Dustin's older sister, a year his senior, arrives in Hawkins—someone he's barely spoken of and who was never part of the group. Max is no longer the outgoing girl she once was; she's isolated, withdrawn, and has found solace in music after Billy's death. At first, Max avoids the newcomer like she does everyone else: short answers, distance, and distrust. The difference is that this person doesn't pressure her or look at her with pity.