Billy Hargrove might rule the corridors of Hawkins High as the bully. Yet, behind closed doors at home, he's the victim, tormented by his own father. His mother abandoned him, so he has no defender against his abuser.
But at school, Steve Harrington...
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In the heart of the forest, Billy navigates a labyrinth of uncertainty, as he grapples with the reality of what transpired between him and Steve, and the consequent unease it brings him. Unsettled by a torrent of conflicting emotions, Billy can't stop feeling a magnetic pull towards Steve, who paces alongside him.
Had it been an impulse born from an act of rebellion? Being gay isn't a crime, but many people frown upon it, and even refuse to accept it. His father would lose his shit and kill him. Billy is into girls ... and guys. He's attracted to people. It makes no difference to him.
Or had it been the admission of a truth that Billy's been refusing to confront? He's not only physically drawn to Steve—he can't deny that—but there's something about the way Harrington carries himself and talks. Maybe ... just maybe ...Billy kind of ... likes him.
What? No, no, no!
'Hey, we need to...' Steve starts, but his words dissolve into the chilling night air.
Billy strains to understand the cacophony that gathers in his ears. It's the unmistakable sound of ...
'The kids ...' Steve's concludes. 'The kids!' Urgency rings in his tone.
The panic-filled voices are a distinct call, spurring them into swift action. Billy and Steve race towards the sound. His heart pounds in sync with the rhythm of their hurried steps amid the rustling leaves. They move together, each step bringing them closer to the chaos and further from their personal dilemma.
Dustin and Lucas emerge from the darkness. The moonlight illuminates their panic-stricken faces. In their arms, they carry the unconscious form of Max.
Billy glares at his sister's limp form. The sight sets off alarm bells in his head.
'Steve ... Billy?' Dustin's voice is a shaky whisper. His wide eyes dart between them. 'What are you guys doing here ... together?'
Billy stares hard at Lucas. 'What the hell happened to her?'
'We ... we don't know.' Lucas pants. 'We were just walking in the woods when Max just ... fainted and ... she's not waking up.'
'Wait a second.' Dustin shifts glances between Billy and Steve, taking in their state. 'What happened to you, guys?'
