Before The Light Goes Out.

Makayla Henderson has learned that in Hawkins, love is never simple and safety is an illusion. Her world revolves around protecting her little brother, Dustin, and standing shoulder to shoulder with her closest friends. Nancy is her constant, the kids are her family, and Makayla would do anything to keep them safe, no matter the cost.

Then there's Steve Harrington.

What starts as something unexpected shared glances, late night talks, a quiet understanding quickly becomes impossible to ignore. Steve is reckless in the way only someone brave can be, all sharp edges and hidden softness, and Makayla finds herself drawn to him even as the world around them begins to unravel. In Hawkins, falling in love feels dangerous when tomorrow is never guaranteed.

As monsters crawl out of the dark and reality fractures in ways no one can explain, Makayla is forced to fight battles on two fronts: protecting the people she loves and guarding her heart. Every moment with Steve feels stolen, fragile, and burning with the fear that it could all disappear in an instant.

Because when the world is ending, love doesn't make you weaker, it gives you something worth surviving for.