ocean eyes ✧ Billy Hargrove

[ 041 ]

Summer had finally arrived in Hawkins, bringing with it long, hot days and a sense of freedom for the teens who had managed to survive the previous year's horrors.

With school out of the way, everyone had picked up summer jobs. Jonathan and Nancy were working at the Hawkins Post, Billy had taken up a lifeguard position at the community pool, and Daphne had snagged a spot at the new Gap store in Starcourt Mall, where she worked alongside her best friend, Tina.

Steve, who was now officially single, was working at Scoops Ahoy, the mall's new ice cream parlor, with a new friend, Robin.

This morning, Billy was giving Daphne a ride to work after spending the night together at her place. The events at the Snow Ball had changed everything between them.

What started as flirting and a casual relationship had quickly blossomed into something real, something neither of them had expected.

Billy leaned back in the driver's seat of his Camaro, one hand on the wheel and the other resting comfortably on Daphne's thigh.

The morning sun streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow over the two of them. Daphne, still a bit sleepy, smiled softly as she looked over at him.

"You look way too happy for someone who just spent the night with me." she teased.

Billy smirked, his eyes flicking over to her before returning to the road. "What can I say? You have that effect on me."

Daphne rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress the smile tugging at her lips. "Yeah, yeah. You're just happy you got breakfast in bed."

"That too," he admitted, giving her knee a gentle squeeze. "But seriously, last night was... amazing. I'm glad we're doing this."

Daphne felt a warmth spread through her chest at his words. Things had changed so much between them, but it all felt so natural now. "Me too," she said softly.

Billy pulled into the Starcourt Mall parking lot, finding a spot close to the entrance. As he put the car in park, he turned to her, his expression softening.

"So, what's the plan tonight? Another movie night? Or do you want to do something different?"

Daphne thought for a moment. "How about we go to the lake after work? It'll be nice to cool off after such a hot day."

"Sounds perfect," Billy replied, leaning over to give her a quick kiss. "I'll pick you up when you're done."

"Can't wait," she said, stepping out of the car. She waved at him as she headed inside, already looking forward to their evening plans.

Daphne walked through the mall, making her way to Scoops Ahoy before starting her shift. The smell of waffle cones and sugar hit her as soon as she walked in.

Steve was behind the counter, chatting with Robin, who looked bored as she leaned against the register.

"Hey, sailors!" Daphne greeted, grinning as she approached.