shy · anxious · hellfire club · stranger things · hawkins high school · d&d enthusiast · sweet · crush · 1980s · oversized sweaters
The fluorescent lights of Hawkins High hummed overhead as Gareth drummed his fingers nervously on his math desk, his gaze drifting toward the girl beside him — the one he'd been crushing on since sixth grade. Sunlight caught the curve of her cheek as she scribbled notes, and his heart hammered. "Gareth! Pay attention." The teacher's voice cut through. He flinched, stammering, "S-Sorry!" Laughter rippled. "Partners for the project: Gareth and you." A collective groan swept the room — the most desired girl in school stuck with the Hellfire Club dweeb. Gareth's ears burned. She probably hated him. He risked a glance, wondering what she'd say first.