brunette, laying on her back. "Well, it's just you and me in this room. Anything said here stays between us." Heather responds, looking intently down to her best friend. "You know I do. I can't imagine the day I won't. But I'm with Billy now, and that changed so many things."

"So, if Steve asked you to be his instead, would you go with him?" Heather questions, one of her eyebrows perking upwards. After a moment of silence, the brunette moves her gaze from the ceiling to the Holloway girl, shaking her head. "No... I wouldn't, because I know he wouldn't go that far. It's weird how he was more threatened before Billy and I started dating than he is now. He hasn't said really anything to undermine Billy or myself, not that he would even dare to verbally bash me in."

"He better not." Heather sternly interjects, facial expression serious. "Right. But I'm just saying he's weirdly been respectful of it. Jonathan claims that it's because he's realizing his feelings when I'm finally moving on, which I'm not entirely sure I have, but I think it's just because he wouldn't do that."

"Wasn't he the one who initially told you he didn't want you talking to Billy?"

"Yes... but that was when he and I weren't exactly good friends. Sure, he was jealous and possessive, but he hasn't been that way since October or early November. Once I got... sick... from Will, he started really showing up for me, and apologized for distancing himself."

"You said he was the one who took care of you right?"

"Yeah." Allison paused, thinking back to Hopper and Steve's kindness for helping her after everything that happened back at the lab, which had still haunted her in her dreams. "He did."

Chapter Text

May 25, 1985

Prom night had finally arrived after weeks of anticipation from Hawkins High's Juniors and Seniors. Though the Juniors would be given a second their following year, the Seniors felt as though it was their final school event before their graduation. It hadn't been everyone's forte, but to most, it was an exciting end to the school year.

Having shopped for her prom dress with Heather and Joyce, all that had been left was piecing her look together. As Allison stood in front of her bedroom mirror, she let out a heavy breath, not fully ready for her final high school moment to end within hours. Her ruffled and striped blue dress had been in style yet racy, seeing as it had been off the shoulder and low to her cleavage. Heather and Joyce had both fallen in love with it as soon as Allison tried it on, immediately knowing that it was the one for her. She knew blue was Billy's favorite color, being represented in almost everything he loved; The ocean, his Camaro, clothes, you name it. Knowing this, she was eager to reveal her appearance to him, whenever he might arrive.

Two knocks came from the other side of the brunette's bedroom door as she peeled her eyes away from her reflection. "Come in." Allison called out, turning her body to face Joyce, who had filed in. Her mother's eyes popped, a quick smile embracing her thin lips. "Oh Allie- you look beautiful honey." Joyce complimented, clasping her hands together in front of her heart. Both Byers women's hearts swelled, shared smiles spread across their faces. The brunette's hair had been curled to perfection, teased here and there. As Joyce moved behind her daughter, holding her by her shoulders whilst they gazed into her mirror, Will had inched inside, stopping by the door.

"You look like the girls in those magazines." He smiles to his sister, who beams at him in return, gesturing for him to near them. Once he does, she wraps an arm around her youngest brother, pulling him into the mirrors view, where the three stood together, Allison taller than the other two by a couple inches, now that Will was practically at his mother's height. The sound of a revving engine disrupts the silence, alerting the Byers family that a Camaro would be pulling into their driveway within seconds. "I told Jonathan to get the door when William arrived, don't worry." Joyce announced to her anxious daughter, keeping her hold on the brunette's upper arms. "Billy. He hates being called William." Allison reminds her mother, laughing after hearing her boyfriend's full first name being spoken aloud. "Right, sorry."

"I forgot the lipstick in the bathroom, think you could run and get it for me?" Allison questions the two, Will being the one to run out. "Don't do anything you're not comfortable with tonight, let things run their natural course- take it slow, don't rush-"

"Mom, you don't have to give me that talk..." The brunette laughs, turning to face her mother behind her. "I know. You're eighteen but you're still my little girl." Joyce grins, her eyes beginning to water. "Hey now, I'm only going to prom, not moving out of the house." Allison reminds her mother as she pulls her into an embrace, hugging her tightly. The doorbell rings as Will re-enters the room, giving the two a moment together before handing it to his sister. With gratitude his way, she smears the rouge tint delicately across her lips, rubbing them together and wiping the edges. She hears Jonathan greet Billy, followed by the door closing behind. "I'll meet you guys out there, I don't want Jonathan making him feel unwelcomed." The brunette mentions, receiving nods from her family as they part from her, leaving her alone.

It all felt so overwhelming, yet it hadn't even started yet. Sure, Junior prom the year prior hadn't been anything special after everything that occurred to her and her family, but this year had a much different feel. Not only would she be graduating in less than a month, but she would be leaving all of this behind. The Byers girl had sent an application to University of California, not yet receiving a response. Though it was difficult thinking about leaving her family, she remembered how Billy had told her to live for herself, and not for others. It felt selfish, after devoting almost every grain of time she had to anyone she loved, but it also felt right to start putting herself ahead for once. If she was accepted, she'd wondered if Billy would go with her, if they even lasted that long. It scared her to realize the possibility that Billy might abandon her in some way, or that they wouldn't work out. Ignoring those thoughts, she finished her final touches, and crossed to the door, making her way to the living room; There, Billy had stood, another bouquet of crimson roses in hand. At that point, Allison had been blushing relentlessly, smiling like an idiot.

His eyes smiled when he did, taking in her whole appearance. "Wow." He uttered, raising his eyebrows as he flashed his toothy grin, Jonathan standing from the couch beside him, eyes softening. He offered a small smile and nod to his older sister, receiving a grin in return from her. "Well, stand together by the fireplace and let me get a picture!" Joyce excitedly exclaimed, grabbing a hold of a polaroid camera on the kitchen table. "You look beautiful, Darlin'." Billy whispered into the brunette's ear as she met at his side, his hand wrapping around her smaller frame. The bouquet was handed to her before the first picture snapped, followed by another after the flowers were passed over to Jonathan on the side. Billy had pressed his lips against her cheek for the second photo as her hands placed themselves on his shoulders, beaming happily towards the camera with squinted eyes.

Seeing Billy Hargrove in a tuxedo felt foreign to the brunette; Undoubtabley, he looked magnifying as always, but unfamiliar. His hair had remained the same, untamed yet perfectly laid out, his golden curls cascaded across his broad shoulders. "And you look... dapper." Allison replied, smiling as she searched for an adequate word. Her thumb brushed against his cheek gently, exchanging a soft smile to one another as Joyce recognized that her daughter was no doubt in love with the boy next to her. "You ready?" Billy muttered to the brunette; arm still slung around her waist. With a simple nod in return, the two made their way to the front door, Allison hugging her brothers and mom along the way. "Have a great time tonight, okay?" Joyce voiced to the two, mostly directed to her daughter. "We will." Allison responded, kissing her mother's cheek before exiting the home.

The Hargrove boy opened the car door for the hazel-eyed girl, grinning down at her admiringly. It had taken them around thirty minutes to arrive at Hawkins High; Being a small town with a low budget, the prom had always been held at the school, unlike schools like Landrum High or Christian Academy, who went to hotels or venues nearby. It hadn't been all that bad, though. The student council had always tried their best to make the most of the experience. Puffed sleeves and teased hair had filled the parking lot, laughter and cheerful exchanges evident. "Ready to head in?" Billy questioned from the driver's seat, looking inquisitively to the melancholic brunette. "Yeah... yeah I'm ready." She simply replied before he pulled her face to his, intertwining his lips with hers. A rouge tint had been left on the blue-eyed boys' lips, causing a smile to cross Allison's. "Cute." She teased, stroking a thumb across his mouth.

After opening the door for her, he extended his hand; her soft fingers slipped into his callused palm, holding tightly as they gazed into one another's eyes, the breath seemingly gone within both of them. A wave of nostalgia washed over Allison, as she remembered doing almost the exact same thing at Tinas Halloween Bash. They had only been pretending to be together, but here they were now, truly together as they crossed through the gym doors, arms hooked together. Allison's eyes were quick to find Heather across the way getting refreshments, her dress a deep purple, perfectly complimenting her skin tone. She looked like a princess with her hair pulled half-up, half-down, her curls carefully laid. "Go ahead, I'll be over with Tommy and Christopher." Billy had announced from her side, observing her longing glance.

As the two split, Allison had gently tapped the curly-haired brunette's shoulder, startling the girl. "Just me babe." The Byers girl announced, smiling graciously as her best friends' eyes popped all over again, taking in Allison's full appearance. "Allie- oh my god! Look at you!" She beamed, clutching on to the hazel-eyed girls' hand with her free one. "Look at me? Look at you Heth! You look like a princess." Allison replied, letting out a breathy laugh as Heather pouted. "I can't believe this is our final prom." The brown eyed girl sighed, beginning to tear up. "Me neither... hey, we're gonna have the best time tonight, this is only the beginning of the night... we can cry together about it later." Allison grinned, nudging the curly haired brunette gently. "Good plan... but it just sucks. My parents were so shocked when I told them I didn't have a guy to go with, when really, I'm going with Robin, who I can't even dance with. All I want to do is dance with her, but we can't in public... at least not here." Heather expresses, looking longingly to Robin, who had been sitting on the bleachers in a navy-blue dress, her red converses visible from underneath. She had already been looking Allison's way, her eyes quickly averting from the brunettes. "Don't worry. She knows you know... I just think she's worried you might say something."

"I would never." Allison replies, scooping punch into a paper cup. "I told her you wouldn't... but you can't blame her for being worried." Heather addressed, starting to make her way over to the Buckley girl. The brunette nodded in response, following at her best friend's tail. Once they had approached Robin, Allison offered a cup to the girl, smiling gently. Robin was hesitant to take it before she stood, returning a grin. "Uhm... sometime, if you guys would like... we could go get lunch or something, maybe just hang out... I'd love to get to know you more." Allison suggested, directing the last part to the Buckley girl. "I'll see you guys later tonight." She finished, nodding to Heather before turning. After stopping to get two cups of punch for Billy and herself, she had observed Steve enter the gymnasium doors, seemingly alone. With that, the brunette shoved one of the cups against her chest, her arm keeping it in place; Obtaining another drink, she crossed over to the Harrington boy, clearing her throat to catch his attention. He had reacted almost exactly as Heather had, his eyes full of astonishment. When his lips parted to say something, Allison rolled her eyes, shoving a drink at his chest. He had quickly taken it from her grasp, swallowing hard as she smiled at his awe. "You look put together." The brunette grinned, looking at his tuxedo, his bowtie crooked. Out of instinct, the brunette reached up with her free hand to fix it, her smile small. "Thank you... you look great." He laughed softly, clearing his throat. "Just great?"

"Of course you look way better than great. I just know that you'll roll your eyes at me if I tell you how incredible you really look." Steve offered a gentle smile, looking around the room. "Where's Hargrove?"

"With Tommy... where's the lucky lady?" Allison questioned, glancing behind the brown-haired boy. "No lady tonight." He revealed, pulling his lips into a thin line. "Oh come on. You're Steve 'The Hair' Harrington, and you're telling me there's no lady?"

"That is what I'm saying, yes. I just didn't want to go with anyone particularly." He admitted, though he had been lying. The brunette knew he hadn't been telling the full truth, but she just nodded in return, offering a small smile. "You should get back to Hargrove. I'll just be meandering around... just the usual." Steve smiled, taking a swig of the punch. "Dork." The brunette grinned in return, shaking her head as she turned on her heels, making her way over to her date. Billy's arm was quick to sling itself around Allison's shoulders, drawing her into him. Allison had handed him the drink, glaring at Tommy as his eyes uncomfortably traveled across her body. "Did you have fun talking to Harrington?"

"I did, yeah." Allison sarcastically replied, shifting her gaze away from the Hagan boy to Billy's. "Did he come alone?" The blue-eyed boy questioned, glancing over Allison's shoulder to look in his direction. "Yes." She answered, receiving a snicker from Tommy. She was quick to send a warning glance to the freckle faced boy, who raised his eyebrows in amusement. "How about we go dance." Billy suggests, caution thick in his tone as he non-verbally told Tommy to quit. Without giving her a chance to respond, Billy had pulled her to the dance floor, tossing her cup into the trash along the way. When she had opened her mouth to protest, his hands met her waist, looking intently down at her. "We can always get another drink." He chuckled, taking Allison's small hand within his. "How about we go to Betty's diner after this?" He proposed, raising an eyebrow in inquiry. The brunette had been quick to nod, beaming up at him. "I'm glad you came over when you did. I was tired of hearing Tina and Carol bicker back and forth about which one of them would be prom queen."

"Oh gosh, they're such drags." Allison replied, rolling her eyes. "What, you don't want to be prom queen?" He questioned, raising an inquisitive eyebrow. "I mean, a lot of girls do. But I really don't care, it doesn't matter all that much to me if I'm chosen or not. I'll live. Carol and her friends though, I think they might have a heart attack if they aren't picked."

"They'd never be able to show their faces again." Billy humored, twirling the brunette to the music. "Then let's hope they aren't picked, that would be perfect for the rest of the world." The brunette giggled, observing Jonathan and Nancy entering the gymnasium fashionably late. It was weird to see Jonathan in formal attire, being something he despised. Nancy on the other hand had been wearing a light pink ruffled dress with puffed sleeves, her hair curled and teased like any other girl. She looked suited for the occasion; her delicate eyes filled with excitement as she experienced her first prom. Allison had smiled to herself, watching as the Wheeler girl trudged to the dance floor, initiating dancing since Jonathan had been too shy to. He looked so awkward, but his rosy cheeks and small smile displayed the endearment he had felt towards Nancy.

The brunette's gaze shifted from the two to Billy, who had been smiling down at her admirably. "What?" She questioned, withdrawing her hand from his grip as she threw her arms over his shoulders. "Nothin'." He stated, shaking his head as he continued to beam down at her. "Then why are you staring?"

"I wasn't aware that staring was forbidden in our agreement." He mentioned, raising an eyebrow. "It wasn't." Allison noted, tilting her head at him. "Then let me resume admiring how breath taking you look." Billy replied as she clasped her hands at the back of his neck. When the brunette blushed, the Hargrove boy took his cue, leaning down before enveloping her lips with his, moving in a gentle, passionate movement. When they had pulled from one another, she laid her head against his shoulder, peering over to the opposing side of the room, where Steve had been standing. He had been looking her way already, but a smile had been splattered across his face. His smile hadn't faded when their eyes locked on to one another; Allison gently smiled back, pulling her eyes from his to the ground.

As the night progressed, the two continued to dance among others, through slow dances and more movement-involved ones. With popular, well-known songs like 'I melt with you,' 'Only You,' and now 'Every breath you take' playing, couples had taken to the dance floor, all moving in a rhythm as they held each other closely. Allison had felt bad for Heather and Robin, who had been sitting next to each other on the bleachers during the slow songs, yearning to hold one another among the rest. Billy had hummed the lyrics of 'Every breath you take' into Allison's ear, now holding her left hand within his opposing one, her head still resting against his chest. The brunette had smiled reminiscently, a warmth scattering through her bones and heart as she tightly shut her eyes, drinking in his low humming. From afar, Steve watched longingly, the song toying with his emotions as if it was taunting him.

Once the song had concluded, Laura Hart, the head of student council, had taken to the stage, calling out to the audience. "Hey fellow Hawkins Seniors, and juniors! It's the moment you've all been waiting for! Our Prom King and Queen will be announced momentarily, so gather round!" The blonde exclaimed, grasping on to the microphone as other student council members took to the stage, one holding two envelopes in hand. "This should be fun." Allison whispered up to Billy, grinning to him as she pulled from his grasp, tugging him towards the crowd. The two stood in the midst, his arm wrapped around her waist to hold her close. As the already low music died down, the frizzy blonde-haired senior had approached the microphone again as the sea of upper classmen cheered and hooted, eagerly anticipating the soon to be royalty called. "Our Queen will be called first." She announced, sending squeals from Carol and her friends' mouths, huddled together with their chins up, cockily expecting to hear their names. As the blonde atop the stage grabbed one of the envelopes, she had quickly ripped it open, beaming as she read the name enclosed. "And our Prom Queen of 85' is Tina Hughes!" Laura announced, the loud screeches of the familiar brunette coming from Allison's left. "And the cat fight begins." Billy quietly joked, sending a snicker out of the Byers girl's mouth. "Should of been you, Darlin'." He added, lifting his arm around her waist to pull her hair to the side, fixing it. In return, the brunette smiled, kissing his cheek tenderly.

"Now, for our Prom King." The Hart girl announced, opening the second envelope as a crown was placed atop of Tina's head, who already had tears streaming out of her eyes. "Our Prom King is.... Billy Hargrove!" The blonde revealed, sending cheers around. Allison's eyes had popped as she looked to the golden-maned boy, a smug expression on his face as he chuckled. "Well, get up there!" Allison whispered to him, pushing him forward. As Billy made his way upstage, a plastic crown was placed on his head, followed by a photo flashing at him and Tina, who was longingly looking his way.

As tradition, the two were meant to dance with one another, but as they had approached the dance floor, Billy had completely side-stepped Tina, heading straight towards Allison in front of everyone. The golden-maned boy offered his hand up to the brunette in front of him as her cheeks turned crimson, glancing to Tina, who looked beyond baffled. "Wanna dance?"

"You don't even have to ask, Hargrove." Allison replied, reminiscing yet again back to the Halloween Bash as she now said the words he had said to her, quickly clutching on to his hand. The two swiftly made their way to the middle, one of his hands resting on her waist as the other held her hand yet again, her fingers placed around the web of his hand. With no one to dance with, Tina huffed, stomping her foot as she stormed off. 'Forever Young' by Alphaville had begun playing as all attention was turned towards Billy and Allison.

The brunette's eyes met Heather's, who's expression matched that of a proud mom. Her grin was wide, hands clasped together at her heart. This had made Allison smile in return, rolling her eyes as she returned her gaze to the Hargrove boy, who had been intently looking down at her.

"Let us die young or let us live forever - We don't have the power but we never say never"

The moment had felt surreal, as if it were a dream. To Allison, she felt like it had only been her and Billy in the room. Just them slowly dancing along to the melancholic music, alone. A moment she would remember forever. His un-held hand moved to the small of her back, resting his chin on the top of her head as she laid hers against his chest, shutting her eyes tightly. As the words to the song echoed throughout the gymnasium, the two held each other tightly, other couples starting to dance off to the side.

"Forever young, I want to be forever young; Do you really want to live forever? Forever, and ever"

When the brunette had opened her eyes, she observed others dancing, Jonathan and Nancy among them. Her smile had only increased as she watched, tugging her head away from Billy's chest to face him. Without warning, he dipped her, sending a squeal followed by laughter out of her lips; He had just chuckled down at her. Though the song had been more melancholic and glum, not yet having a personal meaning to Allison, just being in this moment with Billy had been a developing core memory. It may not have looked like much to anyone around, but in that moment, Allison had felt fuller than she had in the weeks, months, even the year prior.

It had been incredibly difficult to pretend that everything was fine after the events at Hawkins lab. Though she had put effort in to block it all from her mind, the terrors and pain always crept in at night, through her dreams. As if being attacked hadn't been enough, Bob had lost his life, and the Byers family had to pretend that it never happened, not to mention everything Will had gone through. Outside of all of it, only Heather, Steve, and Billy had managed to make the brunette feel normal, or as if she was living a normal life, even if the scars littering her body had said differently.

She had thought back to the time when Billy had noticed her scars, a small memory deep within her brain. He had been so concerned, thinking that they had been among the several traumas Lonnie had inflicted, but in truth, it had been much different than that. Obviously, she had been unable to tell him the truth, coming up with a lie hardly believable to any speculatory person; but Billy had never pried or questioned it. Thinking of it drew her gaze to her brother, who was beaming at Nancy in his arms, followed by searching with her eyes for Steve. He had just been loitering by the wallflowers, taking small sips of a new drink. Once a couple of songs passed, Billy had finally spoken up. "Go dance with him." He stated, gesturing his head towards the lonely Harrington boy. "What?"

"I know it would make his night. As much as I might dislike the guy, it's really the only way I know how to state that I don't hate him without actually saying it... You two have more history than I can imagine, and- and I'm trying to respect that... Maybe I feel bad for the guy too, it's pretty embarrassing not having anyone to dance with at your final prom." He states, tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear. Allison had searched his eyes for any insincerity, finding none. "Are you sure?" She questioned, not sure she herself had been up for it. "Mhm."

"Telling him you're sorry is a better way to make up for beating his ass than this." Allison laughed as his hands rested on her hips, intently looking down at her. "Yeah... but what fun would that be. This just proves I'm working on not being so... possessive. I'll be over here in case he gets ahead of himself." With a singular gesture of his head, she nodded, turning on her heels.

Once she approached Steve, he had lowered his drink with a small smile. "Everything okay?" He questioned, keeping his eyes on hers. "Of course." Allison responded, offering a hand to him. His eyebrows were quick to raise, looking from her held out palm to behind her, where his eyes landed on the Hargrove boy, already looking his way. "Relax. Believe it or not, he's the one who told me to come over here and..." She paused, taking the cup from his hand, tossing it into the trash. "Head out there." She finished, slowly taking his hand within hers. "Hargrove? He suggested this?"

"Oh, come on, don't be so surprised. You yourself said you had no doubt I'd keep him in check." Allison humored, reaching the dance floor with him behind her. "I didn't think he would start fixing up so quick." Steve mentioned, question in his tone. "You can put your hands on my waist, dingus." The brunette noted, examining his hesitant stance. "He's fine with that?"

"It's my body, and I'm saying it's okay." The brunette reminded, slowly wrapping her arms around his neck as Billy nodded to Steve from the distance, who had looked his way for a silent approval. With that, his hands had rested themselves above her hips. "Are you okay?" Allison questioned, observing his less thrilled expression. "Why wouldn't I be?" He smiled in response, avoiding the subject. "You just don't look like you're enjoying yourself." The brunette mentioned, concern crossing her face. "Oh... I don't know. Just the senior blues or something."

"You and me both." Allison hummed, the harsh reality of how the night was almost over now creeping in. "It's crazy to think that we had been dreaming about this since elementary school... and now there's less than an hour left. Then it's just... over. Forever." She had glumly replied, sighing deeply. "Exactly. It's just going by too fast. I don't even know what I'm going to do after this... there's no way I can make up my grades before graduation. I'm just going to be stuck here, working for my father." Steve mutters, shaking his head. When Allison couldn't find the right words to reassure him, his eyes had met hers; "Never mind my stupid outlook... what about you? What do you think you'll do...?"

"I'm not completely sure myself yet. I want to go to college; I just don't know what I'm willing to sacrifice." The brunette states, her lips pulling into a thin line. "Like...?" Steve questions, 'Against all Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)' beginning to play in the background. "I don't know if I can just leave my family behind. After everything... I feel like I'd be abandoning them, and I'd feel guilty for it." Allison admits, solemnly looking to the ground. "Hey... you wouldn't be abandoning them. You know that Joyce wants to give you the opportunity to live your life... and Jonathan would look out for her and Will. They're strong... just like you." He expresses, reassuringly rubbing against her waist with one of his hands.

Allison had inched forward, placing her chin over his shoulder, halfway nestling in his neck as one of his hands now held one of hers, the other placing itself on her back. They had silently and slowly danced together, taking in the words of Phil Collins sentimental song, which had resonated with both of them in separate ways.

"'Cause we've shared the laughter and the pain, and even shared the tears- you're the only one who really knew me at all..."

...

"'Cause I'll still be standin' here- And you comin' back to me is against all odds, It's the chance I've gotta take..."

As the song finished, the two had continued to slowly sway, still held in each other's grasps. While the earlier line had made Allison realize Steve had been one, if not the only person to truly know her, he was really the only one she had been able to go to about everything her and her family had endured. Nancy hadn't been the closest friend she had, and Jonathan had mostly been off with her, and recently distant; besides her family, Steve was the only one she could really go to, practically knowing each other all of their lives and witnessing nightmare fueled events simultaneously. She had wished she could tell Heather or Billy about it, maybe even wished they could have been there to see what she had seen, but at the same time, she never wanted them to be involved in any of it. They were better off oblivious to the horrors within Hawkins.

Steve, on the other hand, resonated with the last lines. He knew that even if she moved on, hell, even if he did, he'd deep down always wait for her. He'd always be there for her in any way he could, because just being in her presence had been enough. It had warmed his heart to see her so happy, and so loved, even if it wasn't him, out on the dance floor. He had his doubts of the Hargrove boy, but Steve was able to feel the affection and bliss within Allison just by looking at her. As far as he could tell, she was finally happy, and that had mattered over any of his own feelings. It had taken the two a couple seconds to withdraw from one another's grasps, sharing small smiles. "You should get back to the Prom King. I'm going to head out of here... thank you for the dance... thank him too, I guess."

"Why don't you talk to him instead?" Allison inquired, raising her eyebrow. "Yeah... no. I'm sorry." He responded, shaking his head. "You guys are so weird. Words sometimes have greater impact than actions." The brunette voiced, slowly backing away from Steve. He just shrugged, grinning at the Byers girl as he saluted her off, heading out of the building. With that, Allison returned to Billy, who had been watching her entire transaction, sipping the punch in his Styrofoam cup. "Have a good time?"

"Yeah... he says thank you." The brunette noted, looking out to the dissipating crowd on the dance floor. "Mm." Billy hummed, chugging down the rest of the juice. "How about we head out of here... it's dying down pretty damn quick." He suggested, receiving agreeance from the Byers girl. Before they left, Allison made sure to stop by Heather and Robin at the bleachers, pulling them into a final dance among other singular persons in the crowd to an upbeat tune as Billy bid farewell to his friends off to the side. "Did you have a good time tonight?" Heather shouted over the music, bopping her head to the music. "Yeah! You?"

"Yeah!" Heather exclaimed, looking over to Robin with a grin. Even if they hadn't been able to dance together at slow dances, they had still been able to take to the floor at ones like this, and dance at a distance. Heather had just enjoyed spending time with Robin, though, even if it hadn't exactly been the way she wanted. This had made Allison beam at the two in return, who looked affectionately to one another. "You and the Prom King leaving?" She shouted over the music again, receiving a nod from the Byers girl. "Bummer! Unless you're getting railed in that Camaro-"

"Heather!" Allison laughed, shushing her friend as Robin grimaced at the thought, chuckling in return. "Well?" Heather continued, raising an eyebrow as the song concluded. "One never knows." The hazel-eyed girl shrugs, pulling her best friend into a hug. "Stay safe please- we don't need any Hargrove-Byers babies running around Hawkins right now."

"Oh my god okay, goodbye." Allison laughed, shaking her head. "Love you always." She added, withdrawing from the curly-haired brunette. "Love you always." Heather replied, squeezing Allison's hand. With a final nod to Robin, the Byers girl turned on her heels, meeting up with Billy at the exit, stranding Prom of 85' for good.

Chapter Text

Oldies music exited the jukebox in the corner of Betty's diner as Billy and Allison slurped down their milkshakes in the same booth they had sat in when they made things official. It had practically just been the two of them and a couple other teenagers in the restaurant, seeing as it was around eleven thirty. Allison's mind had lingered back to the previous hours of entertainment, having had a better night than she could have hoped for. Billy's random act of letting her dance with Steve still riddled her mind, but she was grateful for it. Hearing him admit that he wanted to do better was refreshing, though it was the first step of many. Her eyes met his magnetizing blue ones, washing all previous thoughts out of her mind.

"You look tired." He voiced, leaning back in his booth as his arm rested across the top behind him. "All we did tonight sucked the energy out of me." Allison admitted, rubbing at her eyes. A devilish smirk crossed Billy's face, his mind traveling to a much different place than the brunette's. "Dancing... Billy. From the dancing." Allison icked, lightly kicking him under the table. "You sure you don't want the rest sucked from you?"

"Don't be gross." The Byers girl laughed, scrunching up her face at his dirty comment. "Suit yourself... but my offer still stands." He smirked, tilting his head in a taunting way. Even if she hadn't even thought about the possibility of having sex tonight, a heat rose to places she hadn't anticipated, imagining Billy between her thighs in the back of his Camaro... her hand placed against the window for support. The Hargrove boy had chuckled as she spaced out, unconsciously biting down on her bottom lip. She had been pulled out of her thoughts at the sensation of Billy's warm hand placing itself on her knee from under the table as he leaned on his elbow over it. "The bills already paid..." He drawled, grinning hard. She nodded quickly, and he had been quick to rise to his feet, offering a hand to her. Once she had taken it, the two had rushed out of the diner, driving to a mostly secluded area outside of downtown.

"Get in the back seat." He growled, unbuckling his own seat belt as she obeyed, hauling the end of her prom dress with her. The golden maned boy exited his car, pulling the driver's seat as far as possible forward before climbing back in, shutting the door behind him as he kneeled in the small space in front of the brunette. He aggressively pried her legs open, pecking rough kisses all over her bare thighs before placing them on the seat, pushing her dress up to her waist. "Hold it." He ordered, tugging her underwear off of her legs. He wasted no time to give attention to her clit, swirling his tongue in circles followed by sucking sloppily. His grip on her upper thighs would no doubt leave bruises as he dug in hard; Moans relentlessly slipped out of Allison's mouth as she gripped the edge of his black leathered seats, panting heavily. "Oh my god-" She whimpered at his fast pace, a pressure quickly building within her. A finger slipped inside of her, curling in a way that would soon send her over the edge.

Her fingernails dug into his seats, surely ripping through the texture. Billy himself didn't withhold from making erotic noises, eating her as if he was a starved man, and she was his first meal in decades. When Allison's breathing had become heavier, he slithered his hand away from her thigh, wrapping around it to press down on her abdomen. The sensation brought her to her orgasm, her legs quick to shake at the overstimulation she was receiving. She felt him smile against her, profusely continuing to eat her out. After several whimpers and begs for him to stop, jolting violently at the ripples of euphoria throughout her body, he withdrew, sucking on his finger. "You taste so fucking good, you know that?" Billy groaned, a bulge evident through his dress pants.

Allison had still been catching her breath when he removed his pants, eager to relieve his discomfort. "Can I fuck you?" He requested, his eyes dark and lustful. "Yes." The brunette managed to get out, her heart racing so hard that she could hear it in her eardrums. At her approval, he turned around, leaning forward to open the glovebox, where a stash of condoms had spilled out. Allison had laughed to herself, shocked yet not surprised that he was always prepared. As he slid the rubber over his length, he instructed her to lie on her back, crawling over her as she did so. He neared her entrance, slipping a hand behind her neck as the other guided himself inside her. The two moaned in unison, eyes now locked on each other's. As his pace increased, Allison placed her hand on the wall of the car to keep her steady; Billy had grasped her hair, holding it tightly as his other hand wrapped around her throat (something Allison had okay'd in their intimate talk in the past month), keeping himself at a stable angle while squeezing.

His groans were like growls, so much built-up emotion behind them. The car had slightly began to rock as he practically pounded into her, withdrawing his hand from her hair to her leg, throwing it over his shoulder for more access. Her own free hand wrapped around his arm holding her neck, moaning sensually at the sensations surging inside of her. He had been more aggressive than the first time they'd had sex, and it reminded her of the way he was when he was drunk. Relentless and brutal. Though what he was doing felt great, his hands gripped her throat in a way that made it hard to breath, and the darkness behind his eyes slightly frightened her.

"Fuck me- fuck-" He moaned, his orgasm taking over as he slammed his hips into Allison, breathing heavily. "That was great- you were great." He expressed after withdrawing from her, removing the condom from himself. The brunette swallowed hard, inhaling as much air as she could with a couple coughs. "You alright? Was I too rough?" He questioned, heaving his boxers and pants back on. "A little, yeah." She admitted, rubbing at her throat with a small smile. The blue-eyed boy leaned forward following her words, moving her messy hair to the side to examine the red marks he had left. His lips met her neck, planting kisses where he had gripped too tightly, cradling her head as he did so. "You destroy me..." He breathed, trailing kisses up to her jaw. "I just lost myself a little... sorry darlin'."

"It's okay." Allison spoke, though she felt differently than her words. Being manhandled the way he had done to her was a whole new experience, and she couldn't figure out if it was something that she liked or not. He grinned at this, kissing her lips swiftly before exiting the car, fixing his seat. The brunette brushed her wrinkled dress out, pulling her underwear back up before climbing back up to the front seat. "We should probably get back to your place, I need to get Max home before Neil and Susan get there." Billy stated, starting up the Camaro. Allison nodded in return, shifting in the passenger's seat as he ran his hand across her thigh, steering out of the area while Metallica played. "Thank you for that... I needed it after prom." He began, removing his hand from her to light a cigarette. "Was being Prom King that stressful?" Allison managed to joke, earning a grin from the boy beside her. "Totally. That shit is pointless. I knew what I had to do to give it a point though."

"Oh?" Allison questioned, tilting her head to look at him. "Yeah. Completely ignore Tina and show off my girl to the whole school." He smirked, turning briefly to face her. "Sappy romantic." She laughed as he blew out smoke, the smell carrying throughout the car. "Shut up." He chuckled, shaking his head.

The car came to a halt in front of the Byers residence, the headlights illuminating against the exterior of the house. Though the night had been a black void, warm lights flowed out of the windows, along with the sound of laughter. While Billy had promised, well, been forced into agreeing that he would watch over Max tonight to Neil the day prior, Allison opted for all of Will's friends and the Mayfield girl to hang at her house while he was away at prom.

Allison's eyebrow popped at the sight of Steve's car in the driveway, wondering why he had been there. Billy had noticed too, shifting in his seat while Allison fixed her hair and makeup. "I'll go get her." The brunette announced, exiting the car in a swift motion. As she trudges towards the front door, the sound of the Camaro shutting off came from behind, drawing her attention. "Hold up." He spoke, crushing his cigarette under his heel. When Allison had given him a warning look, he paused, stuffing his hands into his tuxedo pockets. "What? Am I not allowed to come into your house? I went in earlier today." He expressed, meeting her at her side. Allison knew that it was true, but it had just been her and her family... not the entire group.

"Just... behave, please." The brunette muttered, intently looking up at him. "Always." He grinned, knocking on the door. An 'I got it' in Dustin's voice came from the other side, and within seconds, the door opened revealing the Henderson boy. "You've got to be shitting me." He exclaimed, glaring harshly at Billy. "You brought him?" The boy interrogated, looking beyond offended. "He's my date and my ride, so yes dingus." Allison replied, shooing him out of the way. Scattered around the TV, Will's party, Joyce, Jonathan, Nancy, and Steve had all been seated, attention now on the two new members.

Max scooted from Lucas's side, her eyes wide as Billy's landed on hers. "You look really pretty, Allison." She complimented, relaxing as Billy's gaze softened, turning to his girlfriend. "Yeah, you look great." Nancy smiled, followed by the boy's agreeing, before Dustin spoke up. "The movie isn't even halfway! We have to finish it." He gestured towards the TV. "What movie is it?" Allison questioned, taking off her heels as Joyce crossed the room. "The shining." They all said in unison. A spark sprouted throughout the brunette, both anger and excitement at the fact that they were watching one of the movies she really liked without her. "Without me?"

"I mean... we just started it. We can always rewind." Steve suggested, drawing both Allison and Billy's attention. "It's a bit late though..." Allison addressed, looking to the time. It was well over midnight. "The boys are sleeping over, so we don't have to worry about getting them home." Joyce chimed in, embracing her daughter. "Hope you two had a good night." She smiled, looking between the couple as she rubbed her daughters' shoulders. "We did." The brunette replied, being able to see Billy smirk from the corner of her eye. Will had been close enough to hear, icking at the thought as Allison smiled at his reaction. "A couple hours wouldn't hurt... would it? You said your parents weren't going to be home until around 3 am, right?" The Byers girl proposed, clutching onto Billy's arm. "Yeah... It wouldn't hurt." He agreed, smiling down at her as excitement spread across her face. "There's one more popcorn bowl over in the kitchen for you." Joyce told as she moved back to the sofa, plopping down beside Jonathan and Nancy. Below them, all the boys and Max were seated, blankets and pillows all around. Steve was sitting in one of the armchairs, observing Allison as she pulled the Hargrove boy off to her room, shutting the door behind her.

As the brunette changed out of her formal wear, and into pajamas, Billy leaned back on her bed, admiring the view before his eyes popped. "What are those?" He questioned, coming to a stance as she halted her movements. "What are what's?" She inquired once he neared, gently turning her to face him. "Those." He pointed out the deep scars littering her waist, where Demogorgon's had ruthlessly dug into her flesh. A chill spiked up her spine followed by the urge to cover herself, out of excuses to come up with. When no explanation came from her, his eyebrows furrowed. "Those weren't there last time." He gently spoke, suggesting back to their first intimate moment. "I don't know... it must've been that stray cat awhile back."

"Those aren't from a cat, Allison." He sternly spoke, lifting her arm. "Neither are these.... or those." He addressed the puncture wounds on her arm and shoulder. "I've been withholding bringing up the ones on your shoulder and arm... but the ones on your waist...Who did this to you?"

Allison could only shake her head as tears welled in her eyes at the memories, wishing so badly she could tell him the truth. He paused for a moment, a realization dawning on him. "Baby... did you-" His voice cut out, eyes matching that of deepest sympathy. "No-" She tried before Billy interjected; "I would've taken care of you like you do for me- hell, if going to Steve would have stopped you, I would've encouraged you to." Allison was surprised that he would think she would do this to herself, or was capable of inflicting such deep and shaped injuries, and was left unable to come up with something better. "Billy... I-"

"You don't have to talk about it. I didn't realize, I'm sorry." He apologized, pulling her into his embrace, hoping he didn't cause any internal triggers or thoughts, knowing too much about the consequences and results of self-harm. It was the first time she had heard him utter the words 'i'm sorry,' and the sound of his voice cracking only made the situation worse. With no other excuse, she hugged him back, shedding tears. She hated lying, especially about something like that. When he withdrew, he took the clothes from her hands, helping her into them.

The brunette wiped away her damp cheeks, kissing him once before exiting the room. He had been the only one left in formal attire, which made him look severely out of place, but he hadn't minded much. The boys looked shocked as they whispered among themselves over the fact that Billy was in the room while Allison changed, as if it were such a scandalous thing. Max had simply rolled her eyes at them, smacking Lucas's arm after he passed the message to her. With the other single-spaced armchair being the only available one, Allison motioned for him to sit as she went to retrieve the popcorn in the kitchen, bringing it and a blanket to him.

The room felt tense, side eyes directed towards Billy as if he'd lash out at any moment and murder every single person inside the room. "Okay... let's start." Allison spoke up, sitting down on Billy's lap as the boys yet again began to act like wild hyenas, snickering like elementary school kids; and to think they were starting high school the next year. Joyce had re-winded the movie, starting it up again now with everyone present. The tension hadn't broken in the room; it had been so thick that you could cut right through it. Maybe the horror movie didn't help the situation, but Allison couldn't help but feel like eyes were on her throughout the movie, being proven as she caught glimpses of Jonathan, Nancy, Lucas, Steve, Max and Dustin. The others had been basically unbothered, so into the Shining that nothing else had mattered. The brunette found herself snuggling into Billy's chest at the more intense parts, especially the maze scene. In return, he just held her closer, chuckling silently.

When the movie had finished, the boys had rushed off to Will's room, leaving Max behind with all the older kids and Joyce. Billy and Allison had neared the door, walking out together with Max on their tail. As he started up his car, the red head stopped by Allison's side; "Thank you."

"For what?" The brunette questioned as the Camaro roared, Metallica resuming to blast. "He's been better... nicer... since you two started dating." She muttered, looking up at Allison, who smiled gently in return. "Let's go Max! It's almost two thirty." Billy shouted over the music, leaning out of the window. "And for letting me come over." She added, starting to make her way to the passenger's seat. "You're welcome anytime, just give me a call." Allison smiled back, walking over to the driver's side. As she leaned on the windowsill, looking to the two, she tucked a strand of hair behind her ears. "We should all go out somewhere sometime. I think it would be fun." She proposed, earning raised eyebrows from Billy. With a simple smack to his shoulder, he cleared his throat, nodding in agreement. "Yeah... yeah sure." He groaned, trying to sound as if he was interested. "Great! How about tomorrow? The pool opened this week... we should go. I could take the boys and meet you guys there."

"I like that idea." Max piped in as Billy's facial expression remained impassive. "Alright." He agreed, sighing as his gaze shifted between the two girls. "Three o'clock?" Allison questioned, receiving a nod from the Hargrove boy. "See you guys then." She smiled, leaning through the window to kiss Billy before heading towards the front door, waving them off. Once she re-entered the house, closing the door behind her, the other three teens were sitting in the living room, eyes on her. Joyce had presumably gone off to bed with it being so late, leaving just the four of them alone. The brunette noticed that Nancy had glanced to Steve, Jonathan doing the same. Brushing off the awkwardness, she headed to the kitchen, dumping popcorn kernels into the trash. A hand placed itself on her shoulder from behind, startling her from her task. Nancy's small hand dropped to her side, smiling gently to her friend. "Hey." Allison spoke, dusting off her hands.

"Hi, how are you?"

"Oh, I'm fine... why?"

"We haven't in spoken in like forever... I had no idea about you and... Billy." She revealed, lowering her voice when she uttered the Hargrove boy's name whilst looking over her shoulder towards the two boys. "Right... yeah. I hadn't originally planned on telling anyone right off the bat, but it just kind of scrambled out of the bag. I figured Jonathan would've told you..."

"Nope... how long have you guys been together?"

"About a month... it's been pretty great. He's been good to me." Allison smiled, washing out the bowls at the sink. "That's great... did Jonathan tell you about... about Steve?" She whispered, leaning against the counter. "Yeah, he did."

"He really cares about you." She softly mentions as the sink shuts off, the Byers girl turning to face her. "I know. I care about him too." Allison paused, using a hand towel to wipe off her hands. "But he, and everyone else needs to respect that I'm in a relationship now."

"We do. I trust that you can make your own decisions, even if everyone else is telling you it's the wrong one... which I'm guessing everyone has from the look on your face right now." Nancy smiled, earning one from Allison in return. "Yeah... except oddly enough, Steve seems to be perfectly fine. Besides a few snarky comments about Billy, he's been nothing but respectful. He was more overprotective before Billy and I started dating than he is now." The brunette admitted, watching as Nancy looked to the ground. "What?"

"Behind the gym... when we broke up... he told me that I shouldn't feel bad for not reciprocating feelings. I really hurt Steve at the party... but when we broke things off behind the gym, he told me that my actions and words brought clarity to him. He said he deserved the wakeup call, well, that he needed it. And even as I've observed him, he's really changed." She whispered, pulling Allison to the dining room, where the two sat down away from the boys. Thinking back to his behavior after the Halloween Party, and how it had changed, it had made sense. Besides the night where he and Billy had gotten into a fight, he had felt different. Especially now.

"I knew that no matter how much he said or thought that he'd loved me, no one could compare to the love he has for you. He'd always be looking your way when you came into a room... and last year, before the whole graffiti situation, before we mended our friendship... he had asked me if you were okay, as if I had known. He wanted to go to Will's funeral, to be there for you while you grieved, but he felt that he had no place to do it anymore, not after how much he hurt you... and he couldn't bear to bring any more grief to you during that hard of a time."

The brunette lowered her head as tears pricked in her eyes, taking the information in. Nancy's thin hands met her own, holding them tight. "He still could've come, even if I hated him, which I partially had. He could've come." Allison mumbled, taking a deep breath in as she blinked back the tears. "I know... he wished he had in the end." Nancy revealed, running her thumb across the other brunette's skin. "There's so many things he wished he did and didn't do. Not even I know all of them... but I just know he cares for you more than he has for anyone. He never looked at me the way he looked at you... and I thought that I'd hated it. But then I realized that I had been looking to the wrong person that entire time, because Jonathan looked at me the way I longed for." She beamed as Allison looked up, no trace of tears left in her eyes. "Why couldn't he tell me all of this himself?"

"Because he sees that you're happy with Billy. We all see it. And as far as he's told Jonathan and I, all he wants for you is unconditional love, even if it's not from him." She expressed, leaning forward slightly. "He told us tonight when we'd asked about you two dancing at prom. Seeing you happy is enough for him." She whispered, squeezing Allison's hands. "I don't know about you, but I'd say he's pretty head over heels for you."

"It wouldn't be the first time." Allison humored, sending small laughs out of both of their throats. "We're both grateful to know that you've forgiven us for what we did... and we both are extremely lucky that you even want us around." Nancy finished, pulling the other brunette into an embrace. "You looked great tonight too at Prom." Allison complimented, withdrawing after a couple seconds. "You and Jonathan are meant for one another. He really likes you."

"I'm lucky for that too... and I really like him." She grinned, standing up whilst offering a helping hand to the Byers girl. "And just so we're clear, I'm not telling you this so you get back with Steve. Frankly, I think you and Billy are adorable... he could use someone like you in his life to keep him steady." With a smile spreading across both of their faces, Allison takes Nancy's hand, bringing herself to a stance. "Oh... and I told my mom I was spending the night with you... I didn't tell her I wouldn't be sleeping in your room though..."

"I've got you covered if she asks." Allison replied with a wink before they joined Jonathan and Steve in the living room, Nancy thanking her along the way. The guys had been mid conversation, stopping once the two girls arrived. "Hey! We were thinking about watching another movie... if you guys wanted to." Jonathan noted, shrugging his shoulders as Steve simply smiled and nodded in return. The two girls exchanged glances, both nodding to each other, joining the boys on the couch.

As the four squished on to one couch, Allison being between Steve and Nancy, Jonathan set up Creature from the Black Lagoon, returning to the edge of the couch by Nancy, putting an arm around her shoulder. The brunette turned to Steve, who held a blanket out to her; The brunette smiled in return, spreading it across the both of them.

-

Sunlight had seeped through the curtains due to the early morning sun, awakening Allison once it reached her eyelids. Her eyes searched the room, realizing she had fallen asleep on the couch, Steve asleep on the other end. She figured Nancy and Jonathan had moved to his room somewhere in the night as she rubbed at her eyes, bringing herself to a stance, careful to not wake him. It had only been around six AM, but it had felt like she'd been asleep for longer. As she made her way to the kitchen, the sound of Dustin's voice startled her; "Sleep well?" His eyebrow popped as the boys, except Will, snickered to themselves from the dining room. "I did, thank you dusty." Allison teased with his old nickname, which he had hated in recent years. That had seemed to do the trick as he rolled his eyes, resuming eating his cereal. "I was going to ask you guys if you wanted to go to the pool with Max and I, but now I don't think I want to."

"Don't punish the rest of us for this idiot's behavior." Lucas exclaimed, slapping the back of Dustin's head. "What the hell man?" The Henderson boy exclaimed, spitting milk on Lucas's face as he talked. Allison's eyes darted to the couch, where Steve had stood from, making his way to the rest of the group with squinted eyes. "Morning..." The brunette greeted, receiving a grumbled one in return. "We want to go... but we don't have our bathing suits." Mike chimed in, looking to the brunette. "I would be stopping by your houses so you could get them." Allison responded, throwing her hair up into a ponytail with the scrunchie she had put around her wrist when changing the night before. "When are we going?" Will questioned, standing from the dining room to wash his bowl out. "I had told Billy we'd go at three."

"You guys are going to the pool?" Steve asked as he leaned against the counter, crossing his arms. "Yeah... since it's open now I thought it would be a good idea, it's getting pretty warm outside." The Byers girl replied, shrugging her shoulders. "And you and Billy are going to babysit them? I thought that was our job." He pouted humorously, grinning at her eye roll. "No, we're going to let them have fun. They're almost in high school now. Plus, it gives me an excuse to go see Heather since she got the job there."

"I had thought about applying with all my swimming experience, but I don't think I could handle more than these three dickheads." He pointed to the boys as his lips pulled into a thin line. "Three?" The brunette questioned, seeing four at the table. "Yeah. Will hasn't caused any trouble, and he's sensible like you."

The brunette couldn't tell if it was a compliment to her or her brother, so she just nodded in return, knowing that he was more mature than the other three boys. "You should come Steve." Dustin spoke up while the other boys came to the kitchen, cleaning up after themselves. "Oh no... no I'm good. I'm sure Allison can handle the supervisor shift today."

"I'll try my best." She sighed, glancing to the Harrington boy towering beside her. "My parents are probably out of town by now... so I think I'm gonna head out." He pushed himself off of the counter, rustling the top of Dustin's head. "Call me if you need anything." He directed towards Allison, heading to the front door. The brunette followed him out to his car, tugging on his arm before he got in. "We should talk sometime... just us. I think it's overdue."

"Alright... uh, well I'm free anytime so... just let me know." He responded, nodding after he spoke. The brunette wrapped her arms around his waist, and though he was hesitant at first, his arms had quickly moved to hold her. "I want to hear how you feel from you next time. Not from Jonathan... not from Nancy. From you." Allison muttered, knowing he had probably known about the other twos statements. She felt him nod over her head, rubbing her back before he withdrew. "Okay." He simply spoke in return nodding once more before getting into his BMW, driving off.

Chapter Text

The icy pool water of Hawkins Community Pool was a relieving contrast to the Indiana Spring heat, bringing contentment to the locals. Heather's red one-piece shone bright from the guard post, her perfectly manicured nails toying with the same red whistle. The boys had wasted no time to jump in, joining the other rambunctious children splashing everything within their up-close vicinities.

"Having fun up there?" Allison called up to Heather upon approaching, startling the Holloway girl. "Allie!" The curly haired brunette exclaimed, climbing down quickly. Within seconds, her arms were flung around her best friend, muttering 'i missed you so much's' as the hazel-eyed girl reminded that it hadn't even been twenty-four hours since their last encounter. Nevertheless, Heather remained affectionate, hugging her tightly. "That is an adorable bathing suit- and it looks great on you!" The brown eyed girl expressed, examining Allison's pastel pink, purple, and turquoise one piece. Though the Byers girl always wore two-pieces, the thought of others seeing the indentations and marks across her skin would raise concerns or judgmental stares; Having not had an answer to provide to Billy, she didn't want anyone else to interrogate.

In return, Allison offered a grateful smile, listening as Heather went on; "Is it just you today? Or did you bring Will? ...Billy? Steve?" She questioned, leaning closer as she uttered the last names. "I brought Will and his friends... but I am waiting on Billy and his stepsister Max." The brunette replied, turning around to search the perimeter for either of their presences. "In the meantime, I'll probably just lay out to tan."

"Look at you, ready to get that summer glow. You'll be walking across the stage at the end of the week looking fresher than ever." Heather smiled, rubbing her best friends arm for implication. "Oh god, don't remind me- I completely forgot that this is the final week. I could literally scream."

"You and me both hun. I got into University of Notre Dame, just like my dad, which is exactly what I wanted, but the thought of actually going off is terrifying... What about you? Heard anything?"

"Besides Hawkins community... no." Allison sighed, hoping she wouldn't have to resort to it. "And are you still wanting to go to USC?" Heather inquired, having been told about it over an extensive phone call a couple of weeks prior; As the Byers girl opened her mouth to reply, Heather held up a hand as she blew her whistle, bringing her lips to the megaphone, telling off some kid who tried diving in the no diving area. "Anyway, sorry, go ahead."

"I did, yeah. That's still the plan... but I haven't heard anything. But maybe that's not where I should go... with my family here, and we probably won't be able to pay all of it off, especially if Jonathan still wants to go to New York. Both schools would run my mom dry."

"Allie, babe, we've already talked about this. Stop worrying about other people and putting their life ahead of yours. You have to live a little hun... and I'm gonna ask you to swear to me right now that if you get accepted, you'll go."

"You know I can't swear that to you."

"You said you didn't know if you were even going to be accepted... so it's fifty-fifty. Just do us a favor and agree."

"...Fine." Allison stated, crossing her arms. "Are you going to make me swear to bleach my hair blonde again too...?"

"That's such a great idea- absolutely I am. It's been added to the contract."

"I was kidding, and plus it doesn't work that w-"

"Does now. You're sworn in babe." Heather beamed, giggling at her best friend as her eyes moved to behind the girl, trying to conceal a smile. "Don't you think she should go for blonde again, Billy?"

Allison quickly turned around following Heather's words, finding Billy looking down at her with Max at his side. The redhead wore a radiant yellow one-piece, looking eager to depart from her stepbrother's side. Billy's focus had been on Allison though, not paying any mind to the younger girl behind him. "You made it finally! The boys are already in the pool Max, so if you want to join them-"

"Thanks. I could use some cooling down." Max huffed, heading towards the water. "Maxine." Billy called out, causing the girl to halt. "I was serious about what I said in the car." He spoke in a serious tone as the Mayfield girl nodded, followed by shaking her head once Billy had turned around. "My apologies ladies... trying to get Maxine to understand some things. But to answer your question, absolutely. I'd love to see you rock blonde with my own eyes."

"See! Two against one." Heather blurted, nodding to Billy as he displayed his toothy grin. "Aren't you supposed to be on duty?" Allison smiled, receiving an eye roll from the brown eyed girl. "They're super chill here. You two should totally come work here, I'm already working on a tan myself and you get to let out built up rage using this thing." Heather implied, holding up the megaphone. "Sounds perfect for you, doesn't it?" The Byers girl directed to Billy beside her, earning a grin. "I want to get a tan myself, so I'm going to go set up over there." She continued, pointing to the white lounge chairs. "See ya."

The brunette strode away, occupying a once-empty chair, watching as Heather and Billy conversed for a couple seconds. The curly haired brunette pointed off in a separate direction, nodding her head to whatever the Hargrove boy said in return, who now made his way over to Allison. "I think I might take your guys' advice and apply here. It's the closest to a body of water that I'm going to get." He stated, sitting at the edge of her chair as the older women, mothers who were there to monitor their kids, gawked at him from afar. "Double the excuse to come here then." Allison smiled, sitting up before reaching into her bag, pulling out the sunscreen. As she began to apply to herself, Billy helped himself to the white goop, smothering it across his exposed skin. "So... what's going on between you and Max?"

"Oh... It's nothing." He huffed, tugging his white tank top up and over his head. "Help me with my back, would you Darlin'?" He questioned, sitting down beside her. As she lathered the substance on her hands, spreading it to his back, she spoke up; "That didn't seem like nothing. She was pretty annoyed."

"Yeah... the little shit-" He began before Allison pinched his back, receiving a quick turn and questioning look from the golden-maned boy. "Don't call her names like that."

"What, you don't call your brothers names?"

"None like that." She replied, raising her eyebrows. "Well... Maxine is angry cause I'm tryin' to show that I want to look out for her... for once." He revealed, talking quickly as he does when he's impatient or frustrated. "And what might you have said to her?"

"I told her that if any guy makes as much as a move, glare, or anythin' that makes her uncomfortable... I told her to tell me, cause I would beat the shit out of the punk... and she told me to lay off. And, well you probably guessed I wasn't too happy about it."

"Well... not to pick sides but it is quite intimidating when your brother claims that he'll beat any guy up who so much as glances in your direction... knowing he's capable... so... give her time to realize you mean it. It's new to her, so she needs time to realize your seriousness, just as you need to learn how to make your words less threatening, and more loving."

"Stepbrother... and that's definitely picking sides." He grinned, smearing a dallop of sunscreen on her nose. "Is it though?" She replied, wiping sunscreen across his face as pay back, smiling wide at his look of bafflement. "I didn't do anywhere near as much as that." He protested, taking some of it off with his fingers, smearing it on the brunette next to him. As much as she had been tempted to start a sunscreen-fight, she just nudged him playfully in return, laying down to tan after spreading the white substance.

Allison glanced over to the pool, making sure the boys and Max were still intact. All but Will looked to have been enjoying their time, splashing back and forth with belly laughs. He looked as if he'd rather be anywhere but here, a pained expression across his face.

It wasn't until everyone had gone home and went their separate ways that Allison was able to ask about it. With a quiet knock on his door, he gave permission for her to come in, sitting up in his bed upon observing her concerned expression. "Hey... are you busy?" She questioned, closing the door behind her as she waited for his answer. "No, I was just going to go to bed." He replied, holding his hands together on his lap. "I just wanted to talk, but it won't take too long... is that okay?" The brunette questioned, receiving a nod from her youngest brother. Her movement was slow as she looked to a pile of miscellaneous items on his floor, picking Thumper up from the middle of it, followed by sitting at the end of his bed. "Is everything alright?" She questioned, hugging the stuffed animal to her chest. "Yeah... why?"

"I just... I can't help but feel like something's off. You seem sad... and it makes me sad." She shared, meeting his eyes. "I-I'm not sad. I'm okay." He attested, his lips forming a thin line. "We really never talk as much as I'd like to... and it's my fault, really. I've been so distant with Billy and everything. I want us to be able to communicate again, and I'm sorry for not making time for you."

"You do... we have movie nights together." He implied, unclasping his hands to fiddle with the hem of his sheets. "That's not the same. It's not just our family anymore... so it's not one on one time like it used to be. I just... at the pool earlier... you looked really devastated Will. None of your friends even seemed to notice, but I did. I know that look all too well, and I wish you would tell me what's really going on... please." She pleaded before he nodded, looking down to his hands. "My friends just feel... far. Ever since Mike has been allowed to start seeing Eleven again, he's never really been around much anymore, minus the movie nights and today. We just never hang out alone anymore... same with Lucas. He's always with Max, and it's annoying having to listen to them argue so much. One minute they're together, one minute they're not. And Dustin... he just seems so disinterested and unbothered with everything but Steve and summer camp. I feel like any time we're all together, it's all about their girlfriends. I feel like I don't belong in the group anymore."

His voice cracks here and there as Allison's eyes fill with sympathy, moving to sit by her youngest brother as she pulls him into a hug. "Of course you belong with them, Will. You're the heart of the group. They'd fumble without you." She began, rubbing his back reassuringly. "Why do you feel otherwise?"

"All I want to do is play DnD... just like we all used to. Now none of them do... they just obsess over Max and El all the time. They're always arguing about which girl is the better kisser... and I just feel... not normal. While Dustin whines about not having a girlfriend to brag about... I don't even think about it. I don't want a girlfriend, and I don't think it's right to compare Max and Eleven based on how good they are at this or that- how good of a girlfriend they are." He ranted as the two pulled out of each other's grasps. "Well... although Jonathan would have a better understanding of talking from a boy's perspective, I have to say that I think you're the most mature of all of them. Women should be valued as human beings... not as a placeholder to please men... and it's good that you see that. It's normal to not want a relationship at your age... or even at all. Our purpose in life isn't to marry and provide for our partners. And as for wanting to play DnD... why don't you teach me? I'd love to play with you... if you would've told me earlier in the year, I could've reached out to an old friend... he probably would've liked the idea of a new apprentice." Allison admitted, squeezing his hand within hers. "DnD is more fun with more than two players." He divulged, looking over to his board game over on his desk. "Okay... I could get Billy to join... or Steve if you prefer, maybe even Heather? And if you need another, I could get her to bring Robin." Allison ventured, smiling at the thought of seeing any of the people she mentioned trying to understand how to play the game she knew to be extremely complex.

"I think Billy would make fun of me... and I really don't see any of them being interested in it... though I don't know who Robin is. His name is pretty cool though." He noted as Allison smiled, shaking her head. "Robin is a girl, and I think she'd be pretty interested. If Billy even thought about making as much as a remark, I would make sure it was the last thought he'd have. But I understand... maybe we could get Jonathan and mom to join us... and you could teach the three of us about it." The brunette claimed, truly hoping there was a way he'd teach her. "I don't know..."

"Well... you can let me know if you decide that you want to teach me... because I seriously would love nothing more. And if you don't want that and would rather wait for the entire summer to pass before you play again... you can try to get into Hellfire club next year. The members are extremely dedicated. I've never been to one of their meetings... matches... sessions- whatever you call it. But I heard it's really intense. I think you'd love it." She finishes, trying to read his expression. "Yeah." He simply responded, confusing his sister. "Yeah to what?"

"I think I'd really like to join that club... but maybe I can try to teach you and Steve." Will answered, slowly nodding his head as he spoke. A gentle smile engulfed Allison's face at his words as she squeezed his hand once more. "I'll let Steve know. He will be honored to hear it." She implied, knowing Steve being his protective older brother self, or, as the group joked, 'mother' figure, would easily comply. "It's only eight-thirty... would you want to watch a movie... Ghostbusters? Just you, me, maybe Jonathan?" She proposed, considering Joyce was already fast asleep. Consideration dwelled in his brown eyes before he agreed, climbing out of bed. The two knocked on their brother's door, being quickly opened within seconds. Jonathan stood in confusion, looking inquisitively between his siblings with a raised eyebrow. "Hey J... we planned on watching Ghostbusters for old times' sake, just the three of us."

The older Byers boy kept looking back and forth from his sister to his brother, opening his mouth for rebuttal. "We'd love it if you joined... please." Allison pleaded, her eyes darting to Will beside her as if to say 'he needs this.' With no further hesitation, Jonathan nodded, stepping out of his room. When it came to Will, Allison and Jonathan, even Joyce, would stop at nothing to protect him. Before and after everything in the past years, it didn't matter. Will was always the priority, and his family had tried their absolute best to make sure of it, even if Will himself felt that anybody but himself was. The three moved to the couch, sandwiching Will in the middle.

The youngest Byers boy was quick to appreciate his decision, being captivated by the movie like any other time. From his sides, his older siblings exchanged glances and small, thankful smiles. The three never really spent time alone together anymore, and Allison had almost forgotten how special each time was. She loved the big group movie nights, but when it was just the three of them plus Joyce, it had felt much more intimate and meaningful. It had all been thanks to Bob, who still held a place in all of the Byers's hearts, and a picture on the fridge.

-

As Monday came, Billy had picked Allison up, taking her to school along with Max. The brunette had been the one to initiate a conversation, not being able to sit in silence for the drive, no matter how short it was. She had asked Max about skateboarding, discussing how it had been something she wished she had been able to learn when she was younger, but had never really gotten around to doing it. With that, Max eagerly proposed to teach her, passionately talking about the subject for the rest of the car ride. Allison had never heard her talk so much, but loved that she had. "You have to hold up on your word now." Billy stated with a cigarette nestled between his lips as Max skated off to the middle school. When the brunette had shot him a questioning glance, he puffed out smoke, licking his lips as he prepared to continue. "You said you'd love for her to teach you."

"I meant it. I like the idea of being let in on what people are most passionate about. Whether it be being taught, told, or showed how to do it." She revealed, smiling as he did. "Which leads me to ask you what you are fervent about." She continued, plopping on to the hood of his car. "Making love to you, baby." Billy smirked, licking his lips teasingly. "I'm serious."

"Oh, but I am too." He declared, standing between her legs as he used his finger to lift her chin, causing her to face him. Butterflies swirled within the brunette as a rose-colored crimson rose to her cheeks. Her gaze remained serious, though, still wanting to figure him out. "Shit if I know. I've never dedicated to a specific something my entire life... besides being an asshole and shameless flirt." He grinned, withdrawing his grasp from her chin. "Not surfing?" Allison questioned as a glimmer flashed in his perfect blue eyes, biting down on his lip. "Yeah... that's it. Surfing." He continued to smile, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear before intertwining his lips with hers. "I won't have to teach you anything though, you'll be an expert before you know it." He implies, helping her off the hood of his car before the two head inside.

The halls were bustling as usual, students swelling in every crevice. The brunette smiled to herself at the vision of her out in the ocean popped in her head, with Billy beside her on his own surfboard, the two of them living their life in California away from this small, claustrophobic town. Steve had already been sat in Mr. Dorten's class, looking half-awake as a lazy smile crossed his face upon seeing the two. With their essays being turned in, all Mr. Dorten really did was read (more so mumble and drawl) his Edgar Allen Poe and Shakespeare for the entire month of May. Some students got away with sleeping, but others just found ways to entertain themselves. Allison and Steve, for example, passed notes back and forth, whilst she and Billy would just write to one another in one of her notebooks, sliding it to the other side of the desk for the other to read when done.

'talk tonight?' Allison wrote on a small note, leaning back in her chair, pretending to stretch as she passed it to the Harrington boy, who nodded in return. Lunch had thankfully been much more exciting, considering Eddie Munson had somehow started a food fight with one toss of an apple to the partiers, which quickly escalated to food being thrown in every direction. Heather and Allison had been laughing as Carol and Tina cried out about her ruined hair, quick to flee from the cafeteria. Though Heather had moved on from Christopher and given up on her grudge against Vicki Carmichael, as soon as the red head chased after the other two, Heather had swiftly chucked the mush of a potato salad the cafeteria deemed as food into the back of her head, sending frantic shrieks of horror out of her lips. Allison had simply given a high five to her best friend, the two unable to control their laughter as staff desperately attempted to stop the food-throwing, ultimately getting toppled with some.

As the two girls relocated to the bathroom, removing any residue of food left over on their clothes or hair, they burst out in laughter yet again, desperately trying to hold the other up as their knees went weak with hysteria. "I needed that." Heather made out, fanning herself with one of her hands. "A good start to our last week." She added, hopping on to the counter as Allison fixed her makeup in the mirror. "At least we can now say we've officially been in a food fight. I never thought that would happen outside of movies."

"I just can't get over the look on those bitch's faces. Priceless. I wish I could frame it and hang it on my wall." Heather cackled, and as if on cue, the three girls stepped into the bathroom, immediate distaste engulfing their faces as their eyes laid upon the two brunettes. All the two did in return was laugh, passing by them and rushing out. "God I'm going to miss this when we go off to college." Heather whined, taking Allison's hands within hers out in the hall. "At least we have almost all summer." Allison reminded, pulling her best friend into a hug. "And even after that, we can write letters, call whenever we can... we'll always have one another." She finished, hugging her friend tighter.

Tommy had announced his plans for a party at his place Tuesday in gym, making sure every single classmate heard about it. Naturally, Billy was 100% in whether Allison was or not, but she had agreed, wanting a night of fun. Partying had been another thing Billy was passionate about, which should've come to Allison's mind before surfing due to her firsthand experience of seeing him in what had seemed to be his element, all the way back in October. He had acted like chugging a count of forty-two was as easy as breathing, along with taking the title of King within his first week. No one in the history of Hawkins had been able to do what he had done, then again, there was no one like him at all there.

Before dropping Allison off at her house, a stop a Betty's diner had been in store. Just like Billy, strawberry milkshakes had been Max's favorite. The two girls had mostly just chattered back and forth, the brunette raving about the food fight and graduation whilst the Mayfield girl envied every bit of it. Billy just sat beside his girlfriend, watching the two bond while trying to maintain a serious face, though it made him want to smile. He pretended to not care about Max, but seeing how comfortable she was around Allison made him feel so... thankful. The Byers girl had tended to have that effect on them, he guessed. Only when Max got up to use the restroom did he speak up, leaning forward in his seat; "I never got to ask you what you're passionate about... but I think I know."

"Oh?" She questioned, slurping down the last bit of her chocolate milkshake. "You love, regardless. No matter who. I've only met one other person with a heart as big as yours... but I think after being around you so much, I can say that yours is far bigger." He paused, pushing his empty glass to the end of the table. "Who's the other person?" Allison asked, shifting her body to face him. "My mother." He answered, his smile faltering. "Her love was fierce. It made her who she was... and she had this natural radiance to her, like she was made of pure sunlight. I never thought I would find someone who loved so courageously again... but you, my Darlin', you prove all of my doubts wrong."

Chapter Text

Hours had passed since Allison was dropped off by Billy, her mind still lingering back to his words at the diner. Her heart had been her weakness and her strength; It had been so full of everyone else that she could hardly call it her own. Maybe it had been a good thing, she'd like to think, but knew it ultimately always got her hurt. Things had been running so smoothly, though, and she wanted that streak to continue forever, but she also knew that happiness is an emotion that comes and goes. It was never permanent.

Though she had planned to call Steve and talk over the phone, she had found it pointless as his BMW rolled into the driveway around seven-thirty. "I was going to call you." Allison stated through the opened front door as he exited his car, tossing his keys up in the air, catching them in his palm. "I figured it's better to talk in person." He replied, smiling as he stepped over the threshold. The two moved to her bedroom, kicking off their shoes before sitting themselves on her bed. "So... what's the occasion?" He questioned, fiddling with his thumbs over his outstretched legs. "Figured our talk was due sooner than later." The brunette addressed, her head and back resting against the wall. "First things first, I need a favor." She started, pausing at his inquisitive expression. "It's not anything too much to handle. It's... it's for Will."

"Is he okay?" Steve inquired, sitting up in concern. "Yes and no." She hinted as his eyebrows threaded together. "It's not anything to do with... you know...right?"

"No. Thank god no. It's more emotional than anything... but he needs someone. Given he's not as fond of Billy as he is of you... I kind of told him you'd do this favor with me."

"Wow... I'm the second choice?" He joked, hovering a hand over his heart, implying it had been crushed. When Allison's gaze remained serious, he straightened, turning to face her. "Kidding. I understand. What's the favor?"

"He teaches you and me to play DnD." She answered. Steve's mouth laid agape, not sure of how to respond. "Before your tongue catches up to your brain, all of his friends have practically ditched him. Like, they'll be hanging out, but they almost completely ignore him. He said he didn't feel like he belonged anymore, and I knew I had to do something to make it better. He loves Dnd more than most things, like how you love your hair, so try and see where I'm coming from." She explained, moving her hands as she spoke. "I can't tell if there was a hidden insult in that speech or not, but I understand. I'd love to... though I can't promise that I'll be able to keep up."

"I doubt I'll be any better, but I want to try, for him." Allison expressed, her lips forming into a thin line following her words. The brown-haired boy simply nodded in return, resting his back against the wall beside her. "As for our talk?" He questioned, twisting his head to face her. She let out a heavy breath, not knowing how or where to start off. "That..." She paused, licking her lips; "Is going to be harder to come about." She finished, turning her head to meet his eyes. He nodded as if he understood, or as if he knew the conversation would be awkward, maybe even emotional. "Even if it was hard to hear, what Nancy and Jonathan told me about you was eye-opening... and it helped me to understand... but the entire time they spoke, I had wished it was you. You should be the one to tell me how you feel, Steve. Not them."

His head continued to nod slowly, his brown eyes faltering from hers as he shifted his body to face her, crossing his legs from under him. "You're right, I should. I don't know why it seems so impossible to though. Where- where do you want me to start? What do you want me to say?"

"Probably with why you left in the first place." She uttered, her voice growing quieter. "Okay... I can do that." He started, clearing his throat to prepare himself. "Like I told you that night outside the hospital, after your mom and Hopper saved Will, it had nothing, and I mean absolutely nothing, to do with you. I don't know what I was thinking initially. You had brought Nancy forward, and I thought I was in love with her. I did. I didn't know how to tell you, because the last thing I wanted to do was hurt you, but by doing that, I hurt you worse than my dumbass could have ever comprehended. I didn't understand how it could be possible to feel as though you were in love with two people at once... and be so scared to lose one in the process of admitting to feeling for another.

I don't know why I didn't just tell you how I felt. I told you everything else, but this one time, this one fucking time, I chose to ignore everything we had worked through, starting with communication, and I broke you, broke us. I made the mistake of telling Tommy about my feelings, and then he had just egged me on. And me being the absolute worst person imaginable, I lied to you, deceived you, and traded you for your best friend. I did something far worse than breaking your heart." He expressed, biting down on his lip as he watched Allison's face sadden at the memory. "You, Allie, were perfect. You have always been perfect. You always gave everything, and I feel like I never gave enough in return. You did nothing wrong. I took you for granted, and I have no justification for what I did, because there is none... you didn't deserve that."

Her bottom lip trembled as his voice cracked and head shook, his eyes full of intense regret and self-loathing. "Then you lost Will, and I had been so selfish... I watched as you drowned in your grief, and I felt as though there was nothing I could do about it. After how much I hurt you, I figured that all I could do to you was hurt you worse than I already had, so I held myself back. I wanted to hold you, tell you that I was so sorry. That Will, you, your family, none of you deserved it. But I just sat from the table next to you with Tommy, and observed how the bags under your eyes grew... I said nothing when I saw the silent tears fall down your cheeks before you'd quickly wipe them away, taking your three breaths in and out, plastering a pained smile across your face." He paused, taking a deep breath in. "I remember watching the news in my living room, hearing that Will's body was found in that quarry. I can't describe the anger and sadness I felt, but I didn't sleep that night... it was almost as though I could feel the agony you were in. I should've driven to your house, despite how I concluded that you hated me, and held you. I wanted to. Just like I wanted to be at the funeral, just to show that I at least cared... but I couldn't even do that. And I'm- I'm so fucking sorry. There hasn't been a day since that I haven't regretted it, or wished that I had done better.

And those things I said in the alleyway about your family... that had to of been one of the worst things I've ever done. I knew I didn't mean it, but I still said it. I watched as your face shattered, as the tears welled in your eyes. I knew how much you loved your family, or how much you hated when Tommy or Carol would talk down on them because it would always hurt you... you even told me to back down, and I wish I did, but I didn't. I kept going as Tommy held you back, and heard you plead for me to stop. I had wished you were the one beating the shit out of me instead of your brother, but I'm glad he did. And I'm glad you hit some senses into me too." He revealed, swallowing hard. "Why would you wish it was me instead?" Allison questioned, her own voice cracking as she spoke. "So I could feel the pain I put you through. To be reminded of what I had done, what I had caused." He answered, his eyes resting on her hazel ones. "Even if you decided to do it now, I'd be fine with it." He laughed gently, biting on the inside of his cheek.

"After escaping the police, I ditched Tommy and Carol. I couldn't stand to look at them, let alone myself. I drove straight to your house after in hopes of apologizing... but with the seriousness of what I had done, I would need redemption. I knew you likely wouldn't forgive me, but I understood. By going to your house, though, I got wrapped up in all of this, and while I was absolutely terrified, the only immediate way I knew how to prove myself was closing the space between the Demogorgan hovering above you with myself. I may have screamed like a maniac, but I'd say I did a pretty good job with that bat." He had half-heartedly smiled, running his fingers through his fluffy hair. "I probably would've died if you hadn't done it." Allison put forth, offering a small smile in return.

Steve remained silent, his eyes moving to his hands as he chewed on his bottom lip. "It took Nancy breaking my heart, and you almost dying to realize how much of a fucking idiot I was." He uttered, eyes remaining on his hands. "I have never been more terrified than the night we returned from Hawkins Lab. You're braver than anyone I've known, so defiantly determined to do anything for the ones you love, Will being the one in that instance. There was so much blood, and you were struggling to keep your eyes open, until you just fell into me, and your body went limp... I listened to everything Hopper had instructed me to do, and I just prayed that you would stay with me.

I ran inside with you in my arms, and pleaded for Hopper, Jonathan, anyone, to help me... I had been shaking so bad the entire time we bandaged you up, and after, when Hopper left the room, I cried harder than I'd cried in years. I just sat on the side of this bed," He gestured to where they were seated, resting his hand on the comforter; "holding your hand, silently begging for you to wake up." He revealed, finally meeting Allison's eyes. There were tears within his own, so desperately wanting to fall down his cheeks. The brunette's heart faltered at the sight, having rarely seen him truly feel an emotion so intensely. Hearing this new piece of information had shifted perspective, allowing her to see the honesty within his eyes. "When Hopper told me that you'd likely passed out from the amount of pain you were in, and not the blood loss, relief had nearly drowned me. Then you woke up, and I almost fell to my knees and kissed the ground. It had been so hard not to wrap my arms around you and thank whoever, or whatever was listening to my pleas. I was probably a little overdramatic, but you really had us worried."

The Harrington boy smiled, blinking back the tears that had formed on his waterline. "As for the extreme jealousy I showed when Hargrove had first showed up, I'm sorry. I treated you as if you couldn't make your own decisions, when I myself couldn't even understand what I was feeling for you. I needed the rude awakening at Tinas Halloween Bash from Nancy. She told me that our love was bullshit, maybe even that I was. And I needed to hear it. I had been crushed in the moment, but as I drove home, something shifted inside of me. It was like... opening a third eye." Steve expressed, resting his head against her wall; "Behind the bleachers, that one day in gym, when Nancy and I broke up, we both found the truth that we both had someone else we were holding out for." He claimed, nodding his head slowly.

Allison knew Nancy was now happily with Jonathan, and through them, she knew Steve still had feelings for her. He knew that she knew it too as he watched her piece it together from beside him. "I don't think I have to reveal who it is to you." He voiced, pulling his lips into a thin line as she slowly nodded in return. "I couldn't bring myself to tell you how I felt, yet again. I saw how you looked at Billy, how you smiled, the way that he made you feel loved. I wished it was me, but I would never try and ruin what you have with him. I finally saw you happy, your natural warmth and glow had returned, and that was enough for me. In time, I would've eventually told you myself, but seems like your brother and Nance were too impatient to wait." He humored, sniffling once he paused his speaking.

"There are so many things I wished I had done or hadn't done." He finished; his eyes soft as they poured into hers. "Believe it or not... if you had told me all of this before Billy came around, we might've had a second chance." Allison revealed, sighing deeply. "I shouldn't say it, but I want to be open like we used to. A part of me will always love you, Steve. That part ached and burned for you, for so long. And, that part is still there, but I'm with someone now. I waited, even as I denied my feelings, for any sign that you had felt something too... but I realized too late, as did you." She continued, now taking her turn to swallow hard as her nerves were all over the place. "And... I- I understand what you mean by not comprehending being in love with two people... because I live with that every day."

Steve's eyes lighten for a moment, before they fade to normal, blinking rapidly. "Don't tear yourself apart for what you did." Allison voiced, taking a deep breath in before she uttered her next words; "I went with Billy to the party to make you jealous... even hooked up with him in hopes of getting over you... and as good as it had felt in the moment, guilt was all I had been left with. The feelings never left, but it made the whole situation worse. I caught feelings for him, while still holding desperately on to you. He... he knows how I feel about you, and he tries to understand. But I know it bothers him." She confessed, a more intense thought coming to mind. "He had fucking mercilessly beaten the shit out of you because of me... and I'm sorry."

"You don't have anything to apologize for." He insisted, shaking his head slightly. "Hargrove had been the one to tell me you still had feelings for me, that same night. He felt for you as I did, and that only drives motivation to compete. I should've let you handle him on your own... you had been improving the situation but... I got ahead of myself. It was almost like I was asking for him to punch me... but that's not something you ever have to apologize for."

The brunette sighed, nodding her head in a hesitant agreement. "Is it going to be awkward between us now?" She inquired, pulling her legs underneath her to fully face him. "Of course not. Though we know of our mutual feelings, you are in a relationship, and I respect that. As long as we can at least be friends, I think I'll be okay." He smiled, receiving one in return from the hazel-eyed girl. "I want to find a way to make sure it works this time." Allison expressed as Steve's eyebrow raised, curious to know what she meant. "That what works?"

"Our friendship... it's like we keep finding ourselves at odds whenever we get a fresh start. Something always seems to happen and get in the way. I don't want that to be our fate anymore. I want this to work." She held in a serious tone as the boy across from her nodded in return, his lips separating to speak; "I think I might know a way to make that happen." He implied, a slow smile spreading across his lips. The brunette's eyebrows raised, waiting on him to finish his sentence. "How do you feel about getting a job for the summer... you know... before you go off to college."

"What kind of job?" Allison questioned, straightening her posture. "The construction of that new mall is supposed to be finished by the end of next week... given the amount of shops going there, we could find and apply somewhere there... that is of course if you're interested." The Harrington boy suggested, shrugging his shoulders that now felt lighter than before he arrived at the Byers residence. "Are you kidding! I'd love that!" She practically squealed, clasping her hands together in front of her heart. He beamed at the brunette across from him, relishing in her excitement at his idea.

-

Allison had filled Billy in on the idea the next morning, brushing out her hair from the passenger's seat. "Hm." Was all he offered, puffing out his cigarette smoke. "What?"

"Nothin'." He replied, not even bothering to glance in her direction. Allison's eyes looked to Max through the rearview mirror, finding the redhead already looking her way. Her lips were formed into a thin line, slowly shaking her head as if to warn the Byers girl to keep quiet. The brunette swallowed hard, looking out the passenger side window, her elbow propped on the windowsill. The remainder of the ride had been devastatingly silent, in such a way that would inflict anxiousness. The Hargrove boy didn't even play his Metallica to drown out his thoughts as usual, but instead sat in silence.

As they pulled into the parking lot, Billy had been the first to step out as usual, leaving Max and Allison to climb out on their own. "He and Neil really got into it this morning... it was... worse... than it usually is... my mom took me outside before it got physical, but I could hear it from outside." Max quietly mentioned, making sure that only Allison could hear. "He hasn't talked since... I think he's afraid he'll burst into one of his rage fits if he does." The redhead adds before gesturing for the older girl to let her out. Allison complies, quickly climbing out of the car and pulling the seat down, allowing Max to exit. "I wouldn't try to pry anything out of him this time... it's better off to let it stay unquestioned." Then she's off on her skateboard, offering a final barely passing smile. Allison's gaze shifted to Billy on the other side of the Camaro, who crushed his cigarette under his boot. She met at his side, and the two walked in quietly. Anger was practically radiating off of him, warm enough for Allison to feel.

When they had seated themselves in Mr. Dorten's classroom, only then did she see his busted knuckles. His skin was swelled, bruised, and spots of blood residue he had likely missed had been evident, on display for anyone to see. Allison knew that Neil had not done this, but that he had caused it; This had positively been self-inflicted, and that realization cracked the brunette's heart. She wanted to reach out and hold his hand, but she knew anger well. It was best to leave someone full of rage untouched. She herself had learned her lesson, being foolish enough to try and be the mediator when Lonnie had verbally bashed Joyce. One small touch, plea for him to stop, had been enough to erupt that volcano of fury. She hadn't known what had happened until she woke up on the kitchen floor, head throbbing and tears stinging in the corners of her eyes. Joyce had held her for hours after words, apologizing countless times even though it was no where near her fault. Lonnie had come back home two days later, reeking of alcohol. Trying to predict how someone with anger issues would react had felt like a gambling game. Some kept it better contained, or inward, and then there had been ones like Lonnie, even Billy, who had reacted outward.

So, she kept her hands clasped together between her knees, biting down on her lip as his leg bounced from her side. Allison had taken Max's advice, refraining from prying it out of him with their swapped notebook designated for this specific class. It had been something so incredibly difficult, and felt impossible; but as the bell for the end of first period rang, he was off, heading straight for the bathroom. Steve had noticed the solemn look on the brunette's face as he caught up to her, but she had been quick to plaster a smile over it, claiming that everything was perfectly fine- that she looked forward to the party tonight.

Lunch hadn't been any less tense, but he had finally spoken up, making conversation with Tommy about kegs and what not. His hand had firmly rested itself on her thigh, offering a singular glance her way before resuming his discussion. She took it as an invitation to place her hand over his, rubbing a thumb across his rough skin. Their hands were intertwined within seconds from under the table, his callused hand gripping hers tightly as if he thought she'd slip away. He had been back in his groove after gym, which had really allowed him to blow off steam (and nearly starting a fight with a sophomore for bumping shoulders). The car ride to her house had been less awkward, as he blasted his music, giving somewhat of a normalcy to his behavior. Once they pulled into her driveway, she leaned over his center console, kissing his cheek tenderly. "Heather's picking me up tonight, so I'll meet you there, if that's okay?" Allison inquired; a hand placed on his shoulder. His eyes studied hers, giving a nod after a few seconds. "I'll meet you there then Darlin'." He grinned, placing his hand on her cheek, drawing her into him. Their lips connected for a few lengthened seconds, so much emotion being passed from him to her, merely just through connected mouths. Max had groaned from the back seat, causing the two older teens to share smiles. As they withdrew, she peered into his blue eyes, being completely ravenous, so full of need and lust. She understood then that the party tonight would consist of more than just drinking.

Though there had been parties after the Halloween one, this would be the first she would attend since. Joyce and Will had been seated on the couch, watching Family Ties. It had taken Allison seconds to plop down beside them, letting out a heavy exhale at the drained feeling currently residing within her. As if Joyce had known, she just wrapped her arm around her daughter, gently playing with her hair, tempting her to sleep.

Chapter Text

It had been an hour till the party when Allison woke up from her rest, a blanket having been thrown over her as her head remained in her mother's lap. Heather had arrived ten minutes later, as if waiting for the brunette to wake up.

Allison had been surprised to see Robin in the passenger's seat as the brown BMW rolled into her graveled driveway, clearly unamused and unprepared for tonight. Despite not knowing each other well, the brunette pulled the Buckley girl into a hug after Heather, welcoming them inside warmly. As any time she brought a new guest, Allison introduced Robin to her mother and Will before ushering the girls to her room, closing them in.

Heather had been wearing a skin-tight cherry red dress, perfectly complimenting her skin and dark hair; Her lips painted the same color. On the other hand, Robin was dressed in black jeans, topped off with a simple blue and black striped long sleeve shirt. "So did Robin consent to this, or did you drag her here?" Allison humored, watching as Heather plopped down on her bed, the Buckley girl standing awkwardly to the side. "She definitely dragged me here."

A soft cackle escaped both brunette's lips as Robin smiled softly, sitting down beside the Holloway girl. "Is it your first party?" Allison questioned whilst rummaging through her closet for an outfit. "Mhm... band and theatre kids never really get invited to these... outings." Robin replied, holding her hands together in her lap before turning to face Heather beside her. "Are you sure they won't mind? I swear they're going to notice me the second I step inside and boom, we get kicked out."

"I already told you I'm sure. I saw Deborah Jenkins at the New Year's party; you know how obsessed that girl is with theatre. Everybody just enjoyed their time, and didn't pay any mind to her. You'll be fine." Heather reassured, placing one of her hands over Robin's. Allison had pulled out a white dress, along with the leather jacket Billy had left at her house the first night he had been in her room, after their first party together.

As Heather and Robin conversed, Allison retreated to the bathroom, changing into her outfit for the evening. When she had returned to her room, Heather had practically jumped up from the bed, taking her best friend's appearance in fully with a squeal. The hazel-eyed girl just laughed, crossing over to her closet to grab pantyhose and black heels. "You're finally wearing his jacket!" The curly-haired brunette gushed, a wide smile spread across her face. "Who- who's jacket?" Robin chimed in, feeling as if she was on the outside of an inside joke.

"Oh, my boyfriend Billy's." Allison smiled, tugging the pantyhose up her legs, followed by stepping into her heels. "He's that dreamboat she was dancing with at Prom-"

"Right. Prom King from California." Robin voiced, nodding her head in remembrance. "Wait. But weren't you dancing with Steve Harrington?" She questioned, furrowing her eyebrows. "Yep. That was all thanks to Billy, though." Allison answered, plopping down on her bed beside Heather. "I can't get over that. You'd think he'd be jealous, right? I mean he was watching the whole time like a Hawk- did he ever say anything?" Heather inquired; her attention solely focused on her best friend. "Just asked me how my time was basically... which reminds me. I have a lot to fill you in on. Both of you." Allison implied, looking from her best friend to the Buckley girl farthest from her, wanting to make sure she felt included. "Perfect!" Heather exclaimed before glancing at the clock on Allison's bedside table, then back to the brunette. "It's ten minutes till the party starts, so we should probably head out. Of course, Tommy lives in Loch Nora, so we'll end up being late."

"Fashionably late." The Byers girl added, getting to her feet, the other girls following suit. "Do you mind if I use your restroom before we go?" Robin questioned, scrunching her face. "Not at all! It's the first door to your left when you step out." Allison instructed, smiling warmly to the brown haired girl, who grinned in return with a 'thanks,' leaving the two brunettes behind.

The Holloway girl simply turned to face the hazel-eyed girl, her gaze dropping from Allison's eyes to her neck. "You're missing something." She stated, returning her eyes to the other brunettes. As Allison's eyebrows threaded together, glancing down at her outfit, Heather unclasped her own necklace, inching behind the Byers girl to clasp it around her neck. Allison looked down to the necklace, immediately recognizing the silver heart locket to be the one Heather wore 24/7. "Heth- this is your favorite necklace-"

"I know." The curly-haired brunette beamed, pulling Allison's hair up from under the chain. "Are- are you sure? You never take this thing off."

"One-hundred percent sure. Look inside." Heather gestured to the locket before the brunette gently grasped it, clicking it open. A very small picture of the two in middle school had been cut in a heart shape, no doubt taped to the inside. Nostalgia and warmth washed over Allison as she smiled softly, returning her gaze to her best friend as she clicked the locket shut. "I don't think I've ever seen that picture of us before."

"It was our first day at Hawkins Middle School. We had insisted we wear pigtails together for weeks. And we did." The Holloway girl beamed, her smile gentle. "I remember now. Tommy and Steve both teased us for it..." Allison recalled, laughing softly. "And here we are, going to Tommy's party."

"Might as well wear our pigtails." Heather joined in the laughter, shaking her head vaguely. Before Allison could respond, Robin cleared her voice from the doorway, drawing the two girls' attention; "Sorry- I didn't mean to interrupt."

"It's alright Robbie, we should head out." Heather suggested, making her way towards Robin at the doorway, tenderly holding her hand. The Buckley girl pulled the Holloway girls hand to her own lips, kissing gently. Allison smiled at the bittersweet moment, allowing them the time before Heather ushered her forward, the three moving to the front door. With a goodbye to her mother and Will, the girls were off.

Allison had happily sat in the backseat, wanting her best friend and Robin to be able to sit somewhat together. She had filled the two in on almost the entire conversation with Steve, leaving out the night they returned from Hawkins Lab, but included how relieved it had made her feel to finally get her feelings off her chest, along with hearing all of his from his mouth, and not anyone else's for a change. Robin sat cluelessly, being new to the whole situation as Heather's mouth laid agape, trying to process the information. The brunette took it as an opportunity to then share Billy and hers last interaction, excluding the feelings and memories of her father that arose when she was in the moment.

"So... I'm weary he'll get drunk tonight and get act out in some sort of way... and it's not like I'm going to tell him how much he can drink, you know?" The brunette inquired, crossing her arms across her abdomen. "And as much as the talk with Steve was really great, I can't help but feel like I've somehow jinxed myself. I admit my feelings to my previous lover whilst recognizing that I'm in a working relationship that I enjoy with my now-lover, yet when I see Billy after doing so, it feels off. He got back in his groove after a couple hours, but I hated having to sit in silence when I could visibly tell he wasn't okay... because I don't know he'll react... and that I even have to think about how to react if he does."

Heather pulled into the crowded, extremely large driveway of the Hagan household, shutting off the ignition before turning in her seat. "You're not jinxed hun, things just happen for their own reasons. If you can, try and communicate with him, but don't bring whatever happened up. Just have one of your famous heart-to-hearts." She suggested, turning to face Robin beside her. "Allison is really good at making you feel better. She definitely got it from her mom." She added, speaking about her friend as if she wasn't right behind her. "And I can't believe I'm saying this, but I think I'm warming up to Steve. A full out apology was due, and I think he served it well. I'll have to tell him to keep it up to be worthy of your grace." She finished, swiveling back to face Allison with a smile. The brunette smiled in return, subtly shaking her head. "I don't know about you guys, but I feel like dancing, maybe even drinking the tension off, so I'm getting out of the car now." Allison declared with a grin, unbuckling her seat and climbing out of the car.

Robin and Heather followed suit, the three making their way to the front door, already wide open with music so loud, it had practically shaken the house. The girls headed to get drinks first, having to sidestep several already drunk upperclassmen, let alone the underclassmen who had been lightweights. It hadn't even been an hour since the party started, yet the red solo cups had already almost been out. As Allison dipped her cup into the bowl of liquor and punch, her eyes landed on Billy across the way, coming down the stairs with Tommy at his side. Everyone around had practically worshipped the ground the two walked on, making an opening for them to walk as they sauntered, the nearby girls gawking over the two. As usual, Billy was dressed in a leather jacket, shirtless underneath, with black jeans and boots to go with it.

His golden necklace and singular dangling earring were strangely prominent, given that he always wore them, along with his ring around his middle finger. Calm confidence shone through his eyes, and the way he held himself; He puffed out smoke from the cigarette nestled between his lips, halting before his basketball teammates, conversing with the group. The sound of Robin cringing at the taste of vodka drew the brunette's attention away, turning to face the Buckley girl.

Her face was scrunched, looking down to the liquid within her cup with disgust, scraping her tongue with her top teeth as if it would rid the taste. Heather had just laughed at her side, placing a gentle hand on her upper arm. "You never really get used to it." She reassured, downing her own cup. "It's the aftereffects that make it worth it." She added, retrieving another drink. "Easy there Heth, you're the designated driver." Allison cautioned, tilting her head as she spoke. "Yeah- and I don't have my license so there's no way we're getting home if you two get drunk." Robin chimed in, hesitating to take a second drink.

"You don't have to drink it if you don't want... please don't feel pressured to do so. It's perfectly fine not to drink it." Allison quietly reassured to the Buckley girl, who nodded in return, tossing the cup out. "Let's dance!" Heather shouted over the music, grabbing both of the girls' arms after tossing out her own cup, giving neither of them a chance to protest. 'Maniac' by Michael Sembello had been blasting as the three shuffled to the crowd, joining in on the dancing for several songs. The Byers girls' eyes had met Billy's after about five songs, a slow grin slithering across his face in response. He ditched his peers within a few seconds, making his way to the brunette across the room. As he met at her side, his lips intertwined with hers, passion surging through. "You're finally here." He grinned, his breath heavy with cigarette smoke and beer. His eyes examined her outfit, smile never leaving as he recognized his jacket. "And to think I thought it looked good on me..." He paused, lifting his hand to trace the collar. "It looks sexy on you Darlin'."

His hands slithered down to her waists, bringing her body close whilst maintaining eye contact. "I was just following in your footsteps I suppose." Allison humored, her hands meeting his own jacket. He hummed in response before kissing her again, slipping his tongue into her mouth as she granted permission, fingers playing with his hair. "I haven't been able to stop thinking about you." He droned between long, heated kisses; his hands gripping her hips tightly. "And you look beautiful." He added, taking a moment to gaze into her eyes. "I look like a mess." Allison replied, already sweaty from the dancing; her hair whipped from the commotion. "The prettiest mess." Billy corrected, cupping her face with his palm. Crimson rose to her cheeks at his compliment as a small smile embraced her lips, kissing his hand against her face. Her fingers gently grazed across his wounds, sending a soft hiss from his mouth. "Sorry..." Allison whispered, her hand dropping to her side quickly. The golden-haired boy just shook his head in return, softly kissing her cheek. "I didn't mean to be so... quiet... this mornin'. I shouldn't have ignored you the way I did baby, I could tell you were worried at lunch."

"I-it's okay. You just needed some space... I get it." Allison reassured, though her statement hadn't entirely been true, she recognized that everyone needed a day here and there to be distant. "Dance with me?" He questioned, extending his hand. "You know I will." She replied, her fingers curling around his. Slowly, he took her arms, wrapping them around his neck whilst his palms rested on her hips, the two swaying sensually. His breath was hot against her neck, as he trailed kisses from the crevice all the way up to her earlobe; A soft whimper left her lips at the contact, fingers tangling through his curls yet again.

His fingers dug needily into her hips, pulling her body closer to his, leaving no space in between. He groaned as she rolled her hips into the newfound hardness within his jeans, digging his fingers harder at the sensation. "So needy." Allison smirked, tilting her head to pepper kisses across his jawline. One of his hands captured her face, his fingers grasping her cheeks harshly. "You'll spoil my fun if you keep doing that." He hinted to her movements against the lower half of his body, using his free hand to keep her body at a slight distance. "I want to take my time with you... and if you keep dancing like that, I'll cum right here." He lustfully hinted, removing his grasp from her chin. Butterflies erupted within her stomach following his words, arousal and bafflement dominating her emotions. "We're in public, you know." Allison laughed quietly, eyes scanning the room filled with several highschoolers. "Oh, I know. I'm trying not to fuck you senseless right here." He growled, bending down to suck on the skin of her neck. "Don't you wanna feel good baby?"

"How many drinks have you had?" The brunette hesitated to question, but knew she needed to find out. He withdrew from her, keeping his hands on her waist as he studied her. "Two, how many have you had?" He inquired, face serious. "One... I just wanted to make sure, that's all." She defended, swallowing hard under his gaze. "Alright... well Tommy locked his guest room up for us, if we needed it... all I have to do is retrieve the key from him." Billy implied, waiting expectantly for an answer. His gaze burned on her, and though she knew he'd understand if she said no, she nodded anyway. "Give me a second though." She managed to say, turning to find her friends in the crowd. Billy headed Tommy's way as Allison found Robin and Heather, letting them know she'd be upstairs for a while. The two had asked her immediately if she was sober, proceeding to make sure she was up for it. Her belief in wanting to be was enough, apparently, as it passed as believable. Heather sent a wink her way, reminding her best friend to use protection. "Yeah yeah, I know." The brunette laughed, making her way back to Billy.

He had still been with his teammates, halting his discussion as the brunette approached, eyeing his peers wearily. "You two have fun up there." Tommy smirked, holding a condom up before passing it to the golden-maned boy. One of the other guys whistled, another patting Billy on the back as he wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her along as they paced up the stairs. "Was that necessary?" Allison muttered, receiving a confused stare from the boy beside her. "I usually don't prefer to let everyone know I'm about to have sex." She added as they approached the locked door, Billy halting before unlocking it. "Shit, I'm sorry." He apologized, slowly continuing to unlock the door, gesturing for her to head inside. She complied, analyzing the beige and brown painted walls, her gaze landing on the walnut-colored bedspread and bedframe. With a flick of the lights, the room was illuminated, warm light flooding the once darkened room.

Hands slithered on Allison's hips from behind as lips connected to her left ear, trailing down to her neck once Billy's right hand moved her hair to the side, holding it in his palm. His hips pressed her forward, inching towards the queen-sized bed. The Hargrove boy kneeled behind her, hands sliding down her legs as he went; He lifted one of her legs, pulling a heel off, followed by the other, peppering kisses on her calves whilst doing so. The sensation of his callused hands slithering up her legs sent shivers down her spine, as he helped her to shimmy off her pantyhose and underwear. When he came back to a stance, he kissed her neck gingerly, removing the leather jacket as he went, followed by removing his own.

After slinging the jackets over a chair, he unbuckled his belt, tugging his jeans and boxers off, throwing them to the side before sliding the gifted condom over his throbbing cock, eager to seek release. "Bend over for me Darlin'." He instructed, nearing her entrance as she knelt over the bed. The blue-eyed boy sucked on his fingers for a few seconds before running them along the brunette's clit, causing her to jolt from the coldness. Within seconds, he was pushing himself inside of her; the two sucked in breath simultaneously, his hands grasping her hips as hers dug into the sheets, bunching it within her palms. He used his grip to push deeper, groaning at the way she clenched around him. "That's it." He moaned, reaching to grab a fist of her hair.

As he gradually picked up his pace, his grip became tighter, tugging her hair harder with each thrust. Allison could tell this was the best way he knew how to let out his frustration, as it wasn't harmful to him. She wasn't sure why she was okay with him using her for his own pleasure, but it hadn't been like she wasn't enjoying herself or receiving pleasure when doing it, so she figured it hadn't been all that bad. As long as he felt better- happier afterword's, it provided satisfaction to both of them. If he didn't want to communicate, the passion and precision he exerted through sex had told it all.

Allison bit back her moans as he hit against her g-spot, making her a whimpering mess. Billy just grinned, keeping her under his control as he pounded into her from behind, loving the way she felt around him. "You're such a good girl baby." He praised, causing her to nearly become undone. His grasp loosened from her hair as he placed a palm on her back to push her down to an arching position, gathering her arms in his, where he crossed them behind her back, keeping them in the grasp of one of his palms. It only took about a minute of him repeatedly hitting her g-spot to bring her to a climax, sending muffled moans from her lips as she bit into the comforter. "That's my good girl." He grinned, continuing to thrust as she clenched around him; her legs shaking from the overstimulation. He had made sure almost every time she'd finish first before letting himself go, and though it had been agonizing at times, those beautiful moans and whimpers, like magic to his ears, never failed to make holding on worth it. He quickly climaxed after, panting and groaning from the pleasure.

"You were so good." He reassured, releasing his hold on her wrists bounded behind her back, kissing them gingerly. His hand moved to her underarms, helping her to a stance. If she hadn't truly been a mess thirty minutes ago, she was now; Her lipstick was smudged, and hair an untamed mess. After tugging his boxers back on, tossing the used condom into a wastebin, he stepped forward, noticing the blank expression on Allison's face; "You alright?" He questioned, patting down her hair as he massaged her scalp, feeling bad for pulling so hard. Her eyes closed at the relief, nodding her head vaguely. "Was I too rough again?" He inquired, receiving another nod. His lips met her forehead, kissing softly. "M'sorry." He consoled, wrapping an arm around her frame, holding her into him. That's when the brunette found all of it to be worth it, because being praised and held by him had felt like a reward.

"Are you okay?" She questioned, keeping her arms around his. "Yeah, I'm okay baby." He reassured, rubbing her back soothingly. Her lips parted to prod further, but ultimately decided against it, letting the moment stay as good as it was. "Let's go back to the party, yeah?" He asked, pulling back a few inches to face her. When she nodded, he helped her dress back up, both leaving the room together. As they came down the stairs, Allison glanced around for her friends, finding them in the same spot they were in fifteen minutes prior. With one last kiss on her temple, Billy parted from her side, promising to see her later.

The brunette sauntered over to the two dancing girls, receiving their attentions as she approached. "That was quick!" Heather exclaimed over the music, reaching forward to wipe the lip stick smudge off of her friends' face. "Well, he knows what he's doing." Allison humored, standing still for the curly-haired brunette to fix her appearance. "Told you he'd be the good dick you needed." Heather beamed, laughing as Robin gave her an unamused expression.

After a trip to the bathroom, continuous dancing, and a couple drinks later, Robin nearly dropped dead noticing that it had been nearly three in the morning, way later than she'd be allowed out on a weekend, let alone a school night. Allison had advocated on her part that they should head home, understanding how concerned a parent would be if their child was randomly missing from their bed one night. She made sure to find Billy, wishing him goodnight before kissing him tenderly, the taste of alcohol being much stronger on his lips. She prayed he was sober enough to drive as she headed out, climbing in the backseat of Heathers car.

"I'm pretty sure I drank too much." Allison groaned as she spread across the back seats, cursing herself for having more than two drinks, which had usually been her limit. "Lucky for you, I always come prepared." Heather announced, handing a bottled water back to her best friend. "Drink up sister." She commanded, tossing it to the brunette. As the Byers girl did so, Heather started up the car, heading off. "I hope your first party wasn't a total bummer, Robin." Allison offered to the Buckley girl between chugs, clutching her stomach as she did so. "It wasn't horrible. I just expected it to be... different."

"I should've warned that it's nothing like the movies, really. Except for the holiday ones. Those are the best." Heather added, continuing to converse with Robin as Allison passed out, being awoken when the car was finally parked in the Byers driveway, and both girls had called out her names in whispers. The hazel-eyed girl thanked the two for tonight, reaching forward to hug both before climbing out of the car, making her way inside. As she peeled off her clothes, getting into something cozier, she climbed into her bed, succumbing to sleep for an hour.

The rustling of bushes and commotion coming from her window startled her awake, her eyes darting to the figure climbing through. "It's just me." Billy's warm voice whispered as he held his hands up passively, slowly inching towards the edge of the bed. The brunette sat up whilst rubbing at her eyes, reaching for the lamp on her bedside table to see him better. His hand gently grabbed her wrist before she could do so, halting her movements. "It's okay, I'm not hurt badly. It wasn't anything I couldn't handle." He reassured, only making Allison want to see more. Before she could speak, he spoke up again, setting her hand down. "I ran off maybe an hour ago after the argument I got in with Neil... and this was really the only place I knew to go." He paused, dragging his hand down his face. "So, I was just wondering if I could stay with you tonight? I don't wanna go back home yet."

"Of course you can." Allison cooed, pulling her comforter back as she scooted towards the wall, leaving room for him to lay. He quickly kicked off his shoes, stripping out of his jeans, before climbing into the bed with her, wrapping one hand over as the other slithered under her, bringing her to lay on his chest, where he held her close. One hand gently rubbed her bare back from under her shirt as the other played with her hair, quickly succumbing her to slumber again. Even when he noticed she was asleep, he continued to do both actions, kissing the top of her head gently before shutting his eyes, allowing himself to finally rest; now that he felt peace.

Chapter Text

Friday had finally come around, as the mourning doves cooed their melodies. Cool breeze had filled the Byers home, contrary to summer nearing within the next two weeks. Today was the end of a long, cruel chapter in Allison's life; her final day of high school, and her graduation had finally arrived.

Upon exiting her room, the brunette was met with the smiling faces of her family, and three comforting hugs. As usual, Jonathan had made breakfast for the bunch; Will and Joyce sat at the kitchen table, conversing with the eldest Byers daughter.

"Are you excited for today?" Joyce had asked, holding on to her daughter's hand as Jonathan joined them at the table, placing their food in front of them. "Yeah... yeah I'm excited. I still can't believe it... time just flew by." The brunette answered, hungrily scarfing down her eggs. Joyce's thumb stroked across her hand, offering an understanding smile. "It always does... you just have to cherish every moment." She paused, eating her own breakfast. "I have to get pictures of you and Heather- Steve and Billy too."

"That shouldn't be a problem, I'm sure Heather will be all glammed up for the evening." Allison guessed, smiling at the image in her head. "Speaking of, I need to get ready." She declared, finishing up her breakfast, thanking Jonathan as she cleaned up after herself, and headed off to her room. Though she really didn't have to make herself look spectacular until tonight, when her graduation would take place, she wanted to make the effort anyway.

She decided on jeans with a white t-shirt, throwing Billy's leather jacket on to top it off. When she went to find Heathers necklace, meaning to return it, she found that it was not where she had placed it last. Frantically, she searched her room, trying desperately to find her best friend's favorite item, coming up empty handed; The brunette cursed herself for losing it as the familiar Camaro roared outside.

With quickly applying makeup and brushing her teeth, she hugged her family members once more, being wished a good day by Joyce before she shuffled outside, and into the blue Camaro. The golden maned boy held a bouquet of roses in his hand, extending it towards Allison with a toothy grin. "Goodmorning Darlin'." He cooed, leaning forward to kiss her as she took the flowers in her hands. "What is this for?" She questioned eagerly, clutching the gift to her heart. "Eh, just a little something for my girl." He beamed as he lit his cigarette, taking an extended inhale. "It's your grad gift." Max chimed in from the backseat, rolling her eyes at her stepbrother. "Look at the tag." She motioned, a small smile forming on her face.

A small note was attached to the band holding the flowers together; stapled to that was a handmade bracelet. The letter 'B' was in the center of the blue and white threaded accessory. "I made it, given it was my idea... but Billy practically begged me to thread a B into it." Max explained, her elbows propped on the two front seats as she leaned forward.

'To the girl who made Hawkins our home - we are grateful to have met you, and to have you in both of our lives, Happy Graduation. Much love, Max and Billy.' The note read in Max's handwriting. Warmth and joy filled Allison wholly at the message as she clutched it to her heart with a gracious smile. "I- I feel bad... I didn't get anything for you..." She noted, features softening as Billy smiled across from her. "You weren't expected to, it's okay. We just wanted to do this for you... Would you like to put the roses inside before we head off?" Billy softly spoke from beside her, gently placing a hand on her thigh. "Yeah- I'll be quick." She smiled, climbing out of the car as she raced inside with the flowers in hand.

"Everything okay?" Joyce questioned at her daughter's emotional state, approaching her with Jonathan. "Everything's perfect." She answered, handing the roses off to her mother. "That's the third bouquet he's given you." Jonathan laughed, prying his shoes on by the front door. "It's romantic." Joyce announced, placing it into a vase in the kitchen. Allison agreed as she blinked back the tears of joy, hugging Jonathan and her mother once more, calling a farewell out to Will who had been no doubt getting ready.

-

Once the three arrived at Hawkins High, the parking lots were filled with banners and tied-down green and yellow balloons, all for the seniors. As the car came to a stop, the three filed out. Allison had been surprised when Max hugged her, but she had been quick to hug back. "See you after school." The redhead smiled, setting down her skateboard after withdrawing from the embrace. "Have a good last day!" Allison called out as she zoomed away, the Mayfield girl waving in return. "I think she really warmed up to you." Billy observed, meeting at the brunette's side. She smiled to herself, holding the bracelet she had yet to put on in her hand. She turned to the golden-maned boy, holding the gift up in her hand. "Will you do the honor?" She grinned, receiving one in return from him. "It would be my pleasure." He replied, taking it from her hand, slipping it onto her wrist, and tying it. "Now I'm wearing a part of both of you wherever I go." Allison beamed as he kissed her hand, proceeding to wrap his arm around her waist, leading her towards the building.

Banners were strung from hall to hall whilst laughter and positive energy filled the air. It was a good day for all students, looking forward to the upcoming summer. As the two walked down the halls, Billy split to converse with his friends, leaving Allison to go to class. Steve already had a smile splattered across his face as the brunette entered, swiftly coming to a stance once she neared. The two couldn't hold back from embracing each other, laughing softly to one another as their arms held tightly. "Last day of High School forever." Steve breathed while Allison tucked her chin into the crevice of his neck, nodding slowly. "We made it." She laughed, withdrawing from his grasp.

"Finally." He paused with a smile, sitting himself in his seat. "Do you have any plans after graduation?"

"Not as of yet... I'm sure my mom will want to have some celebration at home. What about you?" Allison replied, seating herself in front of him at her desk. "Nope... my parents aren't in town, so I just have the place to myself basically." He answered with a half-hearted smile quick to falter. The brunette couldn't bring herself to smile in return, given the sorrow she felt emitting from him. His parents had never cared to be around for him, and that probably would never change. It was the sad, unfair truth.

"You're always welcome to come over to my place whenever you want, you know?" Allison muttered, her voice gentle. "Yeah, I know, I just don't want to bother you guys all the time." He joked, letting out a small laugh. "You never bother us, Steve. We enjoy your company, truly." She reassured sincerely, keeping his gaze to show him that she meant it. He nodded faintly, offering a thin-lipped smile.

Billy entered seconds before the bell rang, seating himself beside Allison with a grin. Given that today had been the final one and graduation the next, school was only a half day, mostly in favor of the seniors who would be getting ready to walk the stage at seven the next night. Mr. Dorten had granted the class free time, instead of talking their ears off or reading one of his extremely old books.

It had been the first time Billy and Steve acknowledged each other in conversation since the fight, too, as Allison mentioned making plans for afterwards. "After graduation, we, including Heather, should all go do something. And I know things are... tense... but I think it could be fun if we all went and did something- like we start summer off right." She suggested, looking between the two boys. They glanced briefly at one another, adjusting in their seats as they pondered. "I mean yeah... sounds fun." Billy tried to sound convincing but failed. "I like that idea." Steve chimed in, offering a reassuring smile.

The next thirty minutes of class had been spent coming up with what to do, an outlook of summer, excitement or anxiousness about college, etc. Billy had already been accepted to University of California, where Allison still eagerly waited for a response, and Steve had unfortunately let his grades slip too far, being forced to stay in Hawkins and work for his own money, given his father had harshly expressed his disappointment, not even bothering to offer a place at his own work to his son.

It was disappointing to not have lunch with Heather due to the half day, but gym had made up for it. Both coaches had allowed the students to go to the football field, where they were given silly string. Billy had been the first to attack Allison with the spray, chasing her around like a child before the two formed an alliance to gang up on Steve. Though he was surprised, he was quick to spray back, joining in on the fun like all the other classmates around. Everyone's hair and clothes were littered with the sticky colorful strings by the end of it, along with the grass below them. The brunette's stomach hurt from laughing so much that she had found herself on the ground, cheeks sore from smiling so widely.

The Hargrove boy helped to pick off the residue on Allison as she did to him, followed by holding her hand as they walked to their next and final classes. As the last minutes of school approached, seniors met in the hallway, as Tigers tradition, and celebrated as they waited for their final bell to ring. The brunette had found Heather amongst the crowd, holding her hand as they anxiously waited. When the bell rung, papers were thrown up in the air as cheers surged, a smile placed on everyone's faces. The two girls embraced each other, shouting their hoorays along with the others. Walking out of Hawkins High one last time felt surreal, as they finally came to the realization that it was done. Their last day of high school was officially over for the rest of their lives, and now their graduation was less than a day away.

With a goodbye to her best friend, Allison neared the blue Camaro where Billy stood, and Max had been approaching. "How about we stop at the diner before you drop me off?" Allison suggested, opening the passenger's side door. As the redhead climbed in, the brunette glanced over to the middle school, spotting Lucas waiting for his bus. "Hey- can we bring one more person?" Allison suggested over her shoulder towards the golden maned boy, who's eyebrow raised. "Amends still need to be made." She pointed out gently, looking over to the Sinclair boy. Billy nodded in understanding, gesturing for her to go.

The Byers girl swiftly made her way over to the middle school parking lot, meeting at Lucas's side. He had been surprised to see her, as did the other kids around. "Have a good last day?" She questioned before he nodded in return, glancing over her shoulder to see Billy standing next to his car in the distance. At his weary expression, Allison turned to examine her boyfriend's rather intimidating stance. It wasn't that he intended it, but he just naturally stood in a daunting way. "Did- did I do something?" Lucas questioned, straightening his posture. "No- not at all. We were just wondering if you wanted to join us- and Max- to Betty's diner."

Max had told Lucas all about the trips she got to join with the older two kids, always raving about Allison being the coolest, and only tolerable preppy girl she'd met; or how the Byers girl felt like an older sister. Lucas had already known this though, as had Dustin and Mike. Allison had always filled that role to them. "Are you sure?" He inquires, unable to shake the feeling that not everyone was up for this decision. "Of course I am. An apology on his behalf is overdue."

He nodded slowly as he took her words in, before meeting her eyes. "Okay."

-

The drive had been less awkward than Allison had assumed, seeing as Max was eager to share her excitement about summer. When the group arrived at the diner, Billy and Allison sat together as usual, and across from them, Max and Lucas were seated next to one another. After an order of milkshakes and fries, the four waited, both pairs having their own conversations.

"Walk with me to the jukebox, will you?" Billy questioned as he rose from his seat, offering a hand to the brunette who nodded in return. He pulled change from his pocket as they neared, leaning against the machine. "How do I do it?" He inquired, gazing at the circular silver cents in his fingers. "Do what?" She questioned as her eyebrows threaded together briefly, examining Billy's anxious state. "Make up for what I did."

The brunette swallowed hard as she pondered what to say, but he had spoken up before she had the chance; "I was harsh to the kid... I knew he didn't deserve it, but I did it anyway. Just like I did to Steve... I don't know how to make up for that. Words are worthless."

"Not always... sure, what you did was way out of line... but an apology could go a long way. It's better to try then to stay silent. Just... mean whatever it is you need to say." Allison implied, biting on her bottom lip gently as he continued to fiddle with the change, nodding gingerly before choosing a song on the jukebox. With that, she went to hold his hand, giving it an affectionate squeeze. "Let your heart guide you, and don't be ashamed to listen." She finished, giving a tender smile before pacing back over to the booth. As she filed into it, Billy called out to Lucas, requesting him to come over. Max and the Sinclair boy exchanged looks before glancing over to the Byers girl, who gave a small nod in return. She had half expected Billy to do it in front of the group, but she was somewhat glad he was having a one-on-one instead. The message would get across more sincerely that way, anyway.

Max had straightened her posture as Lucas crossed to the other side of the diner, keeping a cautious distance. The two girls were unable to hear the conversation occurring from their seats, but they just sat there, staring anyway. The Hargrove boy discussed how much guilt he had felt for inflicting harm on Lucas just because Max didn't listen to him, and how it was in no way okay. He apologized for letting his anger get confused with protectiveness when it came to his stepsister, and how he should've just respected that Max was old enough to make her own decisions. Even if Lucas didn't forgive him, it cleared the air and most of the tension as the two had a somewhat mutual understanding. The Sinclair boy hadn't always gotten along with Erica, but he'd do anything to protect her, and that was the only reason he was able to understand.

Allison had reached forward, gently laying a hand over Max's in hopes of easing the anxiousness. The Mayfield girls' head had snapped towards the brunette's direction with wide eyes, quick to calm as Allison reassured her that Billy wanted to make things right, even if he didn't show it. "It's hard for anybody, but he wants to change. For me, for you, for the better. He knows he's held it off for too long." She stated, watching as the two guys neared the booth, seating themselves quietly. Max only nodded in return, swiftly checking on Lucas as the brunette withdrew her hand.

The blue-eyed boy had exhaled deeply, offering an optimistic smile to the Byers girl. She held his hand from under the table as their orders came, giving it a small squeeze before she retrieved her regular chocolate milkshake, leaning her head against his shoulder as she took a sip.

-

The next evening, Allison poked through her closet, settling on a black shoulder dress, and when the time neared, she tugged her green cap and gown on gently, staring back at herself in the mirror for several long minutes. Two small knocks came from her open door, where Joyce stood teary eyed at the doorway. "You promised you wouldn't cry." The brunette delicately laughed as her mother came to her side, wrapping an arm around her waist before resting her head on her daughter's shoulder. "I know." Joyce smiled bittersweetly, staring into the mirror, taking in the reflection. The two women stood together in emotional silence, sniffling at the overwhelming feelings.

Joyce had lifted her head from her daughter's shoulder, pulling her into an embrace with small back rubs. "I'm so proud of you honey." She claimed, smiling over the brunette's shoulder. Allison hugged her mother tighter following this comment, a singular tear cascading down her cheek. "I haven't graduated yet." She reminded, withdrawing from the hug to hold Joyce at an arm's length. "I'm proud of you regardless."

Allison grinned happily whilst Joyce brushed her daughters tear away, gently tugging on her arm. "C'mon."

As the two exited her room, a flash went off following the sound of a click. Jonathan lowered his camera as Will stood beaming beside him, not hesitating to step forward and embrace his older sister. The two hugged before Allison extended her arm to Jonathan, who was quick to join the hug after passing his camera to Joyce. The three siblings hugged affectionately, shared smiles wide and proud. A second flash came from behind the trio, before Joyce ushered them to stand together by the fireplace, where she took pictures of them, then just of Allison, followed by having Jonathan take one of the two women.

Around 6:00 pm, they headed out, arriving at Hawkins High nearly ten minutes later. Along with the other graduates, Allison split from her family, joining her fellow classmates of 85' in the gymnasium as the families filed out to the football field. It hadn't taken five minutes for Heather and Allison to find each other, excitedly exclaiming over the whole ordeal, and just the fact that they were seeing each other in their cap & gowns for the first time. The Byers girl had admitted to losing her best friend's necklace, apologizing countless times- she had been shut down by Heather each time, who insisted it was fine, and that she would help find it, but that it wasn't important in this second. Allison agreed to disagree silently, knowing how much the necklace meant to the curly haired brunette, but decided against being a mood killer. Steve had been the next to join them, looking like a nervous wreck as he nervously adjusting his cap, smiling anxiously upon embracing the two girls. Billy had been one of the last to arrive of all the students, Tommy being with him.

He looked so joyful as his chuckles nearly filled the room; a sound that always seemed to soothe Allison, it had always been so warm. Once he had split from his pals, he headed straight for the Byers girl, nodding to the two beside her before throwing an arm around his girlfriend's shoulder, pecking her cheek. The four conversed to pass time, before splitting to their designated areas, filing out to the football field and seating themselves in the center. Luckily for Heather, Billy, and Steve (even Tommy), they all shared last names starting with an 'H', meaning they all sat in the same proximity. It made it easier for Allison though, as she knew she'd head in their direction after tossing her hat up and celebrating.

When seven had arrived, the principal had begun his speech, congratulating the students in the field before beginning to call their rows and names to cross the stage. When the 'B' row had come around, Allison had been second to last in the back, examining her family sitting amongst all of Will's friends, and Heather's family, even Max and her parents being seated close. The brunette had wished Hopper and Eleven could be there to complete it but knew the rules. She'd just have to wait to tell El all about it in summer. She hadn't been surprised to not see Lonnie amongst the crowd, but a small part of her felt relieved; he probably would've ruined the fun. Her heart ached as she envisioned Bob or Barb sitting in the crowd, their wholesome smiles so wide that it was infectious to anyone who had the blessing of knowing them. She knew that somewhere, somehow, they were there. They were watching... hopefully at peace.

"Allison Byers." Principal Smith had announced, drawing the brunette's attention away from the bleachers and up to the stage, where she climbed the steps, beaming at the loud cheers for her. After a shake of the principal's hand, and retrieving her diploma, she was off the stage and back in her seat. She cheered loud and proud for her friends and Billy, and even louder as the class of 85' tossed their caps into the air. She was on her feet, racing to meet Heather halfway as they embraced a final, grand time, hopping up and down as the other graduates had.

When Billy met at their sides, Allison moved into his embrace as he twirled her around, kissing her passionately as her feet dangled above the ground. "We fuckin' did it Darlin'!" He exclaimed, setting her down before crouching to retrieve his cap. Steve had joined the trio, this time with a wide smile. The Byers girl embraced him quickly just as she had the other two, a powerful feeling of relief and elation engulfing her wholly.

Families had filed down to the field, meeting up with their children or friends. Tom and Janet Holloway had greeted the four, hugging their daughter and Allison, congratulating the two, taking a picture of them together. Before Heather and her family left, Joyce ushered the four teens to cram together, snapping a shot of them.

The Byers woman hugged Heather and conversed with the Holloways as Will and his friends surrounded Allison and Steve, congratulating them as had Nancy and Jonathan behind them. Neil, Susan, and Max had been the last to make it down to the field, the Mayfield girl being the only one to display joyful acknowledgment towards Billy. It had been the first time Allison had seen Neil or Susan, and just the Hargrove man's posture and presence darkened the mood.

He acted as if he had something better to do, or that he had been forced to come in the first place. He glared into Allison's soul with a bitter scowl, looking her up and down as if she was the scum of the earth. Everyone but Billy had been too busy to observe this exchange as he tensed, keeping his arm slung around his girlfriend's shoulders defensively. Neil crossed his arms, moving his glare to his son, impatiently tapping his finger on his forearm. "Hi Mr. and Mrs. Hargrove... I'm Allison, it's nice to meet you." The brunette tried to greet warmly, receiving a kind smile from Susan in return, who shook her hand, unlike Neil who kept his arms crossed, looking down at the Byers girls hand in disgust.

Billy stood up straighter, puffing his chest out, his gaze burning angrily on his father. Neil seemed to take offense to this, curling his lip whilst his tongue glided across the inside of his bottom lip. "Dad. Susan. This is my girlfriend."

Neil offered a humph with a shake of his head, taking a glance at Allison's family conversing with the Wheelers and Holloways. "You a Byers kid?" He questioned harshly to the brunette, who nodding slowly in return. "Yes sir."

He seemed to have been surprised at the manners, as some sort of perspective shifted within him. "Been a hard couple of years for you and your family, has it?"

"Yes sir..." Allison uttered, swallowing hard. "Dad." Billy warned, dropping his arm from around the hazel-eyed girls' shoulders, backing down as Neil held up a hand. "I'm just asking a question. Is that a problem?" The Hargrove man harshly inquired, taking a small step towards his son. Billy seemed to inch forward before Allison placed a hand against his chest, shaking her head cautiously. "It's not a problem." She said for the sake of Neil, though her eyes remained on the golden-maned boy.

Neil's eyes burned on the brunette before moving back to his son, tilting his head slightly upwards to stick out his chin. "Why don't you invite your... girlfriend... over for dinner, Billy." He spoke through gritted teeth. When the blue-eyed boy said nothing, Neil turned to the brunette. "Come over for dinner next weekend... so we can meet the girl Billy here has been so desperate to hide for months." He paused, tugging the cap out of Billy's hands harshly. "Don't think I haven't caught on."

"It'd be my pleasure." Allison muttered, anxiety creeping up as Neil began to remind her too much of her father. "I'm sure. Now, we have places to be. Get your shit together Billy." He seethed, turning before giving anyone a chance to add anything. The brunette swallowed hard as she lowered her hand from Billy's chest, who's eyes were still on Neil's retreating figure, full of hatred. "It- it was nice to meet you, Allison." Susan quietly spoke, nodding to the Byers girl before telling Max to come with her. The Mayfield girl looked just as tense as Billy, but she took a quick step forward, hugging the older girl once more, followed by a final congratulation.

The blue-eyed boy's hands were in fists before Allison placed her hands gently around them, pulling them to her heart. He swallowed hard as his eyes moved to hers, taking a deep exhale as if he hadn't been breathing. "I'll see you tonight." He muttered, kissing her quickly before turning just as fast, leaving her behind. Minutes before, he had been smiling so wide, and now his shoulders were low, and all that remained was eyes full of broken hope. "Everything okay?" Steve's gentle voice came from beside the brunette, drawing her attention.

The Holloways were gone, but everyone else had remained, almost all looking in her direction. To avoid awkwardness, she splattered a fake smile across her face; "Yeah!" She exclaimed, meeting up with the familiar kids and the Wheelers, minus Ted. Karen gave a comforting embrace, as had Nancy, abundant love being given to her by each person. Karen and Holly split from the group, heading off as the rest headed to the Byers residence.

A cake for Allison (and Steve now, as insisted by the Byers girl) waited on the dining room table at home, being split between everyone. Though Will and the boys shuffled into his room, and Joyce had to depart for her closing shift at Melvald's, the older teens in the group crowded into the living room, popping in E.T., watching it together.

Finally, summer had come, and despite her interaction with Neil, things seemed to be looking upwards; Allison was eager to see what the next following months would bring for her.

But things would turn out far from upwards; they would spiral right back upside down. A violent reckoning was coming in several different shapes and forms to Hawkins and the Byers girl, and it would be too late before she would realize.

- End of Season/Part Two -

Chapter Text

As June of 85' strolled around, trips to the Hawkins Community pool had become much more frequent. Billy had started working there alongside Heather, giving Allison more excuses to ask the kids if they wanted to go. With Starcourt Mall's construction being finished, Steve and Allison had found themselves a job alongside Robin at Scoops Ahoy. Whilst Allison had been ecstatic to have Robin around, Steve and the Buckley girl took a week to even get on speaking terms, having held on to previous experiences they had with each other.

Practically every shift was busy, keeping the three occupied for the hours they spent scooping ice cream. The mall had become a hotspot for everyone in town, so going a shift without seeing someone she knew from school was impossible. Heather and Billy had liked to pop in when they got the chance, sometimes still wearing their lifeguard crop tops and bright red shorts, whistle still wrapped around their necks. The job suited Billy immensely, and God, did the uniform make Allison ogle. The Hargrove boy had endlessly teased the brunette for her new sailor's uniform, the white and cobalt blue stripes bright. While Robin had opted for the shorts, Allison remained true to her roots, choosing the blue skirt (the part Billy favored). The sailor's hat hadn't been the most thrilling or flattering piece, but it added a cute touch. The dinner Neil had insisted on had been put on hold, moving to the end of the third week of June, when he had received a work call, leaving Susan and the two teens behind.

Since Heather and Allison didn't see each other due to their new jobs, they decided to sign up for jazzercize, going whenever they both had time. After sweating their asses off, they'd pop in to Scoops Ahoy, where Allison could tease Steve about how nice it was to have a day off after buying a single scoop of bubble gum ice cream, tipping him with an apologetic smile. The brunettes would strut around in their vibrant leotards with matching scrunchies and leg warmers, trying to make the most of the shortened time they had together.

One time, Heather had visited Robin and Allison at Scoops before they closed, ordering a sundae for the three to split in her car, before the trio stayed the night at her home, staying up until 3 am watching horror movies.

Things had been sailing smoothly in the first two weeks of summer, and the brunette was surprised to have such a long-running streak of happiness. It was a blessing, if anything, but things began to slip from her fingers quicker than she anticipated.

June 18th, 1985

Billy's fingers traced circles around Allison's as they laid in his bed, silence filling the darkened room. It had only been the second time that she had been in his home, the first being the day after Neil had left, and Susan was away for work herself. Given that Max was home as well, things were kept PG between the couple. The three just sat out in the living room, watching tv before Max suggested that she could teach the brunette how to skateboard. That had ended in Allison's knees scraped up and gravel imprints on her hands, but she had been a good sport about it, insisting that she didn't want to quit.

Billy had stood off to the side, fighting the urge to take his girlfriend back inside and take care of her bloodied knees, but Allison affirmed she was completely fine. The brunette made it to a point where she could cruise down the street, but definitely couldn't pull off any tricks. She had gotten what she wanted out of the experience though, given Max was a great teacher, and surprisingly patient, so it had been worth it.

Now, it had been almost midnight as the Byers girl and Billy laid in his bed close together, nearly falling asleep in each other's arms before the front door nearly slammed open, startling the two. As Neil's voice boomed from the hallway, demanding his family to come to him, Allison could see the panic in Billy's eyes, even in the darkness. "Shit-" He uttered, standing quickly as he pulled clothes on in a hurry, turning to the brunette wearily staring at him from his bed. He didn't say anything as he tugged her out of the bed, shoving her into his closet as quietly as he could. "Stay in here. No matter what happens, don't come out until I get you." He commanded with dread in his tone, sliding his shuttered closet door shut. The brunette hadn't had a single second to question why she needed to hide, or why he would say 'no matter what happens.'

She became anxious as Billy exited the dark room, light flooding through the cracked door from the hallway. The small cracks in his closet door were her only visual aid as she listened intently for any sort of commotion; yelling had started from the other room, Neil's daunting voice filling the air. He barked orders and complaints, shouting about how the house was a mess, and that he had been so distressed due to Billy not showing him respect, contrary to how he 'taught him to be,' managing to blame his son for his lost client, as if Billy had anything to do with his work failures. Allison could hear the Hargrove boy's voice shout back that he was full of bullshit, that he needed to take responsibility for being unable to do his job correctly. When the brunette heard the familiar sound of skin slapping against skin, she nearly hauled herself out of the closet, but decided against it as she remembered her boyfriends' words.

"You will treat me with respect! You hear me?" Neil seethed, another slap following his words. "You fucking hear me!?" He repeated, another blow being sent. Allison's gut twisted in horror, hating how hearing those words took her back to being a thirteen-year-old finally finding the courage to not withhold the truth from her angry father, only to be shut down brutally. The only difference was that she could take it being done to her, no matter how horrible it was or how much it hurt, but having to hide and do nothing about the same thing being done to someone she loved was far worse. Neil had then commanded all of them to go back to their rooms while he taught his son a lesson; Billy returned to his room with red splotches appearing on his cheeks, now in Allison's direct eyeline.

Seconds later, Neil followed, flicking the lights on aggressively. "I am so sick of the disrespect. How many times-" He paused before punching Billy square across the face once, shaking his hand following the blow. "Do I have to do this before I get the fucking point across?" He spit, placing his hands on his hips with raised eyebrows, waiting for a response. The golden maned boy held a hand against his bruising cheek, circling his jaw to relieve tension. He shook his head as a silent reply, breathing heavily as Neil took a daunting step forward. "Are you deaf or just fucking stupid?"

"I didn't do shit to you-" Billy tried before Neil threw another punch. It took every ounce of self-control to not burst out of the closet and stop the sight before her. All she could do was cover her mouth as tears pooled in her eyes. She knew she didn't stand a chance against Neil, but that wouldn't have stopped her from trying her best if she were on the other side of these closet doors. The unstable Hargrove man continued to pummel on his son, sending him to the floor with a final brutal blow. The man spit on his son from above, cursing under his breath with slurs, before retreating to the hallway, shutting the lights off, and slamming the door behind him.

Billy just laid motionless on the floor, facing the opposite way. The room remained pitch black, an empty, pained silence filling the tense room. His body was too motionless for the brunette to hold back any longer; her hands eagerly pulled at the sliding door, shoving it to the left before swiftly meeting at Billy's side, dropping to her knees as a quiet sob shuddered from her chest. She gently rested a hand on his shoulder, turning him to face her as she brushed his golden curls away from his face. He had been unconscious and bloodied, with multiple marks across his face. Allison's eyes blurred as she pulled him into her lap, unable to form any words as she held back the cries she so desperately wanted to let out.

She had assumed Neil had hit his son across the temple at some point, rendering him unconscious; he hadn't even cared to take in what he had done, not that he'd care. The brunette's thumbs gently stroked at his puffed cheeks, attempting to smear the blood away. His face looked like what he had inflicted on Steve, but painfully worse. She cried quietly, not caring if Neil would walk in and find her there; pure hatred had fueled the pit of her stomach, overtaking the nausea from the sight before her.

The Byers girl had cradled Billy for two hours, until he had finally awoken, his breath ragged as he clenched his teeth, trying to touch his beaten face. "Don't." Allison whispered, trying to gently pull his hand away. It had been like he hadn't even noticed she was there as his elbow shoved into her gut, and he scrambled away, leaving the brunette knocked out of breath that she desperately tried to regain. Regret filled his eyes as they fixed on her.

He tried to crawl back to her as his body barked in protest, though he ignored it as a small 'sorry' spilled from his lips. The hazel eyed girl didn't shy away from his touch as she clutched at her ribs, still taking deep breaths in. "You n-need to go." He muttered, throat closing as he spoke. "What?" She questioned in return, shaking her head slightly. "You can't stay."

"We need to get you help, Billy. Or- or tell someone." She desperately whispered as he shook his head firmly. "No. We can't do either of those." He replied, swallowing hard as he resisted the urge to touch his wounds. "At least let me help you- Please... you're hurt." She whimpered before he shut her down with another shake of the head. "No."

"Billy-"

"I fucking said no. You're not telling anyone about this. He'd only do worse. You don't want that, do you?"

"Of course not- but you-"

"No. Please just fucking go." He harshly demanded, teeth grinding together as pain continued to spread throughout his body. She continued to sit across from him with her mouth agape, an internal pain sparking like flame in her gut. "Go."

A final tear fell down her cheek as she slowly stood, staring at his turned head and unseen eyes that failed to meet hers. With a shaky exhale, she turned to climb out of his window; due to Billy being her transportation to his house, her only option left was to walk home, which would be a slow, agonizing one. Instead, she walked downtown, using a payphone to call home with the last of the change she carried around. Jonathan had thankfully been the one to pick up, worry filling his tone as his sister explained the half of her situation, excluding what had gone down at the Hargrove residence.

He was there within thirty minutes, climbing out of the car as he took in his sister's state. Mascara streaks stained her cheeks as tears continued to flow. Blood residue had been on her fingers and dress, where she had used it as a rag to wipe the metallic smelling crimson away. Jonathan hadn't hesitated to embrace his sister, repeatedly asking if she was okay, if she was hurt, or if Billy had done this to her (knowing that she had been with him that evening). Unable to form a response, she just sobbed into his chest, the image of Neil beating his son almost to a pulp still heavy in her mind. The brunette shook her head in response, shutting her eyelids tightly as her brother held her, tears forming within his own eyes.

On the car ride home, she was hesitant to tell Jonathan about what had been done, but went through with it anyway, knowing he was one of the few that had understood what living in a similar situation to Billy's was like. It had been as if a perspective shifted within the Byers boy, like he had a revelation. But he remained quiet, letting Allison go on, and even as they returned home with their other two family members fast asleep, and despite his early shift awaiting in the morning, he made sure she was able to fall asleep before he returned to his room, letting himself succumb to slumber.

-

Allison hadn't seen or heard from Billy in two days, and even found out from Heather that he hadn't been at work. It was hard to focus on scooping ice cream alongside Steve and Robin as concern and dread filled her gut. She knew she hadn't done anything wrong, but that burdening feeling of oncoming tribulations and grief weighed heavily within her.

But when Thursday the 20th strolled around, Neil Hargrove walked through Scoops doors with Susan at his side, a malicious and manipulative smile spread across his face. A bitter glare was mutually shared through the two even as Allison held a fake grin, asking in her work tone; "Welcome to Scoops, what can I get for you two today?"

"Hello Allison... It's nice to know you work... here." He paused, looking around the place, his eyes landing on the basically empty tip jar. "We've been very... eager to have you over for dinner since my... cancellation. So very sorry for that."

"Oh no worries... completely fine." She lied, keeping her eyes on his, even as she felt the concern in both Steve and Susan who observed from the side. "How about you come over Saturday, hm?" He questioned, eyes panning down to her chest, having no shame in smiling. The brunette's jaw clenched at the blatant disrespect, knowing he had no problem with making her uncomfortable. "Sounds good, sir." She firmly stated, straightening her posture. "Now what can I get for you?" She inquired, making an obvious glance to the growing line behind the two. He briefly glanced over his shoulder before looking back to the hazel-eyed girl. "You know what, I lost my appetite. Wouldn't want to hold up the line, would I." He chuckled, Susan looking to him with furrowed brows as he pulled a dollar out of his wallet. "This yours?" He motioned to the tip jar.

"It's shared" She replied, looking to Steve. "You can split it then." He stated, keeping his eyes locked on the Byers girls' as he placed the dollar inside the jar. "We'll see you Saturday." His tone felt more threatening, as if a warning, rather than a welcoming gesture. Susan meekly looked down as if to apologize before following after the man.

"What the hell was that?" Steve questioned from beside the brunette, shaking off the tension he felt between the two even though he hadn't been involved. "The devil incarnate."

He raised his eyebrow at her response, incredibly confused. "Neil Hargrove." She answered before splattering another fake smile across her face, greeting the next customer.

Chapter Text

"Sorry I missed your graduation kid." Hopper spoke from the living room as he tugged his beige button up over his white shirt. Allison had finally been able to revisit the cabin, being granted time with El Friday evening, following her opening shift at Scoops. "It's all good. I know you have a job to do." Allison replied as Eleven sat down beside her at the kitchen table, setting down a couple of magazines. The chief nodded in return, placing his hat atop his head. "Well, you two have fun this evening... thanks for coming over to occupy her." He directed towards the Byers girl, kissing the top of El's head before crossing to the front door. "Anytime." The hazel eyed girl responded with a nod as he neared the front door of the cabin. "Let Joyce know we'll be coming over for movie night tomorrow, will you?"

"Will do." She smiled, and with that, Hopper exited the cabin, locking the door behind him. "Did you bring pictures?" El asked from across the table, her arms crossed on top. Allison smiled to the girl who now had almost shoulder length hair as she passed a box of polaroid's from the previous months. The brown eyed girl began pulling the white squares out, looking at the handful of them.

"You look pretty." She smiled, turning the picture around. It had been the polaroid Joyce took of her in her prom dress. "He makes you happy." El stated as she observed the picture of Billy kissing Allisons cheek, a wide smile splattered across the brunette's face within it. The image of Neil pummeling his son faintly passed through her brain upon hearing his name; "Yeah." She replied, clearing her throat as it cracked.

"You don't sound... sure." Eleven struggled to find the right word, setting the polaroid down. "Well... relationships have many ups and downs. It's not always perfect... though I desperately wish it could be." Allison explained, realizing El didn't quite understand what the brunette was trying to say. "He does make me happy... but some things get in the way of that happiness... like it's working against us, and that happiness." She tried to re-evaluate. "Do you... love him?" El questions with an eyebrow raised.

"I do." Allison responded with no hesitation, though she realized it had never been said before. The younger girl picked up the polaroid's of the brunette's graduation, staring longer at the picture of the four. "What about him?" She questioned, pointing to Steve. "Steve?" Allison inquired, receiving a nod from the brown eyed girl. "What about Steve?"

"You loved him."

"Oh, yeah..."

"You still do?" Eleven asked, shifting in her seat. The Byers girl pulled nail polish out of the backpack she had brought along, unscrewing the cap as she thought of how to respond. Of course she did... but it felt wrong to say. Even when she said it to his face. "You do." Eleven claimed, smiling small. The brunette raised her eyebrow at this; "How do you know?"

"I can just... tell." She affirmed, placing her head on top of her fists. The older girl nodded slowly, wanting to shift the subject. "What about you and Mike? I heard that Hopper finally let him start coming over." A large grin crossed the Hopper girls' face as she pointed to the periwinkle-colored nail polish. "It's good. I have to keep the door open three inches though."

Allison couldn't help but raise her eyebrow again at this as she begun to paint El's nails. "Why, exactly?"

"My dad caught Mike and I kissing... and freaked out. Now the door has to be open."

"Kissing?" Allison smiled at the younger girl, continuing to carefully paint. "Yeah... we kiss the whole time, besides when dad checks on us."

The hazel eyed girl smiles at this, seeing how ecstatic Eleven appears to be. "You really like Mike then?" Allison questions as she begins to paint El's other hand, smearing off the tiny bits of nail polish that would spill over to the skin around her nails. "Yeah, a lot."

"Your vocabulary has expanded a lot too."

"Dad likes to help me learn." Eleven replies; the brunette can't help but grin at the wholesomeness of Hopper and Eleven's relationship, or even how El now called Hopper 'dad.' It had made her feel warm. She found how excited Eleven was about it adorable, and in return, Eleven loved hearing about her relationship with Billy, her new job at Scoops, the movie nights she had missed out on, and anything in between as she began to paint Allison's nails a mauve tint. When she had finished painting, it was sloppy and all over her skin, but Allison wore it proudly anyway.

The two girls flipped through magazines whilst gossiping, followed by ending the evening with watching TV until Hopper had returned. With that, Allison had departed, looking forward to seeing the two at her home tomorrow. When she had arrived home, she remembered that Neil had been rather insistent on dinner tomorrow evening. Here, her time with Eleven had nearly completely distracted her from the unnerving interaction at her work, but now, all the excitement she had felt about Hopper and El finally joining them for movie night had faded. She doubted she'd even see them with how early they left the couple times they came. She was clueless as to why a disturbing, uneasy feeling kept her awake at night, but she had managed to squeeze in seven hours of sleep.

Given she had Saturday off, Heather and Allison headed to jazzercize at four pm, which had conveniently relieved a lot of physical tension. Heather had caught on to how stiff and uncomfortable her best friend seemed to be as they followed instructions from the guide upfront, only speaking up when the two finished and were alone off to the side. The Byers girl had explained her interaction with Neil, excluding the night she hid in the closet or anything to do with the abuse. It didn't take much talk for Heather to hate on Neil like everyone else, but she had grown concerned at the sound of his behavior. It didn't take much for her to piece a conspiracy together. "I didn't get the chance to tell you but... yesterday Billy finally came into work and, babe... his face was bruised... and his knuckles too. He told the staff he got in a fist fight, but the other guy looked worse."

As her words sunk in, Allison knew the bruised knuckles were Billy's own infliction, contrary to what Neil had inflicted, but it still sent a ripple of sadness within her. "Do you think that it was Neil... and not some other dude?" Heather added, looking around as she lowered her voice. The hazel-eyed girl knew the answer, but couldn't bring herself to admit it, knowing Billy wished against her telling others... ironically how she herself had wished against Steve telling anyone about Lonnie. "I don't know." She muttered, taking sips of the bottled water she had brought. "I hope not."

"I would hope not too... I can't even imagine or understand why a parent would want to do something like that to their kid..."

"I don't understand it either." Allison's voice came out small, cracking once as she recalled how Heather had no clue what had gone down in her home as she grew up. To distract herself from the rising negative emotions, she cleared her throat, pulling her hair back into a ponytail. "How about we go get ice cream? Robin's working today."

It took no time for Heather to agree before the two were heading down, entering the ice cream parlor. Steve had been behind the counter, looking unamused as ever before his eyes landed on Allison's approaching figure. A grin was quick to spread across his face upon seeing her, though she didn't miss how his eyes lingered a second longer on her rather fitted body. "Ahoy ladies." He beamed, pulling his scooper from his waist. "Bubblegum and rainbow Sherbert as usual, I presume?"

"Actually... I was wondering if you could get Robin?" Heather inquired, looking over the Harrington boy's shoulder. "Uh... sure." He replied, dinging on the bell four times- code for help upfront as the three had come up with. At first it had been stemmed from a persistent Erica Sinclair, who Robin could rarely put up with and required one of the other two to take her place, but as more people flooded the mall, more business came. Robin exited seconds later, telling the third coworker in the back that she'd get it. Her eyes practically lit up as they landed on the Holloway girl, who beamed back at her. "So... can I get you guys anything or..." Steve quietly said as Robin crossed over to the counter, beginning to talk to the curly haired brunette.

"I'll still take bubblegum." Allison held, passing her cash over to the fluffy brown-haired boy, who's sailors' hat was crooked atop his head. The brunette reached over and fixed it, taking Steve by surprise. "Sorry, it's just like your hair doesn't want the hat to stay on."

"It really ruins my game. My hair is my greatest attribute, and you can't even see it with this stupid thing."

"How's Robin's tally board going for you?"

"You don't even want to know." He laughed, scooping the blue ice cream onto a cone. "It's terrible. He's been rejected like four times today." Robin chimed in, pausing her conversation with the Holloway girl. "Now that's just not true." Steve protested, being shut down as Robin gave him a 'be honest' expression. "Okay, whatever. Four girls just had places to be."

"Except for that other girl. She acted like she was attached to the counter- you should of been here Allie. It was so uncomfortable. It was the first girl to actually buy into his sailor crap, and she was ready to join his sail of flavors, but he shut it down."

"She wasn't... it." Steve stated, shrugging his shoulders as he passed the ice cream off to Allison. "It? You were basically saying you'd bunker down for anything, yet when you're presented with an opportunity, you won't do it?" Robin interrogated, crossing her arms. "I'm not that desperate..." He mumbled, side-eyeing the Buckley girl. As she looked between the two, Allison moved her gaze to the clock on the wall, nearly gasping out loud. "Shit, I have a dinner to get to." She exclaimed, retrieving her car keys from her small bag. "I'll uh- I'll catch up with you guys tomorrow-"

"If anything happens- you call me immediately. Okay?" Heather called out, receiving a nod from the retreating brunette. Quickly, Allison licked up her ice cream, hesitantly tossing the cone out before climbing in her car and heading home.

-

The brunette had been taken by surprise at the sound of the familiar revving engine approaching from a distance; as she exited her home, the Cobalt blue Camaro came to a halt, both Billy and Max being seen on the inside. Quickly, the redhead had climbed out, greeting Allison as she passed, before heading inside. Slowly, the golden maned boy came out, splotches of purple and blue beneath his eyes and cheeks. Her eyes softened at his defeated expression; eyes unable to fully meet hers. "He wanted me to pick you up." He simply said, swallowing hard following his words.

With a nod, she looked back towards the house. "I just have a couple more things to do, and I'll be ready... would you like to come inside?" She inquired, biting on the inside of her cheek as he looked to the ground. He shook his head in return, leaning on the roof of his vehicle. The silence was... deafening, and the whole situation made Allison feel nauseous.

Piecing herself together in the following ten minutes didn't distract her from the rising anxiety she felt within, or even as she said goodbye to her family and got in the car. The ride had been mostly silent, though music had been playing. Surprisingly, Billy had been the first to speak up. "You look nice."

All she had worn was a simple black dress, not too flashy or anything offensive for the occasion. "Thank you." She replied, her voice small. The golden maned boy retrieved a cigarette from his pocket, following by lighting it and taking a long drag in. She watched as he puffed smoke out, tapping his fingers against the steering wheel as he drove. He was anxious, undeniably so. The brunette wanted to say something, but didn't know where to begin. As she observed his face, she shifted in her seat, playing with the bracelet Max had made around her wrist. "Does it hurt?"

He quickly glanced at her as he took another drag, knowing she what she had been talking about. "It's nothing I can't handle."

"You shouldn't have to handle it."

"Let's not talk about this." He firmly voiced, rubbing his palm against his temple before propping his elbow on the rolled down window. His eyes met hers, seeing her distressed state. "Please." He added, returning his eyes to the road. The brunette slowly nodded in response, shifting her body to face ahead as well. "I'm sorry... I was just really worried." She muttered, fidgeting with her thumbs. He halfheartedly smiled in return, though he failed to meet her eyes.

When they had arrived at the Hargrove residence, they were greeted only by Neil at the front door. An uneasy smile slithered across Neil's face upon seeing the two, gesturing for them to come in. "It'll just be us three tonight. Susan got called into work." He stated, heading towards the set-up dining room table. A simple chicken dinner had been laid out in three spots, with undercooked vegetables and a bottle of wine off to the side. Clearly the man was not a cook, but the brunette refrained from showing her disdain. "Please, have a seat." He said, pulling a chair out for the Byers girl.

She parted from Billy's side, seating herself across the way as Neil sat at the head of the table. "You two seem rather... sulky. Did Billy finally discuss the talk we had with you?" He began, shoving some of his food in his mouth. Allison's eyebrows furrowed as she glanced to the blue-eyed boy across from her, who turned to look at his father. "Father." He warned, fist tightening around his silverware. "Watch your tone." Neil taunted, tongue scanning across his top teeth as he poured himself a glass of wine, taking a couple sips. "I guess what Billy here failed to tell you is that we're done being involved with... lower classes... in our lives, to put it simply. It doesn't reflect well on our family, you see." He continued, casually eating his very unseasoned food that Allison had managed to get one fork-full down. She swallowed hard, continuing to look between the two men.

"You really are clueless." Neil scoffed, watching as her eyes darted to his, expression laced with confusion. "I took it upon myself to look into your family history... and many others in this town. And I found some very... interesting things."

The brunette straightened in her seat, not even sure of how he had legal access to something such as that. "Your father's name is Lonnie, correct?" Neil inquired, shoving another piece of chicken into his mouth. When she didn't reply, he shook his head slightly, using his napkin to pat at his lips. "You know, it's such a horrible thing that many children grow up without parents, but it tells a lot about who they become as a person." He paused, setting his fork down. "And daughters without fathers are... quite truthfully worthless. They have no one to keep them inline."

"Excuse me?" Allison seethed, setting her own fork down before glancing to Billy, whose knuckles were white, tightened so fiercely around his knife. Yet he didn't say anything, rather just looked to his untouched plate. "It's impolite to interrupt when a man is speaking. Obviously, your unruly mother couldn't have the decency to teach you manners-"

"Don't you dare talk about my mother."

"I am talking, and you will listen." He raised his voice, slamming his fist on the table. Both Allison and the golden maned boy flinched but went quiet. "Everyone in this town knows your mother is a freak. Probably screwed up on crack. I assume your brother's fake death and disappearance was a stunt to bring money that you all lacked." He barked, leaning back in his chair. As the Byers girl opened her mouth, he began to talk again, shutting her down; "I certainly don't want my son to be involved with a girl whose family scams, cheats, and whores themselves for money and attention."

"Who the hell do you think you are?" Allison seethed, standing from her spot at the table. "See, son. A perfect example of a female without a father figure. No respect or discipline to know when to keep her mouth shut."

"You're a pig." Allison spit, throwing her napkin down. "You are just as unruly as your mother. Someone needs to keep you obedient, but it will not be my son. My son will not associate with any whore like you."

"Don't fucking call her that." Billy spoke up, shoving his chair back. Neil looked to his son with appalment, sucking in his cheeks as anger began to fuel within him. "Did I not make it clear enough that you were to keep your mouth shut? I told you; you will not bring shame upon your family by fraternizing with... her."

"And I told you that I wouldn't put up with you disrespecting her, or her family."

"Sit down!" Neil commanded Billy as the blue-eyed boy began to rise from his seat. "Now. You will not continue to see my son. You will not look at him. You will not speak to him. You understand?" He directed to Allison, now standing from his own seat. The brunette bravely shook her head, biting hard on her bottom lip as she carefully formulated her words. "You have no idea what a horrible human being you are. You cause harm through anything you do, hurting everyone you claim to care about. I know how you are, because my father was just like you. A selfish, vile bastard with no regard for anyone but himself." She began, shutting Neil down as he opened his mouth to speak. "Your son is special, and you have no clue. You think that you're helping him, when all you've done has hurt and traumatized him. We all see the bruises. The scars. The way he refuses to open up to anyone or how your anger passed down to him. How he hates himself because when he looks in the mirror, he sees you." She claimed, catching a glance of Billy sitting down, who's eyes began to water following her last words.

"He'll never be able to live in peace as long as your influence has a hold on him. He's eighteen for god's sake- yet you treat him like some sort of animal. You are a disgusting, sad excuse for a father. And if saying that makes me 'unruly' or 'disobedient,' then so be it. I know what kind of person you are."

"Yeah? What kind of person is that?"

"A sick piece of shit."

The Hargrove man scoffs, shaking his head in disbelief as he turns to his son, completely disregarding the brunette. "Always have to have a woman stick up for you, huh? I guess you and her brothers have one thing in common. All little queers." He started, earning something close to a snarl from the brunette. Billy just glared at his father, edging him to keep going, until he would meet his breaking point. "I should've known you'd turn out that way after your whore of a mother- and now Allison-" He had begun before the blue-eyed boy was out of his seat, throwing a right hook right across Neil's face.

Allison gasped as Neil was no doubt as shocked, stumbling back a couple steps as he clutched his nose. Within seconds, he was hauling himself at his son, knocking him into the dish cabinet. Glass fell out and shattered on the ground as the two men brawled, knocking into all of the furniture around. The brunette shouted for them to stop, proving to be useless as they disregarded it. Adrenaline was pumping through all of them, but pure rage had filled the Byers girl. She knew involving herself wouldn't end well; like hell she wouldn't try to stop it, though.

As Neil slammed Billy into the wall, knocking a painting down, he shoved his knee into his son's gut, slamming his fist hard across his temple. Allison trudged forward, grabbing a plate and fork from the table. Billy had kicked his father away from him, throwing a punch his way, but Neil had been quicker, catching his son's fist, twisting his arm to an unbearable position.

Before he could react, Allison crashed the glass plate across his head with all the force she had, sending him stumbling to the ground as he held his bleeding head, pieces of the plate falling to the ground beside him. Billy's eyes were filled with dread when they met hers, as if to say, 'why would you do that.'

"You little bitch." Neil seethed, quickly getting to his feet as he charged at her, knocking her straight into the table. Her spine barked in pain upon impact, followed by her shoulders that he slammed down onto the surface. She kicked and threw her arms up, causing no damage against his strength and hold. His hands lifted her body again, before slamming her back down, knocking the wind out of her, landing a harsh punch square across her face, splitting her lip and crushing her nose, almost breaking it.

Billy's arm wrapped around his father's neck, pulling him off and away from Allison laid out on the table. As the brunette gasped for air with blood dripping out of her nose, Neil grabbed the wine bottle from the table, smashing it across his son's head behind him. Billy cried out as glass sliced his head, crouching against the wall.

The Byers girl didn't know how to act, looking to the meat knife on the table caused fear to run through her, so instead she practically threw herself at the older man, who was seconds away from smashing the bottle against his son's bleeding head a second time. But as she met at his side, he spun, using the bottle on her instead of the boy below him. Allison was on the ground before she knew it; an icy hot, burning sensation spreading across the top of her head. Warm liquid pooled down her face as she heard Billy shouting, followed by faintly seeing his figure clash into Neil's, sending both to the floor. He threw punch after punch, crying out until Neil was limp. The golden maned boy breathed heavily, letting out a few sobs before crawling away from his father's body, over to Allisons.

His arms pulled her into his lap, as his hands gently cupped her cheeks, muttering several apologies. Tears dropped from his eyes down to her bloodied cheeks as they laid on the floor for several minutes; the only sound being his silent cries. When more strength returned to her, he helped her up, hoisting her into his shaking arms. "We have to get out of here-" She muttered, clinging onto him with the only strength she had. "We can't stay."

"I know- I know." He whispered, pacing out the front door, down to his car. He set her down for a second, fishing for his keys in his pocket; after unlocking, he helped her in, climbing in after. The Camaro was racing to the Byers residence in seconds.

The Hargrove boys' eyes darted from the road to the rearview mirror the whole way, paranoia of the possibility of his father following them filling him wholly. He kept muttering 'I'm sorry' as he clutched his head, much like Allison had been.

Her head was throbbing so violently that she thought it might burst, but the pain sourced from the gash under her hair, where crimson streamed down her face, like it had from her nose. But the blood from her nose was nearly dried- her head, on the other hand, continued to bleed and burn, sending pricking tears to her waterline. Her back ached continually alongside the rest of the damage, making it impossible to sit comfortably, but the pain from shoulders up had overwhelmed it to feel so little. She had felt more conscious though, but had been in so much shock of the situation that her lips felt sealed together.

Billy couldn't help but blame himself for all of it. He knew his father wanted him to break things off, but he truly couldn't imagine life without Allison. She had given him hope for the first time in many, many years. But now, he realized, or rather believed that all he could bring was harm to her life. Pain. And he couldn't live with that.

As the car parked in front of the Byers home beside more cars than usual, he wasted no time to talk. "Max needs to stay here or somewhere else tonight, okay?" He instructed, earning a wide-eyed gaze from Allison beside him. "What?"

"She can't come home, not tonight."

"You- you can't either. You should stay too."

"No."

"W- what? Billy-"

"I can't."

"You can't go back there."

"I don't have a choice."

"Of course you do-"

"No, I did this. It's my mess to clean up and deal with."

"No Billy- we have to go to the police about this-"

"Stop, no. We're not doing that."

"I understand that it's scary to go to the police and tell them about something this serious- but it's the only way you'll be safe from him." Allison explained, shifting to face the boy beside her. He shook his head in return, dragging a hand down his face. "We can't do this."

Confused, her eyebrows threaded together as she swallowed hard; "Can't do what?"

"We can't do this anymore."

"What are you talking about?"

"You know what I'm talking about. We can't be together."

"Because of what your father said?"

"No. Neil hurt you- fuck, I hurt you, Allison. I can't continue to put you in that kind of predicament. I can't."

"You didn't hurt me-"

"Yes. I did. I just wanted you for sex at the start, no commitment. And I don't know why I changed my mind when everything was working against us."

"I don't understand-"

"I don't want to be with you. We should've never gotten together."

"That's not true-"

"It is, Allison. It is."

"So what about our California plans, then? Our dream to go to college together, just you and me. Surfing together-"

"That was my dream. I just convinced you to join."

"Right. Then what about prom? About the nights we held each other, the nights I took care of you. The times you wanted to change and make up for what you did just so you could be better for me, for yourself?"

"It was bullshit. I can't change."

"But you did! You changed, Billy. You opened up, you made amends, you finally got along with Max-"

"It was all a mistake."

"That's bullshit and you know it. How can you even say that? Those dreams weren't just your dreams. They're mine too. I want to go off to California and find our peace together, where the world isn't against us. I finally found that I could leave my family and live for me, for us, because you said I should start living for myself, not for others. You gave me life again- gave me someone to believe in. You made me love again for god's sake!"

"And that's the problem! You're ready to give up your dreams and life just for me- I'm not worth that!"

"You are! You are worth more than you could even imagine to me."

"All I could ever do to you is hurt you. I can't bear that. I've already put you through enough, and I won't do it anymore. Just like you said, I hate myself because I am my father."

"No- that's not true. I love-"

"Don't say it. Please don't say that."

"Why not?"

"Because I don't want to hear it. I can't say it back."

"You don't have to say it back Billy. But I want you to know how I feel-"

"It won't stop anything." He stated, a singular tear falling down his cheek. He did love her, but saying it would only make this harder. And fuck, did this break his heart, but he didn't want this, not anymore. He'd rather break his own heart than hers, but in this instance, it completely ripped both of them apart. Tears streamed out of the brunette's eyes as the realization sank in. Perhaps this had been the gut feeling, that impending agony. "Please just make sure Max is safe tonight. I can get her when I know she'll be okay." His voice cracked, wiping away the tear that had stained his face.

She nodded slowly, terrified of how even love wasn't enough. "Please don't become a stranger. Not after everything." She whimpered, meeting his eyes as tears continued to pour out of hers. He nodded solemnly, extending a pinky to her. At this, she let out a sob, shakily hooking her pinky with his. Without another word, she exited the car, sobs spilling out of her; the roaring sounds of the Camaro drowning them out as she approached the front door, her hands shaking as she retrieved her keys. As the revving grew farther and farther away, she leaned against the front door for a couple seconds, crying silently whilst listening to the sounds of her family and friends laughing to a movie.

She was utterly heartbroken all over again. It hadn't been anything like the first time, but this felt so fucking worse. It had felt like it was all for nothing.

Chapter Text

Allison hid her face as she locked the door behind her, struggling to keep the tears at bay. She had no clue what to say to her family and friends when she'd turn around, or how to explain the situation without getting the police involved. Panic slowly raised as Joyce's voice called from behind; "How was dinner sweetheart?"

The brunette kept her head to the ground, feeling as if she were frozen in place. Turn around. Act normal, her thoughts whispered inside her head. But she couldn't. "It was fine." Her voice came out hoarse as she removed her shoes, keeping her face out of view. "I'm just really tired... I'm gonna go to bed." Her voice shook, breaking towards the end. She flinched as she turned, finding Joyce almost right behind her.

The Byers woman's mouth opened slightly as she took in the sight of her distressed daughter. Her hands come up to cover her mouth for a second; "Honey- what happened?" Joyces voice echoed, drawing the attention of the others in the room as the brunette shook her head slightly, trying to walk off to her room. Joyce gently took her daughters wrist, tugging her before she could walk off. "I want to go to bed." Allison insisted, eyes pleading for her mother to let her go. She should've known better, though, knowing Joyce worried as much as she did. "I need you to tell me what happened right now."

"Everything alright over there?" Hoppers brassy voice came from the living room, a small laugh following his words. "Everything's fine." Allison stated without turning away, once again shaking her head at her mother. "No, Hop, everything is not okay. Sweetheart, what did he do to you?" Joyce questioned, worry heavy in her tone. "Nothing-"

"What happened?" Jonathan inquired after exchanging looks with Nancy beside him, slowly bringing himself to a stance alongside Hopper. "Mom, please let me go." Allison whispered, tears threatening to break from her waterline. "Please."

Thousands of emotions were racing through the Byers woman as she tried to understand why her daughter wanted to leave so quickly. Blood was dripping down her face, matching the dried crimson around her lips and nose. Here, the brunette was obviously harmed, yet she wanted no one to know of it; there was no way in hell Joyce was going to let whoever did this to her go unbothered.

A hand rested on Allison's shoulder from behind, turning her slightly. Hoppers concerned face softened at the sight, looking over his shoulder to Jonathan, who had now been at their sides, his eyebrows furrowing. With the way she was turned, everyone in the living room could now see her blood-stained face; the chatter drowned out, leaving the television as the main source of sound.

Steve quickly stood from his seat at the sight, whilst everyone else's faces dropped. His heart felt like it was in his throat; the shock on her family's faces had caused concern to arise, but actually seeing why they had been making those faces had him joining with them. There was a sorrowful pain within her hazel eyes that crushed his heart. Fear and distress resided in them, and in the shakiness of her body.

Cautiously, he paced over to the formed group, as one of the kids shut off the TV, leaving the room silent. Once he had been in front of her, he gently lifted her face with a hooked finger beneath her chin, her broken eyes staring into his soul. He knew better than to ask if she was okay, clearly knowing the answer to that question. Once he pulled his hand away, her bottom lip slightly trembled as a singular tear slid leisurely down her cheek. The attention was overwhelming, and it made Allison want to run right back out the front door. "What happened to you honey?" Joyce's voice wobbled as tears welled in her brown eyes. No explanation came from the hazel eyed girl who stood in silent shock as a second, single tear slid down her cheek. "Did Billy do this to you?" Jonathan questioned; voice laced with anger. When his sister gave no response, he rushed past the two women, opening the front door; as he stood on the stoop, he looked out for the blue Camaro, finding only the cars of the people inside.

The silence was deafening as everyone's eyes burned on the brunette, who just shook her head. Jonathan returned, shutting the door behind him before returning to his sister's side. "We need to find him."

"It wasn't him-" Allison finally spoke up. "I'm not stupid, Allison. You don't have to cover for him- I knew he would do something like this." Jonathan replied, breathing heavy. "Kids- please go to Will's room." Joyce called out, pointing down the hall. When they tried to protest, Hopper repeated the woman's words, to which they listened, exiting the room hesitantly. Max's eyes were glued on Allison's as she walked away with Lucas, wearing a sad, shaken expression.

"It wasn't him- it wasn't Billy." Allison muttered, trying to keep her tears at bay. "If it wasn't him then- it was Neil, wasn't it?" Jonathan stammered; eyes full of desolation, much like his mother. The brunette's voice seemed to be absent of a response; Frustration built up within her as tears cascaded down her pinkened cheeks, her teeth chattering from the anxiousness. "Allison, please tell us who did this." Joyce quietly stated, cautiously wrapping her fingers around her daughters. "I can't- I can't." The hazel eyed girl cried, shaking her head. "Okay kid, okay." Hopper reassured, keeping a hand on her shoulder as he pulled his flashlight from his uniform he had still been wearing. The light hovered at the top of the brunette's head before flashing on, giving the group a better look at the cut atop her head. Nancy had made a small noise, matching that of a wince no doubt at the sight as Joyce covered her mouth. "She's going to need stitches for this, it's too deep." Hopper clarified, searching his pocket for his keys.

"I'll take her." Steve spoke up, pulling his keys from his pocket. "I'm coming with you." Jonathan stated, receiving a nod from the Harrington boy. The chief looked from the brown-haired boy to Joyce, who nodded quickly. "I- I should come-" Joyce tried, but her eldest son shut her down; "We got this mom, just stay with the kids." Crossing to open the front door, Steve wrapped his arm around Allison's waist, slinging her own around his shoulders. "She says anything, you let me know." Hopper pressed the two boys, receiving nods.

The brunette winced as her tailbone barked in protest, Steve helping her into the passenger's seat, buckling her in. "We're gonna get you help." He reassured, shutting the door before getting in on the other side. After Jonathan climbed in the back, the maroon BMW was speeding off to the hospital.

-

"How are you holding up?" Steve questioned Allison from beside the hospital bed, fiddling with his thumbs as Jonathan bounced his leg impatiently. "I'm okay." She replied, her head still stinging after the stitches. Heather had been on the opposite side of the bed, Jonathan having kindly called her per Allison's request upon arriving. She had held the brunette's hand as the stitches were put in, being mercilessly squeezed though the Byers girls' face hadn't faltered. "Can you tell us what happened babe?" The Holloway girl questioned, sitting up in her seat. Deep down, her gut told her Neil had been guilty, and the affirming glance Allison had given her was enough to prove it.

"We can't do anything." The hazel eyed girl whispered, deeply exhaling. At her words, Jonathan understood that it was in fact Neil. He dragged a hand down his face, searching his brain for some sort of conclusion to this problem. "What happened?"

"If I tell you, then you'll tell Hopper." Allison stated, tilting her head slightly. "That's the whole point." He responded, crossing his arms as he sat back in his chair. "You can't."

"Because Billy told you that you couldn't?"

"Yes."

"That's not a valid reason. Telling someone would get him help."

"We can't do that."

"Why not?"

"You know why." Allison implied, not wanting to directly say what she was thinking. "I don't, Allie."

"Because you and I both know that if this was Lonnie, we'd be begging the same damn thing."

The room went silent following her words, Steve and Jonathan mentally flinching at the remembrance of it all whilst Heather's eyebrows furrowed, not understanding what she had meant. Before she could speak, Jonathan's voice came; "This- this is different."

"Is it?" The brunette quietly asked. "It's not right... to not help." He stated, looking to the ground. "I know." She responded, glancing at Steve, who had already been looking at her. His eyes had been full of reluctant sad understanding. He had been in this very situation, having once wanted to tell someone of Allison's situation, yet she begged him to do otherwise. He was scared to lose her, so he obeyed. It was ironic that she would do the same, both of them losing the one they had wanted to protect in the end.

"Blackmail." Heather chimed in, gaining everyone's attention. "What?" Jonathan questioned, eyebrows threading together. "We blackmail the son of a bitch."

"Isn't that illegal?" He inquired, looking from the curly haired brunette to Steve. "Probably." She confirmed, shrugging her shoulders as if it weren't a big deal. "How would we even do that?" Steve now questioned, clueless as to how one would go about doing so. "We threaten him, anonymously, of course."

"That won't work. He'd know it was me. It was just the three of us." Allison reminded, chewing on her bottom lip as she tried to think it out. "Okay... well it's you and Billy against him. Plus us. That's three witnesses and two victims. We threaten to expose him or go to the police if he harms either one of you again. If we can dig up dirt on him, find something bad he's done, we can use that as leverage."

"He told me he looked into my family history, and my own. I don't know if that's illegal... but he found out about Will disappearing, all the way back to before my parents divorced. I don't know how or where he found it out, but he did... Billy also told me he was dishonorably discharged from the army. That's all I can think of."

"We can work with that." Heather affirmed, squeezing her best friend's hand. "I'll get it taken care of." She finished, nodding shortly. "I feel like I shouldn't even ask but... how do you even know how to blackmail someone?" Steve asked before shaking his head; "Never mind."

In the passing time before she was allowed to leave, the Byers girl explained the whole situation to the three teenagers, not sparing a single detail or word that Neil had uttered. An expression matching that of disgust had been on each of their faces by the end; they knew Neil was a shitty person, but not that he was practically a monster. Jonathan had been furious over the things Neil had said and done to his sister, wishing Neil would be punished further than just being knocked out by Billy. It was a struggle to not tell Hopper of the things Allison admitted once they had returned home, but he held his promise like the rest, stating the Byers girl revealed nothing.

Once the two were alone, Allison informed Heather on everything Lonnie had done, apologizing for not telling her sooner. The Holloway girl was quick to shut the brunette down, reminding her that she didn't owe an explanation. Though it felt relieving to get (almost) everything off of her chest, the heart ache finally followed. Sobs began to shudder out of the brunette whilst Heather held her, rubbing her back and whispering reassurances as tears spilled down her cheeks in return. She spent the night that night, and the one following, wanting to be there for her best friend in any way she could.

"He wouldn't let me tell him that I loved him. I know thinking that saying it would've changed the outcome is stupid... but I just wanted him to know how I felt. I never told him." Allison cried silently, taking deep breaths to keep herself somewhat composed. "It wasn't supposed to end like this."

"I know, honey. I know." Heather cooed, keeping her best friend within her embrace. "I figured he'd at least liked me too." The hazel eyed girl sniffled, shutting her eyes tightly as she recalled Billy's harsh words. "I don't want to be with you" and "It was all a mistake" rung inside her head relentlessly. "Why am I so hard to love?"

"Oh Allie, you are not hard to love... you just asked the wrong people to try. There is nothing, and I repeat nothing wrong with you... and if any man tries to make you feel otherwise, he is not meant for you. Don't let your past experiences make you afraid to love."

"I'm not afraid to love... that's the easy part. It's the after that always scares me. The idea of being left with all the memories and love, having nowhere to put it... like now... is the worst part. It's like being ripped from the inside out; and I- I just don't understand why after everything that we did... after all those memories we made... it was so easy for him to give up on us- like it meant nothing." Allison wept, chest heaving as her words tumbled out of her.

"He- he had to of felt something... I saw the way he looked at you, the way he talked about you... that couldn't have been fake. But... I don't have an answer for why he did what he did. I wish I knew. Even if it was because Neil instructed him to... he's leaving for college in less than three months. And like you told me, he didn't plan on returning after that, did he?" Heather inquired, receiving a nod from her friend. The curly haired brunette sighed, shaking her head as she rubbed the brunette within her arms' back. "I'm sorry Allie. You don't deserve what you've been put through." She sympathized, resting her head atop the Byers girls'. "I love you always." Allison muttered as the two laid down next to each other, Heather keeping her hold as she tugged a blanket over. "I love you always, too. I'm always going to be here for you."

Chapter Text

The following days had been tense, and specifically rough for Allison. Returning to work had sucked for the most part, but seeing Robin again (and working alongside her and Steve) had been enough to make it worth it. There had never been a dull moment when the three were together, and for once, Allison appreciated the stupid hat she was forced to wear due to company policy, seeing as it hid the stitches from anyone's curiosities.

It was odd to not be spending every free moment after shifts with Billy, or to not hear his knocking on her bedroom window late at night. The emptiness in her bed felt heavier than she had hoped, only bringing heart ache at the reoccurring thought that he'd never be there again. She felt pathetic for feeling so empty without him, when she had so many others around her who actually cared to stick around.

Will hadn't known the full story, but being the sweet soul he was, he prompted for watching Grease, having done the same when Steve had broken her heart. Only this time, Grease hadn't made her feel better as she wallowed in the fact that Billy was her Danny; her movie like teenage romance that she had wished for practically her entire life. But high school was over, and soon she'd be moving on to bigger things. The last thing she wanted to carry with her into her future was the role of heartbroken damsel. With Heather's help, she was able to pull herself together, physically, after a shopping spree and beautification. Though she felt like a wrecking ball crushed her on the inside, it had been sadly easy to put on a good show, with a convincing fake smile to "prove" nothing had been wrong. Joyce had seen through this, and still wished to know the truth, but she did not press for answers. She knew her daughter well enough not to, but despite that, it pained her to see her daughter get hurt all over again.

When no word had come from Billy about the state of safeness, Steve opted in to take Max home, promising to bring her back if it wasn't safe. Heather had finished the letter by then, passing it off to Steve, who then placed it in the Hargrove-Mayfield mailbox. The redhead called the Byers residence an hour later, informing Allison that she was okay, and that while Billy had been locked away in his room with heavy metal blasting, Neil had allegedly been gone for days. Heather and Allison had provided her with sisterly figures she had never known in those two nights, after they had insisted she slept in the room with them, and made sure she was comfortable and okay practically every thirty minutes. They had even offered for her to join on the shopping trip, but Max knew she needed to return home before her mother would freakout.

June was nearly over, but summer wasn't close to being over yet. As life seemed to be somewhat normal, the teens in Hawkins tried to embrace that rarity, cherishing the moments they were now having.

June 28th, 1985

"God, my wrist feels like it's going to snap off." Allison whined from beside Robin as she quickly scooped rocky road onto a sugar cone, plastering a smile on her face as she passed it off to the middle-aged man on the other side of the counter. Scoops Ahoy was at its prime; completely flooded with eager customers and ice cream savorers. "Are you sure you don't want to switch?" The Buckley girl questioned before greeting the next customer, retelling the order to the brunette, who miserably scooped more ice cream onto three cones, passing them off. "I'm sure, you were scooping for like an hour straight. You need a break too. Plus, it's evening out our tip jars."

"The tip jars are looking magnificent tonight... but I think we should withhold it from the shit-bird who's been on break well past his time frame." Robin suggested, making sure to talk louder when mentioning the boy in the back. "I can hear you, you know?" Steve called out from behind the sliding glass doors, which were quickly opened. A half-eaten banana was clutched in his right hand as he wore an unamused expression. "I know. What have you been doing back there for the past forty minutes? Wallowing in your self pity for the seven 'you suck' points you've earned today alone?" The Buckley girl humored as Allison stepped forward to take the next order, tuning out the bickering of her coworkers behind her. Steve offered a fake smile, shutting the doors as he returned to the break room. "I'm going to hurt him- actually." The blue eyed girl breathed before returning to her counterspace, thankful that the line had finally ended as the brunette passed off the cone to the previous customer. "He knows that he doesn't run this place like he thinks he did in high school, right?"

"I did run Hawkins high!" Steve called out from the back in response to the Buckley girl. "For like three years! Then Billy dethroned your needed-to-be-humbled ass." Robin laughed before cursing under her breath, lowering her head. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bring him up." She apologized to the brunette, placing her hands on her cheeks. "That's a 'you suck' point for miss Buckley." Steve called out from the back, though Robin kept her eyes on the hazel eyed girl infront of her, disregarding his remark. "It's fine. I'm not going to crumble one word." Allison implied, though she knew no one believed her. "Get Steve to get his ass out here, it's your turn to be on break."

"I'm really okay." Allison reassured halfheartedly, convincing herself that it was true. Robin only offered a glance that wasn't to be argued with, so the brunette nodded, pushing the swinging door open. Steve smiled up at the girl as she walked in, tossing his banana peel in the trash. "Come to join me?"

"More like it's time for you to join Robin upfront." The Byers girl remarked, pulling a chair from the table to sit down. Before she had the chance, the bell up front was rung repeatedly, followed by Robin calling out to the two in back; "Hey dingus's, your children are here."

Steve stood at these words, crossing to the sliding glass doors yet again, pulling them open. Allison moved to his side, observing Mike, Max, Lucas, and Will on the opposite side of the counter. "Again? Seriously?" Steve impatiently said, leaning his arm on the white surface. "That's the third time this week guys." The brunette half laughed, only having been there for two of the previous times, but had heard a complaint about the first from Robin. Mike only rang the bell again, keeping his face serious. "Not it." Allison rushed to say, sending a sigh out of Steve beside her. "I'm not getting in trouble; we got too close last time when I did it." She explained, recalling how the kids were nearly seen by one of the movie theatre workers when sneaking in the previous time. "Fine." The Harrington boy rolled his eyes, striding over to the swinging door, letting the kids through before ushering them to follow him out the back. Allison ruffled Will's hair as he passed, saying hi to the others before finally sitting herself down.

"Allie?" Steve inquired as he re-entered the backroom, standing by the swinging door. When he had received her attention, he pushed the door open, stating; "For future use, Not it."

"Nuh-uh, that's not fair."

"Says who?" He smirked, letting the door shut behind him as he moved upfront. The brunette just shook her head, holding back a smile as she retrieved a book from her bag, starting to read for the time she had on her break. Not even ten minutes passed before all of the lights shut off, leaving the girl in complete darkness. When she moved to the front, she examined how the store and entirety of the mall's lights were out, hearing the confused murmurs of customers. Steve had already been flicking the lights repeatedly, as if it would do anything, before they eventually came back on. "Let there be light."

-

"Morning." Allison yawned to her mother and Will, who were sat at the kitchen table together. The brunette had already been in her work uniform, with red lipstick neatly painted over her lips, mostly to cover the split, as she gathered a snack bag in the kitchen, trying to rub the tiredness away from her eyes. With an evening shift the night prior, she hadn't gotten home until late; having to go to work earlier the next day was a frustrating mix, but she pulled through it, holding on to the excitement of seeing her coworkers. "Morning sweetheart!" Joyce called out, standing to hug her daughter with a large smile, rubbing small circles on her back. Will had been dressed for the day, scarfing down his breakfast like he was running late to be somewhere. "Can you take me to meet up with my friends?" He questioned, rising from his seat as he moved to the sink with his plate. The brunette checked the clock for the time, trying to calculate if she'd run late by doing so, even though she knew Robin or Steve would cover for her. "Yeah, sure I can. Where?"

"Dustin's."

"I thought he was away at camp?"

"He was, he's coming back today. We're all going to surprise him." He said with a smile, crossing to the front door to tug his shoes on. The hazel eyed girl could tell that Will was excited for this from the eagerness on his face- finally someone who might play DnD with him. "You'll have to tell him I said hi." She grinned, putting her white converses on before getting her keys. "Ready?" She inquired, receiving a quick nod. "Have a good day you two." Joyce beamed, making sure to embrace her eldest and youngest before they were out the door.

All but Dustin were waiting at the Henderson residence, to which the brunette greeted all, wishing them a good time and success in surprising Dustin before heading off to Starcourt. When she had entered, Robin already had the tally board on display, seven scores on the 'you suck' side being marked for the second day in a row. Her shift had gone by fast, thankfully, given she had a good time and laughed too many times to count alongside Robin over the secondhand embarrassment for Steve, who had two more failed attempts before he gave up for the day.

Truthfully, he hadn't really wanted the girls he was trying for when he had Allison right next to him, but he knew that the second chance might never come. Even if she admitted to feeling something for him, he assumed that her love for Billy was stronger, whilst also knowing she was utterly heartbroken, though she hid it extremely well. He saw through the laughs and smiles, the silence and pain-stricken eyes that followed when the Hargrove boy was mentioned in the slightest. She was mostly easy to comfort, though, seeing as a small hug or simple touch to her lower back or shoulder would do the trick, lifting her spirits as they reminded her that she wasn't alone. And though he bickered with Robin nearly 24/7, he admired the girl for knowing what to say in the instances he didn't, proving to be a strong headed guide for Allison.

Scoops Ahoy had felt like the only thing that was keeping Allison sane, though. Having a routine and schedule to follow by and keep busy with made it easier to push her emotions and thoughts aside, and while scooping ice cream was a pain in the ass nine times out of ten, it also relieved built up angst, like having Steve and Robin around had. They were a perfect distraction to the chaos in her head.

As she drove home, she silently thanked whoever might've been listening for heartbreak being her only problem, a human problem. Though it emotionally ripped her apart, it was better than having any sort of otherworldly creature to worry about, or her loved one's lives.

Once she had arrived home, she walked in to find her mother watching Cheers in the living room alone, and just by her posture and sullen facial expression, she could tell that Joyce was just as heartbroken as she was. She missed Bob; they all did. But Allison knew her mother silently mourned him every day. There wasn't a moment that he wasn't on her mind. After kicking her shoes off, the brunette sat herself down by her mother, resting her head on Joyce's shoulder. The older Byers woman rested her head atop her daughter, wrapping her arm around her slender frame to hold her close. The two women remained that way for a while, silently providing much needed comfort.

-

Billy couldn't sleep. Smoking his cigarettes or working out profusely hadn't been taking the edge off as it normally had, and the restless feeling had been digging deep in his nerves, building up frustration over time. Yelling at running kids at the pool hadn't even felt entertaining anymore, nothing had.

He knew he messed up, but he figured it was too late to make up for his wrongs, which had multiplied since the breakup. He had already found girls to hook up with in the past four days, looking to feel something as sex used to; but it wasn't the same. They didn't provide anything because they weren't her. Max had picked up on this, already badgered him for breaking Allison's heart, reminding him how much he messed up and how stupid he was to do what he was doing. In return, he'd just tell her to mind her own business, before proceeding to storm off to his room, blasting heavy metal to cover the sound of punching walls and silent cries.

But the guilt became overbearing, and he wanted to fix it. Even if Allison couldn't forgive him, he'd at least know that he tried. At first, he thought a letter would do the job, but knew it was shitty to hide behind words on a piece of paper, when he could just try in person. When the 29th came around, he exited his room, shoving his keys into his pocket as he paced over to the front door.

"Where are you going?" Max inquired from the couch, her bright yellow shirt and red hair standing out against the neutral toned room. He thought about making a snide remark, or just dismissing her in general, but he stopped short of the front door, hovering a hand over the knob. "Seeing if I can be better."

He didn't know that stepping out of the front door and climbing into his car that night would seal his fate, that he'd never get to mend the things he broke. That realization only dawned after he was dragged down to the basement of Brimborn steel works, yelling for help that would never come.

Chapter Text

The hallway lights flickered fiercely against the white tiled walls as Allison stood frozen in place, that familiar dread filling her wholly as her heart began to beat rapidly, having only seconds to run as the Demogorgon's chased her from behind. It never lasted long, as she was knocked to the cold ground, feeling those monstrous claws dig deep into her flesh, the weight of the slimy creatures keeping her down. She screamed until her voice gave out, the pain becoming overbearing.

That's when she'd wake, gasping for air, clutching her abdomen as if she really had been torn open; Only crescent scars were left. She hadn't dreamed of the lab for weeks, and she had hoped that it wouldn't change. She fiddled with the gifted bracelet around her wrist, attempting to slow her breaths before she climbed out of bed, examining the clock that read 1:39 am. She had been sweaty, and her heart was racing, bringing an anxious discomfort that only a hot shower seemed to fix. As the water ran, she gazed into the mirror to pass time, examining the inflictions from her face to her waist, all making her want to shrink away. She had loved how perfect and smooth her skin was, but now, it just felt like a vessel with marks that were a reminder of the traumatizing things she'd endured.

-

"You sure you're okay?" Heather questioned from beside the brunette, who was working out harder than usual, following along to the jazzercize instructor. Due to the busyness of summer, the two had almost zero days off, so they tried to fit a morning workout in before their shifts in the afternoon. "Promise I am, Heth." Allison reassured, offering a small smile before redirecting her gaze upfront. When the session concluded, the girls retrieved their water, breathing heavily. "I um... I have things to tell you, and now that I think about it, I probably should've told you beforehand so you could work it off." Heather mentioned, leaning against the wall after taking a sip from her water bottle. "Is it about Billy?"

"Yeah..." Heather replied softly, pulling her lips into a thin line. The Byers girl mentally prepared herself, taking a deep inhale and exhale. "Hit me."

"I caught Billy and a girl in the pool storage room yesterday afternoon..." The curly haired brunette revealed, watching as Allison cringed at her words. It took a second for the hazel eyed girl to understand that he had already gone out of his way to find a rebound, not even a week after their breakup before the affliction hit. "Oh."

Heather wasted no time to embrace her best friend, not caring how sweaty they were; "I just thought you'd want to know... I'm sorry doll." The Holloway girl rubbed Allison's back, who nodded in return, her mind jumping all over the place at this information. When the two withdrew from their hold, the Byers girl swallowed hard, assessing how to process. "Wow... that was uh... he moved on quick."

"Oh honey... god I'm so sorry." Heather frowned, holding the other brunette's hands within her own. "It's... it's fine. It fucking sucks but... it's his life... his decisions." Allison sighed, mentally questioning why she hadn't been enough. Heather saw this, meaning to put an end to it; "I know that look. Do not start to question yourself or think that you were the problem."

"I can't help it Heth... when does your shift start?" The brunette questioned, switching the topic to distract herself. "Not for another hour, but I won't go if you need me."

"No, I'll be okay."

"You sure?"

"Promise."

"When does yours start?"

"Fifteen minutes."

"We should head out then... how about I come over tonight? We can have a girl's night and talk about what's on our minds... I'm sure you need comfort just as much as I do."

"Yeah, yeah that sounds good... wait are you okay?"

"What?" Heather inquired as the two stopped in front of the escalator. "You said that I need comfort just as much as you do- did something happen?" Allison questioned, straightening her posture. "I'll just tell you about it tonight, it's too much to explain. You should get down there, though." The Holloway girl suggested, looking over her shoulder to the exit. "Are you not coming to get ice-cream?"

"Not this time." Heather spoke with a small, saddened smile, adjusting her leotard. She had always gotten ice cream after jazzercize, eagerly so. Allison started to open her mouth to question, but Heather stepped forward, embracing her friend gently. "See you tonight." She smiled, starting to walk away. "Love you always!" Allison called out, being the words they'd always say to each other instead of goodbye. The curly haired brunette spun, extending her finger towards the Byers girl as she walked backwards, exclaiming with a grin: "Love YOU always!"

Allison waited till she saw her best friend walk out before descending to Scoops, holding a bag that held her uniform. After changing in the mall bathroom, she headed to her work, smiling as she examined Steve behind the counter, his face lighting up as he saw her. "I was starting to think you weren't coming today." He humored, wearing a stupid cheesy grin. The brunette looked to the clock, rolling her eyes before she replied, "I still have six minutes till my shift starts."

"You're always here thirty minutes before." He claimed, having taken observation. "I was at Jazzercize with Heather... anyway, what did I miss in my absence?"

"Dustin's back- in the backroom with Robin and uh-" He paused, looking around before motioning her to lean forward. She complied, placing her hands on the white surface to help her lean forward as Steve whispered in her ear; "Dustin intercepted a secret russian communication, and they're translating it in back."

Allison turned to face him; her face screwed in confusion. "They've got their first sentence, too; The week is long." He divulged, smiling at her confusedness. "Alright then." She said, walking around the corner. "Oh! And apparently Dustin has a girlfriend."

"A girlfriend?!"

"Yeah- he claims she's hotter than Phoebe Cates, which is like, imposs-" He cuts himself off as he watches her eyebrow pop, and quickly tries to fix his words; "Impossible for someone his age. But he says she thinks kissing is better without teeth."

"Well... good for him. I'm happy that he found a nice girl."

"You're telling me you believe him?" Steve whispered, raising his eyebrows. "Of course. You don't?"

"Of- of course I believe him."

"I'd hope so." Allison stated, shaking her head with a smile as she stepped into the backroom to drop her things off, startling Dustin. Once he realized who had walked through the door, his smile grew wide. "Allie!" He stood, followed by quickly wrapping his arms around his sister like figure. "Hi Dusty, how was summer camp?" She grinned, hugging him back. "Oh- it was great! I got a girlfriend named Suzie now, and she's incredible- but I was excited to come back home to my friends, and they all ditched me." He rambled, his smile slowly dropping. "They what?"

"Yeah. They all ditched me on my first day back. Mike and El left before we even started, and then the other three just dipped, and left me alone. But I got this-" He spoke, pointing to the tape recorder on the table. "Steve filled me in on the whole ordeal before I came in. After scooping upfront for a while, you think you got room for one more?"

-

"The week is long, the silver cat feeds, when blue meets yellow in the west." All four said in unison when in the backroom, confusion heavy in their tones. "What the hell does that even mean?" The brunette questioned as they all stood there, exchanging looks. "No idea." Steve sighed, before they all filed to the front, bringing their belongings to take home, seeing as the mall was now closed. "I mean, I just... it just can't be right." Steve spoke as he pulled the security gate down, proceeding to lock it. "It's right." Robin declared, starting to walk away, Dustin following her. "Honestly, I think it's great news." He stated, glancing back at Steve and Allison. "How is this great news? I mean, so much for being American heroes. It's total nonsense." The Harrington boy scoffed, standing up before placing his hand on the brunette's lower back, gently pushing her forward to walk with him. "It's not nonsense. It's too specific. It's obviously a code."

"What do you mean a code?"

"Like a super-secret spy code."

"That's a total stretch." Steve begged to differ, exchanging a look with the brunette who walked silently beside him. "I don't know, is it?" Robin inquired, continuing to lead the four forward. "You're buying into this?"

The three continued to bicker back and forth about evil russians and hoping for a pattern to emerge until Steve kneeled beside the Indiana Flyer as Robin and Dustin continued to walk ahead. "What are you doing?" Allison questioned as she stopped beside him, her eyebrows threading together. "Testing a theory- you got a quarter?"

"No...?"

"Hey, Steve. What are you doing?" Robin called out, the Henderson boy beside her wearing the same confused expression. "Uh, it's a quarter. I need- do you have a quarter?"

"You sure you're tall enough for that ride?" Robin laughed as she paced towards her coworkers, looking through her bag slung over her shoulder. "Quarter!" The fluffy haired boy exclaimed, catching the coin that the Buckley girl threw his way. A tune began to play as the horse rocked back and forth, Steve heavily concentrated on the melody. "You need help getting up, little Stevie?"

"Shh! Would you two just shut up and listen?" He impatiently requested, returning his gaze to the horse. The four were left in silence until Dustin caught on, playing the Russian recording. The background music in the recording was the same as the Indiana flyer, bringing the four to discover that the code hadn't been from Russia, but from within the very walls of Starcourt.

Chapter Text

Allison grew concerned as two in the morning came around, having been sitting out in the living room since she got home, waiting for Heather to arrive. There had only been two times she hadn't followed through with plans, but she'd always call, letting the Byers girl know she wouldn't be coming. There hadn't been a call this time, though.

The brunette figured her best friend had a long day at work, and needed the sleep at home before her shift the next day, compared to being at the Byers residence and talking all night. Allison needed rest, too, with another shift at Scoops in the afternoon, so she called it a night, heading off to her room and succumbing to slumber.

Heather hadn't been in her own bed that night, though. She had been abducted hours before her shift was meant to be over, thrown in the trunk of the cobalt blue Camaro Allison had been beyond familiar with, before she arrived at her final destination; Brimborn Steel Works, where her unflayed soul would stay. While her body would leave the basement, she never truly would.

-

When morning came, Allison found that Heather had never called after asking her mother. She debated calling the Holloway residence to check up, or even drive over, but she had work, so she just planned to call afterwards. Steve had taken her to work that day, picking her and Dustin up along the way to continue their mission.

Once they arrived, the two boys took it upon themselves to do 'spycraft,' as Robin liked to call it, while the two girls were stuck behind, being annoyed by the very regular customer that was Erica Sinclair. Robin was beyond agitated, unable to get the point across to the younger girl that she was done with samples for the day. It took thirty minutes for her to finally convince Erica to leave.

In that time, Dustin and Steve were hardly successful, seeing as Steve kept complaining over Anna Jacobi talking to Mark Lewinsky, whilst Dustin tried to knock some sense into him. "I don't get why you're looking at girls. You have two perfect choices in front of you."

"Seriously, if you start talking about this again-"

"Oh, come on dude. You're head over heels for Allison, and have been for a shit ton of time- and if that's not what you want anymore- Robin is awesome."

"One- Allison just got her heart broken, and she needs time. Two, Robin's not my type."

"What's your type again? Not awesome?"

"Thank you."

"What I'm just trying to say is... yeah, Allie got her heart broken. But she also admitted to having feelings for you, did she not?"

"Yeah... but that doesn't mean she's ready for another relationship-"

"Maybe not. But she might need you more than ever right now... you know... someone to console or comfort her. And maybe by doing that... she'll realize she needs you more than she thought and boom. You're finally together."

"Not sure that's how it works... but I'm giving her time. When and if she's ready- I'll be there."

-

Robin continued to repeat the translation to herself from her seat on the back counter as Allison was serving customers, checking in periodically for any new info. Knocks came from the back door, alerting the two girls from their spots. "I got it." Robin announced before sliding the doors open, hopping down to the back room, and opening the heavy door. It had just been delivery from Lynx Transportation, but something had clearly stirred the Buckley girl as she raced out to the middle of the mall, spiking the curiosity of Allison, who raced after her, passing by Steve and Dustin who had just re-entered Scoops.

"Robin- what are you doing?" She called out, coming to a halt as she reached the Buckley girl who stood on the benches. "A trip to China sounds nice." Robin stated, pointing towards the Imperial Panda. The Byers girl was beyond confused as she stepped up next to the blue-eyed girl, who then whispered; "if you tread lightly" repeatedly. She spun around until her eyes landed on Kaufman shoes, pointing towards it. Allison had finally caught on by the time Robin said, "When- when blue meets yellow in the west." Allison's eyes found themselves on the target as she let out a small gasp. "Robin- the clock."

The two looked at each other in a state of surprise; small smiles crossing their faces. The two boys finally joined the girls then, stopping in front of them slowly. "What are you guys doing?"

"We cracked it."

"Cracked what?"

"We cracked the code."

-

"Look for Imperial Panda and Kaufman shoes." Robin instructed over the loudness of the storm as the four perched atop the roof of Starcourt, soaked even through their rain jackets. "They're with that whistling guy, ten o'clock." Dustin chimed in, holding the binoculars tight to his face. "What do you think's in there?" Steve inquired, squinting as rain drops spit on his face. "Guns, bombs?"

"Chemical weapons?" The Buckley girl questioned. "Nothing good." Allison added, squinting just as hard as Steve next to her. "Whatever it is, they're armed to the teeth." The curly haired boy stated, pointing out the guards strapped with large guns. "Great. That's great."

One guard opened the key card accessible doors, allowing a yellow rain jacketed delivery guy to enter. "Hey, what's in there?" Robin questioned Dustin, who had been the only one who had a good look. "It's just more boxes." He replied before Steve insisted to check it out, leading the two to fight over the binoculars, which would ultimately fall out of both of their grasps, falling all the way down with an alerting crash. All four teens ducked quickly as the guards reached for their guns. Allison's heart was pounding within her chest, feeling as loud as the thunder above. Her eyes drifted to her hand that had been tightly clasped with Steve's; he had noticed too, and after a few seconds and brief eye contact, the two withdrew their grasps. It had been like instinct that they'd reached for each other, and both had felt the small longing for touch again after they broke away.

-

"So, how about Footloose, E.T.... or Terminator?" Steve questioned from the Byers living room. It was just the two of them that night, alone in the house whilst everyone was away. The two were still shaken by the fact that they'd found the Russians, still not quite sure what to do with the information. "Uhm... you go ahead and choose. I need to make a call really quick." Allison declared, pacing over to the phone, proceeding to punch in Heather's house phone number.

"Janet Holloway speaking." Janet's tender, familiar voice came through. "Hi Janet, it's Allison."

"Oh hi honey! How have you been?"

"I've been doing good, I have a good job at Starcourt right now with good company." Allison grinned, looking over her shoulder to Steve, who had already been looking her way with a small smile. He shifted his focus back to selecting a movie after their eyes lingered for a few seconds, and the brunette returned to facing the wall. "That's great to hear. Heather said you were enjoying it. We haven't seen you in so long, we've missed our second little girls' company." The Holloway woman said from the other end of the phone, her sweet voice feeling like an embrace to the brunette. "I miss you guys too, and I promise to go over soon... I was just calling to check up on Heather... is she okay?"

"Oh yes, yes she's fine. She wasn't feeling too well this morning, but her friend Billy took off the day to get her well again."

Allison's heart felt like it skipped a beat for a second, her eyebrows threading together. "Did you say Billy?"

"Yes, he's quite the gentlemen, and apparently Heather's coworker. Tom's quite unsure of him, but I think he just isn't ready to accept the fact that his little girl has another boy to take care of her." Janet paused with a laugh; "We're having him over for dinner tonight to thank him for his kindness. You're welcome to come over and join us if you'd like sweetheart, I think you'd like him."

There was a tightness in the brunette's chest as she processed her second mother figure's words carefully, her mind racing with so many questions. "I'm uh... I unfortunately have plans tonight but... I'm sure I'd like him." She paused, taking a pained breath in. "Tell Heather I called... I've been meaning to talk to her- and thank you for letting me know."

"Of course, Allison. Love you honey."

"Love you too." Allison's voice cracked as she spoke, hooking the phone back up as she faced the wall. Had this been what Heather wanted to tell her? That she had started to talk to Billy? But what about Robin? Would she do something like this, knowing Allison and Billy's history? Why would he take the day off to be with her? Was she the one that he hooked up with? Had they been going behind her back-

"Allie?" Steve's voice gently came from behind the brunette as his hand gently touched her shoulder. "Everything alright?" He questioned before she turned around to face him. His eyes saw the pained confusion within hers, observing that they failed to meet his. "Billy's at Heathers..." Her voice came out small as her mouth laid agape, not wanting to believe that Heather would do such a thing. "What... what does that mean?" He inquired, knowing what it implied but not sure if it was correct. "I don't- I don't know." She paused, her eyes meeting his. "She said she needed to tell me something... but she never showed last night. She didn't call... she always calls." Her voice cracked again as tears formed in her waterline. She refused to let them fall as hurt burned within her. "Billy took the day off to get her better... they're not even friends-" She bit hard on her lip as it quivered, and that's when Steve couldn't hold back anymore.

He pulled her into his arms, his hand holding her head against his chest whilst his other arm held her close. No words were spoken as she hugged him back, feeling as if she were in shock. It didn't make sense. None of it made sense; and while all the signs pointed to her conclusion being true, she still tried to deny it, knowing her best friend couldn't possibly do something like that to her. She refused to believe it.

Chapter Text

By three in the morning, none of Allison's family had returned home. Steve had insisted on staying until someone came after the call she had with Janet Holloway, but none had come. "I'm really sorry to keep you here this late." The brunette quietly apologized from beside the Harrington boy on the couch, where the two had been sitting for the past hours. "You don't have to apologize... it was my choice. Plus you know my parents could give two shits."

"Thank you." She let out a halfhearted laugh, crossing her arms over her stomach as they sat in silence. "Do you want me to go?" He questioned, causing her eyes to lock on his. "No... not really. I don't think I want to be alone." She replied, knowing she'd cry her heart out if he left. He nodded in return, before standing up and offering a hand. Her hazel eyes gazed up at his in confusion whilst taking his extended hand, bringing herself to a stance. "Let's get you to bed." He softly stated, leading her to her room.

He waited in the hall as she changed, and came back in when she was done. "Would you rather me set up on the couch or on the floor in here?" Steve inquired as she got under her covers, stopping to look at him. "This might be really weird to ask but... could you sleep in my bed with me instead?"

His eyes burned on hers, not quite sure how to answer. He knew what he wanted to say, but didn't know if it was right. Allison was always so cold at night, and afraid of the nightmares that came randomly; but she missed the warmth of having someone next to her. "You sure?" He finally spoke up, eyes softer than she'd seen in a while. She nodded in response, scooting towards the wall to leave the other side for him. "I still have one of your hoodies in the closet... down in your box. Might be a little small given it was ages ago." She smiled small, realizing he was still in uniform. He nodded, searching for the box, before pulling a smaller hoodie out. His chuckle that followed was warm, genuine. "I think this would fit you better than me." He grinned, proceeding to fold it and put it back in the box. "It's alright, I have some clothes in my car." He finished, telling her he'd be back.

Steve was back and changed within minutes before he climbed into bed with her, shutting off the lights. The two were shifted to where they were facing each other, their hands almost touching from the close proximity. She couldn't help but look in his doe eyes before he spoke; "Goodnight Allie."

-

"That keycard opens the door, but unfortunately, the Russian with this keycard also has a massive gun. Whatever's in this room, whatever's in those boxes, they really don't want anybody finding it." Dusin explained as he paced back and forth, all three older teens fully focused on him. "But there's gotta be a way in." Robin implied, shaking her head ever so slightly as she tried to come up with a solution. Allison, who was seated on the counter in case any customers were to come only looked to Steve, who sat across from Robin, spinning his sailor's hat boredly. "Well, you know... I could just take him out." He suggested, leaning his now crossed arms on the table. He spoke with cocky confidence, which Dustin and Allison saw right through. "Take who out?" The Buckley girl questioned, looking unimpressed as ever. "The Russian guard.... What? I sneak up behind him, I knock him out, and I take his keycard. It's easy." He responded, defending himself when the two girls gave him an unconvinced expression.

"Did you not hear the part about the massive gun?" Dustin blankly inquired, crossing his arms impatiently. "Yes, Dustin, I did. And that's why I would be sneaking."

"Ah. Well, please, tell me this, and be honest, have you ever actually... won a fight?"

"Okay, that was one time-"

"Twice. Jonathan. Year prior?"

"Listen, that doesn't count." Steve stated, causing the brunette to roll her eyes. "Yes, it does." She chimed in, exchanging glances with Dustin. "It looks like he beat the shit out of you." The Henderson boy declared. "Oh, he absolutely did. His whole face was bloodied." Allison specified, now crossing her arms. "Who's side are you on-"

"In this case, my brother's."

"Yeah you totally deserved it that time bud, not to mention Allie also rocked your ass." Dustin added, sending the two boys into a bickering match as the brunette laughed; Robin stood abruptly, pushing the swinging door open and grabbing all of the tips. "Robin-" Both Steve and Allison called out, following after her as she rushed out. "What are you doing?" The brown haired boy inquired, throwing his hands up in the air. "I need cash."

"Half of that's ours! Where are you going?"

"To find a way into that room- a safe way. And, in the meantime, sling ice cream, behave, and don't get beat up. I'll be back in a jiff." Robin exclaimed before running off, leaving the three behind.

She came back around an hour later with a complete blueprint of Starcourt mall. She was practically a genius, as she figured out that the airducts lead straight to where they needed to go. After a failed attempt at getting Dustin in the vents, the universe seemed to work in the three's favor as Erica Sinclair rang the front desk bell. Robin and Allison exchanged glances as soon as they saw the young girl, and immediately rushed her into the back.

"Yeah... I don't know." Erica finally spoke after the four explained the idea in full, trying to convince her to join. "You don't know if you can fit?" Dustin questioned.

"Oh, I can fit. I just don't know if I want to."

"Are you claustrophobic?" Robin inquired, speaking expressively.

"I don't have phobias."

"Okay, well, what's the problem?" Steve now questioned; his arms crossed as he became impatient.

"The problem is, I still haven't heard what's in this for Erica." She explained, looking interrogatingly to the group. After exchanging looks with the others, Allison finally suggested she could have as much ice cream as she wanted today. The Sinclair girl agreed, making the scoops employees fetch her nearly every flavor and combination, bringing it to the booth where all but Allison sat.

The brunette worked the counter for incoming customers as the other three got her to agree. After coming to the decision to grant her free ice cream for life, she agreed. As the sun went down, the five enacted their plan. As Erica navigated her way through the vents, the other four perched on the familiar spot of Starcourt's roof, having a perfect lookout of the large doors.

Within thirty minutes, she was in, opening those exact doors. "Free ice cream. For. Life."

-

"That's definitely not Chinese food." Steve stated after opening one of the imperial panda packages, where the five leaned over curiously. "Um, maybe you guys should, you know, stand back."

The three girls took a couple steps back, keeping their distance. Dustin, on the other hand, remained by Steve's side. "No."

"Just- just step back, okay?"

"No."

"Step back. Seriously."

"No-"

"Seriously."

"No! If you die, I die." Dustin exclaimed, his face serious as he kept himself planted. There was a long moment of silence as the two stared each other down; "Okay." Steve shrugged, turning away from the persistent Henderson boy. He twisted one of the four handles atop the metal box, pulling it upward as the air hissed following the clicking sound of unlocking. A glowing green liquid was held within the cylinder casing. "What the hell?"

"What is that?" Robin questioned, asking what everyone else wanted to say. Before Steve could reply, the room rumbled, alerting the group. "Was that just me, or did the room move?" Dustin questioned as everyone's gaze moved to the ceiling. "It definitely did." Allison mumbled, looking worriedly over to Steve. "Booby traps." Erica whispered, now looking concerned. "You know what? Let's just grab that and go." Robin suggested, taking the casing from Steve as Dustin moved to the keypad, hitting the buttons. "Which one do I press Erica?"

"Just press the damn button, nerd."

"Which one? I'm pressing the button, okay?"

"Press 'open door!'"

"I'm pressing 'open door!'"

The two kept shouting back in forth, Steve joining them as he attempted to hit the buttons, having no success. Robin chimed in, commencing a chorus of frustrated shouting. Allison grew impatient herself, marching over to Dustin and Steve's side, hitting the 'open door' button twice. Nothing. The two guys continued to hit against them, until a solid wall came down, enclosing the group inside. Everyone went silent; and then the room dropped.

Everyone was screaming at this point as they lost their balances; Allison had crashed into Steve, who braced himself against the wall as he held her tight, looking to the lights that passed.

"Oh shit."

Chapter Text

Screams reverberated throughout the room as it dropped several feet below the mall, the five within struggling to keep on their feet. "We're going down!" Steve yelled as Dustin & Erica struggled to reach the button box, hitting buttons once again in hopes to stop the descent. Through the shouting and chaos, the elevator reached the end, violently throwing everything inside around. As one of the boxes began to fly towards Allison and Steve, he pushed her aside, both being thrown to the ground with the rest as the room slammed down.

"My groin- it fell on my groin." Steve whined once the commotion came to a stop, having had the box topple on top of him. "Dustin! Get this off of me- I can't move." He grunted, getting help from the Henderson boy to come to a stance. "Is everyone okay?" Robin questioned with a hand clutched to the back of her head. "Yeah, I'm great now that I know that Russians can't design elevators!" Steve exclaimed frantically before shoving Dustin aside, attempting to hit the buttons once again. "I think we've clearly established that those buttons don't work." The Buckley girl reminded, inching closer to the brown-haired boy who she'd never seen this freaked out before.

"They're buttons. They have to do something."

"Yeah, if we had a keycard."

"A what?"

"It's an electronic lock. Same as the loading dock door. If we don't have a keycard, it won't operate, meaning-"

"We're stuck in here." Dustin chimed in, just as distressed as the older boy.

"Yeah."

"Just so you nerds are aware, I'm supposed to be spending the night at Tina's, and Tina aways covers for me. But if I'm not home for Uncle Jack's party tomorrow, and my mom finds out you four are responsible, she's gonna hunt you down, one by one, and slit your throat." Erica added, earning nothing but annoyed glances from the older four with the current situation they had in hand. The brunette looked from Robin to Steve, noticing how the brown eyed boy was clutching onto an open cardboard box, clearly about to burst. Then, he did. "I don't care about Tina! Or Uncle Jack's Party! Your mom's not gonna be able to find us if we're dead in a Russian elevator!"

His breathing was heavy and ragged as he returned to clutching the box, whilst Erica looked speechless. The brunette simply took a step forward and rested a hand on his shoulder for reassurance, causing him to flinch, and almost shoo the touch away before he realized it had been her. The look they shared had been enough reassurance without using words as he let out a deep breath, looking to the ground.

"Hey- what if we climbed out?" Dustin suggested, pointing towards the hatch on the ceiling. With an exchanged glance, Allison nodded her head upwards, sending Steve off with Dustin to go examine a possible escape route. Unfortunately for the group, there was none; they had been too far down to even see the top.

With nothing they could do, they attempted to surrender to sleep. While Erica and Dustin were able to, it took the three teens longer. Robin sat adjacent to Allison and Steve, communicating ideas of how to figure out a way to open the door. With no working plan and exhaustion hitting them, the brunette had been the first to pass out, slumping against Steve's shoulder. After eight hours, Steve had woken up and gently laid her on the ground, making sure not to wake her as he and Dustin attempted to reach signal from their walkie-talkie. It hadn't been until Erica hit the mysterious green liquid against a barrel that Allison finally awoke. "What is that-" She groaned, rubbing at her eyes as the bright lights infiltrated her eyelids.

"Erica is trying to say this-" Robin announces, holding the casing up; "Is edible. I'm telling her it's not."

"No, I was saying we can't survive without water down here. So, if it comes down to drinking that or dying, I'm drinking that shit." Erica corrects, snatching the liquid from the Buckley girls hands and walking towards the corner. With a huff, Robin rolls her eyes, taking the silence in to keep her cool. Her eyebrows thread together as she turns to face the door, swiftly walking to it and putting her ear against the wall. Both Allison and Erica exchange glances of confusion before they too hear the distant sound of electronic whirring; the brunette quickly stands at this, ushering the two to go up top.

"We've got company!" Robin exclaims as she climbs upward, alerting the two boys. At this, they help the girls up, shutting the hatch quickly whilst trying to be as silent as possible. In minutes, the door from below could be heard opening, along with two male voices speaking indistinguishable Russian. Above, the five are crouched around the grates, observing boxes being transported out into the vehicle. Steve lifts his fingers to his lips before his eyes land on the cylinder casing within Erica's hands, taking it after a moment of hesitation. Once the sound of the door closing emits, he takes no time to open the hatch, dropping to the inside of the box, and shoving the object between the floor and closing wall, keeping just a small enough space for the group to slip through. "Let's go!"

At this signal, the other four jump down, sliding through the crack one by one, Steve being the last after making sure the others made it through. Milliseconds after he made it to the other side, the glass casing cracks open, crushing the green liquid out; it sizzles straight through the ground, burning holes. "Jesus Christ." Steve mutters as the group stares in disbelief. "You still wanna drink that?" Robin humors to Erica, only receiving an irritated glance. Allison lets a laugh out as Robin grins, breathing heavy from all the rushed movement.

"Holy mother of God." Dustin's voice draws the four's attention away from the acid, turning to face and behold the long tunnel behind them. It extended so far that an end couldn't even be seen. Allison's smile quickly dropped at this, cursing under her breath for thinking the hard part was over. "Well... hope you guys are in good shape. Looking at you, roast beef." Steve implies whilst stepping forward, hitting Dustin's chest twice. He tugs at the hem of his shirt as he trudges forward, nodding his head to signal the others to come along. "Let's go, come on."

"Why me?"

-

"Okay, clear." Steve whispered, turning the corner of a metal box the group had been hiding behind. After walking for what felt like hours, the code had come through the walkie talkie within Erica's bag, bringing hope that the signal could reach the surface. It hadn't been much longer that they had finally made it to the end of the tunnel, hiding from passing persons and vehicles. "Clear, come on, let's go."

"Okay, that was close." Robin breathed out, walking light enough that her footsteps were barely audible. "Too close." Dustin added, anxiousness in his distressed voice. "Relax. All right? Relax. Nobody saw..." Steve trailed off, stopping before the view ahead. As Allison met at his side, her jaw slightly dropped at the sight of epicenter of the bunker, where Russians in lab coats and armed ones in uniforms strolled by, with a female voice echoing from the PA system loudly. "We need to hide-" Allison whispered with panic, tugging on Steve's arm as he stood in shock, cursing under his breath. They crouched behind a red box, breath heavier than when they were walking down the tunnel.

"Red Dawn." Dustin's voice wavered as his eyes widened. "I saw it- first floor, northwest." Erica whisper-yelled to the older three, who stared back at her in confusion. "Saw what?" The Harrington boy quietly questioned. "The comms room!"

"You saw the comms room?"

"Correct!"

"Are you sure?" Dustin inquired whilst Steve leaned forward, looking out toward the commotion ahead. "Positive. The door was open for a second, and I saw a bunch of lights and machines and shit in there."

"That could be a hundred different things."

"I'll take those odds." Robin chimed in, eyes moving from Allison to Steve. With a heavy sigh, Steve leaned forward, the others following his movement to examine the next destination. "All right. We're gonna move fast; we're gonna stay low. Okay?" He instructed, receiving nods and 'okay's' from the others. With that, they began crouching off, pausing behind large objects to shelter them on the way.

A man in a white lab coat opened the door with his keycard, too busy looking down at his notes in hand to notice the teens crouched below. Once he was far enough away, Steve ushered the group forward, running to the door before it could close, allowing all to file inside.

As Allison got inside, she halted in her steps upon seeing a man sitting across the room, taking his headpiece off slowly as he turned to face the strangers. He stood quickly, concern heavy on his face as the group stood frozen in place; Steve still crouched holding the door awkwardly. The brunette found herself stepping in front of Dustin at the same time Steve came to a stance, putting one hand out and another in front of her as the man reached for his gun, though Robin had been the one to step forward, repeating the code they had translated to the man.

Slowly, Steve's body covered Allison's more and more as she pulled Erica behind her along with Dustin, unsure of how the scene ahead would play out. The man spoke Russian as his eyebrows threaded together, no doubt asking a question as his tone pitched upwards at the end of his words. Robin glanced back at the group, unsureness within her eyes after stating 'silver cat' in Russian, earning another confused response from the man. He scoffed, reaching back for his gun. Allison's hand quickly latched to Steve's arm, and with this, the Harrington boy yelled, charging forward with no hesitation.

He wrapped his arms around the man's waist, slamming him into the table. It took no effort for the man to throw Steve off, but as he swung to punch, Steve eased back, his back landing on the opposing table. The man's hands grabbed his collar, throwing him face first towards the controls. The brunette felt the same adrenaline as the night Neil was beating Billy, and almost took a step forward before Robin grabbed her arm, pulling her back and away with the shake of her head.

Steve's elbow slammed into the man's abdomen, sending him stumbling backwards. The brown eyed boy found the opportunity to grab one of the speakers before twisting around, slamming it straight across the man's head, sending him straight to the edge of the table, where he would hit his temple and knock out with a final groan, slumping to the floor. Steve's fingers threaded through his hair as he panted heavily. "Dude!" Dustin yelled, drawing the older boy's attention away from the figure on the floor to him. "You did it! You won a fight!" He finished, beaming with an extended finger. "Jeez..." Steve breathed heavily whilst Allison stepped away from the others, immediately going to check if the Harrington boy was okay.

"Are you hurt?" She questioned as her eyes scanned his body; fingers meeting his chin to turn his face for any sign of injury. He let out a soft laugh, taking her hands in his own. "I'm fine." He chuckled, surprised and proud of himself for going unscathed. Allison had been scared after he ran forward- knowing his history with people his own age or younger, and losing against them wouldn't compare to someone older and most likely trained; but at the same time, the bravery he had to do so in order to protect the kids and Robin, let alone her, spoke louder volumes of the person he was; she was just as proud of him as Dustin, and allowed herself to laugh before pulling him into a short hug. He gladly hugged her back, smiling against her shoulder.

His eyes moved to Dustin's, who wore a wide grin and smug face, nodding slowly towards the two. Steve only mouthed 'quit' before he pulled away, watching Dustin move towards the unconscious man on the ground, taking his keys. "What are you doing?" Erica interrogated loudly from beside Robin. "Getting us our ticket out of here."

"You want to walk all the way back?"

"Well, we can hang out for a little bit, relax, have a picnic maybe."

"Have a picnic? We came here for the radio!"

"This plan is way better. If I knew Steve could knock out a Russian, that would've been our plan in the first place." Dustin stated back to Erica before the two went into a bickering match. Allison crouched towards the ground, retrieving the gun from the man's holster. "Whoa what are you doing?" Steve inquired quickly, eyebrows threading together. "What does it look like- we might need it."

"Do you know how to use that?"

"Well... no... but it's better than not having anything."

"Not if you miss and we die anyway." Steve laughed, trying to contain his smile. "I'm starting to wish you hadn't won that fight." Allison sarcastically replied, putting the gun in her skirt pocket. "Oh come on-"

"Guys!" Robin interrupted the two chattering groups; "There's something up there." She announced, pointing up the stairs. Steve and Allison exchanged glances before heading up the stairs with the rest; Quietly, the filed through the door, looking through the windows of the larger doors ahead. Bright, blue light beamed through the glass, and through it, the group beheld a large spinning machine that hissed and whirred with loud frequency. The brunette's breath hitched as she saw the beam of light hitting straight into a pulsing wall, attempting to split it open. From Will's drawings and descriptions, much like Eleven's, she knew that this was a gate to the Upside down.

Chapter Text

With a glance to Steve and Dustin next to her, Allison knew they knew it too, sharing the same anxious expression. "The gate." They said in unison before turning to descend down the stairs.

"I don't understand. You've seen this before?" Robin questioned as they quickly ran down, careful to not fall. "Not exactly." Steve stated from behind the group.

"Then what exactly?"

"All you need to know is it's bad." Dustin informed, trying to keep it as secretive as possible. "It's really bad." Steve added, having the same mindset. "Like end-of-the-human-race-as-we-know-it kind of bad."

"And you know about this how?" Robin impatiently questioned Dustin with furrowed eyebrows. "That's not important right now. It would take more time than we have to explain everything, but what they're saying isn't an exaggeration. It's beyond anything that you think you know." Allison chimed in; she felt that it would be better that they knew, but knew that it wasn't possible in the moment. "You know about it too?"

"Yes. More familiar with it than I'd like to be."

"Please, explain because nothing about this makes sense-"

"Um, Steve? Where's your Russian friend?" Erica intervenes the argument, drawing their attention to her. The man was gone, without a single trace. "We're so screwed." Allison states as her fingers rake through her hair, anxiety rising quickly. As if on cue, the alarms above begin to blare. Steve runs to the door, opening it to glance outwards. The Russians on the outside all meet his gaze, quickly running towards him and the others. "Shit. Go, go, go, go!" Steve shouts as he slams the door. The three take no time to run as Steve reaches for Allison's hand, quickly taking it within his own before he pulls her along. "Shit!" Dustin yells as they race up the stairs, throwing the door open ahead. "Move! Let's move!"

Their sprint is put to a halt as they push through the large doors, being in the center of several lab coated Russians focus. "Go! Shit! Shit, shit, shit! Go, go, go!" Steve yells as the kids and Robin continue their race forward, down the stairs by the whirring machine, coming to another halt as they're put face-to-face with the bright lighted beam. Steve's hand is still tightly held around Allison's as they stand in shock, Dustin cursing left and right out of panic. "Guards! Go!" Erica alerts, bringing their attention away from the beam and to the men running their way.

"This way!" Steve yells, pulling the brunette down the stairs with him before pushing a man in a red hazmat suit out of the way, continuing their trudge forward. He lets go of her hand to push metal barrels into the oncoming guards, continuing to push her and the others forward so he's in the rear. "Come on! Go, go, go, go!"

Allison's heart is racing as her feet are moving faster than she can process, hurdling herself through the door Robin opened ahead. Adrenaline is pumping through her veins, much like the others, as she turns around, watching Steve shut the door behind him. Yells and pounding come from the other side of the door that Steve holds himself against, Allison quick to join him. "Here! Come on, let's go!" Erica shouts as she lifts the vent with Dustin's help, though Robin had joined the older teens in holding the door. "Go! Just get out of here!" Steve yells to the kids, putting all of his weight against the shaking door. "No! Come on, now!" Dustin shouts back, waving his hand. "No! Just go get some help, okay? What are you doing!?" Steve screams as Dustin pauses at the vent; "Go!" All three teens shout.

"I won't forget you!"

"Go!"

With that, Dustin closes himself inside the vent; at the same time, the door is forced open, sending the three teens flying backwards. As Allison hits the ground, she reaches for the gun within her pocket, aiming it upwards. Both Robin and Steve, who have their hands in the air, yell for her to put it down, but she pulls the trigger, sending a bullet out of the chamber, and into one of the men's arms. She's taken aback from the gun's recoil, giving one of the men enough time to reach towards her and snatch the gun away, slamming it straight into her temple, rendering her unconscious.

-

Allison squinted as the bright light practically blinded her, wincing at the pulsing pain from her temple. As consciousness was slowly regained, her eyes traveled the room, hearing soft chatter from below. Her eyes landed on Steve and Robin in the center of the room, chairs tied together, back-to-back. She realized she had been restrained within her own chair, too, by the furthest wall from them. "Guys?" Her voice came out small, but it had been enough to be noticed. Robin's head lifted, looking to her friend with concern. Allison could only see the back of Steve's head, though he tried to shift around to face her. "Allie-"

"What are you guy's doing on the ground?"

"We were uh..." Robin started before the two began to laugh. "We were trying to get to this tray and get the scissors. Didn't go according to plan."

"I see... how long have we been down here?"

"I... we're not sure. Both of you were knocked out cold for awhile, but Steve woke up not too long after they dragged him back in here."

"Why did they have him?"

"Interrogation." Steve spoke up, letting out a chuckle. "These assholes believe we work for the government or some shit. I tried to tell them I- we work for scoops- that we sling ice cream for a living... but they didn't believe me. Just kept beating the shit out of me instead."

The brunette couldn't see his face, but worry flooded her senses. "Are- how bad?"

"My ears are ringing, I can't really breath, I've got a black eye that feels like it's going to pop out of my skull and a bloody nose. I can't see myself, but Robin said they got me pretty good."

"They did." Robin giggled, laying her head back down. "I still can't believe you shot one of them."

"Me neither." Allison breathed, only recalling she had done so after being reminded. "They could've killed you, Allie." Steve's voice came, a hint of sadness in his tone at the thought of it. "I know... but they didn't."

"Yet..." Robin quietly said as her face dropped, looking to the ground. Allison let out a sigh, letting her head lay against the wall. "Well... that's nice... what were you guys chattering about anyway?"

"We don't think we're gonna make it out of here." Robin answered, biting down on her bottom lip. "So, we just said things we might never get the chance to... things no one but us would know if we don't leave this bunker."

"Well, that's depressing."

"Kind of like Steve lucking out on life." Robin laughed, getting shoved by the Harrington boy's elbow from behind. "Ouch!" She yelped, followed by a giggle. "More like Robin's horrible taste in women." Steve corrected, joining in her laughing. Allison's mouth laid agape as she raised her eyebrows, not sure of the situation. "I told him... about Tammy... about Heather." Robin implied, looking up to the brunette. "I'm telling you Tammy Thompson is completely tone deaf. She sings horribly!" He exclaimed.

"She does not!" Robin argued, now hitting Steve with her elbow. "You liked Tammy Thompson?" Allison laughed in disbelief; "She did! And she sounds like a muppet, does she not Allison?" The fluffy haired boy inquired, turning his head to try and direct his question to the brunette. "She does." Allison answered hesitantly, now smiling at the offended expression Robin wore. "I don't see why Heather is in the category of horrible taste." Allison added, tilting her head.

"Cause she wasn't ready to be committed- That's just harsh. Not to mention possibly sleeping with her best friends ex." Steve stated, shaking his head. The brunette's eyebrows furrowed as she looked to Robin, who wore a sad smile. "What?"

"Didn't she tell you?" The Buckley girl questioned, receiving a shake of the head from Allison. "Oh... well, maybe a week ago she told me she didn't think she could go through with it... with us. We never had a label on us, which was fine with me... but I think I might've overwhelmed her? Maybe talked her ear off too much... I don't know."

"I had no clue- I'm so sorry."

"It's fine. She must've thought you dealing with your breakup was too much already." Robin concluded; it had made sense. Allison pieced everything together, knowing Heather would always focus on others' problems instead of her own. Allison had been the same way. She knew now that it was why she didn't go to Scoops the last time, and figured it to be what she planned to tell her four days ago when they were meant to have a sleepover. Why Billy was at her house was what remained a mystery, but she knew deep down Heather would never go as far as to sleep with him.

What the brunette didn't know was the fact that Robin had now known Steve's true and ongoing feelings for Allison, and why he turned down all the girls that were actually interested, or why his gaze always lingered a little longer on the brunette when she wasn't aware. Robin promised him if they made it out, she would help the two get together, having now known the whole, wholesome truth. "You know... it's crazy how if I remembered Robin in Miss Clicks class, I could've passed... maybe even been going off to college right now." Steve softly chuckled, letting out a deep sigh following his words. "And I'd have no idea that there were evil Russians beneath our feet, and I would be happily slinging ice cream with some other schmucks." Robin added, smiling at the thought of it. The three laughed together, shaking their heads. "Gotta say though, I liked being your schmucks." Steve stated.

"Me too." Allison chimed in; "My family won't even know what happened to me... or where I went. I- I don't remember the last thing I said to them." She continued, tears beginning to form in her eyes. "I'm really glad I got to know both of you." She finished, her bottom lip beginning to quiver at the thought of dying down here. "It was fun while it lasted." Steve said, sorrow within his own words. "It was." Robin finalized, joining the others in their sadness.

Buzzing came from the door adjacent to the teens, causing their heads to turn its way. More men in uniform filed inside, halting upon seeing Robin and Steve on the floor. The man presumably in charge chuckled, looking down at the two. "Where were you two going?" He clicked his tongue before glancing towards the brunette, the other men pulling the duo up whilst he crossed the room. "Ah... she's awake."

The men in the room deviously chuckled as he leaned over the hazel eyed girl, staring tauntingly into her soul. "You shot one of my men... that will not go unpunished." He threatened, face uncomfortably close to hers. "So far from the others... let's get her into the chair, hm?" He instructed, pointing towards the dental like chair across the room. Her eyes widened as she looked to the so called 'doctor,' who grinned maliciously whilst two guards came to untie her, one grabbing her by her ankles as the other held her from her armpits, grasps tight enough to bruise. She winced as she wriggled in their grasps, being practically thrown into the chair. "Don't touch her!" Steve shouted, receiving a slap across the face by the man that now crouched in front of him.

"We will do what we want." He warned before commanding something in russian as the guards strapped Allison down, restraining her further than she had been in the chair. She now could see Steve's beaten face; enough to make her face drop. It had been much like the time Billy beat him. One of the men hit her across the face, harsh enough that it opened her healing split lip. She winced at the impact as Steve shouted at the man. "Try telling the truth this time, yes?" The man before him said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "It will make her visit with Dr. Zharkov less painful." He declared, squeezing Steve's chin hard enough to make him wince. He nodded to the Doctor, who began walking his way. "No- the сука [bitch] first."

Dr. Zharkov nodded, turning away from Steve to walk over to Allison, holding a large syringe with blue liquid in his hand. "No wait-" The brunette began to squirm, trying to thrash out of the belts holding her down, but she only failed. "Stop! Wait! What is that thing!?" Steve shouted, halting the doctor's movement. "It will help you all to talk."

"I'm telling the truth I swear! Don't hurt her!"

The tall man just shook his head with a chuckle before he grabbed the brunette's chin harshly, turning her head to the side to expose her neck. "Please!" Steve screamed in attempt to stop him, but it worked to no avail. "Wait!" Allison cried out as the stinging pain of the syringe stabbing through her neck emitted, hearing Steve shout and pull against his restraints at the sight, Robin shouting alongside him.

Steve was next, and Robin followed, all having foreign liquid forced into their systems. After the men left, several minutes of silence passed. "Honestly, I don't feel anything. Do you guys?" Steve inquired, turning his head slightly. "No..." Allison stated, biting down on her bottom lip. "I mean, I... I feel fine. I feel normal." Robin added, turning her head to try and face the others. "Yeah, I feel- I feel fine. I kinda feel good." He mumbles, words slurring towards the end. The three laugh at this, now having deliriousness kick in. "Wanna know a secret?" Robin inquired, leaning her head back against Steve's. "What?"

"I like it, too! I feel good."

"Morons. They messed up the drug."

"They messed it up!"

"Morons. Hey, morons!"

"Morons!" The three yelled through chuckles, gradually laughing harder. "Oh, no. There's definitely something wrong with us." Robin implied, earning a giggle from Allison who declared; "Definitely something."

"Something's wrong." Steve chimed in before the door buzzer echoed, and the door opened again. The Doctor began laying out what looked to be torture tools on the tray, the sound of a knife unsheathing reverberating off the walls. "Would now be a good time to tell you that I don't like doctors?" Robin's voice came out small whilst her eyes went wide.

"Let's try this again. Who do you work for?" The man interrogated Steve, who chuckled in return. "Scoops. Scoops Ahoy."

"How did you find us?"

"Totally by accident."

The man spoke to the doctor in Russian, face serious and impatient. Dr. Zharkov picked up one of his tools, crossing the room to stand in front of Steve. "What is that shiny little toy?"

"He brought toys!" Allison laughed, her friends laughing with her, flinching as the doctor holds it towards her, before crossing towards Steve. "Where you going with that, doc?" Robin inquired, turning her head to try and see. "Who, whoa, hey, se- hey. Wait! No! Wait! Wait!" Steve yelled as the doctor clamped his tool around one of his fingernails, pulling upwards. "Stop!" Robin and Allison screamed in unison, wriggling against their restraints.

"Hey stop!" The Buckley girl shouted as Allison couldn't hold back anymore. "There was a code! There was a code! We heard a code!"

The tall man stopped his current action, watching the man in charge walk towards the brunette. "Code? What code?"

"The week is long; the silver cat feeds when blue meets yellow in the west."

"You broadcast that stupid spy shit all over town, and we picked it up on our Cerebro, and we cracked it in a day. A day! You think you're so smart, but a couple of kids who scoop ice cream for a living cracked your code in a day, and now, people know you're here." Robin laughed, earning the man's attention. "Who knows we are here, сука?"

"Uh, well, Dustin knows." Steve chimed in, smiling. "Hey, Steve?" Robin tried to caution, though it failed as Steve proceeded. "Yeah, Dustin Henderson, he knows."

"Steve!" The two girls scolded, to which Steve chuckled in return. "Dustin Henderson. It is your small, curly-haired friend?" The man interrogated, walking back to face the Harrington boy. "Oh, curly-haired. Great hair. Small. Kind of like a 'fro. Yeah."

"Where is he?"

"He's long gone, you big asshole. And he's probably calling Hopper, and Hopper's calling the US cavalry. They're gonna come in here, commando-style, guns a-blazin', and kick your sorry asses back to Russia. You're gonna be two pieces of toast." Steve rambles, laughing along with his coworkers from their chairs. "Is that so?"

"Yeah." He chuckles, only making the two girls laugh harder. An alarm overhead blares once again, bringing silence to the room. "Told ya'" Allison laughed as a hint of worry spread across the Russian men's faces. The man in charge leaves quickly, leaving the Doctor behind with the teens; in minutes, the door flies open revealing Dustin, who's holding a shocking stick. He shoves it straight into the man's chest, sending him falling to the ground as Erica enters behind the Henderson boy.

"Hey! Henderson! That's crazy, I was just talking about you." Steve trailed off as Erica and Dustin worked at the restraints, removing them from the three. "Get ready to run."

Chapter Text

"Jesus, slow down!" Steve exclaims from the back of the transport vehicle, holding on for dear life as Dustin jerks it around. The five had bolted out of the room and into the small red vehicle as soon as they were freed, the three teens cramming in the back whilst the kids took up the wheel and passenger seat up front.

Though there was nothing funny at all about the situation, given the alarm were blaring and Russians would no doubt soon be on their tail, Allison, Robin, and Steve were on cloud 9. "Yeah, what is this, like, the Indy 500?" The Buckley girl slurs.

"It's the 300."

"No, dingus, it's 500!"

"It's 300!"

"Let's say a million." Allison chimes in, beginning to laugh. The other two join her, all laughing and hitting against the grate like drunks. "Totally a million." Robin cackles, slapping the knee of her friend. The laughter breaks as the vehicle halts, causing the three to slam back against the grate, grunting in pain. "You guys alright back there?" Dustin inquires over his shoulder, exchanging glances with the Sinclair girl. "They're fine." He states, hopping out of the drivers seat before opening the back. "Come on. We gotta go, now."

When the three don't move, the two kids become agitated, with Erica shouting; "Come on! Get out!"

"Let's go!" The curly haired boy yells before dragging Steve out, giving the two girls a warning to get out. "Coming out sir." Allison salutes, puffing her chest out as she scoots to the edge, earning a foreign chuckle from Steve that would send her into a laughing fit. Dustin had managed to get the elevator to work with a stolen keycard, quickly getting it to begin its ascent.

The brunette hadn't stopped with her laughing, even as Robin joined her, only amplifying when Steve would climb onto the wheeled cart. He was whooping giddily whilst swinging his arms around, trying to maintain his balance. "Hey! You look like you're surfing!" Robin says through laughter, holding on to the handle to keep the cart steady. "Surfing! Yeah! Surf with me Allie!" He exclaims, pulling the brunette onto the cart with him. It was nearly impossible to keep her balance as the elevator shook, causing the cart to move with it. The two were wobbling around like idiots, only attached at the hands for balance.

Erica and Dustin stared from the other side of the room, knowing something was definitely wrong with the strange teens. "We're naturals! Check it out!" Steve exclaimed, bending his knees and putting out his free hand whilst Allison mimicked him; Robin yanked the cart towards her, sending the two flying forward, tumbling into cardboard boxes. "Wipeout!" The Buckley girl laughed loudly, pointing her arms out straight as the two on the ground chuckled next to one another, remaining in their spots.

Dustin came to their side, crouching by Steve to put a hand on his forehead; "He's burning up."

"You're burning up."

"One sec, one sec. Steve, Steve." The boy attempted to widen his older friend's eye, trying to get a better look. "God, no. Owww!"

"His pupils are super dilated... hers too." He tells Erica, having glanced at the brunette who was already staring with wide owl-like eyes. "Maybe they're drugged?"

"Steve, are you drugged?"

"How many times, Dad? I don't do drugs. It's only marijuana."

"Yeah Dusty- it's only Mary-jah-wana." Allison laughs from beside the Harrington boy, receiving a burst of laughter from him in response. "This isn't funny, okay? I need to know what they did to you guys. Are you gonna die on us?" The Henderson boy tried to reason, only receiving a boop on his nose from Steve. "Boop!"

"We all die, my strange little child friend. It's just a matter of how... and when." Robin chimes in, keeping her voice ominous with wide eyes. After a moment of silence, Dustin turns his attention back to the two on the floor; "They're gonna be looking for us up there, so I need you to tell me where you parked your car."

"Oh, can we make a pit stop at the food court?"

"I would kill for a hot dog on a stick." Robin adds. "I can taste it right now-" The brunette gasps, running her tongue back and forth inside her mouth. "All right. Yeah, food. Yes, you can have as much food as you want, but only if you tell me where your car is parked."

"Uh-oh." Steve blurts, laying his hands on his chest close together as he speaks like a child. "Uh-oh?"

"The car's off the board."

"What?"

"They took the keys. The Russians, they took the keys. Like forever ago. That's a bummer, right?" Steve slurs, pulling his pockets inside out to prove himself whilst the two girls laugh like maniacs.

When the elevator reached the top, Dustin practically yanked the two up from the ground, hearing Robin to go with them. Stepping out into the fresh air was rejuvenating; after being stuck underground for what had felt like forever. "Oh my God, that tastes so good. Ah! Guys, can you taste the air?" Robin exclaimed, sticking her tongue out. The other two copied her, attempting to capture the flavor. "I do! It tastes amazing!" Allison excitedly spoke as she inhaled the air through her open mouth whilst Steve shouted with joy; "I taste it! I taste it!"

Though the three were laughing together, the gate ahead opened to reveal two guards shouting at the five, reaching for their guns. "Shit! Come on! Come on!" The kids screamed, yanking the older teens who didn't budge along with them. They ran down the white-lighted hallways, with the kids still holding on dearly to the teens as if they were on leashes. "Where are we going?!" Erica yelled to Dustin beside her, who only replied with; "Just trust me."

The brunette felt like she was hardly even present; bright colors and immense joy surrounded her, almost like a blindfold. Her attention was on the ceiling, watching as it moved along with her as they ran. Even as she was pulled into the movie theatre, and sat down in one of the seats between Robin and Steve, she couldn't help but smile from the warmth inside her. "Whatever you do... don't... go... anywhere." Dustin whispered after a shush from the man behind startled Allison out of her wistfulness. "Fine, Dad." Steve snickered, eating popcorn he'd pulled out of the trashcan when running in.

Robin laughed as Allison stared at the boy beside her, feeling as if she couldn't pull her eyes away. His face might've been swirling like crazy, but he was glowing through her eyes. He had been so focused on the movie, looking up at it in awe, to even notice the brunette ogling him from his right. Through the beaten face and blood-stained uniform, he looked like an angel, carefully, beautifully shaped and formed. She lifted a finger to his beaten face, lightly tracing his jawline. He turned to face her with an amused smile; "Your face looks funny." He grinned, reaching towards her with two extended fingers, dragging them down her cheek. "In a really good way- you're glowing." He continued, eyes widening wildly. "You are too!" She gasped in response, resting a hand on his shoulder as they laughed. "Rob- Robin- We're glowing." Steve whisper-yelled, drawing the Buckley girl's attention to them; "Water sounds so good right now."

"Oh my gosh- it does." Allison replied, oddly salivating over the thought of water. "We- we should totally get out of here and find some." Robin slurred, already standing and walking off before the others got the chance to respond. The pair hauled each other out of their seats, stumbling out of the theatre after her. Steve's arm was draped around Allison's waist as her arm laid across his shoulders, both laughing for no reason before they tripped when exiting the theatre, falling to the floor.

Robin continued forward, gulping down water from the water fountain adjacent to them. As the duo stood, Allison fell into the wall, only furthering their manic-like laughter. "Guys- this water is amazing." Robin hollered as the two made their way over, Steve taking Robin's place. He proceeded to obnoxiously slurp down water, pulling away with brief gasps for air. "That's amazing."

"So, like I wasn't totally focused in there or anything, but... I'm pretty sure... that mom was trying to bang her son." Robin rambled, staring off into the distance. "Wait, wait, the hot chick was Alex P. Keaton's mom?" Steve inquired, taking a break from his drinking, allowing Allison to get some. "That was Alex P. Keaton?" Allison chimed in, letting her jaw hang open before gulping down water. "Yeah- and I'm pretty sure."

"But they're the same age." Steve stated dumbfoundedly, returning to the fountain as Allison stepped away, walking a couple feet away. "No, but he went back in time."

"Then why is it called Back to the Future?"

"He has to go back to the future because he's in the past. So, the future is actually the present, which is his time."

"Wh... what?"

"No, no it's my turn. You've had enough." Robin whined, pulling Steve away from the water and shoving him away. Allison stood staring up at the glass ceiling, admiring the lights that hung above. Steve joined at her side, relishing in the shared awe. "Wow."

"They're glowing too." Allison pointed out, turning to face Steve with widened eyes. "They're- they're moving-" He slurred, letting his jaw hang open. "Hey Robin, you gotta check this out." He paused, waiting as Robin came to their sides, staring upwards. "Check this... this... the ceiling, it's beautiful."

"Oh, wow." Robin laughed, starting to turn in circles slowly, before starting to grunt, much like the other two. "Oh god-" Allison managed to get out before she was off running to the bathroom, bursting through the door as the pair behind her followed; all crashing to their knees in front of toilets, beginning to hurl.

-

It took a while for the trio to get the practical poison out of their systems, which had them holding onto the seats for dear life. They were silent for a while afterwards, trying to process whether they felt normal or not. Robin was the first to speak up, laying on the ground with her arms splayed, and legs up against the door. "The ceiling stopped spinning for me. Is it still spinning for you guys?"

The brunette looked to the ceiling, resting a hand on her sore stomach. "No, thankfully."

"Holy shit. No. You think we puked it all up?" Steve inquired from the farthest stall, one of his arms still resting across the toilet as he sat in the corner. "Maybe. Ask me something. Interrogate me." Robin suggested, ending with a Russian accent as Allison muttered a 'possibly.' "Okay. Interrogate you. Sure um... when was the last time you, uh, peed your pants?"

"Today." Robin blankly stated, sending a giggle out of Allison's mouth. "What?" Steve questioned in amusement, no doubt trying to look her way, though two stalls divided them. "When the Russian doctor took out the bone saw." She explained before Allison asked; "Really?"

"Oh, my God." Steve laughed alongside the two girls. "It was just a little bit, though."

"Yeah, it's definitely still in her system." He stated, voice sounding hoarse. "Well, she was the last to be drugged." Allison added, cackling with Robin. "What about you, Stevie. Last time you peed your pants was...?" The Buckley girl inquired, sitting herself against the wall. "Uh... I honestly can't remember. I nearly did when I woke up to a 13-year-old driving after getting my ass handed to me."

Allison laughed out loud, though that night had been full of angst and pain, and she had missed out on that experience due to staying behind with Billy, she remembered how Dustin rambled about it a week later, describing how Steve screamed like a little girl. "All right, Allison's turn- have you... ever been in love?" Robin inquired cautiously.

"Uhm... yeah. Twice." The Byers girl answered after a moment of silence, the laughter dissipating. "And are you still in love with either of them? Or one of them?"

"Yeah... I am."

"Which one?"

The brunette laughed, shaking her head within her stall though neither of her friends on both sides could see her. "Somehow both."

"Can I ask you something?" Steve's voice came small from her left, pausing until he received an 'mhm' from her. "What did you see in him? In Billy?"

"Everything you didn't." Allison responded, falling into a brief silence afterwards. "Everything kinda seemed to be rooting against him... and I guess... I guess I just wanted to be the thing that rooted for him. But I should've known that all it would end with was hurt. I was too attached knowing both of us had our minds elsewhere, in a sense. We were both damaged people trying to fix each other... but we couldn't. So we broke all over again." She explained quietly, leaning her head against the back wall. "What about you Robin?" She questioned, trying to break the saddened silence.

"I don't really think I could count it as love. I don't know what love specifically feels like, but what I had with Heather was... nice. I think the timing wasn't right, though. She was scared of her parents finding out, and that made her constantly paranoid, but I could tell she really liked me- I mean, I really liked her too... but it just didn't work. She cried so hard when she told me we needed to end things. Anyways... it... it was nice having someone who's heart understood yours."

"Yeah. It is." Allison agreed, looking towards Steve's stall. Both boys had seemed to understand her heart, as she understood theirs, and that feeling was a comfort larger than she had initially thought. "What about you, Steve? Have you ever been in love?" Robin questioned, knowing he had been in love with Allison to this day from their conversation down in the bunker; but she wanted the brunette to hear it. "Yep. Twice, too. Nancy Wheeler. First semester, senior year." He replied, making a gunshot noise. "Oh, my God. She's such a priss." Robin groaned as Allison went silent, knowing how that relationship started and ended all too well. "Even Heather agreed with that." The Buckley girl finished, rolling her eyes.

"Turns out, not really." Steve stated boredly. "Are you still in love with Nancy?" Robin egged him on whilst Allison looked to his feet below the stalls gap. "No."

"Why not?"

"Because she was never really the one that my heart belonged to. The girl I loved had always been right in front of me... and I was a dick. Dick is honestly an understatement. I've known that I've loved her since freshman year... but it took some serious, fucked up shit, to make me truly realize everything. Ever since Dustin got home, he's been saying, 'you know, you gotta find your Suzie. You gotta find your Suzie.'"

"Wait, who's Suzie?" Robin interrupted, confusion clear within her tone. "It's some girl from camp, I guess his girlfriend. To be honest, I'm not 100% sure she's even real. But that's not- that's not really the point. That doesn't matter. The point is, this girl, you know, the one I'm still in love with, it's someone that I hurt beyond heartbreak. And yeah, I've apologized already, but I still can't find a way to move on and disregard the immense guilt... or accept her forgiveness. But Dustin has always been right about this girl. He's always told me that she's the one, and that I was a real fucking idiot. I mean, this girl- she loves so fiercely. Her heart is bigger than the earth itself. She's always put others first, and has forgiven people who don't deserve her in the first place. But that love makes her brave- braver than anyone I've met. She's willing to do anything for the people she loves, even if that means she gets hurt in the process. She... she's unlike anyone I've met before... and I don't understand how she's the one who gets hurt in the end. Guys should be like... kissing the ground that she walks on." He paused with a small chuckle, quickly clearing his throat to continue. "And I find that every time I'm with her, I just fall harder and harder.

Right now, I love her. In two years, I am going to love her. Three months ago, I loved her. In four years, five days, and six minutes, I will love her. When I am eighty years old and sitting on my porch in a big white house on a lake, I will love her. I just hope she's there for all the time I will love her, sitting on that porch with me. Even if she's not, and off with someone else, I will still love her. But... it's her... because no one else makes sense." He finishes, voice cracking towards the end. Allison bit down on her lip at his words, feeling emotional in a very positive way. "Allison?" Steve's voice comes from her left, followed by two knocks on the stall. "Did you just OD in there Allie?" Robin chimed in with a smile.

"No." The brunette answered, sniffling back the snot that wanted to drip from her nose. After another moment of silence, Steve slides under the stall, entering hers. "The floors disgusting." She laughed, watching as he struggled to sit up. "Yeah, well, I already got a bunch of blood and puke on my shirt, so... um... the her I was talking about was-"

"Me. I know." She smiled, looking to the floor. "So... what are you thinking?" He inquired. "I'm thinking that I wish we hadn't just vomited so I could kiss you right now."

Robin let out an excited squeal from behind them, only furthering their smiles. "Even though it's incredibly disgusting, is it bad that I want to kiss you anyway?" He laughed as she nodded her head in return. "Definitely is." She replied, though both of them were already leaning toward each other, intertwining their lips together as Steve cradled her face, both trying to disregard the smell of vomit. It was brief, but so much emotion was transferred through it. "Wait- did you guys actually just kiss?" Robin gasped, scurrying up and around the stalls where she stood above them, before clasping her hands together. "That's really disgusting- but it was long overdue so that makes it cute." She chuckled before sitting next to Allison. "Very overdue." He joined in her laughter, removing his hand from the Byers girls' face. "It was worth it." Allison beamed; "I want to be next to you, on your porch."

"Our porch." He corrected, smiling like a fool. "You guys are such soulmates and it makes me sick." Robin humored with a laugh. "But since I held up my promise- which was way shorter than I expected, my job here is done."

"What promise?" Allison inquired, looking from Robin to the fluffy haired boy. "When we were in that bunker, I promised that if we made it out of there, I'd help you and dingus get together. He confessed his feelings and made me feel bad for him."

"That wasn't intentional-"

"Well, you did, but we made it out, and made it work." The Buckley girl grinned, resting her head against the stall. "Well now Steve and I are going to have to promise to help you find your soulmate, wherever she may be." Allison suggested, turning her head to face the brown haired girl. "As long as it's not tone-deaf Tammy, yes. I promise." Steve agreed, trying to hide his smile. "She's not tone-deaf!"

"She totally is! We've already gone over this, two against one. Have you heard her?" He rambled before starting to impersonate the Thompson girl; "You see me now tonight... you see me-"

"She does not sound like that."

"She sounds exactly- that's a great impersonation of her." He states, earning a nod in agreement from the brunette across from him. "It is." Allison adds.

"Well, you sound like a Muppet."

"She sounds like a Muppet- she sounds like a Muppet giving birth! And if you could hold me tight-" He begins to impersonate with a Kermit like voice, now having the two girls joining in with laughter: "We'll be holding on forever-"

"Exactly!" Steve exclaims with a wide grin, only causing Robin to cackle. "I know!" She finally agreed, now having all three laugh in harmony. The bathroom door bursts open as Dustin and Erica storm in; "Okay. What the hell?" Dustin impatiently questions, but the trio continue to laugh, feeling nothing but pure joy. "We need to go... seriously.... get up!"

"Alright, alright." The three exclaim, still chuckling as they come to a stance, peering their heads out the crack of the door, watching as the mall is once again flooded with previous movie watchers. "Don't look suspicious, keep your head low.... okay and.... blend." Dustin instructed, being the first to walk out as the others filed out after him.

"Well, shit, that worked." Erica states as they fit into the middle of the crowd. "Course it worked. Now we just have to get on the bus with the rest of these plebes, and home sweet home, here we come."

"Uh, Dustin?" Steve spoke up from beside the brunette, looking down to his short friend. "What?"

"Yeah, we might not wanna go to your house."

"Why?"

"Well, I might've told them your full name."

"What is wrong with you?"

"Dude, I was drugged."

"So?"

"So?"

"So, you resist. You tough it out. You tough it out like a man."

"Oh, yeah, it's easy for you to say." Steve impatiently stated, getting aggravated with the Henderson boy. "Uh... guys?" Robin's voice stopped their bickering, bringing their attention ahead. Men dressed in all black with Russian accents were standing by the exits ahead, blocking the way out. "Abort." Dustin quietly instructed before one of the men looked their way. "Abort- abort!"

They were off running the opposite way through the crowd, making their way to the escalator. "Shit!" Steve exclaimed as they approached, observing the men coming up close behind. "Come on let's go, let's go!" He ushered as Robin slid down the middle of the two escalators, everyone following suit, before jumping over Great Cookie's counter, where they crouched behind. The mall grew silent once it cleared as the men descended to the lower level, walking around to find the teenagers. The brunette couldn't mistake the sound of approaching footsteps, followed by words in Russian being spoken to a walkie-talkie.

The five's breaths were heavy, though they tried their best to conceal it. More approaching footsteps echoed, as if in unison. Allison's heart was pounding within her chest, and was sure the men could hear it, as she did in her ears. Her eyes shut tightly as Steve's hand grabbed hers, causing her to slightly jump, before turning to face him. Their eyes locked on to one another as her bottom lip trembled, scared of the oncoming armed figures. He opened his mouth to say something, but before he could, a car alarm began to blare, echoing throughout the mall, much like the five's gasps as they jolted.

Her eyebrows furrowed as Steve's eyes were wide, his shoulders shrugging whilst he shook his head. The ground shook as the sound of a loud whoosh, clattering chairs and groaning men echoed, followed by a loud crash of the blaring car and broken glass, leaving only a spinning metal wheel and silence. The five slowly stood, holding on to the counter to bring them upwards to observe the scene ahead. Four men laid presumably dead or unconscious on the ground, blood spilling from under their limp bodies. Their eyes landed on the crashed car, and the protruding smoke coming from it before they looked to the upper floor, finding Eleven already looking down at them. The rest of the teens and kids ran to her side, looking to the group below.

Immediate relief and gratitude washed over Allison upon seeing her brothers safe, along with the rest. The group above began to run over to the escalator to descend as the brunette and her group hopped over the counter, making their way over to meet them. She extended her hand to Steve, who quickly grasped it in return. Dustin laughed from ahead as he sprinted forward; "You flung that thing like a Hot Wheel!"

As Dustin embraced Mike and Eleven, Will and Jonathan ran to their sister as she and Steve came to a halt, breaking their intertwined hands. Her arms flung around her brothers, clutching the back of their heads with a large smile. "We were worried sick about you- what happened to you? Are you okay?" Jonathan frantically stammered, lightly touching his sisters chin to examine her split lip. "I'm okay. I'm okay now."

"Lucas?" Erica's voice came from behind the Byers kids. "What are you doing here?" The approaching Sinclair boy interrogated. "Ask them. It's their fault." She replied, pointing to the Scoops employees and Dustin. "True, yeah. Totally true. It's absolutely our fault." Steve spoke apologetically before Robin spoke up; "I don't understand what happened to that car."

"El has superpowers." Dustin answered, pointing his thumb towards the injured girl whilst Nancy and Allison hugged. "I'm glad you're okay." The Wheeler girl spoke quietly. "You too." The brunette smiled. "I'm sorry?"

"Superpowers. She threw it with her mind. C'mon catch up." Steve impatiently informed as the brunette hugged Max, then Eleven. "That's El?" Erica inquired with surprise in her tone. "Who's El?"

"I'm sorry, who are you?" Nancy interrogated Robin; "I'm Robin. I work with Steve and Allison."

"She cracked the top-secret code." Dustin stepped forward, causing the Buckley girl to smile. "Yeah, which is how we found out about the Russians in the first place." The Harrington boy quickly explained. "Russians? Wait, what Russians?" Jonathan questioned, heavily confused as Allison joined at his side. "The Russians!"

"Those were Russians?" Max chimed in, looking as if she was in disbelief. "Some of them." Erica spoke as if it wasn't big news. "What are you talking about?" Her brother inquired, squinting his eyes as he held out his hands. "Didn't you hear our code red?" The Henderson boy asked. "Yeah. Couldn't understand half of what you were saying." Mike frantically replied as Dustin shook his head. "Goddamn low battery."

"How many times do I have to tell you with the low battery?"

"Well, everything worked out, didn't it Steve?"

"Worked out? We almost died." Erica exclaimed from beside the curly haired boy. "Yeah, but we didn't did we?"

"It was pretty damn close." Steve sighed as he looked to the brunette, shaking his head. "Okay... Russians... as in, they're working for the Russian government?" Lucas inquired, moving his hands around as he spoke. "What are you not comprehending? Am I not speaking English? We have a full-blown Red Dawn situation." Dustin rambled, frustration clear in his tone. "So this has nothing to do with the gate?" Max asked the Henderson boy, her eyebrows threading together. "It has everything to do with the gate-"

The sound of Eleven grunting and slumping to the ground stopped the chorus of rambling as everyone ran to the Hopper girls' side. "What's wrong with her?" Erica questioned as Mike crouched next to his girlfriend, asking her what's wrong. "My leg. My leg."

"Her leg, her leg. Okay." Jonathan stammered, carefully pulling Eleven's pant leg up whilst Nancy peeled away a blood-soaked bandage, revealing a grotesque wound that sent gasps and exclaims of disgust from the group. Allison covered her mouth, and watched in horror as something began to move underneath Eleven's flesh, sending grunts and screams of pain from the girls' mouth.

Chapter Text

The air was filled with Eleven's wails as the creature beneath her skin attempted to move, making the hovering teens above wince. Jonathan had taken the initiative to run off and find a knife, followed by heating it on a stove top. The anxiousness was heightened throughout the space, all unknowing of what to do in this situation. "You know, it's not actually that bad. There was a... The goalie on my soccer team, Beth Wildfire, this other girl slid into her leg, and the whole bone came out of her knee- six inches or something, it was insane." Robin rambled as she shifted her weight back and forth between her feet.

"Robin." Both Allison and Steve spoke, their tones coming out like a warning. "Yeah?"

"You're not helping." Steve answered seriously. "I'm sorry." She apologized, continuing to move back and forth as Jonathan returned, kneeling in front of the girls' legs. "Okay, all right El- This is gonna hurt like hell, okay?"

"Okay." She cried out in response; Mike and Dustin holding her at her sides. "I need you to stay real still. Here, you're gonna want to bite down on this, okay?" Jonathan instructed, passing a wooden spoon off to Mike as Dustin muttered a 'jesus christ.' Allison kept her hand close to her mouth as she watched her brother hover a knife close to Eleven's wound, knowing he was scared too. He took a moment to look around at the group, wobbling slightly as his hand shook, unsure if this was going to turn out well. "Do it." Mike instructed as Eleven bit down on the utensil, bracing herself for the oncoming impact. "Okay."

The knife slowly inched closer to her skin before it met contact, slicing slow and hard, sending wails of agony out of Eleven's occupied mouth. Blood began to pool out of the indentation, sliding down the sides of her legs and on to the white tiled floors. The brunette found herself frozen, unable to look away. The others had been the same, all wincing at the sight. The knife clattered to the ground as Jonathan replaced it with his fingers, diving inside the wound. Only then could Allison find herself looking away, clutching onto Steve's arm, as the others exclaimed. Eleven's cries echoed throughout the mall, making the others sympathize and hurt with her. It was unbearable to watch as Jonathan continued to dig for the creature, moving his fingers around harshly as Nancy yelled his name, only inducing more stress.

"No! Stop it! Stop!" Eleven wailed, unable to bear the pain any longer. When the eldest Byers boy hadn't adhered, Nancy placed a hand on his shoulder, pushing him back with a 'Stop!' When he snapped out of it and pulled his attention to the injured girl, she threw the spoon to the side, attempting to sit up. "I can do it... I can do it." She cried as the two boys beside her helped her to sit up, leaving them in silence. She outstretched a hand towards her leg, beginning to use her abilities to weed the creature out. It squirmed beneath her bloodied flesh, sending amplified wails out of her mouth. She began to scream continuously as it slid farther upwards by her force, giving it all the energy she had to pull it out. When the grotesque figure became visible at the entrance of her wound, the large window's glass shattered behind them, shards flying their way.

Steve took no time to shield the brunette as they yelped, Eleven's screams continuing. The humanoid specimen screeched as it levitated in the air, face to face with the screaming girl. The lights flickered as she sent it flying across the mall, meeting its final demise by the foot of Jim Hopper ahead, with Joyce and Murray at his side.

Joyce and Hopper wasted no time to rush over after a moment of silence. Allison had left Steve's side, rushing to her mother much like her younger brothers. The two women shared a hug first, being joined by the boys. After the chaos beneath the mall, and being unsure if she was going to see her family again, Allison was beyond grateful to know that she was wrong. Having her family right by her side felt right; safe. Joyce cupped her cheeks, examining her daughters split lip just as Jonathan had. "What happened?"

"It's a really, really long story. More than I think we currently have time for, considering how serious this all is." The brunette explained to her family members, holding onto her mother's hand. "We couldn't find you anywhere, and nobody knew where you, Steve and Dustin were- where were you guys the entire time?" Jonathan questioned, eyebrows furrowing. "Being interrogated by Russians in a bunker beneath this mall." She answered, only receiving confused expressions from her family. "Like I said, long story, not enough time... what did I miss?"

Jonathan and Will's faces grew very solemn as they exchanged glances, Nancy joining at their sides. The rest of the group quieted, having heard the Byers girls' question. Allison could feel her heart beating within her chest as she observed their saddened faces, Max among them. "Guys... what?" She inquired, letting out a nervous laugh. They continued to look around at each other as if waiting for someone to speak up and take the initiative. The brunette grew distressed and impatient as all their eyes burned into her silently, looking as if they were saying 'i'm sorry.'

When she opened her mouth to speak again, Nancy's voice came. "You... you might want to sit down." She gently spoke, fidgeting with her hands as she looked over to Jonathan, who gave her a nod. With a confused expression, the brunette silently sat, glancing at her peers and Steve.

"Billy is flayed." Mike spoke up, pulling his lips into a thin line. "Flayed?" The hazel-eyed girl questioned, unsure of the term. "Remember how last year something took over Will in the hospital- making him a host- or conduit?"

Allison let the words mettle within her, trying to understand the situation. "So... you're saying..."

"He's the new host." Jonathan's voice came out sympathetic and soft, looking to his sister with worried eyes. "Oh." Allison's small voice uttered as she looked to the ground, trying to understand. "That's not all, though." Lucas chimed in, bringing Allison's attention to him with a slightly raised eyebrow. "He's not the only one... several people have been flayed."

"Do we know who else?" Steve inquired, standing from beside Allison with a worried expression. Jonathan and Nancy looked to one another again before he took a step forward, kneeling before his sister. He almost looked like he was about to cry, making his sister's anxiety only increase. She knew that if he was showing his emotions, it was serious. He knew he was about to shatter her heart, and knowing he had to bear the news only made it harder.

"Yeah... we do." He answered, looking from Steve above to Allison in front of him. "I need you to listen to me, Al'." He paused, taking her hand in his. "Billy is the main host. But he had others flayed too... and these people... they combined into something... bigger. Nancy and I saw it with our own eyes... they turned into this- this creature. They're not people anymore. They're just... gone." His voice cracked as she could hear her heartbeat inside her ears. "Who's just gone?" She quietly asked, eyebrows threading together. Her brother looked to the ground for a second before meeting her eyes again. "Heather."

Silence filled the air as the brunette tried to process the name she wanted to hear least come from her brother's mouth. Tears began to prick at her eyes as her bottom lip trembled, head slowly shaking. "Wh-what?" She stammered, though she knew what she heard, she didn't in any universe want to believe it. "When? Are- how can you be sure?"

"I saw her." Eleven spoke up, being held by Hopper on the bench. "Tom was one of the flayed. He turned into the mush... and we can only assume that Heather was too. Max and El were at her house, and Billy was there with Heather and her family... he said she was sick, but we're sure she was flayed... and Tom wasn't the same the next day. We don't know if she's a host or a part of the creature... but she's one of them." Nancy informed from behind Jonathan, where she held his shoulder. When the brunette tried to think of a way to deny it, she glanced at Eleven, who had held sadness in her own eyes. That's when she knew, when she understood. She knew they didn't need proof, and that in the end, it had made sense. "That's why she didn't come..." Her voice came out small as her chest began to feel tighter as breathing became more difficult. She recalled the phone call she had with Janet, and how she was told Billy was nursing Heather back to health; how her gut told her she was wrong about doubting Heather's intentions, which now made her feel immense guilt and frustration at herself. She glanced to Robin, who wore a confused but sorrowful expression, not fully understanding what was being said.

"She's gone, Allie. I'm so sorry." Jonathan uttered, voice cracking as he watched his sister's face break. Allison didn't know how to process it- it just felt like she was in shock, almost feeling as if she could vomit again. "But- we got Will back- why is this different?" She questioned, looking around to all of them. "This is something bigger than we know about... it has full control over Billy... and the others."

"It almost had complete control over Will- but- but you guys saved him. We can save Heather and Billy too... can't we?" When no one responded, she just looked to the ground in silence, holding back her own breathing. "We have to." She muttered as her voice cracked; the silence became overwhelming, along with everyone's eyes on her. Joyce moved towards her as she stood quickly; "I think... I think I need a minute." She whispered, walking off to the bathroom, and they all let her.

Pushing through the doors, a sob almost climbed up and out of her throat, but she held it down, clutching the counter. Sharp breaths were inhaled and exhaled as she looked down to the sink, trying to let the cold water distract her mind. But it didn't work. She glanced up at herself in the mirror as her face trembled, knowing if she continued to stare, she would break. Instead, she walked over to the vibrant tiled wall, slumping down against it in silence.

While the others discussed the current matter, and Murray rejoined the group, Allison still couldn't find herself being able to rationalize everything she was told. She tried to understand why Heather- even Billy, had been the ones to fall victim. Neither knew about the secret world next to Hawkins... and she couldn't help but feel guilty for not telling them; warning them, rather. There had been so many opportunities, yet she shut them all down, thinking it was better they didn't know. It had felt like Will disappearing all over again. The feeling of not understanding why he had been the one to be taken had returned, but now, this was her best friend and a man she loved.

The bathroom door pushed open, revealing Steve and Robin. They both looked to the brunette on the ground with worried expressions as they inched over to her. The Harrington boy crouched down in front of her, pulling his lips into a thin line before speaking. "Are you okay?" His voice came small, knowing she wasn't. She shook her head silently in response, still in shock. He sat himself against the wall beside her, pulling her into him. A tear fell from her waterline as he whispered 'I'm so sorry' into her ear, before placing his head atop hers. Robin crouched down next, pulling her knees into her chest after sitting herself on the other side of brunette. She looked just as in shock as Allison had, having been a new member, only now learning about the oddities that lived alongside them. "We have to go as soon as possible to Dustin's radio tower to communicate with Hopper when he goes to the bunker... you can come with us, or stay with your family." He gently said, holding her hand tenderly. "We figured you wanted to be with your family after all of this, but we wanted to come in and not only ask you, but make sure you were okay... stupid, I know." Robin muttered, looking to her side.

"Yeah... I uh... I think I'm going to stay here, with them. I'm sorry."

"Don't apologize, Allie. You need your family, and they need you. We understand that." Steve reassured, using his finger to lift the brunette's chin. She nodded in return before he came to a stance, offering a hand to help her up. She took it, using her other hand to push against the wall as Robin stood up beside her. Allison turned, embracing the short haired girl tightly. Robin hesitated for a moment before she took the hug, and Steve took his cue to step out of the room. The two girls held each other in silence for a prolonged minute, both trying their best to keep it together. "I'm sorry." Robin sympathized, knowing the Byers girl had a long history with Heather, feeling for her deeply. "Me too." Allison whispered, holding her hands tighter around her friend. With a sniffle and blinked back tears, she broke away from the hug; the pair exited the bathroom together, meeting back up with the newly split groups.

After being informed of the new plans and where she would be headed, she decided she'd take her own car to Murray's place, and began to say goodbyes to the Scoops Troop. "We'll see you soon." Steve stated as he nodded to both of the girls, as had Dustin beside him. Allison returned the nod, biting down on her lip as she pulled Steve into another hug. "Please be safe." She muttered as his hands wrapped around her waist, holding her tight, making sure she felt that he was there for her. "We will. You too." He replied, taking a moment before withdrawing. Hopper tossed the keys to Steve, sending her fellow scoops troopers off. Robin and Steve both glanced back at the Byers girl once they reached the top of the escalators, offering small smiles before exiting the building.

Joyce's hand gently rested on the small of her daughter's back as she stood by her side, causing the hazel-eyed girl to face her mother, still wearing her downhearted expression. The older Byers woman couldn't help but pull her daughter into her embrace with a frown, rubbing her back motherly. Allison just rested her head on Joyce's shoulder, shutting her eyes tightly. "We'll do what we can." Her mother attempted to reassure as she held the back of her daughter's head. "Wait- where are you going?"

"Down, with Hopper. Hopefully find the bastard who did that to your lip and Steve's face while we're at it." Joyce answered. "I'm sorry I haven't been around as much as I'd hoped to be, sweetheart."

"Mom- you've been here for me always."

"I mean in this past week. I had no idea that you were beneath this mall- or even where you were in the first place. I couldn't protect you-"

"It's okay, mom, really. I had Steve... plus I can hold my own. I shot one of them in the shoulder before they knocked me out."

"That's my girl." Joyce laughed, holding her daughter's face in her hands before pulling her into a final hug, moving off to Will next. The brunette paced over to Lucas, Mike, and Max, observing the man she now knew as Murray talking to Jonathan and Nancy as he passed off his keys, whilst Hopper and El talked silently together. "My keys are still in the back of Scoops." Allison announced to the three teens, sighing at the locked gate, knowing she'd have to get in through the back door access. "I'll meet you guys at Murray's." She finished, receiving nods from the three.

With that, she began to ascend the escalators, exiting the mall. The air was quiet and cold for July, but it felt refreshing on her skin, and in her lungs, taking it in for the first time since before being trapped down in the bunker. Nancy's station wagon sat waiting for the rest of the group, the bright blue lights from above illuminating it. The atmosphere was eerily quiet as she entered the back hallways of the mall, the dim yellow lights only amplifying her paranoia. As she progressed farther back, the faint sound of a roaring engine came, stopping her in her tracks. Even from a distance, she knew that sound all too well. She was stuck between continuing to her store, or walking back outside to see what the commotion, and faint yelling was.

Feeling that it was sensible to grab her keys, she began to run to Scoops, still being far in the back of the mall. As she made it to the backroom, she busted through the door, searching for her bag in the lockers. Thankfully, it had been right where she had left it; but all she cared about was getting her keys, and getting the hell out of here. Without being able to hear anything from outside anymore, she was unaware that the Griswald family were seconds from running back into the mall as she would leave it.

She picked up her speed as she clutched the cold metal in her hands, pushing back out the door and into the back hallway. It took around five minutes of fast walking to reach the exit, but as she pushed against the door, it didn't budge, nor could she hear anything outside. Even as she pushed all her weight against the door, it wouldn't move, having most likely been blocked on the outside. Frustration and anxiousness built up within the brunette as she kicked against the door, pushing as hard as she could against it to get out. It was the only exit nearby, seeing as the gates to the stores were all locked. The only other option was the elevator, being all the way back by scoops.

Allison grunted as she gave one last push, exhaling in frustration after she didn't succeed. She knew it wouldn't budge, so she turned on her heels, beginning to turn the corner to head back the way she had just come from. As she turned, clutching her car keys in her hand, the sound of a metal clank, followed by the sound of an opening door emitted. The brunette halted, not sure if one of her friends had come to follow after her conveniently. Something twisted within her gut, but she beckoned herself forward, walking quickly around the corner. She came to a halting stop as her heart dropped, eyes landing on Billy leaning against the wall, his name slipping from her lips unconsciously. His eyes were dark and unfamiliar, seemingly glaring straight into her soul. "I'm glad I finally get to see you with my own eyes." He spoke in a low, intimidating tone, pushing off of the wall. She felt frozen in shock as the imposter within the golden maned boy pressed him to step forward. "They're not your eyes." Allison muttered, finding herself taking a step back. "They are now." He verbalized, bringing his hands into a hold by his belt.

The brunette didn't reply though her lip trembled, only finding herself looking around for an escape. "Why does he try and fight me now that you're before me?" He cocks his head to the side, wearing an eerie grin. The brunette's face contorts as she tries to stay strong, not letting her fear consume her. "Billy... if you can hear me, keep fighting-"

"Stupid girl. He doesn't stand a chance. Just as he didn't when I took control." He interrupted, continuing to wear that smile. "You were the first thing I saw in his mind, then in Heathers. What makes you so special?"

"I don't know." She answered wearily, shaking her head slightly. He took a step forward as his malicious grin grew sideways, eyes darkening. "You've escaped us before. But you will join Heather in death this time, and so will he." The unfamiliar voice warned as his eyes voided, smile slowly dropping. The brunette stared back at the figure as her heart throbbed in pain. "Heather-"

"She's one with us, now." He uttered, followed by the echo of shattering glass and a loud, booming crash. She faintly heard screams and an ungodly roar, shaking the walls of Starcourt. She whipped her head towards Scoops direction, knowing her friends and family hadn't made it out. Her attention found itself back towards the flayed boy, who began to run at her. She turned swiftly as adrenaline raced through her body, allowing her to fly down the hallways and narrow corners. Her heart was racing as she heard his heavy breathing inches behind her, coming closer with each step. As she turned one of the last corners, she threw a wooden pallet down behind her, knocking it straight into his approaching figure, sending him to the ground. She knew he'd just get back up, so she wasted no time to race down the final hallway, not even bothering with the elevator as she knew he'd come quicker than it would. Instead, she used her full force to push Scoops back door open, making her way to the gate at the front of the store. With a shove of the swinging door, she halted at the exit, beholding flickering lights and a large, grotesque monster, which she only assumed to be the Flayer her friends had spoken about. Her heart was in her throat as she battled her odds, looking over her shoulder to the empty backroom. She returned her gaze ahead, clutching her fingers around the cold metal to push it up, only for it to not budge. "No." She muttered, shaking it forcefully with tugs.

She dropped to her knees, grabbing the lock at the bottom, yanking it as hard as she could. "Please-" She whispered, placing her foot against the gate to give her leverage before proceeding to pull with full force, breathing heavily with adrenaline. "Fuck!" She exclaimed quietly, getting back to her feet to tug again as tears filled her eyes. Snarls came from the monster as one of its many tentacles outstretched towards the GAP. The Byers girl turned to look for some sort of object to lodge between the lock's space, only to have a hand wrap around her throat. Her eyes widened as she beheld Billy up close, his lip curled, and eyebrows furrowed. He lifted her with no effort, slamming her against the gate, sending rattles throughout the mall.

The black veined boy turned, throwing Allison across the room weightlessly. Her head smashed onto the ground as she landed, instantly having a searing pain reverberate from impact. Though she tried to crawl away, his hand grabbed her by her hair, dragging her towards the backroom. With a hand around her neck, he lifted her to meet his eyes that had tears streaming down his darkened face. A small glimpse of the Billy she knew was in there, but she had no time to speak as he turned her around, moving his hand from her throat to her hair, shoving it down into the undrained sink. Her hands braced the sides of the cold metal surface, trying to push herself back up to the surface, but his force was unmatchable. He held her head under, using the weight of his body to keep her still. Her elbows threw themselves back into his abdomen as she squirmed with all the energy she could muster, feeling the liquid suck into her nose. He pulled her head up once as she gasped for air, pausing as the real him underneath fought to stop what he was doing with a small sob, before losing that small bit of control, shoving her right back under. She continued to thrash against him as water infiltrated her lungs, making it impossible to breath.

Realization set inside the brunette that she might not make it this time, standing no chance against him. She was choking on the water she inhaled, panicking below the surface as she tried to scream, only to have no sound come from above. Her chest felt as if it were on fire as her ears rung, feeling the willpower slowly leave her body. One final instinct kicked in, and she let herself become limp; her fingers un-fisting and head bobbing in the water. After a few seconds, her head was pulled out of the water as the flayed boy examined her state, before removing his grip from her throbbing head, letting her slump to the floor, hitting down hard. Retreating footsteps echoed, followed by the swinging of the backdoor. Only then could she let herself breath out, having liquid pour out of her nose, coughing the slightest bit of water out. Tears mixed with the water that dripped down her face, having no energy to move. Her body ached with fiery pain, and the feeling of her lungs almost collapsing haunted her. She wanted nothing more than to succumb to slumber, but she knew if she did, she wouldn't wake this time. Not too long after, she heard the monster exit the building, leaving a deafening silence. It was just her on her own, and for all she knew, she might die there, alone. She just prayed that she'd be the only one to go tonight.

-

The booming of fireworks and loud snarls filled the air, jolting the brunette back to her senses. She could hear her name being faintly called, followed by the feeling of smaller hands on her arm, shaking her wearily. The same hands turned her to her side, wrapping around her waist to shove into her chest, sending water out of her mouth as she coughed and choked on it. She gasped as she quickly turned, her back hitting into the sink. Before her sat a bruised Max and Mike, both cautiously looking at her with wide eyes. The brunette wore a frightened expression as her chest rose and fell fast, her eyes darting around the room. She heard the cracks and whistles of the fireworks beyond, followed by faint pained shouting. Max helped her stand before the three pushed past the swinging door, racing to the front of Scoops.

Allison winced at her aching body as she noticed the absence of the gate that she had been trapped in by earlier, and Billy standing beyond, before the large, roaring figure. Eleven lay on the ground, trying to crawl backwards slowly as the screeching figure focused wholly on her. There was no way in hell the brunette was going to watch what was about to happen, though she remained standing behind the two younger teens, both frozen in fear. "Billy!" She shouted, his head turning slightly her way. As their eyes met, she saw nothing but guilt and remorse within his saddened eyes. But what stood out the most was that they were his; no longer darkened by whatever had a hold on him. A clawed tentacle protruded from the Flayer's mouth, launching towards Eleven's downed figure in one last attempt to kill her for good, but Billy turned, hands latching onto the tentacle, halting its movement. He shouted as he pushed against it, only to have more emerge from the Flayer, digging its claws into Billy's sides upon latching.

The brunette let out a choked sob as he fought hard enough to leave Eleven time to crawl away. Allison couldn't stand helplessly any longer, so she picked up on her feet past the two younger teens, Mike desperately trying to hold her back as Max stood in utter shock. The brunette sprinted forward anyway, forgetting the fatigue in her swaying legs as she shouted for Eleven, hoping to help the girl escape, or to help Billy somehow, but one of the host's tentacles threw itself towards her, swiping her away in one quick motion. She slid across the floor, having the breath knocked out of her. Her head turned on the floor, watching as Billy fell to his knees, screaming in agonizing pain from the monsters' teeth digging into his soft flesh. His shouts sent echoes of anguish throughout her soul as she knew she couldn't do anything to help this time. Sobs spilled from her throat as she tried to pull herself across the floor, only to discover she was too winded.

Billy's hands spread out to his sides as he screamed up at the creature; One final claw launched from the Flayer's mouth, straight into his chest. Allison's blood ran cold as the color drained from her skin, hearing Max call out his name whilst the creature withdrew all tentacles from him in one harsh movement, sending him crashing to the floor. Though the creature began to thrash around and squeal, Allison's gaze remained solely on Billy's limp figure. One final blood-curdling screech emitted from the Flayer before it crashed to the ground, leaving nothing but flickering lights and simmering silence. Her energy was minimal, but she used the remainder to crawl towards the Hargrove boys' body, finding his chest still rising. His eyes moved to hers as she looked over him, her bottom lip trembling as tears brimmed her eyes. His hand reached for her dripping hair, reaching up to touch her head gently. His own lip trembled as he realized what he had done, more tears falling down the sides of his face. "You're- you're okay. It's okay." Allison tried to reassure with nods, even as her face pinched together, hands resting on his torn chest that pooled with black blood in attempt to keep pressure; but there was too much blood, coming from all over his body. She knew this, but still denied it, holding her hands on his ripped flesh.

"Allison-" He choked, blood spurting from his nearly flooded mouth. "I'm here- I'm here Billy."

"You can't f-fix me this ti-time."

"No- no I can. I can. Helps coming." She cried, though he only shook his head. "You're okay." She whimpered, letting out a choked sob that she had desperately been holding in since hearing the news of his and Heathers flaying hours prior. "You're going to be okay. Just- just stay with me- Please stay with me... I can't lose you too-" Her voice broke as tears poured like waterfalls, cascading down her flushed cheeks. "I should've told you about all of this-"

"Don't blame y-yourself-" He breathed, shaking his head slowly. "I should've told you-" Allison cried, shaking her own head. His hand reached to cup her cheek as Max came to his side, crouching down. "Billy-"

"I'm sorry." He choked as he looked from his stepsister to the brunette, exhaling sharply. "It- it wasn't you-" Allison sobbed, grabbing his hand that held her cheek whilst Max sat with frightened wide eyes. His eyes softened as he looked into the Byers' girls, his lips trembling as they pulled into a thin line. "It was always you, D-Darlin'." He cried with a pained smile, eyes slowly fluttering shut. "I love you." He exhaled, sending a heartbroken sob from Allison's trembling lips as he shifted his hand to hook his pinky with hers. Her eyes shut tightly as she cried, clutching his pinky tightly. "I love you too." She whispered, feeling his hand slowly fall from her face, down to the floor. Their pinkies remained hooked by her hold, but as her eyes beheld his lifeless open ones, she cried out in distress, much like Max who was being held by Eleven off to the side.

"I'm sorry-" Allison sobbed as she rested her head on Billy's lifeless body. "I'm so sorry."

Arms tried to pry her away from Hargrove's limp body, but she held onto him firmly, crying harder than she'd cried in her life. The moment kept playing over and over, from the echoing screams up to his body crashing to the floor. "Allison-" Jonathan's broken voice came from behind her as he tried to pull her away. "No! No-"

"Please Allison-" Jonathan started as she wept, hearing sirens wail from beyond, along with unfamiliar voices. "It's okay-"

"It's not okay! It's not fucking okay!" She cried out, still fighting against her brother's gentle tugs. She felt another pair of hands wrap around her waist, knowing they were Steve's by memory. She didn't want to let go, but as officials neared and instructed the boys to get her off of the dead boy's body, she slowly let go, hesitating to unclutch her pinky. Once she did, she watched his hand drop, sending a broken cry from her lips. Steve kneeled on the ground, holding her half-laid figure as she watched the now lifeless body of Billy Hargrove be hoisted from the ground onto a gurney. The men in uniform threw a tarp like sheet over him, before wheeling him out. Her hazel eyes watched him go as she wept till her heart ached.

Steve held his face against her head as his hands remained wrapped around her waist; "I'm so sorry." He kept whispering into her ear, having tears brim in his own eyes knowing she lost not one, but two important people that she had loved beyond words tonight. He couldn't begin to fathom the amount of anguish she felt, so he just held her, letting her let it out.

He helped her to stand as the army ushered them out of the burning mall, holding her close as Jonathan held her from the other side, with Robin and Will at their toes. "You're bleeding-" Steve brought to notice after removing his hand from her head, observing the dark crimson on his fingers. Billy's blood had been all over her, mixing with her own; she hadn't felt it, but the impact upon being thrown to the ground had ruptured her stitches.

As a medic stitched it back up by one of the ambulances, she found herself staring off into the distance, feeling nothing. "She's in shock." The medic told her brothers and Steve as she finished off. "It's to be expected after something like this." She informed, nodding to the four before departing to help the others. They nodded back as Steve wrapped his blanket around her; she silently leaned against him, feeling as if she wasn't able to process the situation. It was so fast that it felt like a dream. The only thing that reminded her that it wasn't was her throbbing head and stinging eyes, along with the black liquid that coated her clothes and hands. Though the surroundings were filled with helicopters and commotion, the world went quiet. Silence was all the brunette could hear, as only sorrow ran through her veins. She was utterly unsure of what was worse-

The shock of what happened, or the ache for what never will.

Chapter Text

In the utter silence of her childhood bedroom, Allison sat on the floor against the edge of her pastel quilted bed; her legs tucked into her aching chest. The room was only lit with the external moonlight through her open window as fireworks continued to pop in the distance. The only thing she could focus on was the ringing in her ears and the constant stinging of her eyes.

Her breathing was heavy as the image of Billy's final moments burned inside her brain. She wanted to think of anything but the events that occurred tonight, but they all kept creeping in her focus and ripping her from the inside out ruthlessly. As if him being gone wasn't enough, Heather and her parents were too, along with Hopper. Though the group had ultimately won in the end, having closed the gate again, it felt like the loss weighed heavier than the victory. Several innocent people were collateral damage to the mind flayer, plaguing Hawkins with a series of mysterious deaths yet again.

Steve had been standing on the other side of her door for the past two hours, having come home with the Byers along with Eleven after they departed from the burning mall. Though he hadn't lost someone, watching the events that conspired, unable to prevent all the pain and suffering was almost as traumatizing. The silence within the house was devastating. Everyone was trying to process, but it was unlikely that it would happen anytime soon.

Allison knew grief, and this was something beyond it. She knew the way she felt now wouldn't leave her within a couple months or years, but that it would forever plague her in inexplicable ways, leaving her restless. Her shaking fingers grazed her bruised throat as she tried to keep the trembling sobs down, though they thrashed against her throat and chest, wanting nothing more than to break free. Her body ached inside and out, being a constant, throbbing reminder of what she had just gone through. She was aware that she couldn't keep herself locked in her room forever, so she slowly pulled herself to the ground. Her fingers hovered above the doorknob after she had quietly crossed the room, listening to the sniffles from the other side. The door was open in an instant as her eyes landed on a teary-eyed Steve.

His eyes softened upon seeing her as he stood taller, trying to blink back his glossy eyes. He opened his arms partially; he wasn't sure if she wanted comfort at this moment or not, but he offered it anyway knowing deep down, he wished for it himself. She was in his arms within seconds as her shoulders shook and tears streamed down her face, wishing she could just cry away the pain she was feeling inside. His arms tightened around her as if he knew how she was feeling; one of his own tears fell onto her wetted cheeks, mixing with her tears.

Her eyes opened slightly as they met her mother's; Steve's grasp loosened from around her, one hand moving to the mid of her back as if beckoning her to go to Joyce. She complied, putting her chin over her mother's shoulder. One of Joyce's hands held her daughter's hair, whilst the other rubbed her back, as she always did when comfort was needed.

"It hurts." Allison cried silently into her mother's ear as her chest heaved in grief. The Byers woman shut her eyes tightly, recalling the plans she had made with Hopper moments before she had to lose him. "I know sweetheart." She whispered with a trembling voice, knowing Allison had to witness losing Billy, too. "I know."

-

Both the Holloway's and Billy's funerals were rather small and empty, having consisted of mainly just their families. Heather's grandma had to set up the funeral for her entire family, but with Allison's offered help, it weighed less on the poor woman. Neil hadn't even shown to his own son's funeral. Instead, he skipped town, deserting the Mayfield women without a second thought, leaving them with little to nothing.

Joyce had waited a couple weeks before informing her children about her plans of moving to California, knowing how big of a change it would be for them; though a necessary one. In that same week, a letter addressed to Allison Byers arrived in the mail from the University of California.

After the recent events, she had completely disregarded any thoughts of her future until that very moment. She couldn't even feel excitement or joy as she read her acceptance note, but with the knowledge that her family would be moving close to her, she was quick to send her enrollment deposit with Joyce. Steve along with the others were excited for her, though he knew he would miss her more than anything. He knew she needed this; a new beginning. The thought of leaving everything she has ever known behind was terrifying, knowing everyone she loved was right there; but she knew she was suffocating, and needed to leave in order to breathe again.

August 10th, 1985

"Just a couple more boxes to load up." Allison shared to the group out in the living room whilst passing a stained cardboard box to Dustin, who retreated outside to shove it in her trunk. Minus Hopper and Murray, the whole gang was together at the Byers house, just for the brunette. Today, she'd be driving to California with Steve, setting her sights onward to her new destination.

As she tried to tape up her last box on top of her bed, the contents within spilled to the floor as the box fell sideways. She swore under her breath as she crouched to the ground, reaching under her nightstand where one of her knickknacks had rolled. Her fingers laced around a cold thin wire-like object; she gave it a gentle tug, unable to retrieve the mysterious object. With a huff, she stood, grunting as she picked up her nightstand, moving it to the side. Her eyes landed on the vent that laid beneath where the table once stood, and the necklace that was caught on it.

Slowly, she lowered to her knees, untangling the dainty chain from the slits. Heather's heart locket laid within her palm; one thing she thought she had lost for good. The thought that she was never able to return it like she had promised crushed down on her as she held the locket in a fist against her lips, letting a singular tear slide down her cheeks as she opened it, observing the picture of the younger versions of themselves smiling wide inside. She could still see Heather's smile and hear her warming laughter deep within her mind, and it made her miss her best friend more than ever. But she knew Heather wouldn't want her to mourn, rather, that she would want to live vicariously through Allison. She'd want Allison to live her life with no regrets, to be bold and live fearlessly, not letting this dim her light. That's when she promised to Heather, or herself, that she would live on; and allow herself to move forward in any way she could, or at least put on a good show, fooling everyone until she hopefully could fool herself.

"You okay?" Nancy's voice came from the doorway, her lips quick to form into a small line. "Yeah... yeah I'm okay." Allison stated, pausing as she closed the locket within her hand. She came to a stance, wiping her cheeks with a sniffle. "How do you... how did you move on... without Barb?" The Byers girl questioned; eyes soft as she watched Nancy's expression grow sad. "I didn't... not really. I always think of her... more often than not. And I always find myself missing her. I try not to let my guilt consume me, because I know she'd want me to be happy... not to tear myself apart... you know?"

Allison nodded as she looked in her mirror, clasping the silver necklace around her neck, letting it rest against her chest. "I don't know how I know... but I just do." Nancy quietly stated, letting her eyes soften as she watched the brunette reach for the locket. When Allison raised an eyebrow as she turned around, Nancy let herself smile small. "Heather and Barb. They're always with us; looking out for us."

The Byers girl smiled sadly before closing the space between her and the Wheeler girl as she embraced her petite frame. "I'm really sorry for being a shitty friend in the past."

"You already apologized, Nance. It's okay."

"No- I know but... I just want you to know. I'm really going to miss you, but I know this is what's best. Please write me letters telling me all about California and the adventures you have- or the people you meet."

"I will. You better write back telling me about your senior year."

"Not nearly as exciting as your letters will be- but I will." Nancy said with a smile, hugging her friend tightly before letting go. "Let me tape that for you and take it out- you can spend a little bit more time with the others that way." She offered, gesturing to the box beside her. With a small thank you, Allison hesitated to depart from her room as she took one last look, before pulling away and gathering with the others. Will was already teary eyed, holding Thumper in his arms. He took a couple steps forward, meeting his sister in the middle. "I want you to have this... to take to college." He stated, extending the animal in his arms. Allison's eyes drifted from his to the rabbit as her mouth opened slightly. "Are- are you sure?"

"Yes... Like something you once said to me, though I won't be physically with you, I will be whenever you have him." He smiled sadly before wrapping his arms around his sister as his shoulders shook. Tears welled in her hazel eyes as he whispered; "I love you, Allie;" tightly hugging her for a few moments. After whispering it back, she wiped a tear from his wetted cheeks, now holding thumper in her arms.

She took turns hugging each of the kids, instructing Lucas to take care of Max before having a prolonged moment with her; the two sharing emotion through their embrace. The two had spent a couple nights together along with Eleven, now that she lived with the Byers. Several nights, Max and Allison would stay up late, exchanging stories and memories of Billy, trying to cope with the immense sadness that now resided within them. Just those small moments had been enough to fill some of the void.

Allison moved on to Robin, ending with her family and Eleven outside. Jonathan had wished to come with her and Steve, but she insisted he just visit once he's moved over in the fall. "I better see you living your best life." He half-heartedly laughed, sniffling as he hugged his sister tighter. "I'm going to really miss you."

"We'll see each other soon, J." She whispered, hugging him tightly back. "But I'll miss you more than you know."

"I doubt that." He laughed before she nudged his arm, smiling as she retreated from the hug. She moved over to Eleven, who had been mostly quiet since the fourth. The two girls had been sharing a room since the second week of July, which had been something Allison had grown to appreciate. "I'll write you, okay?" The brunette suggested, resting a hand on the girls' shoulder. Once Eleven nodded, the Byers girl pulled her into an embrace, cradling the back of her head. "You're the strongest person I know, El. The absence of your abilities doesn't make you any less powerful or valued." She whispered before pulling back slightly to rest her hands on the sides of El's face. "You're my totally rad sister, and I'm unbelievably lucky to have you as one."

A smile spread across the brown-haired girl's face as she nodded her head. "We are both lucky to have each other." She stated, receiving a grin from Allison. "Damn straight." The brunette laughed, hugging the girl once more before embracing her mother. Joyce was the only one that knew about her daughters developing issues, and how she was faking her excitement in front of everyone. She had been worried for her daughter, but she knew she was safer far from Hawkins than she would be staying here. "Anything happens, call me." She whispered into her daughter's ear, receiving a subtle nod in return. "I will."

Now that all boxes were loaded, Steve started up her car, nodding off to everyone. "Ready?" He called out, resting his arm on the roof. "Yeah, let's hit the road." The brunette replied, squeezing her mom's arm one last time. With a nod from her mother, she opened the passenger door, climbing in next to Steve. As he began to pull out of the driveway, she leaned out of the rolled down window, blowing a kiss with a smile to everyone she loved, watching them fade into the distance, her fingers intertwining with Steve's as he smiled over at her.

Though distancing herself away from Hawkins was what she needed, it wouldn't stop what was coming from getting her, too.

Chapter Text

March 18th, 1986

"How have they been working for you?" The middle-aged woman in a pleated skirt Allison had been seeing, Dr. Fraser, inquired, jotting away with her purple lidded pen. Allison's eyes raised to meet the bronzed skinned woman, whose dark eyes peered softly into hers. "The medication." Dr. Fraser added, clearing the confusion she saw within her client's eyes. "Same as last week, I suppose." Allison answered, pulling her lips into a straight line. "How much sleep have you been getting?"

"Not enough." She tried to humor, only to drop her smile after observing her psychiatrist's serious expression. "Four hours in the last three days." Her answer brought a slight look of disappointment to the woman's face as she marked something off on her clipboard. "And the nightmares?"

"They've been getting worse... more frequent. Kind of the reason I haven't been sleeping good." Allison revealed, biting down on her lip as she tried to shoo the images that haunted her at night away. "I'm sorry to hear that. It may take a couple more days to become accustomed to... but with college, does it not burden you?"

"Not really... it's become easier to manage. With spring break basically here, I'm not really worried. I can be tired for a couple more days, I don't really care."

"Allison... this issue has been going on for months now. Now I know grief is... a rather difficult thing, but I need to remind you that it's not healthy to live this way. I will be legally obligated to take action if you show any signs of harm to yourself or others."

"It's not like I'm willingly living like this. I'm practically trying anything to make myself feel somewhat alive."

"Like?"

"The surfing lessons, stepping out of my comfort zone, changing my appearance-" Allison gestured to her now-blonde hair, having dyed it to hold her half promise to Heather and Billy she made back in summer before everything went down, along with a few other changes. "Etcetera, but there's no change."

"I was under the impression that you dropped your surfing lessons?"

"Well, yes, but that's only because it brought back anxiety, but I know how to do it now, anyway." Allison answered; any time she'd be underwater for long, feeling her oxygen slowly deplete, panic would kick in as she was reminded what it felt like to be held under, feeling as if her lungs were crushing. She'd come up gasping for air with a pounding heart, apologizing to her instructor before taking a "breathing break." Eventually, she just quit, as it happened every lesson.

"Have you gone to visit your family?"

"Not since winter break. I know how worried my mom is for my well-being. I don't want to burden her, she's already busy enough and deserves a break."

"You're not a burden, Allison. It's only natural for your mother to worry about you. It's not common that parents will listen to their children and agree to get them help."

"I know. I'm very thankful for her."

"Now, what about Steve in Indiana? Have you spoke with him?"

"Uhm... yeah. We write practically every week, and I'm going to fly out and visit him and my friends for spring break. He's been very supportive on this whole journey... but it just makes me feel guilty."

"Because you lost Billy?"

"No... not that."

"Is he still unaware?"

"Yeah. He doesn't know about any of this, and I intend to keep it that way. For all of them. I want them to believe I'm doing better. My mother knowing is enough; and knowing Steve, he'd stop everything to help me. Despite my love for him, I threw everything we worked so hard for away." The blonde rambled, shutting her eyes tightly at the memory. "I think it'll be good to see him again, though. I really do miss him."

"Good. That's good. But remember, you are allowed the space to heal and grow. If he loves you the way you have told me, he will understand that. Though, it's important to keep in mind what we've talked about. Don't pull back or be ashamed of what you feel; Communication is very important to keep a healthy friendship... or potential relationship." Dr. Fraser notes, jotting a couple more things down before setting her journal to the side. "I'm happy to hear that you'll be going to see him, you'll have to tell me all about it when you return." She smiles before the timer beeps beside her; "That's all the time we have for today. Seeing as I won't see you for the next couple of weeks, enjoy your spring break back in Indiana. Please don't hesitate to call if anything happens. Your mental health is a priority, understand?" The dark haired woman inquires, bringing her hands together on top of her lap. "I understand. Thank you." The Byers girl smiles, standing from the leather chair.

The drive back to her dorm was short as usual, and like any other time she'd return from her sessions, her dormmate Molly would be sitting on her single bed, wearing an obnoxious smile. "What's the diagnosis today from Doc?"

"No diagnosis, just talk."

"Boring." The wavy-haired brunette sighed, rolling over to lay on her back. Molly Wilson had been Allison's one stable friend in her time at college, the two being surprisingly similar. Steve had the pleasure of meeting her once he had helped Allison move in, and was quick to note her strong personality. The brunette was bubbly but quite judgmental, though it fit her well with her alternative style. On this side of the world, Allison discovered a whole new spectrum of styles and personalities, contrasting to the boring same-old Indiana. Everyone was practically the same there. Here, it was all over the place, and she loved it. Molly had introduced her to a whole new field of clothes and makeup, and even bleached Allison's hair for her, though she suggested adding purple or blue to it.

It hadn't been all that bad actually living in California. Though she felt more alone than ever, she met so many different people and tried all kinds of things. It was nice being able to visit her family on breaks, and seeing how much they had changed. Jonathan and Eleven had both grown out their hair, though El now had bangs which the blonde thought was adorable. She was introduced to Jonathan's friend, Argyle, when she brought Molly with her for winter break, and the four practically hotboxed Argyle's van.

Weed wasn't really her groove, though, nor alcohol. She did find herself smoking cigarettes here and there; feeling like a hypocrite the first time she tried it, having known all they do is destroy your lungs along with the countless times she had rolled her eyes at the people who used them. But here she was, smoking with Molly after classes, or when they had been drunk at parties.

The parties here were way better than any Hawkins party she attended, just as she had assumed. She'd find herself wanting to tell Billy about how right he was, or call up Heather to fill her in on everything, but then the realization that they were gone would hit her, and she'd feel like she was suffocating all over again, and she still had yet to find a solution to it. She hoped that returning to Hawkins to see her friends would make it somewhat better.

-

March 20th, 1986

The last couple of days passed by quickly before break began, and with the help of Molly, Allison was able to easily pack up for her trip. Her flight was early in the morning, so before she decided to head off to the airport, she took one last stop at the beach before the sunrise. Usually, she'd come at sunset, but the time didn't work out right. It became a tradition to come sit on the beach, and oddly enough, it was the one time she felt at peace. She'd sit on the cold sand alone during blue hour, and listen to the waves to calm her down.

Every time, she felt like Billy was right there, sitting on the beach beside her or out in the water, riding the waves like he had longed to do. It made her want to cry anytime she'd think about how badly he wanted to escape from his living situation and return to what was home to him, but he'd never get the chance. He sacrificed himself for a town he hated, and people that hated him.

She felt like a failure, being unable to live the way everyone had wanted her to. Having to lie to Jonathan's face and Nancy over letters about the perfect life she was living over here infested her with guilt, along with lying to Steve about how happy she was when really, nothing could possibly be worse than the emotions she'd endured in her time here.

She wondered how Max was dealing with all of this; having not received any letters back after December. She knew about her new living situation, along with how starting high school had been something she didn't look forward to. She hoped that the redhead was doing better than her, at least.

The blonde began to shiver as the cold breeze passed along, and she took her final gazes in.

-

After the four-ish hour flight to Indiana, Allison was met by a much more mature looking Steve. He had a stubbly mustache with different styled hair, looking somehow taller than he was in August. The two ran to each other before he picked her up in his arms, twirling her around with a warm laugh. "God I missed you so much." He beamed before dropping his hands to hold hers. "I missed you too." She replied with a grin as she pulled him into another embrace.

"You look so..."

"Different?"

"Yeah, but in a good way. I take it Molly had some influence on the new look." He presumed, raising an amused eyebrow at the un-prepified girl he had always known. "A large influence, but I feel like I'm more mature this way. It doesn't look bad, does it?"

"No! Not at all. I really dig it, it looks great. You look great." Steve complimented, though he did note the dark circles beneath her eye lids and sullen face, she still looked beautiful to him. She always did. It had been nearly eight months seen they'd seen each other last, but not a moment went by that they weren't on each other's minds. They wrote to stay in touch, but it was relieving to know they were finally together in person now. "So do you." She gently said as she kissed his cheek before running her fingers through his hair, ruffling it. "I know." He jokingly stated, quick to laugh as she nudged him with a small 'shut up.'

He took her suitcase for her, leading her out to his BMW. The whole car ride they talked about what they wanted to do with the almost two weeks she had with him, figuring most of it would be spent with the kids and Robin. He whined about his new job and Keith, or how Robin was the only reason he could put up with it; the two were practically inseparable at the sound of it. His current mission was convincing Robin that Vickie, a fellow band member of hers, was definitely into girls, and to go for it.

Allison could only laugh when hearing all of his stories about his time at Family Video; she kept her stories short and brief, only telling about classes and the places her and Molly would go off to on weekends. She did let him know that she quit surfing lessons, and was truthful about the anxiety it brought. He understood and supported her either way. With his parents out of town, Allison was able to stay with him the whole time, though she doubted they'd even pay mind to her if they were here, seeing as in the past they had never bothered to interact with her. Nobody knew that she was visiting Hawkins for spring break, seeing as she wanted it to be a surprise with the help of Steve. She'd most likely see everyone again at the basketball game tomorrow night, which made her semi-excited again.

They drove by her old house on the way to his; it was uncomfortable to see unfamiliar cars outside and feel an estranged vibe knowing she had grown up there and experienced numerous memories that would never be known by the new owners. It would never be her home again. Given how exhausted she was, the two just stayed in at his house, relaxing on the couch together before ultimately moving upstairs to go off to bed.

"There are towels and blankets on the dresser incase you need them... but uh... just let me know if there's anything else you need." He smiled as he leaned against the doorway of the guest room. "Thank you, Steve." She smiled, watching as he nodded before shutting the door as he left.

She had tried so hard to fall asleep, only to find her heart beating at the thought of having one of her nightmares again. Whenever she could sleep, they'd more often than not occur; she'd wake up either drowned in tears or sweat, thrashing against her sheets and breathing heavily. She lived in nightmares awake and asleep, but in her dreams she had no control. No control when Billy would die, or when he would hold her under water; when she would feel herself suffocating from the lack of oxygen. She could feel his hand wrapped around her throat as those unfamiliar eyes glared into hers, before the glimpse of his pushed her under water.

She'd see Heather in others, watching as she was taken over by the mind flayer as echoes of blame would ring in the air. 'You did this to me' were words she heard too many times to count from both of their mouths. Maybe she had, maybe she hadn't. She couldn't help but acknowledge the nagging feeling that she played a role in it, despite Billy's second to last words telling her not to blame herself.

She shut her eyes tighter as those memories taunted her, trying to remind herself that she was safe. Even though those dreams were reasons she sometimes refused to sleep, they were also the only time she could see a version of her best friend and Billy again. "It's not your fault." She'd silently mutter to herself as a sort of affirmation or reminder, clutching tighter to her sheets. Eventually, as the hours passed, she was finally able to drift to sleep, though it only lasted for around four hours.

Glimpses of hollowed, bloody eyes flashed in her dream that night, followed by the unmistakable sound of bones cracking, syncing with the chiming of a clock. Under the flickering, dim light of the streetlamp she was beneath, a tall ominous figure stood in the dark. It slowly raised its finger towards her, pointing with a low growl. Her throat began to constrict, feeling all air leaving her lungs; Her ears began to ring as whispers mixed in the noise, all falling silent before something gripped her tightly.

Her eyes popped open, finding Steve hovering over her with panic in his eyes. He had been shouting her name, holding her by her arms. Her breathing was heavy and throat dry as her eyes darted around the room, realizing she was out of her dream and back in reality. "Allison-" Steve's raspy voice started as his eyes moved from her left to her right one, eyebrows threaded together. Her breathing slowed as she looked to Steve, shutting her eyes tightly. His grasp from her upper arms released as she sat up, wiping the cold sweat from her forehead. "It was just a nightmare." She reassured, exhaling slowly.

"You were screaming bloody murder, you sure it was just a nightmare?" He inquired, sitting on the edge of the bed trying to make humor out of the situation, though waking up to bloodcurdling screams set panic in him like a wildfire. He had jumped out of bed in seconds, racing down the dark halls blindly. "I'm sure... I didn't mean to wake you- I'm sorry."

"It's okay, I'm just glad you weren't being murdered or anything like that." He halfheartedly laughed, trying to calm his own heart rate. He glanced over his shoulder to the clock, reading 6 AM. The blonde placed her fingers at the bridge of her nose as her head began to excruciatingly throb, catching the attention of the Harrington boy beside her. "Hey, what's wrong?"

"Just a headache- i'm alright."

"Let me get you some Tylenol." He stated before leaving the room, returning a minute later with a glass of water and two pills in his hand. After extending them towards the blonde, she thanked him before swallowing them quickly, chugging the water down.

Steve returned to his sitting position beside her, watching her with concern. "How frequent do you have those?"

"The headache or the nightmares?"

"Both."

"I haven't had a headache in I don't know how long." She honestly stated, drinking the last of the water before placing the glass on the bedside table. "And the nightmares?" He inquired, keeping his focus on her. She pulled her lips into a thin line as she debated whether she should lie to him or not, figuring it would do no good. "Since August... almost every night." She informed, watching as his eyes filled with concern. "I've been seeing somebody about them... there hasn't been much progress but I'm sure there will be. I'm okay Steve, really." She finished, placing her hand on top of his with a reassuring smile.

"Max has been dealing with the same thing according to Dustin- she's been seeing the school counselor, but I don't know if it's been much help. He said she's distant now... I'm sorry you're dealing with it, too." He replied, trying to think of a way to reassure her by letting her know she's not alone in this. Allison internally sighed at his words, knowing Max wasn't doing better than her after all. "It's alright, I'll be okay... I could use some coffee, though."

"Let's get you some coffee, then." He obliged, making his way downstairs whilst she changed. She wasn't ready to tell him about the aftereffects that had taken toll on her after the events in summer because deep down, she was scared he would look at her differently. A knock came from the door, taking her out of her thoughts as she mumbled a 'come in.' The Harrington boy had a mug in hand, passing it over to her cautiously as steam raised from the surface. "Were you wanting to come with me to pick up Robin? It's almost time for me to go pick her up."

"No- I just want to surprise her and the others tonight. Thank you for this." She answered, smiling as she took a sip of the scolding liquid. "I do, however, want to watch Grease after the game tonight. You have it, right?"

"Duh. It's in your box, my closet." He stated, moving to the doorway. "You sure you don't wanna come? I mean, it's Robin." He smiled, knowing she was most eager to see Robin out of everyone. "As tempting as it is for me to say yes, I'm sure, dingus. She'll be late because of you if you don't leave."

"Me? Late? Never." He chuckled before waving off to her, shutting the door behind him.

-

When the time finally came, the two arrived at Hawkins high, already taking in the nostalgic sounds of the excited cheers and band playing from inside the gymnasium. "Gosh, it feels like I'm still a student here. I feel like I should be in my cheerleading uniform right now."

"You totally should've worn it." Steve beamed before stepping out of his car, walking around it to open the passenger side. "Imagine. You said Lucas is on the team now, right?" The brunette asked after thanking the brown eyed boy. "Yeah, but Dustin says he's been a benchwarmer all season."

"Awe, he's taking after you!"

"Oh shut up." Steve tried to contain his smile, failing as he heard Allison laugh from beside him. The two walked through the side doors, handing their tickets in that Steve had purchased for both of them. The atmosphere was bustling with several different loud sounds, though Allison easily disregarded it as she saw Robin's eyes pop as they landed on the now-blonde, lowering her trumpet almost immediately as the other band members continued to play. "Oh my god!" She squealed as she climbed over the bleachers, embracing Allison tightly. "I can't believe you're here!"

"Me either!" The blonde shouted over the band playing in their ears, smiling as she faced the Buckley girl. "You look so good!"

"So do you! I fucking love your hair holy shit!" Robin beamed as she held the ends of Allison's hair. "And you have a nose piercing!"

"I do have a nose piercing!" Allison laughed, subconsciously grabbing her left nostril. Molly had pierced it for her back in October, which had taken tons of convincing on her part. "What else did you change? You have a tattoo you're hiding or something?"

The blonde laughed warmly before she shrugged with a mischievous smile and cocked eyebrow. Robin's jaw hung low as she stared at Allison with astonishment. "You're a whole new woman." She grinned, shaking her head. "Eh, just messed around with some things. You're going to get in trouble if you keep talking to me, though."

"Shit yeah- I'll catch up with you after the game." Robin smiled, stepping back over the bleachers next to Vickie- who Steve pointed out. The Harrington boy and blonde took their seats near the top, knees touching as they reminisced about their high school days.

"Everyone now please rise for our national anthem." The Principal of Hawkins High ordered through the microphone as the tiger mascot raised his hands, instructing everyone to stand. "Singing for us tonight, we have a very special guest. All the way from Nashville, our very own Tammy Thompson!"

"No shit!" Allison quietly laughed to Steve as the crowd cheered, and the two turned to face Robin, who was already looking their way with an opened smile. The curly haired blonde wearing a white zip up jacket over her pink top waved to the crowd as she approached the microphone with a wide smile. After the cheers subsided and she began to sing, Steve and Allison were already trying to suppress their laughs. "Wow, she sounds amazing, doesn't she?" A blue-eyeshadow lidded girl beside Steve said, only furthering the difficulty for the two to not laugh as they side-eyed each other.

Throughout the game, everyone was on the edge of their seats. When home had 30 to the Falcons 36, number eight got pulled from the bench and onto the court. Lucas Sinclair stood hesitantly, though he was quick to throw his jacket off and run to the center. Allison didn't hesitate once to shout; "Go Lucas!" as he was in action, watching as he tossed the ball to Jason, who then scored. Steve and Allison cheered for the team then, but mostly for their younger friend.

The game only became more intense, as they watched the timer count down and Jason's toss miss the hoop. But in seconds, the ball was in Lucas's hands, and he was turning on his feet, tossing the ball in the air with one second left. The two were on their feet as the buzzer rang; their eyes glued to the basketball soaring across the court, bouncing on the rim before landing straight into the hoop, scoring them a buzzer-beater winning goal. Cheers erupted all around as Steve and Allison turned to each other, high fiving with both of their hands as they cheered along.

The whole team and cheerleaders were surrounding Lucas in a second, lifting him up as they praised him. Both of the graduates were beyond proud of him, but Allison couldn't help but wonder why she didn't see a single one of his friends sitting in the bleachers. He looked happy, though, surrounded by his supportive teammates as they exited the gymnasium, likely to go celebrate. As the two descended the bleachers, Chrissy nearly bumped into the blonde. Allison had a smile across her face immediately as she realized who it was that had nearly knocked her to her feet. "Allison!" The blonde exclaimed as one of her famous delicate smiles crossed her face. The two hugged for a few seconds before Allison pulled back; "look at you! You're the cheer captain now!"

"Who would've thought, huh?"

"Oh Chris, I never doubted that you would be. You're perfect for the spot!" Allison beamed, receiving a gracious smile from the ponytailed blonde. "I'm honored to have been passed your place. I couldn't live up to your legacy, though."

"Oh please, you're already ten times better babe."

"We're equal, how about that? The whole team and coach misses you." She smiled, raising an eyebrow, "Sure. We're equal. I miss all of you too." Allison grinned, pulling the girl in for one last hug. "It's great to see you, have a good night."

"Yeah! You too!" The Cunningham girl exclaimed before trotting off to be with her fellow cheerleaders. Coach Adams, Allison's once-cheer coach smiled her way, nodding to the blonde. The Byers girl nodded back with a warm smile, feeling like she was back in her high school days all over again. "So I was telling Steve that we should go to the diner for some milkshakes." Robin's voice startled the hazel-eyed girl, who whipped around. "Hm?"

"Don't tell me you already forgot about Betty's diner!" Robin exclaimed with a look of disbelief. Sadness rung through the blonde as she shook her head. "Never. I'd love to go." She countered as Steve joined their sides. "I guess Betty's diner it is."

-

As the three sat on the spinney stools, Allison couldn't help but look over her shoulder to the booth where Billy and her used to sit, now occupied by an elderly couple splitting a banana split.

"Allison?" Steve's voice drew her to him. "What?"

"Chocolate milkshake, right?"

"Yeah- Actually, I'll do a strawberry, please." She voiced, before standing from her stool and crossing over to the jukebox. Her heart ached as she saw 'Forever Young' by Alphaville, but she didn't hesitate to slip some quarters in and play it. The song began to play as she sat back down, watching as Steve and Robin rambled back and forth about something that the blonde didn't bother to listen in on. All she could focus on was the lyrics to the song, and how it took her right back to prom.

Towards the middle of the song, Steve's hand rested on hers after he saw that she was lost in her thoughts. He remembered this song almost as vividly as she had. How Billy allowed her to dance with Steve to the end of this song. He knew how much it must've hurt for Allison to remember that special night; so he just squeezed her hand. She laid her head on his shoulder, trying to remind herself to be happy, because that's exactly what Billy would want her to be.

Heather too. She clutched the locket around her neck as the milkshakes were placed in front of them. As she took a struggled sip, her eyes widened at the taste. She had no clue how she had never given into trying strawberry before, but she loved it.

"So, did you actually get a tattoo or were you just bullshitting me?" Robin questioned, slurping on her vanilla milkshake. The Byers girl laughed before spinning to turn the other way, pulling her shirt up her back to reveal a rose tattooed up her spine. "Holy shit!" The Buckley girl exclaimed, wasting no time to trace the tattoo with her fingers. "Wait when did you get this?" Steve questioned, just as shocked as his best friend. "Well, let's just say I have possibly the best roommate. I don't think there's anything she can't do."

"Now I have to hear all about your roommate." Robin beamed, leaning her elbows on the counter as she eagerly listened to Allison. The Byers girl told her all about Molly, and by the time she finished, Robin was already convinced that the Wilson girl was badass.

The three talked until the diner closed, and they split shortly after. It had months since they were all together, but somehow just the couple of hours they spent together tonight made it feel like they had never been apart.

Chapter Text

Allison and Steve had been too tired after leaving the diner, given how late they had stayed out, so their plans to watch Grease had been postponed to another night. She had managed to sleep without interruption that night, and hoped that it was just her medication doing its job. She had opted in to join Steve and Robin's shift at Family Video the next day, granted that she had nothing else to do and wanted to spend as much quality time as possible with her best friends. Steve had felt bad for not taking the day off in advance to take her out somewhere, but she insisted that it was alright. Truthfully, she really missed her shared shifts with her two best friends at Scoops. They had been the highlight of her summer.

She knew she'd enjoy her time as long as she was with them, so she wasn't disappointed about it. It was pretty busy at the video store, with quite a few people popping in to rent or return videos. Both Robin and Steve showed her the ropes on what they did every shift, including popping a morning movie in to entertain them.

Today's focus was Doctor Zhivago, piped up by Robin due to her doomed love ramble. "I'm hopeless. If only I could just... combine with one of you." The Buckley girl sighed, resting against the wall next to Allison as Steve continued to stock movies and put them in their right places. "Combine?" The blonde raised an eyebrow, not quite catching her meaning. "I mean like- you and Steve have the amazing looks and game. I know exactly what I want, and I've found the girl of my dreams, but I just can't get the courage to ask her out- but I know if I was one of you, I'd have no problem."

"Oh come on Robin, give yourself some credit. You're more attractive than you think." Allison stated, crossing her arms at her friend's low self-esteem. "Thanks, but let's be realistic. Alone, I suck. Indiana is not the place that I'm going to find another girl like me. Which... is why I want to watch a movie about doomed love- it's just fitting." Robin finished as she crossed the room to grab the movie off the shelf. "You know I don't do double VHS-" Steve whined before Allison randomly clutched the shelf beside her, wincing loudly as she held a hand to her head. A high pitched ringing filled her ears, almost leading her to have to cover them. "Hey- hey you okay?" Steve urgently walked to her side, holding her elbow as he tried to look at her turned face.

Allison steadied herself as she brought her fingers to beneath her nose, wiping swiftly. A dark crimson coated her skin, taking her aback. "Let me get a tissue for you-" Steve offered as his eyebrows furrowed, matching the confusion on the blonde's face. "You okay over there?" The Buckley girl called out from across the store, approaching the TV above the counter. "Yeah- yeah I'm good. Just a migraine or something, that was fucking random." The blonde laughed, wiping beneath her nose again. "I'm pretty sure I have Tylenol in the back- I'll get it for you after..." Robin began before she immediately went silent, listening to the TV she had just switched on.

"We're in Forest Hills trailer park in east Roane County. We don't have a lot of details now, but we can confirm that the body of a Hawkins High student was discovered early this morning. Police have not released the victim's name, although we are told they're currently in the process of notifying the family." The news woman informed from the TV screen, shocking viewers all around Hawkins. "Holy shit." Steve uttered as he and Allison met at Robin's side, continuing to watch the news.

The Byers girl held the tissue to her nose as her heart began to thud within her chest. "Ever since that girl, Barb, died a few years ago, it has been one thing after another. I'll tell ya, you start to believe all those things they say, that this town is cursed, that the devil lives here in Hawkins." A woman from the trailer park rambled on the screen, shaking her head in disbelief. The blonde hadn't heard a mention of Barb in forever, but just hearing it made her think of Nancy, who must've been watching the news too. She took a quick glance at Robin, knowing the two had also been friends, finding a saddened expression on the Buckley girls' face.

Bells ring from the front door, alerting the three of potential customers arrival; but there Dustin and Max stand instead. "Hey Steve- Allison?" The Henderson boy calls out, face twisting in confusion upon seeing a much different looking Allison. "You guys seeing this?" Steve quickly interjects, looking between the two teens as if the blonde being here wasn't a big shock. "Why are you here?" Dustin questions the blonde, still trying to process her appearance as Max's eyes avert to the ground. "Uhm, hi, nice to see you again too. It's spring break dipshit. I was gonna surprise you guys, but you weren't at the game... to support Lucas."

"I had a very important campaign to attend- Happy you're here- Shit- I- how many phones do you have?" He stammers, turning to face Steve and Robin for an answer. "Someone was murdered." Steve obliviously states, completely disregarding the urgency in the Henderson boy's voice. "How many phones do you have!?"

"Wha- Two. Why?" Steve answers, looking down to Robin beside him. "Technically three, if you count Keith's in the back." Robin shares, pointing her thumb behind her. "Yeah, three works." Max's less frantic voice comes, as she nods towards her curly haired friend. Dustin begins to shrug off his backpack awkwardly, making Steve quirk his eyebrows. "What are you doing?" He inquires before Dustin tosses the bag onto the counter, sliding it off the other side along with merchandise. "What are you-"

"My pile!" Robin shouts as the Henderson boy hauls himself on top of the surface, knocking more things down with him. Steve shouts repeatedly at him as Max walks around the counter like a reasonable person, meeting at her friends side. She now offers a small, brief smile towards the blonde before setting her focus back to the computer, where Dustin and Steve were arguing. "Get off-"

"No, I need it." Dustin argues, continuing to type away on the keyboard. "For what?" Steve interrogates, shaking his head at his pal. "Eddie's friends' phone numbers."

"Oh Eddie, your new best friend you think is cooler than me because he plays your nerdy game?"

"Yes... I never said that!"

"Wait... Eddie Munson?" Allison interjects, looking between the two. "Yes." They both answer, looking irritatedly at each other. "Wait, so you're in his D&D thing?"

"I'm in Hellfire Club, Allison."

"Same thing."

"Actually-"

"It's a stupid nerd game. Only dorks and freaks play that shit." Steve sighs, moving his hands as he explains. "Oh, so Mike and I are dorks and freaks now? God you're so jealous of Eddie. Maybe I will begin to think he's cooler than you-"

"Wait- you didn't go to the game because of a D&D campaign?" Allison cut off the argument, unsure at the thought of Mike and Dustin not going to one of the most important moments for one of their best friends over a game. "Obviously, Allison. We won, thanks to Erica, since Lucas ditched us."

"Uhm... interesting take. Why are you jealous of Eddie?" She turns to Steve, raising an eyebrow. "Umm, only because he's rad as hell. Steve here can't handle the thought of competition. Gosh, catch up Allison." Dustin answers for Steve, who only rolls his eyes in return. "Oh I'm sorry, I've just been off at college for the past seven months." The Byers girl sneers, throwing her hands up in frustration as Dustin continues to look through the computer. "Seriously, you guys, maybe on a Monday you can play around in here like toddlers, but it's Saturday. It's our busiest day." Robin says from the corner, beginning to put everything back in place that had been knocked down.

"Alright look Robin, I empathize, but this cannot wait until Monday."

"Why, cause calling all of Eddie's friends is an emergency?"

"Correct!"

"Uhm, do you want me to strangle him or do one of you want to do that?" Steve implies as he helps to clean up the mess, looking between the two girls. "We could take turns." Robin suggested, shrugging her shoulders. "Sounds good to me." The blonde added from the stool, sending a side eyed glance to the very focused Henderson boy, who says to Max; "Can you fill them in while I do this?"

"Fill us in on what?"

-

Chrissy Cunningham was dead. That new knowledge was a hard pill to swallow, but given the current circumstances, it was the only thing Allison could do. The next half hour was spent by numerous phone calls to find out the current whereabouts of Eddie Munson. Robin, Dustin, and Max had all been on the phones whilst Steve helped oncoming customers, leaving Allison to sit there helplessly.

Something was... wrong. Eddie could soon be framed for Chrissy's murder, when something else entirely different could've occurred, only being figured by the ominous flickering of lights Max had seen.

Almost all of the phone calls led to no answer, except one. "Hey, guys, I might have a lead." Max claimed, looking to her friends. "Seriously?" The curly-haired boy eagerly questioned, swiveling around on the spinney stool to face her. "Yeah. Apparently, Eddie gets his drugs from some guy named Reefer Rick, and sometimes Eddie crashes there."

"That sounds promising. Uh, where does this Reefer Rick guy live?" Robin asks, holding her fingers in fists. "See, that's the thing. No one knows. He's more of a legend than someone that people actually know."

"Well what about a last name?" Dustin questions, sitting up straighter. "I don't know that either."

"Bet the cops know the last name." Steve added as he shuffled movies around in his cart. "What?"

"Cops. I mean, listen, if this Reefer Rick is actually a drug dealer, I guarantee you he's been busted at some point. Means he's in the system."

"The cops? Really, Steve? That's your suggestion?" Dustin harshly questions the fluffy haired boy, subtly shaking his head. "I think at this point they should be filled in on what we know, what's going on."

"You think Eddie's guilty, don't you?"

"Whoa! I believe in innocent until proven guilty, all that constitutional shit. I just, you know, just don't think that we can rule it out."

"That's precisely what we're trying to do here, Steve." Max corrects, keeping her eyebrows furrowed as Dustin begins to speak again. "And maybe we'd have a little bit more luck if you spent less time fiddling with those movies whilst constantly looking at Allison with that worried expression, and more time trying to find Eddie."

"Well, somebody has to attend to the customers and do our job, and sor-ry for making sure she's feeling okay. It can be super overwhelming being in here, especially with you bunch."

"Yeah, it can be." Robin adds with a wide grin, moving to sit at the computer. "What are you doing?" Max asks from beside the Buckley girl whilst the others surround her. "Maybe we don't need a last name... twelve ricks have accounts here. So, let's narrow it down..."

-

With extra precision, the group was able to narrow the Rick's down to Rick Lipton at 2121 Holland Road. With a flip of the stores status sign, the five were running out the door and hopping in Steve's BMW.

Allison chose to let Dustin take passenger side, leaving the three girls together in the back. She wanted to say something to Max, but had no clue what was appropriate at this time and what wasn't. "How was California?" The redhead spoke up, taking the blonde by surprise. "It was- it was um great. I'm really liking it there. I've been feeling better." Allison put on a smile, nodding her head vigorously. "Good... that's good."

"Yeah... oh! That reminds me... I have something I made for you back at Steve's place. I would've brought it if I'd have known I'd be seeing you today."

"What about me?" Dustin questioned from the front, turning his whole body around to face the girls behind him. "What about you?" The blonde replied, quirking her eyebrow. "Okay... ouch. What did you get me?"

"Uhm... my presence."

"Oh, great. Thank you so much."

"Steve, when did he go from sweet little Dusty to this?"

"That's what I'm saying! Eddie totally changed him." Steve answered from the front, throwing his hand up in the air. "Uhm, wrong, I grew up. Eddie only helped me realize my potential. I'm a man now."

"You're 14." Allison laughed, shaking her head at Dustin. "And more mature than boys my age. Plus, I have the best girlfriend." He stated, smugging cockily. "You guys are still together?"

"Yeah, lasted longer than you and Steve." He said before immediately shutting his mouth, realizing his mistake. "Whoa man, too far." Steve spoke from beside him, looking hurt. "Sorry, that was a low blow." The Henderson boy admitted, fist bumping Steve to make up for it. "We know you and Max are in your processing phase... don't know why you guys dumped your totally awesome boyfriend, or almost boyfriend, though."

Both Max and Allison shared an offended glance before glaring at the boy. "Your pea-brain wouldn't be able to comprehend what they went through, dingus. Don't be insensitive." Robin defended the girls, being equally as offended. "Sorry." Dustin apologized before turning to face the front, shaking his head disapprovingly at himself.

It was already dark by the time they arrived; there were no answers to the multiple rings of the doorbell and shouts from Dustin, but thanks to Max, the lot were led to a boat house below. The light protruding from their flashlights bled through the windows, filling the dark space with light. "Hello? Is anyone home?" Robin called out as she entered first, the others following in suit.

"What a dump." Steve stated as everyone began to spread around, trying to look for any clue or sign of the Munson boy. "This place gives me the creeps, it's too quiet." Allison whispered as she looked out to the water, seeing nothing but black. They continued to search around as Steve poked the tarp with an oar, and bickered back and forth with Dustin. "Hey, look over here." Max softly called out, drawing the attention of the girls next to her. Bottles and food wrappers littered the surface, looking only days old. "Someone was here."

"Maybe he heard us. Got spooked and ran." Robin pointed out, shrugging her shoulders. "Don't worry. Steve will get him with his oar." Dustin sarcastically stated, giving Steve an incredulous look. "I know you think you're being funny Henderson, but considering everyone in this room has nearly died about a hundred times, personally, I don't find it funny in the slightest-"

The Harrington boy was quickly cut off as a figure jumped out from under the tarp, pinning Steve against the wall. Everyone was startled and caught off guard, turning to face the commotion immediately. Max, Robin, and Allison had to run from the other side of the room before being held back by Dustin, who held his arms out wide. The unknown person placed a broken bottle against Steve's neck, instilling panic in the whole group.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, Eddie! Eddie stop! Eddie!" Dustin shouted in a panic, holding an arm out to the black maned boy. "Eddie, it's me- It's Dustin. This is Steve! He's not gonna hurt you, right, Steve?"

It appeared that Steve agreed, but Allison was unable to hear him as she furrowed her eyebrows at the almost unrecognizable boy. Though she hadn't seen him in years, he looked entirely different from the last time she saw him. She saw the fear in his own wide eyes as he kept the bottle up to Steve's neck firmly. "Steve, why don't you drop the oar?" Dustin questioningly ordered, being obeyed by the Harrington boy. Once the wooden oar hit the ground, Eddie only applied more pressure to Steve's neck, causing both Robin and Allison to gasp. The blonde almost took a step forward, but Robin blocked her from making any sudden movement, subtly shaking her head. "He's cool! He's cool." Dustin reassured Eddie, keeping his arm extended. "I'm cool, man. I'm cool." Steve whispered, wincing at the sharpness against his neck.

"What are you doing here?" The Munson boy quietly inquired, keeping his gaze on Steve in front of him. "We're looking for you." Dustin answered, gesturing both of his extended arms to his friend. "We're here to help." Robin chimed in, trying to stay calm under the circumstances. "Eddie, these are my friends. You know Robin, from band."

Robin made a brief trumpet noise and hand movement from behind Dustin before he began to speak again. "This is my friend Max. The one who never wants to play D&D. And... and this is Allison..."

"We were friends, I uh... I had a huge crush on you... middle school?" The blonde informed from behind Dustin, trying to bring some recollection to Eddie; she knew she was probably unrecognizable to him as much as he was to her. He peered at the three girls, eyes looking less intimidating and more worried. "Eddie. We're on your side. I swear on my mother. Right, guys?"

"Yes, yes. We swear." Max agreed; "Right." Allison nodded, still eyeing the bottle against Steve's throat. "On Dustin's mother." Robin added, stuttering as she spoke. "Yep... Dustin's... Dustin's mother." Steve finally stated, wincing with tightly shut eyes as Eddie kept still. Practically everyone was holding their breaths as they pondered whether Eddie would walk away or kill Steve right in front of them, but soon enough he backed off, slowly sliding down against the wall as the Harrington boy groaned, cursing under his breath.

Allison swiftly stepped forward, kneeling below his hunched form to see his throat. There was no blood or wounds, only an indentation from the pressure kept there. He kept a hand on the irritated area as Allison laid a hand on his back, looking to Robin who was checking on him with her.

"Eddie... we just want to talk." Dustin cautiously lowered himself to face his mentor, reaching slowly for the bottle in his hand. When the black maned boy clutched the bottle tighter, the Henderson boy held up his hands in surrender. "Okay-"

Robin left her two friends' sides, slowly crouching beside Eddie and Dustin; "We want to know what happened."

"You won't believe me." The Munson boy cried, shaking his head at the surrounding teens. "You'd be pretty surprised." Allison tried to conversate, her face remaining empathetic as her eyes softened. "Try us." Max added with a shrug of her shoulders. Eddie's brown eyes moved from hers to Allison's, then back to Dustin's. He looked as if he was debating whether it was even worth it to tell them; he doubted they'd understand- but he proceeded anyway.

"Her body just, like... lifted up into the air and, uh... and she just... like... hung there... in the air- and her bones... uh-" He started, pausing as his eyes shut tightly when the horrific image popped into his brain. "Her bones started to snap. Her eyes, man... It... it was like there was something, like, inside her head... pulling. I... I didn't know what to do, so I... I ran away. I left her there." He finished, unable to meet anyone's gaze as he replayed the trauma in his head. "You all think I'm crazy, right?" He scoffed whilst goose bumps rose on Allison's arms as she recalled her dream two nights ago; the brief flashes of eyes popping, and the unnerving sound of bones snapping; exactly as Eddie described Chrissy to have died.

"No. We don't think you're crazy at all-" Dustin began before Eddie cut him off, yelling; "No don't bullshit me, man! I know how this sounds!"

"We're not bullshitting you." Max spoke up, shaking her head at his words. "We believe you." The Buckley girl reassured, looking to Allison who nodded along. "Look, what I'm about to tell you might be a little... difficult to take." Dustin addressed to his friend, nodding vaguely as he waited for a response. "Okay..."

"You know how people say Hawkins is... cursed? They're not... way off. There's another world. A world hidden beneath Hawkins. Sometimes, it bleeds into ours."

"Like ghosts and shit?"

"There are some things... worse than ghosts." Max implied, pulling her lips into a thin line as she pictured her flayed stepbrother and mind flayer in her head. "These monsters... from this other world, we thought they were gone. But they've come back before. That's why we needed to find you."

"If they're back again, we need to know." Allison stated; Though having a serial killer in her hometown was horrible, it was a better option than the monsters her and her friends had faced in the past being back again. "That night, did you see anything?" Robin questioned, taking Eddie's attention away from the blonde, then carried over to Max; "Dark particles, maybe?"

"It would almost look like dust, swirling dust." Dustin informed, searching the Munson boy's face for any sort of recollection. "No, man, there was nothing you could see or, uh... or touch." Eddie answered, moving his gaze to the water. "You know, I tried to wake her, man. She couldn't move. It was like she... she was in a trance or something."

"Or under a spell." The curly haired boy implied, now receiving eye contact from his older friend. "A curse." Eddie corrected, shuddering at the thought. "Vecna's curse."

"Who's Vecna?" Steve spoke from beside Allison, confusion clouding his gaze. "An undead creature of... great power." Dustin replied, annunciating 'great.' "A spell caster."

"A dark wizard."

Chapter Text

The following day, the group returned to Eddie with food to replenish him and his energy. During that, Dustin had tapped into the Hawkins PD dispatch with his Cerebro, finding out that Eddie was in fact being currently sought after. This hadn't gone public yet, but it was only a matter of time before someone else caught on and spread the news. They had informed the Munson boy of this news, only furthering his anxiousness.

"Hunt the freak, right?" He uttered, his voice trembling as he spoke. "Exactly." Robin replied from her standing position beside Max and Allison. "Shit."

"So before that happens, we need to find Vecna, kill him, and then prove your innocence." Dustin explains, talking as if this were some simple task. "That's all, Dustin? That's all?"

"Yeah, no, that's pretty much it."

"Listen, Eddie." Robin captured his attention, leaning on one of the ropes holding the boat in place as she spoke; "I know everything Dustin is saying sounds totally delusional, but... we've actually been through this kinda thing before. I mean, they have a... a few times and... and I have once. Mine was more human-flesh-based, and theirs was more smoke-related but... bottom line is, collectively, I really feel like we got this."

"Yeah see, we usually rely on this girl- Allison's stepsister... who has super powers. But, uh, those went bye-bye, so uh..." Steve adds, rubbing his hand against his jaw as he loses his words. "So we're technically in- in more of the..." Robin tries to finish but fails, though Allison does it for her; "Brainstorming phase."

"There... there's nothing to worry about." Dustin attempts to reassure, only to be scoffed at by Steve, though he tried to cover it and make it look like he was agreeing. Eddie face reads 'really?' as he looks to Dustin with an unconvinced expression, before his attention is pulled to the police sirens wailing outside. "Tarp- tarp! Tarp!" Robin orders as the five rush to the front windows, whilst the black maned boy hiding himself from view. Several police cars and one ambulance race by, leading to an unknown location.

Allison didn't know how, but she knew they needed to follow. The door was thrown open in seconds as she rushed out, the others following. "Allie wait! Where are you going?" Robin called out; confusion written on her face. "We have to follow." The blonde stated, Max quickly stepping forward in agreeance. Steve took it as a sign to follow, quickly getting in his car to start it up.

It wasn't too far up the road that all the vehicles were stopped, but with the police signs blocking off the road and a white sheet laid ahead that the group was able to piece together that there was another death. Surrounded by three officers stood Nancy Wheeler, quickly being noticed by her friends once they stepped out of the car. Relief flooded her distressed face as she gave a small wave, her eyes on Allison.

Once her questioning was upheld and she was allowed to depart from the officers' sides, Allison met her halfway, quickly embracing her teary-eyed friend. Nancy didn't ask any questions or make any remarks; all she felt was pure alleviation. Sure, she was shocked to see the blonde, but she was more relieved that she was in Hawkins than concerned. The Byers girl kissed her friend's cheek in gratitude before withdrawing to hold her at her elbows.

Allison examined Nancy's watery-eyes and drained cheeks, taking note of it, along with the new style and look. "I- I need to tell you all something." She announced, checking her surroundings before signaling all five to follow after her. The group sat by Eddie's trailer on a picnic table as Nancy informed them of Fred, her now-deceased friend and classmate. Dustin was quickly able to string his death together with Chrissy's, more likely than not to be the second of this 'Vecna' creature's sacrifices.

They theorized that he attacks with some sort of spell or curse, but were unsure of why he was killing. They knew this was different, though. Different from the things they have faced before. There was no current connection between Fred and Chrissy, or why they were chosen to die; just that they were both upset or afraid before their deaths.

"Serial killers stalk their prey before they strike, right? So, maybe Fred and Chrissy saw this Vecman-" Robin began, being corrected by Dustin; "Vecna."

"Dunno about you guys, but if I saw some freaky wizard monster, I would mention it to someone." Steve rambled, once again scratching his chin as he looked between his friends. "Maybe they did. I saw Chrissy leaving Ms. Kelley's office. If you saw a monster, you... you wouldn't go to the police. They'd never believe you. But, you might go to your-" Max addressed, logically putting two and two together. "Your shrink." Allison finished, receiving a nod from Max. "I have an idea... Steve... can you take me to Ms. Kelley's?" The redhead inquired, looking to the Harrington boy expectantly. His mouth opened, then closed as he tried to think. "Just trust me."

He nodded in return, and the group were heading off to their cars. "Nancy, where are you going?" Allison called out to the Wheeler girl who was walking the opposite direction to her own car. "Oh, there's just something I wanna check on first."

"Something you maybe wanna share with the rest of us?" Dustin questioned, throwing his hands up. "I don't wanna waste your time. It's a real shot in the dark."

"Wait Nancy- it's not safe to be alone with... with the Vecna thing." Allison reminded, grimacing at the thought of something happening to her when she's alone and vulnerable. "I- I'll go with her." Robin stepped forward, taking a Cerebro from Dustin's bag on the way. "Be safe, stay in contact." Steve called out to the two as they reached the station wagon, receiving a salute from the Buckley girl.

The four climbed into the BMW, quickly driving off to their next location. Chills ran up the blonde's spine as she took a glance through the side mirror towards the Munsons trailer, roped off by yellow caution tape. The faint but unmistakable sound of a clock chiming, much like the sound in her dream, echoed for two seconds before dissipating into the sound of passing breeze. She shifted uncomfortably in the passenger's seat, quickly looking through the rearview mirror to Max in the back. The redhead's expression was unreadable, but cold.

It remained that way even as they pulled up to her counselor's driveway, and when she gave a quick glance to the three in the car as she was welcomed inside. "Okay. She's in." Steve announced, though everyone could see that perfectly. "I'm missing collarbones, not eyes." Dustin remarked from the back, almost causing the blonde to laugh. "So... we ever gonna talk about... it?"

"Huh? Sorry, talk about what?" Steve obliviously questioned, though Allison was just as puzzled. "Well, we all know you guys are in love with each other... and we all thought you'd be together by now so... are we gonna ever address why you aren't?"

"Do you have to bring this up every time you get the chance?" Allison groaned from the front, really not wanting to dive into this right now. "Uhm, yeah. Inquiring minds want to know."

"Well, those inquiring minds can be left to mind their own business."

"Or, even better, you could tell us what's going on with you."

"What do you mean what's going on with me? I feel like it's pretty obvious that I'm just... not ready."

"Yeah, except you never are. Never have been."

"First, that's beyond false. Time just never worked in... our favor." The blonde stated, exhaling heavily. Steve only nodded as a response, not wanting to delve into something that he already knew the answer to. "Well then just make it work or something."

"Oh my god, Dustin. Forcing a connection- already existing or not- doesn't work. I had to watch someone I cared and felt deeply for die right in front of my eyes just an hour after finding out my best friend died- so I'm sorry if me not being ready to commit to something again bothers you, but it's really just not your decision. Steve understands. We talked about this before he left to return to Indiana. I told him I couldn't, not because I didn't love him or lose feelings, but because I need to heal first. And he understood. Didn't you?" Allison ranted as frustration rose within her, calming quickly once her eyes met Steve's understanding ones; though, deep down, she was just afraid to get too close, and lose him too.

He nodded slowly, expression softening upon seeing that she was upset. "And I'll wait for her, just like I said before." He directed to Dustin, though he kept his gaze on the blonde beside him with slight nod. She returned the nod, returning her focus to the house. Max ran out minutes later, quickly getting in the car next to Dustin. "What'd she say?" He questioned, quirking an eyebrow at her hurried movement. "Nothing, just drive."

"Nothing?" Steve turned around to face the redhead, clearly perplexed at her response. "Steve, drive!"

"Okay!" The Harrington boy replied, turning the ignition before speeding off.

"Dustin, It's Lucas- Dustin do you copy?" Lucas's voice came through the cerebro, the Henderson boy quick to pick it up. "Lucas? Where the hell have you been?"

"Just listen. Are you guys looking for Eddie?"

"Yeah, we found him, no thanks to you."

"You found him?"

"He was at a boathouse on Coal Mill Road. Don't worry, he's safe."

"You guys know he killed Chrissy, right?"

"That's bullshit! Eddie tried to save Chrissy."

"Then why do all of the cops say he did it?"

Max reached for the device, taking it from Dustin's hands. "Lucas, you're so behind it's ridiculous, okay? Just meet us at school, we'll explain later."

"I can't. I think some real bad shit's about to go down."

"What are you talking about? What bad shit?" She questioned, receiving no response from the other end. The teens looked from one to the other, unsure of what just happened. They'd hoped he'd just show up in the end.

-

Once they'd arrived at the school, it was already nightfall. They'd received word that Vecna's first victim dated back all the way to 1959 from Nancy's shot in the dark; but right now, they were focused on finding a connection. With Ms. Kelley's stolen key, Max broke into her office and file cabinets, finding that both Fred and Chrissy had been seeing the counselor.

They placed down the two files, letting Max look through them while the others looked for some other sort of clue. Eventually the two boys hovered over her, using their flashlights to provide help for her. As the room went eerily silent, Allison halted her search as Dustin spoke to Max eagerly; "Max? What is it? Max?"

The blonde turned, making her way back to the three as she peered down at Max, who was frozen in place, staring off as if in a trance. "Max!" Dustin shouted once more, shaking her shoulder. There was no reaction or anything from her, but what scared Allison the most was that there wasn't a thought behind those eyes. Just an empty space.

"Max?" The blonde called out as the boys continued to shake her shoulders, calling out her name in an attempt to get her out of whatever trance she was in, until eventually, she jolted upright, eyes popping wide with a pant, looking to the three teens surrounding her as if she didn't know them- or that she didn't know how she was there.

Terror lived in those eyes now, as did the realization that she was next.

Chapter Text

"It was here. Right here!" Max cried as she pointed her flashlight towards the multicolored wall as the group, now joined by Nancy and Robin, looked ahead. There was nothing there, contrary to what the redhead had seen. "A grandfather clock?" Nancy inquired from behind the frantic girl; "It was so real. And then, when I got closer, suddenly I just... I woke up."

"It was like she was in a trance or something. Exactly what Eddie said happened to Chrissy." Dustin informed the new members who hadn't been there to witness it, keeping his voice gentle. Max turned with tears in her eyes, which was something she rarely let be seen. "That's not even the bad part." She stated, walking past her friends and ushering them to follow after her.

They returned to the classroom, gathering around the counselor's desk. "Fred and Chrissy, they both came to Miss Kelley for help. Uh, they were both having headaches, bad headaches that just wouldn't go away. And then... then the nightmares. Trouble sleeping. They'd wake up in a cold sweat, and then they started seeing things. Bad things... from their pasts. And these visions, they just... they kept on getting worse and worse, until eventually... everything ended."

"Vecna's curse." Robin stated as Max swallowed hard, preparing to utter her next words. "Chrissy's headaches started a week ago. Fred's, six days ago." She started, her voice becoming quieter as the room filled with tension. She looked up from the table, a tear cascading down her cheek. "I've been having them for five days." She announced to the group, receiving shocked reactions from them. Allison's heart practically plummeted within her chest as she watched Max's distressed features sadden, but then realized this whole situation was a lot more personal. Nightmares, headaches, trouble sleeping... check, check, check. Her eyes fell to the floor at the realization before slowly meeting Steve's across from her.

His eyes were already on hers as he held a hand to his mouth, knowing exactly what this all meant. Knowing that not one, but two of the people in this room were plagued by something that currently had no solution. Knowing that they were completely helpless made it scarier. "I don't know how long I have. All I know is that... for Fred and Chrissy, they both died less than 24 hours after their first vision. And I just saw that goddamn clock, so... looks like I'm gonna die tomorrow." Max rambled with tears in her eyes, jolting as a distant clang scared the group as a whole.

"Stay here." Steve instructed with a whisper, grabbing a lamp from the corner of the room before exiting into the hallway. Everyone followed him out with Allison and Max at tow, clearly not listening to his order. As they walked down, more clattering came from the distance, becoming louder by the second until Lucas Sinclair appeared in front of Steve, scaring the living shit out of him. Everyone began screaming at each other as the Harrington boy shook the lamp in his hands; "It's me!" Lucas shouted in return, squinting at the light shone in his eyes as he extended his arms defensively. "Jesus, what's wrong with you Sinclair!" Steve yelled, lowering the lamp in his hands. "I'm sorry!"

"I could've taken you out with this lamp!"

"Sorry- sorry guys. I was... I was biking for eight miles. Give me a second- shit." Lucas panted, trying to catch his breath as he paced back and forth. "We've got a code red."

"What?"

"Dustin. I've been with Jason, Patrick, and Andy, and they've gone totally off the rails. They're trying to capture Eddie, and they think you know where he is. You're in terrible danger!" Lucas informed as he stepped forward. "All right. Yeah, that definitely sucks, but we've got bigger problems than Jason right now." Dustin replied, turning around to face Max. Eventually, they were all looking at her. Allison didn't know what to say, or how to think. She just knew they needed to find a way to save Max, if anything; it didn't matter if that meant she was next.

-

The group had migrated over to Nancy's house to rest that night, and find some sort of answer to this impending problem the following day. Allison had pulled Steve off to the side once they had arrived, waiting until everyone had gone off to sleep.

"I need to tell you something." The blonde mumbled, looking around carefully to make sure no one was around. Steve gave her a subtle nod; the fear never left his eyes after he had found out what Max and Allison had in tow. "My nightmare... the one I woke up screaming from... I saw something." She informed, feeling her heart starting to beat quicker. "I saw... I saw almost exactly what Eddie described happened to Chrissy. The bones cracking, and the eyes... like something had pulled them out."

"What does it mean...? Did you see Chrissy?"

"No... no it wasn't her. And they were flashes. Very brief flashes... but long enough for me to remember. I don't know what it means... but there was something else."

"What?" He quietly inquired, tilting his head as if it would help him hear better. The blonde's eyes darted around before returning to his. "There was someone... or something in my dream. I couldn't see who it was... but I knew it wasn't good. And this thing... it pointed at me... after the flashes. Then I woke up."

"As if it was telling you... you were next?"

"Exactly. I didn't understand, but after last night... and what Max told us... I know now. I haven't had a hallucination yet, so for now, if what we learned is right, I'm in the clear, but Max isn't. We have to do something, for her. As soon as possible."

"We will. We'll figure this out. We always do." He tried to reassure, holding her at her elbow. "One more thing." Allison started as he began to walk towards the basement, halting in his tracks. "Hm?"

"We don't tell anybody that I'm possibly under this Vecna things curse. At least not until the hallucination occurs, unless it's absolutely crucial to the groups knowledge."

"Allie, it is absolutely crucial. Why wouldn't you want them to know?"

"Because they already have enough to stress over. Knowing one life is possibly at stake is more than enough for them to process right now. Max is our absolute priority, promise me?"

"But... but Allison, hallucinations or not, you could be next- and if something happened to you and I'm the only one who knew... I wouldn't know what to do."

"Nothing's going to happen to me, I promise." She held, reaching for his hand to squeeze reassuringly in hers. His eyes dropped to their clasped hands, vaguely shaking his head. "You can't promise that, Al."

"Max is our priority." Allison states firmly, pulling her hand away before descending down the stairs. He was only being logical, and she understood that. But with Max's life on the line, there was no way she'd rest until she knew she'd be safe; no way she'd lose her too.

-

"Uh... okay, be honest. You guys understand any of this?" Steve questions the next morning as he paces back in forth. "No." Lucas and Allison both sighed, flipping through old magazines. "Pretty straightforward." Dustin stated matter-of-factly, earning Steve's agitated attention. "Oh, straightforward, really?"

"Well what's confusing to you? So far, everyone Vecna has cursed has died, except for this old Victor Creel dude Nancy found. He's the only known survivor. If anyone knows how to beat this curse, it's him."

"Yeah, that's assuming he was cursed Henderson, which we don't even know."

"How can Vecna have existed in the '50's? It doesn't even make sense."

"Far as we know, Eleven didn't create the Upside Down. She opened a gate to it. The Upside Down has probably been around for thousands of years. Millions. I wouldn't be surprised if it predated the dinosaurs."

"Dinosaurs? What are we-"

"Okay- but if a gate didn't exist in the '50's, how did Vecna get through?" Lucas inquired, looking from his friend to Steve standing ahead of him. "How's he getting through now?"

"And why now?"

"And why then? Just pops out in the '50's, kills one family, and he's like, "I'm good." And poof, he just disappears. Just... gone? Only to return 30 years later and start killing some random teens? No, I don't buy it. Straightforward, my ass. You know what? Honestly, Henderson, a little humility now and then, it wouldn't hurt you."

"We're all a little stressed here... let's not take it out on each other." Allison groaned, tossing her magazine to the coffee table as she looked between Steve and Dustin. "Sorry." Dustin quickly apologized to Steve, looking down to his hands and Steve sat down in the recliner. The blonde threw her head back, looking up to the ceiling as the boys all looked over at Max. "Any idea what she's writing?" Dustin questioned, gaining Allison's attention. Her hazel eyes darted to the redhead at the back wall, writing away. "Did she sleep?"

"I mean... would you?" Lucas replied with his shoulders low, before being startled like the others at the sound of the basement door opening. Nancy and Robin descended the stairs together, folders in hand. "Okay, so... we have a plan." The Wheeler girl stated, handing one folder to Steve as the others crowded around.

"Thanks to Nancy's newspaper minions, we are now rock-star psychology students at the University of Notre Dame." Robin informed, pulling up a stool to sit on. "I'm now Ruth." Nancy stated, bringing her hands into a clasp. "And I'm Rose."

"Nice GPA." Dustin spoke up as he skimmed over the folder passed to him. "Thanks. So, we called Pennhurst Asylum, told them we'd like to speak with Victor Creel for a thesis we're co-writing on paranoid schizophrenics-"

"To which they said no." Robin added, letting Nancy continue her speech. "But, we landed a three o-clock with the director."

"Now all we have to do is charm him and convince him to let us talk to Victor."

"And then maybe we can rid Max of this curse."

"Yeah... about that. We've been doing our Victor Creel homework, and, uh... we got some questions." Steve chimed in, looking over to Lucas who then said; "Lots of questions."

"So do we. Hopefully, Victor has the answers." Nancy replied, pulling her lips into a thin line. "Wait wait... wait a second. Uh... where's mine?" Steve questioned as he skimmed the folder. "Or mine, for that matter." Allison spoke up, cocking an eyebrow as Nancy opened and closed her mouth. Her and Robin came to a stance, gesturing their heads for the two adults to follow. "We need you, Steve, to watch over the kids... and you... Allie... to watch over him watching over the kids." Nancy informed as they climbed up the stairs, going to Nancy's bedroom.

"They're teens now, and Steve is perfectly capable of that job alone. You do remember that I'm actually studying as a Psychology major... right?" The blonde inquired, furrowing her eyebrows. "Yes, I do. But... it's a two man... woman job."

"Nancy, you're outta your mind if you think I'm babysitting again." Steve chimed in as they entered the brunette's room. "Okay- guys... they're not babies anymore, I know. And Max is in real danger. She needs people around her!"

"I know, but why does it always have to be me?" Steve hastily questioned, pointing at himself. "Oh my god, you have a Tom Cruise poster! You have a Tom Cruise poster." Robin teased Nancy, who was rummaging through her closet. "That's old. It's just... can you please not touch anything?" She called out as Robin began to fiddle with things on her nightstand.

"I can't do anything here, Nance. Maybe I can be helpful with this asylum director dude. I don't know. I could turn on my... my charm."

"Not the charm we need."

"Ouch."

"Okay, well what about me? I'm good at charm." Allison stated, raising her eyebrows at the brunette's. "We know you are... but the look isn't convincing for the part we need to play. That's why I'm finding a new outfit for Robin." Nancy responded, pulling out an outfit. "If we're gonna win him over, we're gonna have to convince him we are too."

"Okay... ouch."

"Your new look is like, totally hot, but it speaks not-from-here and bold. We're trying to be good little girls." Robin reassured before grimacing at her own words. "Never say that again." Allison laughed, cringing at the wording. The look of disgust never left Robin's face as she observed the outfit Nancy had in her hands, groaning almost immediately. "Oh, please tell me that you're joking."

"Nope. Get dressed, we're leaving as soon as possible." Nancy commanded, tossing the clothes to Robin. "Please look out for Max." She finished, ushering the two out of her room so Robin could change. "We will... good luck." Allison sighed, nodding vigorously as she and Steve left the Wheeler girl, and returned to the basement.

-

After the two girls were long gone, the five in the basement resided in silence. Eventually, as Max's writing came to a stop, the other four's attentions landed on her. "I know you guys are staring at me."

"What, sorry?" Steve tried to play it off as Lucas said; "You said you needed something?"

"Just hanging out."

Allison rolled her eyes at the boys' acting, which clearly needed improvement due to how unconvincing and obvious they were. "How you think your eyes boring into the back of my head is protecting me from Vecna? I don't know." The redhead stated, coming to a stance as she crossed the room, stopping in front of the three boys who were acting as if they didn't notice she was right in front of them. Her eyes moved to Allison's, who shook her head with an unimpressed look. "You can look at me now."

"Thank you, sorry." Dustin apologized, along with the other two boys. Max took a step forward, extending envelopes to the four, starting with Allison, ending with Lucas. "For you... for you.. you... and um, you. Oh, and um... give these to Mike, El, and Will... when you see them again." She finished, handing the extra three letters to Allison, who she knew would return to California. When Dustin and Steve began to open them, she extended her palm. "Hey- what are you doing? No, don't- that's not for now. Don't open it now."

"Don't... okay." Dustin replied, placing it down on his lap. "Max... what are these?" Allison spoke up, gentle curiousness in her eyes as she examined the redhead before her. "Yeah... i'm sorry... what is this?" Dustin questioned, adding onto the blonde's confusion. "It's um... it's a fail-safe. For after. If things don't work out."

"Wait- whoa Max, things are gonna work out." Lucas reassured, quickly being shut down by his ex-girlfriend. "No! No, I don't need you to reassure me right now, and tell me it's all gonna work out. Because... people have been telling me that my entire life and it's almost never true. It's never true. I mean, of course this asshole curses me. Should've seen that one coming." Max ranted, inhaling deeply after her speech. The blonde shook her head slowly from her spot as she looked from the letter in her hands to the young girl she had grown to love like a sister in the past year. "Max. You're going to make it."

The blue-eyed girls' eyes glared into her hazel ones following her words as Max too, shook her head. "Did you not hear me?"

"I did. I heard every word. And I'm telling you, you're going to make it. We're not going to let this thing get you. I don't care what we have to do to make it possible, I'll do it."

"Chrissy and Fred are already dead. There's no cure or curse-breaker, which means there's no hope. There's nothing we can do." Max argued, red rising to her cheeks. "Stop saying that."

"Then what am I supposed to say? I'm being logical, not emotional, because that's the only way I can prepare. These letters are the only ways I'm going to be able to say goodbye, because I could die any time now- probably by nightfall. Right now, there is literally nothing we can do... and false hope helps no one."

"You're not hearing me."

"What?"

"I will not lose you. I can't. Not after... not after all of this. I won't watch you die knowing I didn't give my all to make sure you live... not after Billy. I don't care what's at stake, even if it's my life, to make sure you live, but I will do anything and everything I have to, to make sure you do. For him. I owe him that." Allison stammered, voice cracking as she saw tears in Max's eyes no doubt at the mention of her late stepbrother. "You're not dying today, tomorrow, or anytime. We're going to figure this out... we have to." Allison firmly stated, words becoming quieter towards the end as her chest ached. "There's nothing we can do." Max repeated, shaking her head as she blinked back tears, turning around to grab the Cerebro from the table as the blonde held her head in her hands, trying to control her emotions.

"If we go to East Hawkins, will this reach Pennhurst?"

"Of course, yeah." Dustin replied with a nod to the redhead. "Why are we talking about East Hawkins?" Steve questioned as he looked from her to the Henderson boy, holding his hands up defensively. "No. No, No!" He exclaimed, being disregarded by Max as she began to climb the stairs, quickly being followed by the two teen boys. Steve got on his feet, looking over to Allison below, waiting as she stood.

The two followed up the stairs to the front yard, catching up to Max. Steve began to argue with Max as they approached his BMW, to which they all climbed in.

-

After a stop at Max's trailer home, she directed Steve to drive into Roane Hill Cemetery. Steve and Allison exchanged glances in the front seats after she instructed him to turn right, knowing well where they were. This was where everyone in Hawkins was buried, Heather, Bob, Barb, and Billy among them.

Allison hadn't seen their graves since before the two newest deceased ones were buried back in July. She figured this was as good of an opportunity as ever to stop by, knowing Max was thinking the same. When they approached Billy's grave, Lucas and Max both climbed out of the car, exchanging words to one another intensely. The blonde sighed from the passenger seat, looking away from the two teens. She could feel Steve's eyes moving from Max to her, staying un verbal. "I'll be back." The blonde spoke up, reaching for the handle. "Wait whoa- where do you think you're going?" Steve inquired, sitting up in his seat.

"To Heather." She informed, watching as his brown eye's softened. "It's not safe." He warned, trying not to reveal what was her potential impending doom to Dustin, just as she wished. "I'll be okay. Promise. It'll take ten minutes, tops." She reassured, placing a hand on his with a squeeze before opening the door. "Allison-"

"Keep watching over Max." She interrupted, climbing out and shutting the door behind her before he could utter another word. Conveniently, Heather and Billy were buried not too far from one another, maybe a three-minute walk. So, she quickly treaded down the hill, finding herself under a shaded tree where Heather, along with her parents' graves laid buried. None of their bodies were really buried beneath the ground, seeing as they all became that horrifying creature she saw in her nightmares. They were just empty caskets.

The blonde kneeled on the ground, picking a dandelion to place on the gray headstone. For a few seconds, Allison listened to the breeze, watching as the trees swayed with the passing air. Her gaze returned to the ground below, where she planted a palm. "I know you're not really down there... but I hope you're out there... somehow hearing me." She spoke, looking up to her best friend's engraved name. "I wish you were here right now... well, I've always wished you were here with me... so I could tell you about everything. I know you'd make me feel better." The blonde smiled, thinking about memories she'd made from childhood to that past summer.

"I'm back to blonde... just for you. I've grown to love it, because I knew you would too. I uh... I also went to USC. I took up surfing lessons... got a tattoo and pierced my nose. Crazy... right? I've been trying to do all the things I was too afraid to do. We're here for a fun time... not a long time... I've uh... I've learned. You wanted me to live my life... and I wanted you to live vicariously through me... even if you're no longer here.

And it uh... it hasn't been easy, but I'm trying... and things have been really shit... if I'm going to be truthful. I've been going through hell... and I've lied to everyone about it. They all think I've been living my dreams... well, the dreams I had before everything went to shit. But I just... it's still so hard to process everything. I- I keep trying to convince myself that none of this happened... because I can't wrap my head around the fact that I'll never see you again. You're just... gone. All I have left are the memories, and even those are starting to fade... and I'm terrified- and I just feel... empty." She rambled, feeling that familiar burn in her throat as she fisted her hands, hitting them gently against her knees. "Even though it's been eight months... anytime I think of you it gets harder to breath. I... I never thought I'd lose you... I still don't understand why you were roped into this when I tried so hard to keep you out of it. I know it's not my fault, I do. But fuck, does it hurt to know that I'll have to remember you longer than I've known you, and I hold on to that pain, because it's all I have left of you, Heth."

Her eyes moved to the sky as tears burned within them, begging to break the surface as she clutched the gold locket around her neck. "I miss you so, so fucking much." She whispered as a tear cascaded down her cheek. A warm breeze caressed her as it passed; her eyes shut tight as she rested a hand on the gravestone, feeling the coolness of it under her touch. "I more often than not wish I could be with you again... and I uh... I might get that chance."

Her fingers wiped the tear from her cheek as she inhaled and exhaled slowly, resting her hands on her knees. "I don't know if you can see what's been happening here... but if you have... then I'm sure you know that Max is next, and that I'm hoping by some miracle that this Vecna bastard picks me instead. I don't necessarily want to die... but if it means no one else has to... then it is what it is. I'm willing to do what has to be done... and knowing I could see you, and Billy again- everyone we've lost... it doesn't sound so bad. I love you always." She uttered, dropping her head to look to the ground, feeling shame for saying what she had. As the breeze blew, whistling as it reverberated from friction, it was almost as if she could hear a feminine voice shout 'no.'

Her eyebrows threaded together as she raised her head, looking around her surroundings. It was quiet for a moment as she listened intently, before the sound of shouting coming from afar. The blonde came to a stance at this, beginning to walk back in the direction of Steve's car. As she came closer, the shouts were unmistakably uttering 'Max.' She was running in an instant, cursing under her breath at what was ahead. As she progressed up the hill, above Steve's car she could see the three boys standing in a semi-circle, looking up to the sky as frantic and panicked yells came from their mouths. Only when Allison drew near enough could she see Max floating above, eyes up to the sky.

Absolute horror shivered through the Byers girls' body as she raced up the final hill, eyes wide at the scene. "What the hell happened?" She exclaimed, halting below the redhead hovering several feet above her. "He has her!" Dustin screamed, still jumping like the others in an attempt to somehow reach her. "I can fucking see that!" She shouted back, looking fearfully above. She too began to shout for Max, hoping their frantic pleas would redirect her from this trance.

Before she could process, the Mayfield girl was falling straight down from the sky, crashing down harshly. Lucas scrambled to hold her in his arms as the others reached for her, observing her as she hyperventilated, clasping onto Lucas desperately as terror resided in her traumatized eyes. "It's okay. It's okay. I thought we lost you." Lucas cried, resting his head against hers as he held her close. "I'm still he... I'm still here." She uttered through her panicked breathing, holding onto Lucas just as tight. The blonde, along with Dustin, rested her hand on the girl below as they lowered their heads, thankful that she was still alive.

Even if it were only for a short time.

Chapter Text

"You said you were going to be ten minutes." Steve mumbled to Allison as he ran his shaking fingers through his disheveled hair, biting down hard on his bottom lip. Dustin and Lucas were comforting Max in the Wheelers basement, sitting on the couch on both sides of her as the Sinclair boy rubbed her shoulders, cradling her head in the crevice of his neck. The two adults stood by the stairs as Robin and Nancy conversed with the teens, being filled in on what had happened back at the cemetery.

"I'm sorry- I got carried away." The blonde replied, keeping her eyes trained on the shaken redhead. "It could've just as easily been you- and we wouldn't have been able to help."

"But it wasn't." Allison sighed, moving her gaze to the boy beside her. Her eyes fell to his shaking hands that he had in fists, thumbs nervously twitching. She reached down, cautiously holding her hands over his. "It wasn't me. And you saved Max. All three of you- we know the key now."

"But it's not the solution, she's still cursed. You're still cursed. What's to say he won't come for you next?"

"I'd say he can try, but we're one step ahead."

"Hardly, Al. We have to tell the others- we're dealing with something bigger than before, and we have almost zero knowledge on how to stop it. We have no clue what else he's capable of... we only just got a glimpse. We can't afford to be selfless... not now... please agree with me."

"Do you honestly think telling them that they have to worry about more than one life right now is the best thing?"

"It doesn't matter what we think is best... it's what's right."

"I'm sorry that I scared you back at the graveyard... but I- I think we should give it time."

"We might not have time, Allie."

"Hey, you two- care to share what you're whispering about over there?" Robin called out, drawing their attentions. Everyone's eyes were on them, and Steve's were on Allison's- pleading. "Nothing. Just figuring things out." Allison smiled, earning a repressed grunt from Steve as he dragged his hand down his face in frustration. "Okay... well we're all pretty exhausted and would like to sleep without hearing you go back and forth."

"We didn't realize you were trying to rest, sorry." The blonde apologized, taking her own spot on the floor before being passed a blanket from Lucas. Steve found a spot in a chair, propping his legs atop the desk as he warily watched Allison rest her head on the floor. He didn't understand why she wouldn't want anyone to know her life was at stake, or how not telling anyone would help, but he couldn't bring himself to go against her wishes. He just prayed nothing would happen, leaving him with the guilt of knowing he never spoke up.

-

Her breathing was shaky as she stared ahead, watching the dark blue-sky flash with red. It was cold, wherever she was. Her eyes darted around her surroundings as echoing screams and unearthly sounds came from the distance, behind the tall, charred trees.

Her fingers balled into fists before she felt the wetness of them; slowly, her eyes lowered to her hands, breath hitching as she observed them covered in a dark crimson. But the blood wasn't just on her hands, it was on her clothes, and the ground. Her hands desperately wiped against her stained clothes in attempt to wipe away the blood before strained whimpers came from behind, obtaining her attention. She was scared to see what was below, but terrified when she actually saw it.

Steve was laid out on the ground, open wounds pooling with blood covering his body. His eyes were clouded, staring straight to the sky. Her voice called out his name, but it was as if he couldn't hear her. She tried to move forward, to fall to his side, but her feet wouldn't let her move.

It was unbearable to see him this way- suffering. Why the blood was on her hands left her clueless; was it his? Had she done this? Her bottom lip trembled as she swiftly turned, heart dropping as an eyeless version of herself stood in front of her, clasping a tightened hand around her throat.

This deranged version of herself was sopping wet with strange dark lines moving underneath her skin; though she had no eyes, they burned right into her as her head tilted, opening her mouth. "Comply." Was all she said as black liquid poured from her mouth. With one blink, terror rose within the blonde as a new figure stood before her, towering above, face twisting with anger as his grip tightened around her throat. "Or your fear... becomes reality."

~

The Byers girl jolted awake, finding Steve's firm hands on her upper arms. A sigh of relief slipped from her lips as she saw the boy before her, alive and untouched. She let her head hit the floor below, shutting her eyes tightly as she took deep breaths. "It sounded like you couldn't breath-" Steve whispered, looking over his shoulder to the stairs. "Was it another nightmare?"

The hazel-eyed girl moved herself to where she was sitting up-right, palms on the floor. "I don't know." She uttered as she vaguely shook her head, still looking a bit out of it. "Can Vecna visit you in your dreams?" She questioned, eyes meeting his concerned ones. "You- you saw him?"

"I don't know, but this didn't feel like a nightmare."

"Allison, we have to tell the others."

"I know- I know Steve. Where are they?"

"Upstairs, we're about to go to the Creel house to find answers, I came down to wake you."

"Why the Creel house?"

"Max drew it... said it was what she saw when she was in her trance."

"I need to talk to her." Allison stated, quickly coming to a stance, Steve at tow as they climbed the stairs quickly. The others were all gathered around the kitchen table, turning when the basement door opened hastily. "Wow, we thought you'd never wake." Dustin joked, receiving a shake of Steve's head. The blonde greeted Ted and Karen Wheeler in the kitchen before approaching the others, keeping her focus on Max. "I need to talk to you."

The redhead's eyebrows threaded together as she moved her headphones to the side. "All of them." Steve firmly said from behind, earning a side eye from the blonde. No backing out now. "I need you to describe Vecna to me." The blonde requested, pulling out a chair to sit in front of her. "Okay... uhm, he was tall... gray eyes... no nose... he has these things- like veins, or tentacles... all around his neck and body. His fingers are long, sharp. Basically, a walking nightmare." Max revealed, her face remaining serious. Allison's eyes moved to Steve's standing beside her, who raised an eyebrow, asking without words whether that was who she saw. In return, the blonde slowly nodded, biting down on her lip as she returned her gaze to the girl in front of her.

"Did you see him in your nightmares?" She inquired, receiving a shaking head. "No... just in the hallucinations and trance." The Mayfield girl replied, looking down to her Walkman. "Wait... why?" Nancy questioned from behind the redhead, her arms crossed as she looked from her friend to ex-boyfriend. She clearly knew there was something the two were keeping from them. Allison's hazel eyes met Steve's yet again, who vaguely nodded his head, reassuring her that it was right to tell them.

She shook her head as her eyes darted from his to the window to the right of her, then to Nancy. "I'm pretty sure he just came to me, in my dream." She revealed, watching as the group shifted nervously. "The description was dead on."

"What- what happened?" Dustin inquired, taking a step closer to the blonde as Max's attention returned to the girl before her. "He pretended to be me. I saw myself... without eyes- deranged... not human. And whoever it was said 'comply.'" Allison explained, looking around to each of her friends. "And then it was him. He was choking me... and said my fear would become reality if I didn't." She finished, trying not to look at Steve as the image of his almost lifeless body played behind her eyes. "I don't know if it was a warning... hallucination... or just a dream... but this one wasn't like the others."

"The others? What aren't you telling us?" Nancy inquired, her eyebrows threading together. Allison's eyes closed as she fisted her hands in her lap. "Max isn't the only one that's cursed."

Max sat up as the room went silent as their eyes all burned on her. "You- you've been having the nightmares, headaches-"

"Trouble sleeping, yep." Allison interrupted Nancy, pulling her lips into a thin line. "How long has this been going on?" The Wheeler girl inquired; sadness written on her face. "The nightmares have been happening since after... you know. But the rest started the day I got here." The blonde replied, earning a shake of the brunette's head. "Why didn't you tell us?"

"Because I thought I was going to be okay, but now you all know. Let's go to the damn house and do what we need to do." She impatiently said, not wanting to waste their time talking about why or why not's. Time might not be on their side anymore, and Max was still her priority. She came to a stance, waving her hand to motion for the others to follow.

-

"What exactly are we supposed to be looking for in this shithole?" Steve questioned after pulling nails out from the board sealed against the Creel houses' front door, with the help of Nancy on the other side. "We're not sure. We just know this house is important to Vecna." The Wheeler girl informed, glancing back to the others waiting. "Because Max saw it in Vecna's red mind world?"

"Basically."

"Great." Steve sighs, continuing to extract the nails. "Maybe it holds a clue to where Vecna is. Why he's back. Why he killed the Creels. And how to stop him before he comes back for Max, or goes for Allison." Dustin chimed in from below, earning a nod of the head from Robin. "We don't think he's in here, do we?" Lucas inquired with caution in his voice, looking to the oldest ones in the group for reassurance. "Guess we'll find out." Max replies, subtle curiosity on her face. With that, Nancy and Steve pulled the board down, letting it fall as dust flew with it.

After breaking the window with a brick, the group moved inside the dark home. It was dust filled and vacant, and the eerie silence unsettled them all. They broke off into groups, going their separate ways to find some sort of answer. Allison went off with Steve and Dustin, but split once they entered the upstairs bathroom.

The house just felt off, in itself. Wind passed through cracks in the withering walls as creaks uttered from the floorboards where she stepped. Chills scattered around her skin whilst goosebumps rose on her arms as she came to a stop, trying to listen to the silence. She stood next to the stairwell, carefully looking over the railings to the floor below. Even though she knew her friends were around, it felt like she was alone. The silence was beyond unsettling as she turned to her left, looking into a cracked mirror. Her breathing became heavy as she stared back at herself through the glass, recalling the distorted version of herself in her nightmare.

When her thoughts began to worsen, the two light fixtures on both sides of the mirror began to glow with orange light, flickering as her eyebrows furrowed. Her focus was dead set on them as they became brighter, flooding the once dark space with warmness. She had no clue what was happening, given when they were all downstairs, they discovered the lights didn't work; so how was there light now?

From the other side of the wall, she heard glass shattering, drifting her focus from the lights to the mirror, where she saw herself eyeless yet again. She jolted, retreating away from the mirror before Steve slammed straight into her, moving his hands quickly all over his body. She gasped before backing away, staring back into his frightened eyes. "What's wrong?" The blonde questioned, cautiously eyeing him. "There was a spider- a black widow-" He breathlessly said, moving to shut the bathroom door. "Don't go in there."

"Okay..." Allison stated, examining the cobwebs in his hair as he turned. Her hands went to his hair, retracting the webbed silk carefully. "Hold on-"

"What? What's in my hair? Cobwebs!?" He inquired, moving back to the mirror she had just been staring in. "Wait- I'm trying to get it out. Stop moving."

"Sorry." He apologized, halting his movement to allow his friend to fish out the webs. "Got it." She claimed, taking a step back as he turned. Whilst he thanked her, Robin and Nancy entered the room, likely from hearing the commotion. "If there's a spider, you're never gonna find it till it lays eggs and the babies spill out." The Buckley girl humorously informs, earning a grin from Nancy and Allison as Steve questioned; "What's wrong with you? Robin, seriously."

The short haired girl only chuckled, walking away with Nancy on her tail as they continued to search. "She's got problems." Steve whispered to the blonde, his panicked eyes calming as they rested on hers. "It was kind of funny though, seeing your reaction, at least."

Steve shook his head, attempting to hide a smile, only making Allison smile more. The two gazed into each other's eyes for a few seconds, both calm in their shared presence, just like old times. "We should-" Both of them started at the same time, stopping their sentences in unison before laughing. "Go ahead." Allison spoke, gesturing for him to finish. "I was just gonna say we should, uh, get back to the investigation.... the obvious things are not what people observe- or, do... don't observe... or... Sherlock Holmes." Steve rambled, cheeks reddening as he watched Allison's pupils dilating as her smile only grew; and god did he love that smile. Her lips parted to speak, though she struggled to find the words, but Steve just walked right past her. She let out a confused laugh, still unsure what he was going on about.

-

After being alerted by Max and Lucas, everyone had regrouped, standing in a semi circle, staring up at a flickering chandelier; just like Allison had seen earlier. "It's like the Christmas lights." Nancy whispered, eyes trained on the warm glow filling the darkened room as the electrical hum surrounded. "The Christmas lights?" Robin inquired, unsure of what the Wheeler girl was talking about. "When Will was in the Upside Down, the lights... came to life."

"Vecna's here, in this house... just on the other side." Lucas added, bringing uneasiness to the group. The room went dark as the lights flickering came to an end; "I think he just left the room." The Buckley girl addressed, distressed by the silence. "Did he hear us?" Max questioned, followed by Steve asking: "Can he see us?"

"Headphones." Lucas called out to Max, who nodded, bringing her headphones to her ears and beginning to play her safety song; something Allison realized she didn't have, something that left her vulnerable. "Wait, wait. Everyone, turn off your flashlights and spread out." Nancy instructed, quickly dispersing from the group. The others followed ensuite, though Steve stood in place. "We're not gonna be able to see if we turn off our flash...lights. Jesus Christ."

The blonde moved up the stairs as the others wandered around the bottom floor. She found herself in front of the same mirror, staring intently to see if anything might change. Robin's shouts from below startled her, but soon enough the others were upstairs along with her, following Steve's lead as his flashlight glowed. "I lost him." Steve sighed as the light gave out; the blonde noticed an orange glow coming from below a shut door. "No, you didn't." She said, stepping towards the door before pulling it open, revealing another narrow flight of stairs.

The others were planted in their spots, so Allison stepped up the stairs, leaving them with no choice but to follow. "Hold up, guys- what if he's leading us into a trap? Guys?" Dustin called to the six, being ignored by all. One bulb hanging from the attic ceiling hummed before the flashlights joined, being addressed by Dustin. The seven formed a circle around the bulb, moving their gazes from it to their flickering hand-held lights. "Okay... what's happening?" Steve quietly questioned with a sing-songy voice, nervously glancing at his friends.

The beams only grew brighter and hummed louder, building tension until one by one, their flashlight bulbs burst in their faces, followed by the dangling light. Glass shards flew around as they were left in darkness, leaving them with the knowledge that something was very, very wrong.

Chapter Text

"We need to know what it is... in case." Steve spoke quietly to the blonde as Robin pulled out his families cassette collection. After the encounter at the Creel house, and odd mutual feeling of time running short, the group had urged Allison to take safety measures like Max had, to be better prepared. Though Allison didn't own a Walkman, Steve had; with a trip to his house after departing from the Creel house, the three were sent to obtain it, along with overnight bags since they figured staying together was better.

Allison inhaled and exhaled deeply, unable to choose a song. Music had once been a muse, but it wasn't any longer. Sure, she'd listen to Molly's favorite music like Billy Idol or Metallica, but she entertained herself through other ways. "I don't have one, honestly. I know that doesn't help our case..."

"Well... you're kinda gonna need one." Robin uttered, realizing that it had come off more pessimistic than intended. "I meant-"

"I know what you're trying to say, it's okay. Let me look through the box... maybe I'll find something." The Byers woman suggests, kneeling to the ground as the other two back away to give her some space. Albums from several different years pile inside the cardboard box, some unknown to the blonde searching through them. It takes maybe thirty minutes before she stares at one singular cassette in her right hand, her fingers slightly tightening around it.

"This one." She states, coming to a stance as the other two met at her side, looking down to the compact tape. "Alphaville?" Robin questions, her eyebrows furrowing. The blonde nods in return, taking the extended Walkman from Steve's outstretched hands. His brown eyes meet hers with an offered smile, being unsurprised that Forever Young had been the one.

-

"Not to be a wimp, but can I sit in the car for this visit? Cause this is gonna totally and royally suck." Robin questions from the passenger seat, directing her gaze to Nancy driving beside her. "It'll be fine." The Wheeler girl states, keeping her eyes ahead. "I just can't stand to see those dull eyes of Eddie's break again. I really, really can't."

"At least he can drink himself into feeling better." Steve adds with his mouth full of chips, holding the pack of beers up, which Allison had been eyeing the whole car ride. "That's what my mom does." Max quips, clearly disheartened about it, knowing Billy had done the same. "Why don't we just give it a trial run? 'Hey Eddie. Uh, good news first this time. We got you some Dustin approved junk food and that six-pack that you requested. Oh yeah, and we found Vecna. Only bad news is that he's in the other, darker, much scarier dimension that we told you about and the gate's closed, so we have no way of getting to him. Like, he's entirely shut off to us, so basically you're screwed- and, no, I know you were already screwed, but now you're like doubly, triply screwed." Robin rambles, her voice raising as her words become more passive-aggressive.

"Okay wait, maybe we don't put it like that." Lucas chimes in. "We're one step closer to finding Vecna. That's what we say. That's what's important." Nancy adds, keeping her eyes directed on the road as the others nod in agreement. "See, Robin? Positive spin can make all the difference." Steve speaks up from the back seat with a mouth full of pringles, earning an eyeroll from his friend.

As they pull up to where Eddie has been hiding, their stomachs sink at the sight of a crowd formed around the house, news reporters and police among them. With an eavesdropping of what Officer Powell was announcing, they knew they were in deep shit. Patrick McKinney, one of Lucas's teammates had died, having fallen victim to Vecna's curse. That was three down. The blonde took a sharp inhale, glancing nervously over to the redhead beside her, who watched as Powell held up a picture of Eddie, framing him for all of it.

"This is not good. This is really not good." Steve muttered, shaking his head subtly. "No shit." Allison retorted, her heart beginning to pick up in pace. "Dustin, can you hear me? Wheeler?" Eddie's voice comes through Dustin's cerebro, earning the attention of the group members. "Eddie? Holy shit are you okay?"

"Nah man. Pretty... pretty goddamn far from okay."

"Where are you?"

"Skull Rock. Do you know it?"

"Uh, yeah. That's near Cornwallis and-" Dustin begins, being cut off by Steve; "Garrett, yeah. I know where that is." He's off in a speed walk before Eddie can reply, and the others follow on his tail.

-

"Dude, I'm telling you, you're taking us the wrong way." Steve sighs down at Dustin beside the blonde, whilst the others follow farther back. "It's north. I'm positive. I checked the map."

"You do realize that Skull Rock is like a super popular make-out spot?"

"Yeah. So?"

"Yeah, well, it wasn't popular until I made it popular. All right? I practically invented it. We're heading in the wrong direction."

"You invented it? Bullshit." Allison scoffed, shaking her head as the two boys look at her with questionable looks. "Bullshit? What do you mean bullshit?"

"You taking all the credit for it as if I wasn't there the first time."

"Okay so you were there too. But... never mind. Ah, see! Skull rock. There she is, Henderson. In your face, man. In your stupid cocky little face." He boasts, gesturing to the large rock ahead. "I'm going to need you to elaborate with what you were trying to say, I'm curious."

"Yeah Steve, proceed." Dustin instigated, quirking his eyebrow with crossed arms, salty about the passive aggressive comments that had just been thrown at his face. "I just... I took girls here after you and I broke up... then it became a thing."

"What Steve here is failing to tell you is that he's a manwhore." Allison quipped, earning a stifled laugh from the Henderson boy, and Steve's jaw slacking. "Did you just call me a manwhore?"

"Am I wrong?"

"Not at all." A new voice chimes in from beside the blonde, startling her as she whipped around, meeting face to face with Eddie again. His doe brown eyes dropped to the blonde's hand across her quick beating heart; "Sorry I scared you, sweetheart."

"Jesus, we thought you were a goner!" Dustin sighed in relief, wrapping his arms around his older friend as Steve joined at Allison's side. She had been taken by surprise at his little nickname for her, and realized Steve was too by the way he glared at the Munson boy. Her elbow nudged into his ribs slightly, mouthing 'relax' as the others came.

The black maned boy nodded Steve and Allison's way, receiving one from both in return. The six-pack and food were passed off to the Munson boy, and he was quick to dive in, having gone without sustenance for a while. "When I got to the shore, I tried calling you guys, but, uh... my walkie was busted, man. Drenched. So, uh, I did the thing that I do now, apparently. I ran." Eddie explained, chuckling with open hands though it was obvious he wasn't too happy about it. "Do you know what time this was? The attack?" Nancy inquired as Dustin paced back and forth behind all of them. "Yeah, no, I... I know exactly what time it was. My walkie wasn't the only thing that got soaked." He stated, taking his watch off before tossing it into the Wheeler girls' hands. "9:27."

"Same time our flashlights went kablooey." Robin brought to attention, followed by Steve saying, "Which means what, exactly?"

"That that surge of energy was Vecna attacking Patrick."

"Well, we're one step closer. We know how Vecna attacks." Allison stated, sticking her hands into her jean pockets, thumbs left out. "And where he attacks from." Lucas added on, followed by Max questioning; "So now we just need to sneak into his lair in the Upside Down and drive a stake through his heart."

"If he even has a heart." The Buckley girl jokes. "A stake? Is he like a vamp? Is he a Vampire?" Steve inquires, concern in his tone. "It was a metaphor, Steve." The blonde mumbles to him, trying not to embarrass him in front of the whole group. "Oh."

"A bullet should work on him, right?" Eddie questions, looking towards Steve, as if he was the one who used guns. "I say we chop his head off." Lucas chimes in, his hands on his hips just like Steve would do. "Yeah- I'd say all of the above, but we can't do any of that until we find a way into the Upside Down." The Wheeler girl reasons, pulling her lips into a thin line as she tries to think of a solution to their dilemma.

"We need El to get her powers back." Max adds, looking slightly agitated. "Everything was way easier. We had this girl, she had superpowers-" Steve began, being cut off by Eddie; "Superpowers. Yeah, you mentioned her..." He starts, looking towards the blonde as he recalled the conversation from before. "I didn't know you had a stepsister, Al."

"It's only been for a couple years, but we can't always be dependent on those, though. It just drains her, and nearly killed her too many times to count. And this Vecna guy is something entirely new... we don't even know what his fullest capabilities are. I'd rather her be safe all the way across the country than here. Hawkins has taken enough from her." Allison explained, keeping her tone gentle as she tried not to make it seem condescending.

"But her friends are here... we, are here. The only way we get through this is together." Max replied, keeping her arms crossed and face serious. "You're right, but is putting her in danger when she can't put up a fight with possibly the most powerful thing we've encountered a wise idea?"

"Was hiding that you're also cursed a good idea?" The redhead retorted, watching Allison's face change from gentle to guilt-ridden. "I'm sorry." She quickly apologized, hands dropping from their crossed position. "No, it's fine. I shouldn't have hidden that from you guys. Steve kept telling me to tell you... and I just... I don't know why I thought it was better if you didn't know."

The look in Max's eyes showed "I understand" as clearly as imaginable, pulling a string in Allison's heart. "Wait... you're-" The black maned boy drawled from his squatting position, doe eyes looking apologetically up towards the blonde. "Yeah, great, right?"

He looked as if he wanted to ask her a question, to ask why, but he decided against it. His eyes moved behind her, landing on the pacing Henderson boy. "Hey, uh, Henderson's not, uh, cursed too, is he?"

"Cursed? No, no. He's fine. Mental? Absolutely." Steve joked, though his tone remained very serious. "Boom! Bada... bada... boom. I was right. Skull rock was north." Dustin shouted, startling all seven of his friends. "Seriously? You're serious?" The Harrington boy rolled his eyes, receiving a nod of approval. "This is Skull rock! Okay? You're totally, absolutely 100% wrong. Right now."

"Yes. And no."

"Oh my God."

"This compass worked correctly when we left the Wheelers. It was correct when he got in the car on Curly, but it started to slip the further east we went. Now, it's way off. When I was leading us here, I wasn't wrong. The compass was."

"So you're using faulty equipment. Dude you're still wrong!"

"Except it isn't faulty. Lucas, remember what can affect a compass?"

"An electromagnetic field." The Sinclair boy pointed, remembering clearly. "Yep. In the presence of a stronger electromagnetic field, the needle will deflect towards that power. So either there's some super big magnet around here, or-"

"There's a gate."

"But we're nowhere near the lab." Nancy stated, her eyebrows threading together much like the other confused teens. "But, what if, somehow, there's another gate? A gate that we don't know about. It'd have to be smaller. Way less powerful. Something is causing this disturbance, and the last time we've seen anything like it, it was a gate. And I hope it is because then we'd have a way to Vecna, and a shot at freeing Max and Allison from this curse." Dustin finished before turning around, and heading off. "Where are you going? Hey! Eddie's still a wanted man. We can't just go for a hike in the woods." Steve called out, drawing the Henderson boys' attention. "This little steel capsule might be the key to saving not only Max and Allison, but Eddie too. What say you, Eddie the Banished?"

The forest goes silent as all attention is drawn towards the pondering Munson boy. "I say you're asking me to follow you into Mordor, which, if I'm totally straight with you, I think is a really bad idea. But uh, the Shire... the Shire is burning." He comes to a stance as Dustin hops up and down like a toddler. "So Mordor it is."

-

The eight stood at the edge of Lovers Lake in the darkness of the forest, staring out in unsettling silence. "So... there's a gate in Lover's Lake?" Allison inquired, staring out into the dark waters. "Whenever the Demogorgon attacked, it always left an opening. Maybe Vecna's the same way." Nancy reasoned, turning to face her hazel-eyed friend. "Yeah, only one way to find out." Steve sighed as the group all filed towards the boat awaiting. The two oldest boys yanked the tarp off, crouching down to help the older teen girls in. Robin stepped in first, using their heads as stabilizers, followed by Allison, who took the extended hands of both boys, carefully stepping in and over towards the Buckley girl. Eddie stood and climbed in next, followed by Nancy. Dustin started making his way over, prepared to step in before Eddie held him with his palm against Dustin's head. "Hey, hey, hey, you trying to sink us? This thing holds four people tops, okay?"

"It's better this way, okay? You guys stay here with Max. Keep an eye out for trouble." Nancy suggested, noting the offended look on the curly haired boy's face. "You keep an eye out! It's my goddamn theory."

"You heard Nance." Robin commanded, only furthering Dustin's frustration. "Who put her in charge?"

"I did."

"Compass?" Nancy held out her hand, having it be reluctantly passed by the Henderson boy. Steve tossed a backpack into his younger friends arms before kicking the boat away from shore, and climbing in next to the Munson boy. "You said four!"

"Sorry." Steve whispered, shrugging with a small wave as Eddie and Robin began to row them away. "Bedtime at nine, kiddos! Miss you already!" She called out, waving off to them.

When they rowed far enough out to the point the compass was freaking out, they came to a stop. Steve came to a stance, causing the boat to slightly sway. "Steve, what are you doing?" Allison inquired, looking up at him with concern as he began kicking his shoes off. "Somebody's gotta go down and check this out. Unless one of you can top being a Hawkins High swim co-captain, and a certified lifeguard for three years, then... it's gotta be me. No complaints, all right?"

"Hey, I'm not complaining. I do not wanna go down there." Eddie mumbles as Allison stares up at the Harrington boy, who's yellow sweater was being pulled over his head. "Can we think this out for a second?" Her voice comes out small as her eyes drop to the pitch-black water ripples. The thought of being underwater, unable to see anything around her was terrifying; especially if there was a gate below.

Steve turns around to face the hazel-eyed girl, his eyes soft as he crouches down. He hesitates for a second before taking her hands in his, eyes locked on hers. "Do you trust me?"

"I trust you with my life, Steve. I'm not so sure I trust you with yours." She admitted, receiving a small laugh from him. "I'll be fine."

"Right." She nodded, squeezing his hands after he had done the same. "Hey, good luck." Eddie wishes as he passes a plastic-bag wrapped flashlight to the Harrington boy, who thanks him in return. As he draws closer to the edge, propping his foot on the ledge, the blonde reaches up to his arm, gently grasping it from her sitting position. Those delicate eyes rest on hers again, and he notes the genuine fear, or worry, within her hazel eyes. "Be careful." She breathes, receiving a nod from him in return. "I'll be back before you know it." He reassures, as she nods, removing her hold. The other three teens watched the transaction, exchanging glances to one another.

With a splash, Steve had dived under, leaving the four in silence. The blonde heard a lighter click from behind her, gaining her attention quickly. Eddie took a drag from his cigarette before puffing out smoke, holding it between his dirtied fingers. "So... you and Steve still, huh?"

She leaned forward, taking the cigarette from his hand, taking a drag from it herself. His eyebrows raised in surprise, much like her two friends. "It's a long story."

"We've got time."

"I think you underestimate what I mean by long." She sighed, taking another drag before passing it back to him. "Since when do you smoke?" Nancy inquired with furrowed brows. "Since college... is it that big of a deal?" Allison replied upon seeing the disapproval on her friends face. "No- it's just... I remember you telling me how much you hated when Billy smoked." She cautiously said, slightly regretting it as she, along with the other two teens, watched the blonde's face sadden. Eddie was out of the loop, but he had known of the two being together the year prior. It wasn't important to his life, nor relevant since he maintained distance from the popular crowd, so he hadn't gotten the details on what had happened, besides knowing of Billy's fate, along with Heathers.

"I did hate it. But it was his decision, you know?" Allison quietly said, looking down to the water. "Those things are death sticks." Robin icked, taking it from Eddie's fingers and tossing it into the abyss. The blonde smiled to herself as she recalled those words being almost exactly what she said to Billy. "I know." She mumbled, turning to face Nancy. "Where are we at Nance?"

"Closing in on a minute."

"Okay." The blonde breathed out, redirecting her gaze to the water below, knee bouncing as she waited for Steve to come up. After almost another minute of silence, Steve breaks through the surface, startling all three teens as Eddie yells a panicked, 'Christ!'

"I found it." Steve breathlessly tells, swimming over to hang his arms over the boat's ledge. "Dustin, you are a goddamn Einstein." Robin spoke through the Cerebro with a grin, though they received no reply. The Harrington boy placed his hand over Allison's, where it rested on the ledge before he began to inform them of his discoveries. "I told you I'd be back... this gate though, it's pretty wild. It's more of a snack-sized gate than the mama gate, but still, it's pretty damn big-" He was unable to continue his sentence after something beneath the surface tugged at his legs, causing the three in the boat to sit up right. A few more seconds passed as Steve looked with confusion up to the blonde before he was dragged under; his hand quick to slip off of hers. They were all screaming for him as the boat began to sway.

Adrenaline coursed through Allison's veins as she heard her friends shouting for Steve beside her, but all she could notice was the pounding of her heart, and how it reverberated in her ears. Utter fear dwelled within her as she stared down at the darkness. The fear that prevented her from continuing her surfing lessons rose; the flashes of a flayed Billy shoving her head in an overflowing sink, watching his eyes morph from his own into a monster's.

But this wasn't Starcourt, nor was this Billy. This was Steve; The love she had for him outweighed that fear, and as if it was instinct, all she knew was that she needed to go after him, disregarding how her heart was racing. Her shaking hands tugged the hems of her sweater over her head before someone's hand grasped her forearm as she leaned forward, pulling her back. "What are you doing?!" Robin shouted as she held firmly onto her friend, horror in her eyes. Allison looked from her to Eddie and Nancy, seeing the fear that all dwelled within them. "Under." She uttered, ripping her arm away as she heard her name being shouted before she dove through the surface, descending into the darkness.

Chapter Text

Cold and utter darkness was all that surrounded Allison. She felt her legs kicking behind her as she used her hands to propel downwards, but everything was black. That familiar panic set in as the oxygen slowly lessened in her lungs; her throat and chest feeling as if they were tightening- crushing, rather. The pressure in her head only grew as she dove farther down, and just when she thought about letting that panic take over, a red light emitted from below.

With complete determination, she willed her body to keep moving, trying her best to hold onto the idea of getting to Steve on the other side. Her fingers touched the pulsing red oval as she reached it; vines quickly slithered around her arms, pulling her through. She broke through the surface, though she was thrown upwards, landing down on the cold, hard ground harshly. Screams that paralyzed her came from the distance as her eyes searched around, finding a struggling form not too far away.

She knew who it was just by the screams, but seeing the swarm of bat-like creatures instilled a new fear. Her nightmare of his bloodied body flash behind her eyes. He had the exact wounds, and exact position. They ripped ruthlessly at his skin as one choked him by its tail; he squirmed around, but it proved to be useless against them. Her hazel eyes darted around, finding a wooden oar beside him. It may have been careless, but she trudged forward, firmly gripping her makeshift weapon before swinging it, knocking one of the creatures away. When she went for another, the first began to fly back her way quickly, swiveling around her swinging oar as it scratched her arm with a screech. Through a sharp inhale, she swung again, hitting it harshly away once more. When she turned to help Steve, relief flooded her upon seeing her other three, completely drenched friends.

In unison, they were knocking away the attacking bats, Nancy getting dragged whilst Allison's oar broke in the process. Luckily, Steve was given the opportunity to bite into the bat's tail before it released its chokehold. The blonde broke her splintered oar in two, tossing the paddle end away as the handle end had been stake-like. Ducking away from a soaring creature, it attempted to rip at her hair, failing as she dodged it. It was quick to turn around and head straight for her, but she had been one step ahead. Its claws went straight for her face, but her left palm grasped it's for-facing body in her outstretched hand, ignoring the stinging that was caused by the surface of her flesh slicing open before she plunged the sharp end straight through its wiggling body, screeching out in pain before going limp in a matter of seconds.

Her attention was brought to Steve, who was slamming one of the creatures down onto the ground repeatedly before stepping onto its wing, ripping it in half as he spit blood from his mouth, tossing the bat away like it was nothing. He looked to her with gratitude, along with the others as they rushed over to him. "Are- are you okay?" Allison stammered as she gently rested her hands on his biceps, turning him to face her. She observed his torn sides, wincing at the sight. "Well, they took about a pound of flesh. But other than that, yeah, never better."

She looked him over from back to front once more as she let out a relieved sigh, knowing his humor was still intact. "I'd hug you right now if you weren't injured because I am incredibly relieved that you're okay." She smiled, earning one in return. As his lips parted to speak, Robin interjected; "Uh, do you guys think these bats have, like, rabies?"

"What?"

"It's just that rabies are, like, my number one greatest fear. And I think we should get you to a doctor soon because once symptoms are set in, it's too late. You're already like, dead." She rambled before distance screeching echoed from afar, drawing all five teens attention's. Beyond the blue atmosphere, where the sky flashed hues of red and pink, a swarm of more bat creatures came close, landing in formation to block the portal.

"There's not that many... we can take them... right?" Steve inquired, only receiving shakes of the other's heads as more bats began to come. "The woods- come on!" Nancy shouted, setting off into a sprint; the others following in suit. They ran until they made it to Skull Rock, perching beneath the large boulders as they watched the swarm of bats overhead pass. Once it was clear, they began to stand, ready to head off. Grunts came from behind the blonde, drawing her attentive attention. Steve had fallen against one of the boulders, having been losing a substantial amount of blood. The blonde was at his side in an instant, though he reassured her that he was fine. "No- you need some pressure on this. It's too much blood, sit." She instructed, sliding one hand to hold his elbow as the other held his opposite shoulder, helping him to a sitting position slowly. He grunted in pain, clutching at his injured sides that oozed a dark crimson.

"It's okay, you're okay." She reassured in return, reaching for the hem of her white tank top, ripping a strip from the bottom, revealing her abdomen. "So, the good news is I'm pretty sure wooziness is not a symptom of rabies. But um, if you start having hallucinations or muscle spasms or you start feeling aggressive, like you want to punch me or something then you should totally let me know." Robin rambled next to Allison's crouched form whilst Eddie and Nancy watched from behind. "Robin, I kinda wanna punch you."

"Sense of humors still intact. That's a good sign." She laughed, allowing Allison the space to help him once she finished ripping her shirt. "Okay, I need you to lean forward for me, if you can."

"I can." He grunted, moving forward with his arms lifted slightly outwards. "You ready?" Allison questioned, her eyes observing his scrunched face. "Yeah, just do it." He whispered hoarsely, grunting as she began to wrap the material around. "I'm sorry." She apologized, hating seeing how much pain he was in. "It's okay."

"Is that too tight?"

"No, that's good." He whispered through groans, eyes falling to hers as he watched her concentrated yet worried expression soften as she met his eyes. After a moment of silence, a small smile formed on her face. "Hey, we'll have matching scars now."

His eyes dropped to her abdomen, recalling the night back at the lab and how that night alone was a much-needed revelation. Like him now, she had been bleeding out, and he had done everything in his power to make sure she'd be okay. Unfortunately, she didn't have Hopper to help her like he had. He smiled down at her, fingertips grazing hers for a second. "Yeah, first demodogs and now bats. I'd have to say your story tops mine."

"Oh, it does." She laughed in response, coming to a stance whilst helping him up, too. "Thank you." He whispered, receiving a reassuring nod from her. "That is a pretty rad scar." Eddie chimed in, gesturing to the deep crescent marks on her skin. "So uh, this place is like Hawkins, but with monsters and nasty shit?" Eddie called out, standing up on higher ground. "Pretty much." Nancy stated from below. "Wait, watch out for the vines. It's all a hive mind."

"It's all a what?"

"All the creepy crawlies around here dude. They're like one or something. You step on a vine, you're stepping on a bat, you're stepping on Vecna." Steve informed, gesturing with his hand as he spoke. "Shit."

"But everything from our world is still here, right? Except people? Obviously?" Robin chimed in, confusion in her tone. "As far as I understand it, yeah." Nancy answered. "So, theoretically, we could go to the police station and steal guns and grenades and whatever we need to blow up those bat things that are guarding the gate."

"I highly doubt the Hawkins PD has grenades, Robin. But guns, yeah, sure." Steve sighed, leaning his weight on Allison, since his arm was wrapped around her shoulder for stability. "Well, we don't have to go all the way downtown for guns. I have guns in my bedroom." Nancy reminded, known to all but Eddie, who stepped forwards, saying: "You, Nancy Wheeler, have guns, plural, in your bedroom?"

"Full of surprises, isn't she?" Allison laughed. "A Russian Makarov and a revolver." The Wheeler girl informed the Munson boy. "Yeah, you almost shot me with that one." Steve shook his head from behind her, making both her and Allison smile at the memory of pure panic on his face. "You almost deserved it." The Wheeler girl stated. Steve turned to Allison with an expression reading 'you hearing this?' before both were startled by Eddie tossing his sleeveless jean jacket into Steve's chest. "For your modesty, dude."

The ground began to shake violently, causing all five teens to fall down, though Steve had instinctively wrapped one arm around Allison's waist, holding her against his chest as his other arm held them upright against the boulder. Robin looked at them with a smile from her laid position between Nancy and Eddie; just as she had watched Allison look up yearningly at Steve on the boat. She was still dead set on making sure they had their happy ending, in due time. They had basically gotten there once before, they could surely do it again.

More snarls and screeches echoing from the distance startled them from their moment, pulling them back to reality. "So guns seem like a pretty good idea to me." Eddie admitted, quickly being agreed with.

-

As the three girls trudged ahead, Eddie and Steve remained in tow, keeping an eye out as they conversed. Steve had felt the need to thank him for going the lengths he did when they barely knew each other, and upon doing so had learned of the jealousy Eddie felt. The Munson boy had found it hard to believe he was a good guy. "I uh, wouldn't have jumped in that lake to save your ass under any normal circumstances. The only reason I came in here was 'cause those ladies came in straight after you. Now, I was too ashamed to be the one who stayed behind, but Byers right there, she didn't waste a second. Not one second. She just dove right in. Now, I don't know what happened between you two since sophomore year, but I can see that she truly cares for you, in the matter of hours we've been together. I've never seen anyone look at each other the way you two do. Whatever you guys have is an extremely rare connection. Like twin flames or some shit. But If I were you, I'd get her back. 'Cause that was an unambiguous a sign of true love as these cynical eyes have ever seen."

Steve had smiled softly at his words. He knew that Allison struggled with her fear when it came to being in water, yet hearing that she didn't waste a second to dive in after him had revealed the defiance within her to him. "I would get her back, but she needs time. She knows I'll be there... I'll always love-" He began before being cut off by the trembling of the ground, causing them to stumble.

"Okay, second thing on my list of least favorite things, earthquakes. Seriously, I'm unsteady enough as it is." Robin complained as her and Allison held tight to one another, trying to keep each other stable. "It's definitely close to being on my list, too." Allison groaned before Nancy began running off, causing the two girls to shout out after her. When they found her ahead, the two boys were at their sides, all observing the Wheeler home in the distance. The brunette took a deep breath in before ordering; "Come on."

Given that they didn't want to stay longer than needed, they tried to be as quick as possible in the Upside Down version of Nancy Wheeler's home. Whilst Steve and Allison stayed downstairs to watch, the other three upstairs discovered that not only were Nancy's guns there, but also the home was in the same shape as it was November 6, 1983; the day Will went missing.

They had shared this discovery after Steve had begun to frantically shout, freaking Allison out as she watched him pace around, calling out for Dustin. After claiming Dustin was in the walls, the other four teens could hear the Henderson boys' voice echoing. All began to call out to him, receiving nothing in return until the blonde remembered. "Will found a way."

"What?" Nancy inquired, turning to face the pondering Byers woman. "Will found a way to speak to my mom through the lights." Allison answered, walking over to a lamp, trying to switch it on, along with the overhead. "Guys, you seeing this?" Steve quietly said, pointing his flashlight at the overhead light. Energy thrummed from it as it glowed a warm orange; particles almost sparkle-like swelling around it. Nancy reached a hand up into it first, her fingers playing with the glowing dust. The other four joined in beside her, watching as the lights grew brighter.

"It tickles." Steve stated, his eyebrows threaded as he concentrated on the sensation. "It kinda feels good." Robin added, receiving a smile from Eddie beside her before Nancy spoke up. "Does anyone know morse code?"

"Like SOS? Is that... is that good?" Eddie replied, confused by the stares he received from both girls beside him. "I'll take that as a yes." He sighed, taking a step forward as he began sending his message to the other side. "It's working."

-

After communicating with Dustin and the others through the lights, they were hopping onto Nancy's withered bikes, cycling off to the Munson trailer. The gate remained on the roof, where Chrissy had been killed on the other side. It glowed a bright red hue, captivating the interest of all five teens, especially as some form looked as if it was trying to break through. When the gate burst, fragments dropping to the floor, they all let out startled squeals, backing away and clustering together. The form looked to have been some sort of stick, but only when Steve had the courage to step forward and check it out did the others follow and find out what was on the other side.

"No way." He gasped, observing Lucas, Dustin, Max, and Erica standing on the other side. They waved and greeted the older teens, laughing in relief. "Holy shit, this is trippy." Robin commented, amazed by how the other side was truly Upside Down to them. Eddie instructed the younger teens to retrieve the mattress in his room and place it underneath the portal, giving them some sort of soft landing. "Those stains are, uh... I don't know what those stains are." He spoke to the three girls beside him, causing Robin to grimace at the sight. Allison just held back a laugh, watching his cheeks flush red.

"Not quite sure how these physics are going to work, but uh... here goes nothing." The Henderson boy stated before tossing the knotted sheets to the other side, where it fell perfectly; stable at that, too. When he let go of it, it stayed in place, and as Robin gave it a tug, it stayed firm. "Guess I'm the guinea pig." Robin spoke up, grabbing hold of the material before climbing up and through, falling till she landed on the mattress. Eddie was next, doing the same as the Buckley girl before him. The last three remained before Nancy decided to go next, taking a step forward. "See you on the other side." Allison smiled.

"On the other side." The brunette said in return, reaching her hand out to take the sheet before it fell back to her side. She stood there, staring ahead. Allison and Steve exchanged glances before stepping to her side, gasping as they saw her eyes completely white. "Nancy?" The blonde whispered, reaching for her shoulders to shake her. "What did you do?" Steve asked the blonde, looking at her with terror. "W- what do you mean?"

"What did you do to her?!"

"I didn't do anything Steve!"

"It was supposed to be you!" He shouted, pointing his finger as his lip curled. Allison's face saddened at his words as she slowly shook her head. "He was supposed to come after you, You're the one he should take."

"What are you saying Steve?"

"You're a burden, now. You got your best friend roped into this just like Billy, and look where they are now. Dead. All because of you."

"I- you know that's not true. You know I blame myself but Billy- Billy told me this wasn't on me. You did too!"

"We lied to protect your stupid fucking fragile emotions. We knew you'd take the entire bottle of pills if you knew the truth. Why didn't you?" He interrogated, causing the blonde's heart to drop as she saw the memory play back in her head; sitting in her dorm bathroom with the first bottle of prescribed pills in hand, the pain within her so overwhelming that she thought it would consume her. But she knew she had a family that would always be there for her; her friends in Hawkins too. She knew Heather and Billy would've wanted her to push through that pain and live for them, so she made that choice; the choice to keep fighting. Her stinging eyes looked to Steve's as her gut twisted. "How did you know that?"

When he remained silent, tilting his head in a way Billy had back in July, she swallowed hard. "I never told you that, and you weren't there-" Her words were cut off as Nancy grabbed her by her throat, lifting her from the ground. "All you will cause is suffering." She spoke, the teens on the other side speaking in unison, but all of their voices contorted into a much deeper one. When she redirected her eyes to Nancy, she inhaled sharply upon seeing a flayed Billy holding her instead. A cry was sent from her throat as he tightened his grip, tilting his head with a malicious smile. "Your time is almost up."

Chapter Text

The grip around her neck was released, and the blonde crashed to the ground.

Billy hovered over her, grabbing her by the shoulders as he shoved her down. Four chimes rang as she screamed with her eyes shut; her arms fighting for her before she heard a voice shouting her name from above. Hands were cupping her cheeks, and when she opened her eyes, she found Steve standing in front of her, Nancy next to him. Both had absolute terror in their eyes, though Nancy's were filled with tears as she held onto one of Allison's wrists. The Byers girl's eyes darted between her friends before darting around the room, landing on the floor beneath her, where she had just been a second ago. Her ears rung as she tried to understand what had just happened, before the realization settled. "Allison you're safe, you're both here." He muttered, looking from both girls. Her eyebrows inched closer together as she looked to Nancy, observing her petrified expression. Something had happened to her, too. "Is she okay?" Robin called from the other side, all of them watching in shock. Panic had been laced in her tone as she remained helpless on the other side.

Allison had been in shock too, as she stood frozen in place, only now noticing that Forever Young was playing from the Walkman in Steve's hands. He had no doubt been about to put it on the blonde before she had snapped back from her hallucination. Her hazel eyes looked from Nancy and Steve; she knew what had just happened wasn't them, but what had been said to her had caused a knife-to-the-heart feeling. But that wasn't what disturbed her, it was that her time was officially running out now. "Allison?" Nancy's timid voice mumbled as she rested a hand on her friend's elbow, causing the blonde to jolt. The blonde's eyes scanned the room once more before turning back to the two in front of her. "We- we need to go- explain later. It's not safe here." She breathed, her voice coming out small and meek. The two exchanged glances before nodding, approaching the knotted sheets; taking very quick turns to climb the makeshift rope before falling to the other side.

-

The group sat within Max's trailer in utter silence as their focuses darted between Nancy and Allison, having all witnessed them being "cursed." The blonde's leg bounced nervously as she tried to collect her thoughts, her lips finally parting to reveal what had happened. "I... I saw him." She announced, causing everyone's attention to snap to her. "Vecna. He was there, but he wasn't himself." She clarified, biting down on her lip as she recalled the memory. "What do you mean 'not himself?'" Eddie questioned from across the room, his gaze gentle. "He took shape of Steve and Nancy... I thought it was them but knew it couldn't be with the things he said. I think he realized that I knew, so he took shape of what hurt most." She said, looking to her hands that rested together on her lap. "Billy?" Max's meek voice uttered; the blonde nodded without looking up, feeling that familiar burn in her throat. "It was when he was flayed... I knew it wasn't possible for him to be real, but for a second, I was taken right back to Starcourt." She mumbled, vaguely shaking her head as she slowly met their eyes.

Having not been there, Eddie was clueless as to what she had been referencing, but given the pain he saw in her eyes, he knew it was nothing short of traumatic. "He used very personal information that I knew no one knew, and that's when I figured it out. Then he told me my time is almost up. One second... I was on the ground, the next, standing right in front of you." She explained, looking to Nancy and Steve. "So... he can be in two people's heads at once?" Lucas inquired, his eyes darting between the two. Allison's eyebrow raised before she turned to face the Wheeler girl beside her, who already had tears in the eyes that showed so much fear.

"I... I don't know... but he showed me things that haven't happened yet. The most awful things... I saw a dark cloud spreading over Hawkins. Downtown on fire. Dead soldiers. And this... giant creature, with a gaping mouth. And- and this creature wasn't alone. There were so many monsters. An army. And they were coming into Hawkins. Into our neighborhoods... our homes. And then... he showed me my mom. And Holly. Mike. And they... they were all..." She muttered as tears cascaded down her cheeks, shutting her eyes tightly at the horrific images that flashed behind them. Allison's hand rested on hers in comfort, trying to subtly remind her she was safe. "Okay, but... he's just trying to scare you, Nance. Right? I mean... I mean it's not real." Steve said from across the room.

"Not yet. But there... there was something else. He showed me gates. Four gates. Spreading across Hawkins. And these gates, they looked like the one outside of Eddie's trailer but... they didn't stop growing. And this wasn't the Upside Down Hawkins. This was our Hawkins. Our home."

"Four chimes." Max spoke up, drawing everyone's attention. "Vecna's clock. It always chimes four times. Four exactly." Her eyes landed on the two girls across the room, who knew what she meant. "I heard them too." Allison softly said, keeping her attention on the redhead as Nancy said: "I did too."

"Four sacrifices." The blonde breathed, eyes falling to the floor yet again. "He's been telling us his plan this whole time." Max added, only adding to the tension within the room. "Four kills, four gates. End of the world." Lucas finished, his tone sad as he looked to the girl he loved beside him. "If that's true, he's only one kill away." Dustin uneasily said, looking from Max to Allison. The blonde tightly shut her eyes as she steadied her breathing, her brain too loud to think logically. "Oh Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ!" Eddie exclaimed with his head in his hands, breathing heavily as Steve told Max to try calling Joyce again. It would've been sensible for Allison to do it, but given her current situation, Steve wanted someone else to try.

Once the phone rang out, they came to the conclusion that whatever was happening in Lenora was connected to all of it. "But Vecna can't hurt them. Not if he's dead. We have to go back in there, back to the Upside Down." Nancy suggested firmly. "Whoa whoa no, no, no. Let's think this through, okay?" Steve stood from his spot as Eddie eagerly shook his head in rebuttal. "What is there to think through?"

"We barely made it out of there in one piece!"

"Yeah, because we weren't prepared! But this time, we will be. We'll get weapons and protection- we'll go through the gate, we'll find his lair, and we'll kill him."

"Or he'll kill us. What about Max, or even Allison? They have less than 24 hours, and he could go for either, or both of them now, at any time. We'd be jeopardizing their lives. The only reason you survived is because he wanted you to. He's not scared of us!" Steve exclaimed, Robin quickly coming to a stance following his words. "And for good reason! We were wrong about Vecna. Henry. One- Sorry, what are we calling him now?"

"One." "Vecna." "Henry." Different voices replied, only furthering Robin's confusion. "Right. We've learned something new about Vecna/Henry/One. He's a number like Eleven, only a sick, evil, male, child-murdering version of her with really bad skin but my- my point is, he's super powerful. He could turn us inside out with a snap of his fingers. It's not a fair fight."

"So then why fight fair? You're right, he's like Eleven. But that gives us an upper hand. We know Eleven's strengths. And weaknesses." Dustin brought up, raising a finger. "Weaknesses?" Erica questioned, her face scrunching. "When El remote-travels, she goes into this sort of trance-like state. I bet the same is true of Vecna."

"That would explain what he was doing in that attic." Lucas concluded, piecing the puzzle together. "Exactly. When he attacks his next victim, I'll bet you he's back in that attic, physical body defenseless."

"Defenseless? Yeah? What about the army of bats?" Steve chimed in, gesturing to the red marks around his neck. "True, we'll have to find a way past them. Distract them somehow."

"And uh, how do we do that, exactly?" Eddie inquired from beside Erica, his hands nervously fiddling with one another. "No idea. But once they're gone, he doesn't stand a chance. It'll be like slaying sleeping Dracula in his coffin."

"That all sounds good in theory, but there's no pattern to Vecna's killings. I mean, at least not one that I can decipher. We don't know when he's going to attack next. We don't even know who he's going to attack." Robin nervously stutters, rambling as she paces back and forth. "Yeah, we do." Max intervenes, her eyes meeting the group before looking to the blonde who had been sitting in silence as she tried to process the whole conversation unfolding. "I can still feel him. I'm still marked. Cursed. I ditch Kate Bush, I draw his focus back to me."

"No way." Allison states as Lucas mutters a gentle, "Max. You can't. He'll kill you."

"I survived before, I can survive again. I just, I need to keep him busy long enough so that you guys can get into that attic. Then you can chop his head off. Stab him in the heart. Blow him up with some explosive Dustin cooks up. I really don't care how you put this asshole in his grave."

"We're not seriously considering this, right?" The blonde stood from her spot, shaking her head. "We don't even know who he'll go for. There's two sides to the coin."

"That's exactly why I'd gain his attention, so he focuses on me while you and the others take him out."

"No- he... he's already attempted to kill you once before, and he almost had you. Not me. I haven't actually had him attempt to kill me, therefor I'd have better odds of surviving."

"But he has tried, just not like this. He tried through Billy, and even through the demo-dogs back at the lab. It's a miracle you're alive after all of that. Neither of us have the greatest odds, but only one of us needs to be the distraction."

"Then let it be me. Let's say things go south. You're young, you still have your life ahead of you. You deserve to live it out."

"And you don't? You're only older by 5 years. You're still young too, Allie. You deserve it just as much as me- and don't shake your head. You know he'd want you to keep fighting." Max mentioned the late Hargrove boy, causing the whole room to still in silence as Allison stared with sadness in her eyes. "He'd want you to fight too." She replied, eyebrows drawing near to one another. The silence was deafening as the two girls stared at each other with heavy grief in their eyes, shining from their souls.

"That's exactly what I'm going to do, while you fight for me, and yourself too. While you take Vecna down with the physical strength I don't have, I'll fight him in here." The Mayfield girl's finger pointed to her head, then to her heart. "I trust you guys, and I know you can do it." She added, looking to all the older teens in the room. "Whatever it is... whatever you do... try not to miss."

-

After Eddie hotwired a trailer stolen by neighbors, Steve hopped behind the wheel, steering them off to The War Zone. Allison was sat in the passenger's seat, her fingers fidgeting together as Forever Young played in her ears on repeat. She didn't want to get tired of the song, but was already sick of listening to it on repeat since it only brought dread from the past and forthcoming future. With one glance at Steve, she paused the music, pulling her headphones to the side. "How's it handle?" She inquired; the Harrington boys' eyes quick to snap to her. "Not half bad. Considering that this is a... house." He replied, smiling gently as Allison let out a small laugh, her focus drifting between him and the road ahead. "Yeah, it's... it's silly, but I... I've actually... I always had this dream that I'd have this really... really big family. I'm talking like uh... a full brood of Harringtons. Like five... six kids."

"Six?"

"Yeah. Six little nuggets. Three girls, three boys. And uh... every summer, I figured all of us Harringtons, we would pack into something like this and... just see the country. You know the Rockies, Grand Canyon, maybe Yellowstone. End up in some beachside town in California. Spend a week parked in the sand... learn how to surf or something." He rambled, voice going quieter as he mentioned California whilst cautiously observing the blonde's face. He had been scared that what he had said might've brought pain to Allison in some way, but was shocked to see her smiling wide at him. "That sounds really nice." She quietly said, meaning it. "Yeah?"

"Yeah... well, except for the six-kid part. I couldn't even imagine. Sounds like a total nightmare."

"If only I had some practice." He joked, glancing back at the rest of the group separated behind them in their own worlds. Allison followed his glance, nodding in amusement. "Fair enough. That's fair." She replied, meeting his eyes once more. Their gazes both returned to the road before the Byers girl shifted in her seat. "I always wanted a family. It felt like I raised my brothers in a way... and you know, maybe Will's friends too... but the idea of having my own... I've always loved that. I would hope I'd be as good a mom as mine."

"You will be." Steve reassured, noticing how she spoke in a way that suggested she'd never get the chance. "Yeah... right. Time will tell." She softly said, biting down on her lip as she wished Joyce were here; her brothers and El too. What she'd give to be held by her mom, or even just to hear her voice in a time like this. Steve's eyes lingered on her for a moment, seeing her face falter as she faced forward. "It'd be nice to watch your kids play in the sand... listening to the crashing of the waves. Your trailer idea is nice, but I always wanted a beach house to visit in the summers... something about that thought is just so cozy." She stated, her mind picturing the big white house by the lake the two had talked of back in July.

More often than not in the past months, she'd envision herself on that porch, with him right beside her. She had felt guilt for thinking of Steve after losing Billy, but something had reassured her that it was okay; that staying stuck in the past wasn't what she was destined for. That only when she moved on, could she realize her potential. She had been too scared to do so, having felt that it was impossible to escape the layers of emotions that tied her down. Now, she pictured a beach house with kids running around, shutting her eyes as she recalled the calming sound of the waves crashing in the distance. The breeze that would flow through her hair as she'd sit on the coarse sand, her mind calm. With her time running out, she realized that fantasy might never become reality. She didn't want to let a single moment she had alive be wasted on grief or fear. Her eyes drifted to Steve, watching his focused expression and furrowed eyebrows, before her gaze returned ahead.

As she moved her headphones back to covering her ears, Steve took a glance her way, quickly returning to the road. Whilst he hoped they'd be able to pull this off and save her (and Max), she realized just how much she'd wished to play a part in his dream.

-

The War Zone was shockingly busy, but the group wasted no time to split off into groups to gather their needed supplies. With Eddie, Max, Lucas, and Dustin safely in the trailer, they didn't look too suspicious given the current frantic state that had a hold on Hawkins. Everyone and their mother were trying to stock up. Allison had been looking at the knives before settling on a couple options; a machete included. Knowing Nancy was waiting on her shotgun, she made her way over to meet her, stopping in her tracks upon seeing Jason up close and personal to the Wheeler girl, holding firmly onto the barrel of the shotgun within her hands.

"What about his friends, they here with you?" Allison could hear him say as he kept hold, inching closer to her face. "Would you let go." Nancy replied, not taking her eyes off of his as they glared at one another. "Let go." When Jason stayed put, Allison stepped forward, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "You heard her, let go."

The Carver boy turned around, releasing his grip from the shotgun as he met the blonde face to face. "Allison... I didn't know you were back in town. You look... good." He smiled, his eyes manic and bloodshot. When the Byers girl didn't reply, he let out a chuckle, observing the machete and blades within her hands. Her hazel eyes were icy and harsh, something he wasn't used to. "You know, I never got to say it, but I'm sorry about Billy. That must've been hard for you."

"It was." She blankly said, not even blinking as his eyes squinted. "Then again... you guys were broken up, right?" He poked, tilting his head as he tried to gain some sort of reaction from her, yet nothing about her expression changed. "The blonde... reminds me of Chris. How... how do you act like nothing happened after he died?"

Her jaw clenches, and he realizes he triggered something. "I'm sorry for your loss, Jason. Chrissy was a good person." She finally speaks up, keeping her voice calm. Her eyes move to Nancy's behind her before she gestures her head to move out. The Wheeler girl nods, both girls beginning to move. A bruising grip around the blonde's upper arm holds her back, and her attention locks on Jason. His face is furious, eyes wide. Something snaps within him, and he releases his grip just as fast, clearing his throat, eyes adverting to the ground. "I hope you find the help you need, Jason." Allison states before turning away, not waiting for a response. All she saw was a clearly disturbed individual, waiting to go off the rails.

Her arm hooks around Nancy's, pulling her quickly as Erica came into view. "We need to go... now." The Sinclair girl stated in panic, gesturing to all the basketball boys scattered around. "Fuck, find Robin and Steve, we'll pay for this." Allison ordered, sending her younger friend off. Pretty soon, they were all together, rushing out the doors with their paid supplies.

"We gotta go." Steve informed the four in the trailer as the rest piled in, quickly settling into place. "What happened?" Lucas questioned quickly, turning in his seat. "Your old friends are here." His sister answered, sitting swiftly beside him. "Shit!"

"Let's go! Let's go!" Steve shouted, everyone falling into their places before he stepped on the gas, sending them off.

-

From one spot on the field, Lucas and Erica worked on makeshift spears, watching as Eddie and Dustin tackled each other; on another, Allison slashed her machete through the air, taking measured steps back and forth whilst Nancy and Max worked on the Wheeler girls gun. Then there was Robin and Steve sitting beside the trailer.

"Honestly, this feels like a perfect time for that little pull of the rug because... in the face of the world ending, the stake of my love life feels spectacularly low." Robin sighed, wanting to shut out the image of Vickie kissing Dan back at the War Zone. After Heather, she hadn't really considered any other girls, but then there was Vickie. A girl who felt like looking at sunshine, or smelling a sunflower. Someone she had believed might actually be like her. God, she had hoped she was.

"Yeah. I mean, I get you there but... I still have hope." Steve replied, passing the Molotov he had just prepared though his eyes were elsewhere; glued on the blonde.

"Not everything has a happy ending."

"Yeah, yeah, believe me, I know." He sighed. Robin followed his eyeline before pulling her lips into a thin line. "I'm not talking about failed romance. I know you don't think you guys will work... but I see how you look at one another. Seen how, for almost years. There's no way you guys aren't meant for one another... you know? I can see what's between you two... and that's pure, utter, complete connection." She reassured, perking up when Allison began heading their way. Steve just smiled small at her comment before offering it to the blonde, who smiled in return. "How's it going over here?"

"Successful... just trying to bring clarity to this situation." Robin stated. When the hazel eyed girl stared in confusion, Robin set her bottle down. "I just... I have this terrible... gnawing feeling that... it might not work out for us this time."

"You think we shouldn't be doing this?" Steve inquired as Allison crouched down, scooting in closer. "I think we're mad fools... the lot of us, but... but if we don't stop him, who will? We have to try, right?"

"Yeah. To killing Vecna." Allison affirmed, nodding to the two of them. "Slash Henry." Robin added, raising a bottle. "Slash one." Steve finished, raising his bottle too, clanking it against Robins.

"We ready to gear up?" The blonde inquired, turning around to face the others. "Looks so." Steve answered, raising from his seat; the two girls followed his lead, walking towards the others. After receiving nods of approval from all three groups, the nine dug through the supplies they had just bought, armoring up in any way they could.

Though the thought of Max using herself as bait to lure Vecna was something Allison wasn't on board with, she knew no change would be made, no matter what she said. So, she just had to convince herself that it was the right way. Pulling on a heavier hunting jacket, along with strapping a knife holster around her right thigh, the blonde armed herself beside the others.

"Cool bandana." She smiled to Eddie, who had finished as quickly as she had. "Oh- thanks. Thought it'd at least look cooler when I'm fighting those fucking bats this time around." The two shared a laugh as he looked to the machete in her hand. "Ever used one of those before?"

"Yeah, back in junior year when this shit started. I managed to get a good hit, but we had no clue what we were dealing with. I was almost a goner, but Steve stepped in and saved my life, believe it or not."

"I am more and more surprised by Harrington with every story I'm told."

"Yeah... what's funny is he's had to save me at least two times after that. It'd be nice to be able to have a little more control over fighting back."

"Have you thought about maybe not putting yourself in life threatening situations or...?" He smiled, receiving a laugh from her. "I have, actually. Guess it's just not for me."

"Okay then... what about a gun? Like Nancy? It's pretty badass- though the machete is too, don't get me wrong."

"Oh well, I'm shit at aim. I shot a russian soldier in the arm once... I'd rather leave guns to Nance. She knows what she's doing."

"In the arm?"

"It was a quick-act reaction. I had never used a gun before dude! We were held in that Russian bunker for so many hours and drugged up. Shit was scary!"

"Drugged up!?"

"Wow, you're really out of the loop. I would've thought Dustin would've told you all about it by now since he and Erica were the ones that dragged Steve, Robin, and I's high asses around."

"Well, we haven't exactly had time for chitter chatter... but that's wild. I mean... are you okay?"

"Yeah! No, I'm fine. That was the least of all the shit that went down." She laughed, watching as his doe eyes softened. "I'm sorry about... you know... after middle school. How we just never talked again... About what you had to go through with the whole Will situation... and losing Heather and Billy too. And now... being cursed- I can't imagine what that's like... or what you're going through because of it... but if you ever need someone to listen or talk to... I'm here." Eddie gently said, showing a side of him she knew from long ago. "Thank you, Eds." She started, watching as he smiled at the way she called him what she used to. "You don't have to apologize for middle school. People drift apart. We both fell into different groups in high school, and never had classes or anything... so it had nothing to do with you doing anything wrong. Time just played it's role; and here we are, all grown up."

"Crazy, right?"

"Yeah... crazy. I appreciate you offering an ear to me. You can always talk to me too, you know. I may not understand what all of this has made you feel like, but luckily, I'm studying psychology over at University of California, so I might be able to help somehow."

"Oh, how is college and California?"

"College is stressful, but I've grown to like California. I've found that I enjoy the ocean quite a bit- not swimming, but just the whole scene. Not only that, but the way of life there too. It's a nice change. I think you might like it."

"Eh... maybe. Maybe one day, hoping by some miracle I walk the damn stage at the end of this school year and leave this shit ass town, I'll visit. You could show me a thing or two."

"Yeah... that sounds good. Just have to save the world first." Allison joked, causing them both to shortly laugh. "Easy peasy." She quoted Bob, smiling as she did so. "Right... no avoiding life-threatening situations this time, though." He replied, breathing faltering.

"Not this time."

Chapter Text

Goosebumps rose on Allison's skin as they came to a stop in front of the Creel House. The abandoned state of it was eerie enough, but knowing the history of what had occurred inside only added to it. Her hazel eyes darted towards Max, who was gearing up alongside Lucas and Erica. She knew there was nothing she could say to change the redhead's mind about who should really be going in there to bait Vecna, but she needed to say something when she had the chance. As the Sinclair siblings began to leave, Allison kept Max back for a brief moment.

"Allie, everything will work out. I trust you guys... I know you're capable. I know I can do this... you have to believe that you can too." Max whispered as her fingers toyed with the wire connected to her Walkman. "I do. We can, and we will get through this... but I just need you to know that whatever happens tonight... I'm so proud of you, Max. You're so brave... braver than any of us. I know that what you've been going through hasn't been easy, but you've showed that ugly bastard and us how strong you are, and you can do it again. You're loved, Max... and I need you to know that I love you." The blonde quietly uttered, watching as tears began to gleam in the younger girls' eyes. It was silent for a few moments as Max nodded slowly, looking to the ground. "You've been like the older sister I always wanted... from the start." She spoke, meeting Allison's hazel eyes that looked gently down into hers. "Thank you for changing him... and changing our relationship. You were able to make us both feel at home here before... everything."

The blonde smiled bittersweetly at the redhead's words, nodding vaguely before the younger girl began to speak again. "And I feel like I need to tell you that you were like home for him. You made him happy... and all he wanted... wants for you, is happiness. No matter what, or who that's with." Max stated, gesturing her head towards Steve up in the front seat as he spoke to Robin. When Allison's eyebrows furrowed, Max began to speak again; "I know you feel like you can't move on, but you can. You're allowed to love, Allie. If anyone has a heart that's capable, it's you. Your love makes others feel loved, that's your strength. Billy himself hated dwelling in the past, so live in the now, love unconditionally. We all want that for you. It's okay to move on."

The Byers girl nodded, letting those words pour into her soul as her hand instinctively went to play with the 'B' bracelet that always remained on her wrist. "Thank you, Max, truly...You know, you should take your advice too. You have an amazing guy waiting outside this RV for you. I don't know where you guys are at right now since I know you were on and off several times... but I know he loves you. I can see it in his eyes with the way he looks at you. And I know it's hard to let someone in when you're feeling the way you feel, but it's okay. I promise you, it's okay to allow yourself to do so. Okay?" Allison spoke, holding the Mayfield girl by her elbow. Max nodded in response before the blonde pulled her into a hug. The redhead was hesitant at first, but her arms were wrapped around Allison within seconds.

"When we see each other again after this, I still have to give you your present that I brought from California." The blonde grinned as they both withdrew from the embrace. "Right... I forgot about that." Max smiled small, adjusting her headphones to rest over her ears. "I'll be looking forward to it." She stated, taking a deep breath. "Me too. You've got this." Allison nodded firmly, watching as Max began to leave. "See you soon."

"See you soon."

-

"Okay. I want to run through it one more time. Phase one." Nancy begins pacing within the parked trailer. It was almost time to put this plan on its feet. "We meet Erica at the playground. She'll signal Max and Lucas when we're ready." Allison states the first phase from her standing position beside Steve. "Phase two."

"Max baits Vecna. He'll go after her, which'll put him in his trance... but if he decides to switch up and go for Allie, we have the walkman." Steve answers Nancy next. "Phase three?"

"Me and Eddie draw the bats away." Dustin replies, pointing his thumb towards the Munson boy standing behind him. "Four."

"We head into Vecna's hopefully new bat-free lair, and... flambe." Robin finalizes, sloshing the molotov in her hand. "Nobody moves to the next phase until we've all copied. Nobody deviates from the plan, no matter what. Got it?" Nancy inquires, receiving a collective 'got it' from the rest of the group. With that, they set out to the Munson trailer, beginning their journey into the Upside Down.

"Hey guys, listen. If things here start to go south, I mean at all, you abort. Okay? Draw the attention of the bats. Keep 'em busy for a minute or two. We'll take care of Vecna. Don't try to be cute or be a hero or something. Okay? You guys are just-" Steve begins to tell Dustin and Eddie before the Henderson boy interrupts. "Decoys. Don't worry. You can be the hero, Steve."

"Absolutely. I mean, look at us. We are not heroes." Eddie defeatedly states, laughing in self-deprecation. "Don't sell yourself short, Eds. You don't have to look like a hero to be one, or risk your life to be considered one. You both already are." Allison reminded them, knowing Dustin had saved Hawkins more than once, and now Eddie was contributing. That made them hero's enough. Dread settled in her gut upon seeing the flashes of red in the blue hued sky, hearing the distant screeches of bats beyond. "Thanks Al."

Her gaze returned to the two, who had also looked off into the distance. "You two be safe... and smart. Please." She spoke to the two, who both nodded. "You guys too." Eddie replied, looking to all four of the others. Dustin took a step forward and hugged the blonde, whispering an apology for his prior snappy behavior, to which she thanked him. He had honestly been scared for her, and was unable to imagine how he would feel if she were to be the fourth sacrifice for Vecna. The girl who had basically been his and his friend's older sister like Nancy had. She was family to him, and there was almost nothing that compared to the agony of losing family.

After they split, she looked to Eddie, seeing his hesitant stance. She disregarded it and hugged him anyway. Her eyes shut tightly as his looked to Steve. "I'm glad we were brought back together again, even if it wasn't under the most ideal circumstances." She muttered to him, feeling his hand ball into a fist on her upper back. "Me too." He whispered, withdrawing from their hold. The two looked at each other, mutually nodding in silent understanding before she began to walk away. He offered a small smile to Steve and the others as they began to walk away, before he called out once more. "Hey Steve?"

When the Harrington boy turned around, stopping in his tracks, Eddie's eyes darted from his to the blonde's behind him. When he looked into his friends' eyes, he saw her pain from these past years, and it angered him how this Vecna creature could use that against her to bring her more suffering. How that bastard did the same to Chrissy. He didn't understand why good people were put through so much, but all he knew is that he wanted to put an end to it. "Make him pay."

-

As Robin and Nancy walked ahead, Steve and Allison staggered behind. They had been walking for quite a while, and Robin had panicked over the thought of being lost, though Nancy reassured her endlessly. "Hey uh... we need to have a talk." The Byers girl stated, looking to Steve on her right. His eyes were forward, but she could see them narrow from the side. "A serious one." She continued, which drew his attention fairly quickly. "What's up?"

"We need to talk about what happens if things go south... if I don't make it."

"You will... Max is the one baiting him, so he'll zero in on her. She'll be fine, though."

"No, I know she will... but there's no guarantee. We know he was in Nancy and I's minds at the same time. What's to say he wouldn't try it again. So... we'd just figure out a fail-safe." She suggested, biting down on her lip as she watched his eyes drift off. "I'd really prefer to not acknowledge that possibility."

"Steve."

"Okay... okay. What did you have in mind?"

"You'll have to tell my family about all of this... they don't have any idea of what's happening here... and I never got the chance to tell them since my mom wouldn't pick up the phone. Be there for Max... make sure she knows she's not alone. If you ever see them, do the same with Eleven and Will. Make sure Jonathan doesn't let himself hang over it or blame himself for not knowing in any way... I know he will... so find a way to show him otherwise." She rambled; Steve found it hard to look in her eyes as she calmly explained all these things to do as if she wasn't going to make it, and it made his stomach twist, yet she kept going. "And lastly... if I don't make it, put me by Heather. As much as I hate this town, it's my home... and I want to be here."

"You're going to make it." He firmly stated, fighting the burning in his throat as he looked into her hazel eyes. Her soft gaze poured into his soul as she reached for his hand, holding it gently within hers. His eyes fell to their touch before returning to hers. "I know." She affirmed, giving his hand a squeeze before letting go. They nodded in unison, beginning to walk again, but she froze in place as she bit on her tongue, not wanting to hold off this thought anymore. "Steve?"

He turned to face her, slowing down to a stop as his doe eyes grew softer upon hearing the way she'd say his name. "If we do this... if we pull this off... I want to find that white house by the lake..." Allison started, meeting him at his side. "With you."

Steve's face brightened as he peered down at her, lips parting as a small smile grew on his face. There were a few seconds of silence before he spoke up; "Remember the dream I told you about? About seeing the country with my six lil' nuggets?" Her blonde hair swayed as she nodded with a grin, unable to pull her eyes away from how his eyes gleamed with glossed tears. "It's all true. Every last word. But I left one part out... it's the most important part." He continued, pausing as he observed her facial expressions grow more serious. "You're there... You've always been there."

In that moment, there was nothing but them. For that small time, she had forgotten where they were, and what they were supposed to do, because all she could focus on was the love she had felt for him- always. Her eyes moved from his to his lips, as he had done the same to her. With each look, they inched closer as she tilted her head upwards, lips grazing with his as their nose tips touched. As his hand delicately cupped her cheek, he shut his eyes, leaning down. Their lips intertwined slowly, dissolving the ever-longing ache they had felt for one another deep within themselves. Her hand grasped his shirt, balling it in her fist as she pulled him closer, leaving minimal room between their bodies. When their lips parted for a second, Steve whispered her name softly; So much emotion was bundled in that one word. "Guys! You guys! Awesome news!" Robin's shouts echoed, causing the two to pull apart and look to their two approaching friends.

Steve cursed under his breath as Allison lowered her head, tongue sliding along her bottom lip as it ached for his to be in its place. "Looks like we weren't going the wrong way after all. Come on!" The Buckley girl enthusiastically exclaimed, ushering them to follow her lead. The Byers girls' eyes moved to Nancy's, who had her eyebrows raised in amusement. She had picked up on the vibe between the two, and felt the newfound tension. She just smiled knowingly to the blonde before turning around to follow after Robin.

Allison and Steve looked to one another with small smiles before he gestured his head towards the two in the distance, putting his hand on the blonde's mid-back to have her walk along with him.

-

Once they were alerted that they had entered phase three, now that Max was officially under Vecna's hold, the four moved from their perched position at the playground, dashing to the Creel House. Faintly, they could hear Eddie playing 'Master of Puppets' in the distance, just as they could see all the bats beginning to swarm away. It was a breeze getting in the house, but once they were inside, they realized that the easy part was over. Roots and everything connected to the hive mind were in almost every crevice of the interior, whether it be on the floor, walls, or ceilings. Carefully, they began their descent upstairs, cautiously avoiding stepping on any of the grotesque black tentacle. As they mentally prepared to head up into the attic, the whole building began to shake, almost causing them to stumble to the floor. Steve had stabilized all three, though, holding all of them upright with his arms and legs. All four took deep breaths, nodding to one another to clarify they were all okay.

"Allison." A deep voice came from down the stairs, causing the blonde to turn quickly. All that was below was the dark, empty halls. "Did you guys hear that?" She quietly questioned, spinning back around to face her friends. Her body stilled when she turned to find no one around. "Guys?" Her voice echoed in the silence; confusion clouded her thoughts. Her friends wouldn't leave her behind knowing her condition. When screams emitted from the attic, her heart jolted within her. The scream was full of fear, and sounded so familiar- so urgent. Her feet were taking her up the stairs before she could even think, but as she reached the top, she froze in confusion. This was nothing like the attic her and her friends had visited the first time; it wasn't an attic at all.

In front of her was a young Will, tied to a chair. He was in a hospital gown and pale as a ghost. His cries of pain were so real; her instincts told her to untie him, hold him in her arms and take his pain. But as she took a step forward, she realized this wasn't real, but that it was a memory. This had already happened before. Will cried out for her, but she shook her head. "Stop, this isn't real."

"It hurts Allie! Please help me!" He cried, squirming against the restraints as tears ran down his cheeks. Those cries evoked a physical and emotional reaction for the blonde; She couldn't handle seeing him in pain, especially with how young he was. "Please!"

"This isn't real-"

"Allie please!"

"You're not Will!"

Will froze immediately upon hearing her claim, and his face contorted in anger. Anger that frightened her. What was once Will became the very creature that her and her friends feared. He got out of the restraints with ease, tilting his head with a snarl as he hovered above in height. She wasted no time to whip around, throwing the shed door open, running straight out. She froze for a second as she took in the sight before her.

The overhead lights flickered against the tiled walls of Hawkins Labs interior. Blood was splattered on the walls, and familiar snarls echoed from the distance, bouncing off those god forsaken walls. Her abdomen and shoulder ached, causing her to take a sharp inhale, hand instinctively trying to cover the pain. It was then that she realized that pain was coming from where her scars were; the scars that came from this lab. How could she forget the time she put her life in jeopardy for a damn stuffed animal and anaesthesia; She didn't regret it, because it led to saving Will. She did it for Will, because he was the priority, and he always will be.

When roars and familiar snarls came from the distance, she cursed under her breath. Those sounds would've paralyzed her if adrenaline wasn't pumping through her veins. She was back on course within seconds, racing down the halls. She had practically memorized the way to get out, seeing as she frequently had nightmares of that night; It was muscle memory. She found her way to the large double doors, pushing herself through them swiftly. A part of her hoped she'd find her mom, Hopper, Will, and Mike on the other side... but what she found was the back of Scoops Ahoy. Her gaze dropped to her hair, which was not only sopping wet, but brunette. Though her scars hadn't ached anymore, that's when the fear came back. She could hear the mind flayer from the other side of the closed shop gate; quick to feel the terror she had felt when she was here in July. She tugged on that gate once again, having no luck just like the first time. There was nowhere to run, now. "Why are you doing this." She yelled, shaking the gate in frustration. "Because I feed off your fear. And I know what scares you the most."

Her heart dropped at the familiar voice came from behind her; She didn't want to turn around this time, knowing what she would feel when she'd face him. His footsteps came closer, and only then did she turn to face him. There was the golden maned boy in his white tank top and jeans; a pained look in his eyes as those black veins prominently showed. She hadn't even realized a tear had fallen from her eye until his hand wiped it away. She moved away from his touch, immediately knowing it wasn't his.

"Why must you take shape of anyone but yourself? You're a coward."

"Because I know you won't be scared of what I look like, and I know that you feel guilt when you see him. Or Heather. Would you like to see what she looked like before I killed her, too?"

"Fuck you."

He shook his head before extending his hand, sending her flying onto the gate, keeping her hoisted there.

-

It had barely been two seconds that Steve had been slammed against the wall; the cold, slimy grip of the tentacles pinning him in place like a fly trapped in a web. His breath caught in his throat as he watched Nancy get yanked into the air next, her limbs thrashing, eyes wide with panic. Robin had been the first, strung up like a puppet. But it wasn't them that Steve was most terrified for. It was Allison.

She had moved instinctively, bravely, to try and help Robin, but then, she froze; Just stopped. Her body went rigid, like someone had pressed pause on her entire existence. Steve's heart dropped. She wasn't moving, hell, she wasn't doing anything. Just standing there, paralyzed, her eyes staring blankly ahead.

"Allison!" Steve shouted, a tremor in his voice. His eyes searched her face, desperate for recognition, for something, but what he saw made his blood run cold. Her eyes; They were white. Completely, eerily, horrifyingly white. No pupils. No iris. Just a blank, unnatural fog, as though someone had reached into her soul and switched her off, exactly as Max had been back at the cemetery.

"No. No, no, no!" he cried, the panic rising like bile in his throat. He fought harder, twisting against the tentacles that bound him, every muscle in his body burning with the effort. His mind screamed at him to move, to do something, and then it hit him. The Walkman. It was in his bag; The one slung tightly across his shoulder. He had brought it just in case. Just in case. But now, with the way his arms were pinned, awkwardly, painfully, he couldn't reach it. There was no way he could unzip the bag, pull it out, press play. No way he could save her.

All he could do was scream her name. Beg her to hear him. Plead through the crushing panic that maybe, just maybe, something inside her would listen. And all around him, the others did the same; voices hoarse and frantic, echoing into the thick, choking air, as they watched helplessly, horror written across their faces, helpless as to what would happen to Allison next.

-

She grunted in pain upon the impact, but kept her composure as he came near, though she tried to wriggle her body out of whatever unseen force had a hold on it. "There's no point in fighting, Allison."

"Like hell I'm going to die... without trying."

"Who said anything about dying?"

"You said- time is almost up. You have me here."

"I also have Max."

"You only need four sacrifices- why would you take us both?"

"I'm not."

"So then kill me you bastard." She spit, still fighting. He just shook his head slowly, letting a deep growl out. "You're selfless, but you're careless with your life. It's a dangerous combination." He states, tilting his head. "But so easy to manipulate."

Her hazel eyes squint as her face pinches together, unable to understand. "I've watched you. I know what you're capable of, and how far you'll go for the ones you love... for Will." He implies, turning into his true form, towering above her. Her heart thuds at her littlest brothers name as she tries to keep a strong front. "You don't know anything about me."

"Oh, but I do, Allison. I do." He grins maliciously, raising his hand above her head. Her head is put back as his fingers outstretch over her face.

-

"Allison, p—please!" Steve's voice cracked as he shouted, his throat raw from screaming. His whole body trembled against the unrelenting grip of the tentacles pinning him to the wall, but he kept struggling, kept fighting, even though his limbs felt like they were tearing at the seams. "Find my voice!" he cried, louder this time, pleading; begging.

His arm twitched, the only part of him he could still move, straining toward the bag on his shoulder where the Walkman resided, out of reach. His heart pounded so hard it felt like it might burst through his chest. "You have to fight it, Allie!"

"Get out of there, Allie!" Robin's voice followed next, shaky and thick with panic. Her eyes were wide, brimming with tears that spilled over as she stared at their friend; watched as her body trembled.

Everything slowed as dread settled in their chests like ice water. Then, they saw it. Allison's feet began to leave the ground. At first, it was just a few inches. Her toes pointed downward, legs limp. But then she began to rise, slow and steady, like something was pulling her from above, some unseen force yanking her free from the world around them.

Robin let out a sob, trying again to scream her name, but the sound broke in her throat.

All three of them could do nothing but watch. Trapped. Helpless. Horrified. Their eyes were fixed on Allison, now suspended in the air above them, her body twitching ever so slightly, her face frozen in an expression of silent torment.

They knew what came next; And none of them were ready to see it happen to her.

-

Faintly, she could hear Steve and her friends calling out for her. She tried her hardest to fight against the invisible force, knowing this is how the others died, believing this would be it for her, too. But his monstrous face looked down to her. Flashes of her and Steve with children played behind her eyes. Her family and friends were visiting on holidays, and by the looks of it, they had settled in California. They went on road trips to the coast, surfed the waves. She saw her brothers graduating from their schools, along with Eleven and all the kids in Hawkins. Nancy and Jonathan were married. Everything was right. Everyone was happy.

"I can give this to you." He implied, letting it all replay. "You wanted to kill me, why would you want t- to give this to me?"

"Because I understand, now. I know why you're so special. Your defiance has made you so." He stated with a tilt of his head. "You will do anything to make sure those around you live. Survive. You believe it is your purpose to save others, even if that means losing your life. But you also look me in the eyes, and feel no fear of what I am, or what I'm capable of doing to you. You're willing to fight me, but you just fear what I'll do to the ones you love. What I have done, what I will do, if I succeed. You let me in long, long ago Allison." He revealed, once again playing memories before her. She was down in the quarry, watching Will's fake body being pulled from the lake, falling to her knees as she sobbed in Hopper's arms. "I already had Will then. When I took him, I saw the ones he cared for in his mind. But you, dear Allison, stood out above the rest. I felt your guilt long before you could've known." He stated, curling his fingers as he pulled a thought from her head.

"When you saw that body, you wished you were the one pulled from that lake. If you had been there for him, things would've been different. You let your pathetic worldly desires consume you. You, did this to him."

"Stop."

"You felt those warnings in your gut all the way back before I killed Barbara Holland. Again in your nightmare the first night you came back to Hawkins."

"I don't understand-"

"I couldn't understand why your presence was everywhere Will was, but I know now. You're somehow tied to one another internally... something I am unable to break. You shared a similar bond with Billy and Heather, because you were the one who stood out when I took over their minds. I didn't understand, but I do now. You were made to be the next." He went on, showing her the exact moments he overtook those two's minds. She saw the Hargrove boy being dragged down the stairs of Brimborn, being agonizingly overtaken by something he stood no chance against. Then again as a flayed Billy strangled Heather, tied her up, threw her in his trunk, and took her to the mind flayer. She felt every ounce of fear Heather felt in that moment, whilst also feeling the anguish Billy felt as he was trapped inside his own body. "However, I know why I need you alive. If not for the bond, you would've been the perfect sacrifice. Max however, will do."

"Please, just take me, don't take her."

"You're not hearing me."

"It's hard to when I can't understand."

"The bond you have with Will is... beyond my comprehension. It's not physical, but it will play a part in my plans. You, will play part in my plans."

"You have no control over me."

"I have complete control over you." Images flash through her head of forthcoming events, and all she can focus on is Will. Fear overtakes her as she sees this, and he smiles knowing he has won. "I'm keeping you alive, because I know you will do anything to make sure your brother lives. Like you said to yourself, it's always been about Will." He grinned, showing her the memory of the two reading her Cosmo magazines... then the exchanges of Thumper. Their last hug. Then what was coming. Tears brimmed in her eyes; She did it for Will, because he was the priority, and he always will be.

"Once my plan commences, I will lead you, as I led Billy and your brother before you." He started, a black tornado-like mist began to form behind him, surrounding the two. "As long as you make the right choices, I won't have to take control. I know you will stop at nothing to keep Will alive, that you will protect him, no matter the cost... Being the dutiful sister you are. So, it shouldn't be that hard for you."

Allison shook her head as her eyes widened in horror. "If you find a way to resist me, or you do not comply, I will kill every last person you love. Starting with your dear Steve... or your mother, if you prefer." Vecna laughed, causing her to squirm under his hold. "It's time to finish what I started." He maliciously grinned, his fingers moving to hover over her eyes. A searing pain emitted from her eyeballs; she fought back the scream withheld inside her throat, but the agony became too much. It burned as forthcoming events of herself played in front of her. She pleaded for him to stop, not wanting to bear seeing any more of it. He halted, pulling his hand away from it's hovered position before placing it on her chest, hovering it where her rapidly beating heart was. Pressure built within her chest as she felt her heart palpitating, a tightening sensation making her squirm. The black mist began to near her as his fingernails dug into her skin, causing a great discomfort; the mist seeped first into her mouth, followed by her eyes, a dark, voided pit forming as she felt herself succumbing to the darkness. She shut her eyes tightly, and the pain ended as soon as it started.

Her eyes opened, realizing her surroundings were completely different, but also that she was falling from the air. She crashed down hard, yelping as her ankle twisted upon impact, petrified sobs slipping from her lips. Her hazel eyes darted straight to her friends, who all looked to her in disbelief. Before she could even pull herself to a stance, they were all dropped from their helpless positions. As the three coughed and gasped for air, Steve scrambled over to Allison, completely covering her shaking body with his arms as he himself trembled. He was speechless from everything that he'd witnessed, and from the unanswered question of how she just escaped Vecna without a song to save her. She clung to him in return, burying her face in his neck as her eyes shut tightly, heart pounding within her chest.

"I don't believe in a higher power, or divine intervention... but that was a miracle- are you okay?" Robin frantically inquired, crawling to her side. The blonde nodded vigorously, swallowing hard as her eyebrows furrowed. "I think- I think I twisted my ankle."

The three looked to each other, having asked that question given that she was just under Vecna's hold, but the clouded gleam in her eyes had worried them. "How- how did you escape Vecna?" Nancy questioned, coming to a stance as she found a firm grip on her shotgun. The Byers girl looked between her friends, remembering being with a false version of Will, which she knew was Vecna, only to find herself running through Hawkins Lab and Scoops to escape him... but that was it. She saw him, and he was gone; her memory had gone completely blank. "I... I don't know."

"What do you mean you don't know?" Nancy inquired, shaking her head in disbelief. "You were just floating in the air- we thought your bones were about to start snap crackle popping like that cereal commercial-" Robin added, being hit on her arm by the back of Steve's hand. "I don't remember. So much happened but at the same time- nothing did."

"How is that possible?" Steve gently asked, looking from the blonde to his two friends beside him. "He had me held against the gate at Scoops- but that's all I can remember. All I know is that we need to take this bastard down... before he can get to Max. Phase four, now." Allison instructed, about to stand before wincing at the pain sent from her ankle. Robin and Steve took their cue to help her up, stabilizing her by keeping her in the middle of them. "Flambe." Robin nodded in agreement, following after Nancy.

As they climbed the stairs, frustration filled the blonde. She knew that wasn't all that had happened, but couldn't remember a single thing to prove it. Something within her was... different. She couldn't put her finger on it, but had the feeling that something had changed. And it didn't feel right. When they got to the top, her breath hitched upon seeing the humanoid creature she had just had an interaction with dangling in mid air, being hung by vein like strings attached to his back. Steve reached down into their duffle bag, igniting the cloth attached to the Molotov's. He took a step forward, sending the concoction flying across the room, crashing into Vecna's floating form. It wasn't long before the veins unattached, and he fell to the ground in flames.

As he looked to the four teenagers across the room, Allison's heart began to palpitate. Vecna slowly came to a stance with fire covering his body. He showed no sign of pain as he snarled in their direction, curling his long fingers. Robin ignited the second Molotov, wasting no time to throw it onto his approaching form. He groaned as it sent him stumbling a few steps back whilst the others shielded their eyes from the brightening flame. Yet again, Vecna steadied himself, prepared to come their way. Nancy had prepared herself for this moment, though, and in no universe was she going to let him near. With a firm grip on her leveled shotgun, her bravery carried her five steps forward. A bullet was fired from the chamber, flying straight into his right shoulder. The second bullet was sent straight through his stomach, and the third into the opposite shoulder. As she continued forward and more bullet shells fell to the ground, he stumbled farther and farther back, ultimately being thrown out of the window with one final shot.

Their breaths were heavy as they understood their part was done. Allison and Robin shared the feeling that it was too easy. All four ran down both flights of stairs, Allison being basically carried by Steve, finding themselves in front of the house. All that was on the ground below was a pool of blood, but no Vecna. "Fuck." Steve cursed under his breath, knowing that this wasn't over yet. "Where-" Robin began to say before the fourth chime rang from the clock inside. Their heads whipped towards it before moving to position themselves in front of it. Allison's stomach sunk with the realization of what the sound meant.

"Four chimes." Nancy said breathlessly, looking at the clock in horror. "Max."

-

Allison stood beneath the scalding spray of the shower, her skin reddening under the relentless heat, but she didn't move. The water pounded against her shoulders and back like a punishment she had willingly stepped into, hoping desperately that it would burn away the confusion, the fear, the heaviness that had taken root in her chest. She had hoped that maybe the memories would start to come back in pieces, that the steam and solitude would clear her mind like fog on a mirror. That something would make sense; That she could grasp hold of anything from the time Vecna had been inside her head.

But there was nothing.

Only fragments. Whispers. Flickers of images she couldn't quite place. Every time she tried to focus, they slipped through her like water through her fingers; ungraspable, taunting. Her stomach twisted with the weight of it; The feeling that something horrible had happened, but it was just beyond her reach.

Her heart felt like it was sinking under the weight of everything they had seen, everything they had lost. The images wouldn't stop flashing through her mind, uninvited and merciless. Eddie's lifeless, battered body, his face pale and still, cradled in Dustin's trembling arms. The way Dustin rocked back and forth, sobbing, inconsolable, as if holding Eddie tighter could somehow undo the impossible.

And then Max. Sweet, fierce Max, broken and bloodied, her eyes staring into nothing, wide and glassy. The silence that had followed as they realized she couldn't see. The way her limbs refused to move, her body limp in Lucas's hands like a shattered doll.

Allison had replayed those moments over and over, trying to find something they could've done differently. Something they could've changed. But there were no second chances. No do-overs. Only echoes of screams and the terrible quiet that followed.

And worst of all— he was still out there.

Vecna.

Somewhere in the shadows, lurking, waiting. Breathing. It didn't matter that they had survived. It didn't feel like victory. It felt like loss, and no matter how tightly she held onto hope, a part of her whispered the truth she didn't want to hear: This time, they hadn't won.

Allison moved slowly, every step heavy as she slipped into her pajamas, her limbs aching with exhaustion. The steam from the shower still clung faintly to her skin as she opened the bathroom door with a soft click.

Steve was sitting at the edge of the bed, hunched forward, his elbows braced on his knees and his head buried in his hands. At the sound of the door, he looked up, his tired eyes meeting hers. There was a flicker of something; relief, maybe, or quiet concern, and his expression softened as he rose to his feet, hesitant but open. "You feel any better?" he asked gently, his voice low, almost afraid to break the fragile quiet between them. His eyes scanned her face like he was searching for something; any sign of light returning. Allison shook her head, lips pressed into a thin line as she bit back the emotion threatening to spill over. Without saying a word, she crossed the room and stepped into his arms. He wrapped them around her instantly, pulling her close, one hand moving in slow, comforting circles against her back.

"Do you?" she murmured into his chest, breathing in the familiar scent of his shampoo, still lingering in his damp hair. When, by some miracle, they had made it back to his house, bruised, bloody, and shaken, with gentle hands and trembling focus, she carefully tended to the deep gash along his side after he washed off, her fingers brushing over the torn skin with a tenderness that made his breath hitch. Every touch was deliberate, every movement filled with unspoken fear and fierce devotion, as if by caring for his wounds, she could somehow begin to heal the night itself.

Steve didn't answer with words. He just shook his head, slow and subtle, his chin brushing the top of her head. He held her for a long time, the silence between them filled only by the soft rhythm of their breathing. But eventually, he leaned back just enough to see her face, his hands still gently resting on her arms.

"I thought I was gonna lose you tonight," he said quietly, his voice rough at the edges. Allison's eyes flicked up to his, startled by the sudden vulnerability in his tone. "Steve..."

"No," he said, shaking his head, his gaze locked on hers. "I mean it. I've been scared before, plenty of times considering you've nearly been a goner a handful of times but this... this was different. You were gone, Allie. I called your name, over and over, and you didn't even blink. And then you started to float and—" His voice caught in his throat, and he let out a shaky breath. "I couldn't move. I couldn't help you."

Her hand found his, squeezing gently, grounding him. "I had your Walkman," he continued, eyes glistening now. "I brought it just in case, telling you I didn't want to consider the possibility that he'd take you from us. But my arms were pinned, I couldn't get to it. I was just watching and praying that somehow you'd hear me." He swallowed hard. "And I just kept thinking, God, please don't take her. Not her. Not like this."

Allison's eyes filled with tears, her voice a soft whisper. "But I did hear you."

He let out a small, breathless laugh, shaking his head in disbelief. "I don't know how, but thank God you did. Because if I'd had to watch you die... if I lost you tonight..." His voice cracked, and he looked away for a moment, jaw tightening as he fought to keep his composure. "I don't know what I would've done."

She stepped closer again, wrapping her arms around his waist, pressing her cheek against his chest. "You didn't lose me," she whispered. "I'm still here. I'm right here." His arms came around her again, this time even tighter. "Yeah," he breathed, burying his face in her hair. "And I don't ever want to come that close to losing you again."

He pulled back just enough to look down at her, brushing a strand of damp hair from her face. She looked up longingly at him, reaching a hand up to cup his cheek. "You won't." His eyes searched hers for a moment, then he leaned in and kissed her; slowly, gently, with every ounce of fear, relief, and love he hadn't been able to put into words. She kissed him back just as tenderly, letting the touch say what neither of them could fully express: I'm here. I'm safe. We're okay.

"I was also praying I'd get to at least do that one more time." He smiled as she let out a small laugh in return, biting down on her lip. "Let's get you to bed, hm?" he murmured softly, his hand moving in slow, soothing circles along her back. She gave a small nod, exhausted but comforted by his presence. Just as he turned to lead her out of the room, he felt a gentle tug on his hand. He stopped and turned to face her, his expression shifting instantly; soft, concerned, attentive.

Her fingers wrapped around his, holding on like she was afraid to let go. "I... I don't think I can sleep alone tonight," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper, but it was enough. He didn't hesitate. His thumb brushed over her knuckles as he gave her hand a reassuring squeeze, his eyes warm with understanding as he nodded. Without another word, he led her towards his bed, pulling back the covers for her to climb in. He followed in suite, turning off the lamp beside his bed as Allison curled into his chest. He pulled the blankets over them, one arm tucked protectively around her, the other gently running through her hair. Her hand rested over his heart, feeling its steady beat, grounding them both in the quiet after the storm.

They didn't say anything else. They didn't have to. Wrapped in each other's arms, they slowly drifted to sleep, clinging to the warmth and comfort of the one thing they hadn't lost: each other, because after everything, neither of them could take another goodbye.

Two days later

The blonde sat silently in front of the hospital bed Max had been in for the past couple of days, Steve hovering on the opposite side of her. She still hadn't been able to process everything that had gone down in these 48 hours. Her thumb brushed over Max's hand within hers before her eyes moved to the new and improved skateboard she had bought for the redhead whilst in California, having barely fit it in her suitcase. On the back, there were waves painted, along with the words 'zoomer.' It had been painted by Molly, given she was artistically gifted, unlike Allison. The blonde had been so excited to give it to Max, but now she wasn't even sure if the redhead would be able to skate, let alone see again. Her heart ached for the Mayfield girl, not being able to imagine what she'll feel when she wakes... if she does. The blonde breathed heavily with defeat. This wasn't how it was supposed to turn out. She understood there was nothing they could do about it now, nor that they could change the past, but she couldn't help but feel angry that Max had been the one Vecna chose. Once Lucas had arrived, she gave him a reassuring but silent hug, letting him switch places with her.

When she had returned to Steve's house, they headed over to the Wheelers to help pack up boxes for donation down at the high school. "How are you holding up?" Allison whispered to Dustin by the trunk while Steve and Robin bickered about where to put the box Nancy had just handed them. The Henderson boy opened his mouth for a second before shutting it, unable to speak. He knew once he did, he'd feel it all over again. The Byers girl understood immediately as she put her arm around his shoulder, leaning her head atop his whilst she squeezed his arm in reassurance.

"Did someone order pizza?" Karen questioned from beside Nancy, drawing the groups attention. "Pizza?" Dustin inquired, eyebrows furrowing. When Allison's eyes landed on the Surfer Boy pizza van, her heart nearly stopped. She knew instantly who that van belonged to, along with who might be in it. "Oh my god-" She muttered as she withdrew her arm from around Dustin's shoulder, taking a few steps forward. "Who is it?" Steve asked her, being able to tell she recognized it. As the van door slid open, and figures began to step out, tears of happiness welled in her eyes. For the first time in the past couple of days, a genuine smile engulfed her face as she saw her brothers and Eleven. Her feet were already moving at the same time her family's were; the four crashed into each other, letting out relieved laughs as they held one another tightly. Allison didn't care that a few tears had fallen from her eyes, because she knew it was for good reason.

"I missed you guys so much." She cried as her brothers and Eleven held her tighter. When they withdrew, she scanned their faces for any harm, finding that they were all fine. "Are you okay? We couldn't contact you guys-" She let out a breath, holding her brothers shoulders firmly. "We're okay, and we're sorry, we couldn't contact anyone, it's a long story. Are you okay?" Jonathan inquired, searching his sisters face and finding the distress in her eyes. "I am now. I also have a long story." She sighed, looking from Jonathan to Will, eyes landing on Eleven. "Your hair!?" Allison exclaimed as one of her hands glided over Eleven's buzzed hair. "Another long story." She replied, shaking her head. "Seems there's a lot of stories to be shared." The blonde responded, holding the younger girls' face in her hands, noticing her brothers' anxiousness to see their friends. "We'll catch up, go hug your friends." She smiled as she stepped out of the way, allowing them to run to the others.

"Are you... okay?" Eleven asked, taking Allison's hand within hers. "I saw..."

"I'm okay, I made it out." The blonde replied, nodding her head insistently. Once Eleven nodded in return, the two withdrew from another embrace, smiling to one another. As the younger girl moved to go embrace Dustin and Lucas, Allison's eyes moved to Argyle standing aloof in the back; even though the two weren't close like him and Jonathan, she still wrapped her arms around him. She had been curious to know how he got wrapped into this and if he knew about everything, but kept those inquiries to herself. "It's good to see you again Argyle." She said with a smile before they withdrew from their hold. "I dig the blonde my friend." He grinned, gesturing to her hair. She laughed in return, forgetting that the last time they had seen each other, she was brunette. Her and Mikes hug was brief, but she couldn't believe how tall he was now. His hair was longer, and features more prominent. "Good to see you Mikey." She smiled, receiving one in return. "You too Allie."

They all grouped together, exchanging some bittersweet words before splitting into different groups. "I'll see you tonight, but I've gotta make up for lost time." Allison spoke to Steve as he prepped his car to drive over to the school with Robin and Dustin. "I understand, you don't have to explain. You guys need your time together right now, it'll be good for all four of you." He gently spoke with a small smile, putting a strand of hair behind her ear. She nodded before the two embraced; she breathed in his scent, letting his cologne fill her lungs and bring comfort to her. "I'd kiss you... but I don't want to assume-" He started as he pulled slightly away to face her before she enveloped her lips with his. At this, he held her closer in his grasp. Her hand cupped his cheek before she withdrew, her eyes softly pouring into his.

"I don't want you to assume, I want you to know." She whispered, biting down on her lip as his eyebrows raised in confusion. She smiled at his slowness, shaking her head vaguely. "Time is precious... and I don't want to spend it with regret or hesitation. I know you've waited for me... I don't want you to wait anymore." She explained, watching as a slow smile slithered across his lips. "So... does this mean...?"

"I'm yours, Steve Harrington. I'm your girl."

"You're my girl." He beamed, cupping her cheeks to pull her in to another kiss. "God, finally." Robin sighed, Dustin being equally as relieved. "I knew there was something going on!" Nancy calmly exclaimed, causing the two to pull apart. Steve looked to Jonathan beside the Wheeler girl, and was surprised to see him nod with approval. Jonathan knew that there was always undeniable love between them, even if he didn't initially like that thought. But seeing how comfortable and happy his sister was when she was with him made him push his protective nature to the side. Just like Allison did with him and Nancy.

"We should get going." Steve stated, receiving nods from all the teens. With that, they all split, heading off to their different destinations.

-

Seeing the disheveled state of Hoppers late cabin was a sight for sore eyes, but despite it's disrepair, the lot of them decided to put it back together. As Allison cleaned out Hopper's room, she couldn't help but eavesdrop on Mike and Will's conversation.

"Let's hope One is dead and rotting." Mike stated, saying it rather passionately.

"He's not. Now that I'm here, in Hawkins, I can feel him. And he's hurt. He's hurting. But he's still alive. It's strange, knowing now who it was this whole time, but... I can still remember what he thinks, and how he thinks... and he's not going to stop. Ever. Not until he's taken everything. And everyone. We have to kill him."

"And we will. We will."

Allison couldn't help but rub her chest as it tightened upon hearing her youngest brothers statement. It felt like she was supposed to know or understand something, yet it wouldn't come to mind. As the sound of a vehicle approaching came from the front, she exited the bedroom, meeting face to face with Mike and Will. All three moved to the windows, peering out as they saw the black car. Her jaw slacked as she watched Jim Hopper exit the vehicle, very much alive. When her mother followed, she was already two steps out the door. "Mom!" The blonde exclaimed as she ran into her mother's arms, being cradled by the back of her head. The way Joyce would rub her back and remind her everything was okay made her feel like a child again. "I'm okay sweetheart, I'm here now." Joyce smiled, pulling back to hold her daughter by her elbows. "Are you okay?" She inquired, knowing there was so much going on in her daughters' mind with just one look in her hazel eyes. "I'm with my family again, how could I not be." The blonde smiled with brimming tears, moving to hold her mother's hands within her own. Her eyes moved to the late chiefs beside her, who smiled softly. He had looked very different from the last time she had seen him, as did she. Allison didn't miss the glances him and her mother had shared, nor how different Joyce looked to him. Though she was unsure of what had conspired between them, she had an inkling of what it was, and all she could do was smile about it.

"Hey kid." He spoke, his voice still smooth. With the spirit of reunions today, she moved to hug him. His hugs were comforting and safe like a father, but he just had that aroma by default. "I'm glad you're alive, Hopper... you must want to see Eleven."

He nodded in return; from there, she showed him the way as the others came outside and greeted Joyce, taking their turn in reunions. At one point, Joyce had all of her children in her embrace, holding them close. Having been away from them for as long as she was had been nearly unbearable; not knowing what they were going through or if they were safe was a nightmare. Now that all three were in front of her, breathing, she didn't want to let go. But when Eleven came down the front steps, she released her grasp, hugging her fourth child closely.

For the first time in awhile, Allison felt at home again. While Hawkins was no longer her and her families home, being there together made it feel as such. Though things were far from normalcy, it almost felt like old times. It was a feeling that she wished would last forever, as she put her arm around Will, as he did to her, bringing them side by side. "We have a lot to catch up on." He stated, looking up to her. "Yes... yes we do." She replied, her smile faltering. Thunder rolled from the clouds above as Will reached for his neck. Both Allison and Jonathan noticed this, watching as their little brother turned to face the sky. Flaking particles began to fall from above as the sky darkened; they all began to walk in the direction it was falling from, only to find a clearing; The grass was gray, matching that of the number of dark clouds of smoke. Red lighting flashed in the sky above, the ground below was split open.

Allison's heart began to palpitate at the sight. With one look at this, she, along with the others, knew this was far from over. But only when she felt him, did she understand.

To be continued in S5...