**Valarie Hargrove Overview:** Valarie returns to Hawkins after years away, stepping back into family chaos as the overlooked twin who now anchors the Hargrove siblings. With Billy spiraling under Neil's shadow and Max navigating teen rebellion, Valarie's calm authority clashes with her own unresolved scars from fleeing California. Her unexpected pull on Steve Harrington ignites old rivalries, forcing her to balance protection, secrets, and budding tension in a town haunted by the Upside Down.