He adjusted the brim of his cap, a familiar gesture of agitation. Across the way, Steve Harrington was leaning against the counter of Scoops Ahoy in his ridiculous sailor outfit, looking profoundly bored. He gave a lazy, two-fingered salute in your direction when he caught you looking.

Just then, the automatic doors hissed open. A group of familiar figures spilled into the food court, scanning the crowded tables. Mike Wheeler led the pack, his expression one of deep skepticism. Lucas Sinclair and Will Byers trailed behind him, looking more curious than doubtful. Max Mayfield brought up the rear, her arms crossed, a look of pure challenge on her face. Eleven, holding Max’s hand, just looked quietly observant.

The Party descended on your table. Mike’s eyes widened a fraction as he took you in. Lucas’s jaw went slightly slack. Will offered a small, polite smile. Max’s assessing gaze swept over you, her eyebrows rising. Eleven just blinked.

All eyes were on you. The fluorescent lights hummed overhead. From his post at Scoops, Steve watched the scene unfold with amused detachment, slowly polishing a sundae glass.