donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Should I start posting again?

Would anybody be interested at all if I were to finish writing stranger places? Just curious

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Personal post

So today, I went for a job interview since I was let go from my other job. My last job hired me with the promise to move up within a month of working there, but that never happened. I was kept at the same position for six months without being offered a raise or any form of a promotion, so naturally I became unhappy with the company I was working for, feeling I had been tricked into working a position I did not sign up for longterm. When I was being fired, my manager told me that I had been rude and disrespectful and she deserved the upmost respect because she was old enough to be my grandmother. She also felt the need to add in that I needed to get my priorities straightened out. And I decided that yes, I did need to get my priorities straightened out. I had just graduated with my AA and have always been a hardworking individual, and I was wasting my talent and time on a company that not only could not see that, but refused to even acknowledge it. A company that would listen to my complaints but never resolved the problems that were being presented to them. And I was tired of working under a person who, themself, was in no way qualified for the position they were hired for- and whom had only been working at that position for a total of two weeks- and felt they deserved respect due to their patriarchy like views. So, as I said in the beginning of this post, I went for a job interview today, and was hired on the spot for the SAME POSITION I WAS TOLD I WAS INEXPERIENCED FOR AND DID NOT DESERVE! The general manager saw the potential and drive in me and not only listened to what I was saying, but shared the same values as I did. And it just goes to show you, that even when someone belittles you and tries to make it seem like you are the problem, its really because they have problems with themselves. Do not take every negative criticism to heart because most likely they have been amplified by people who can not honestly make that assumption about you. Be who you are and stick to your morals and values and if others can't respect your desire to live a happy and fulfilled life, then cut them out. They do not deserve you.

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Hopper: You’re grounded for…. Till….. College!

El: For till college?!

Hopper: FOR TILL COLLEGE!

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Stranger Places (A stranger things tale) Chapter 13- Hide and Seek

All was back to normal in Hawkins, until Jane receives a visit from her sister Kali. Now the two must find others like them if they have any hope of saving their world.

Steve followed Jackie all the way to the football field. He had been trying to get her attention, but she was blatantly ignoring him. Steve knew he deserved it but was still irritated at the fact she wouldn’t even acknowledge him. “Hey!” he basically screamed at her. 

She spun around on her heels. “What!” she yelled back. 

“What do you want?! Now all of the sudden you want to talk to me?!” she asked, still fuming from before.

“Listen,” Steve began. “I was a jerk earlier. I was upset because I was beginning to think the rumors were true.”

“So? They’re about me, not you. What does it matter to you?”

Steve was stumped. Why did it matter to him? She rolled her eyes at him and was about to walk away when he grabbed her shoulder. “Wait, please don’t run away from me. I want to apologize.”

 It would be the first apology anyone has given Jackie for the way that they have been treating her. She motioned for him to continue. “I don’t know why I was upset about it, but I just wanted to say I’m sorry. I’m sorry for being such a shitty friend when you were in a bad situation. I should’ve known better, especially coming from Hargrove.”

She shrugged. “Yeah, you should’ve. But, I guess I should’ve too when his sister said he was a jerk.”

“What happened?” Steve asked, concerned.

Jackie shook her head. “Nothing, don’t worry about it.”

Steve let out a sigh. “You know you’re really good at running away and hiding from your problems?”

She scrunched up her face. “Excuse me?”

“Jackie, I’m trying to talk to you,” Steve pleaded. 

She looked at him, confused where his sudden interest in her life came from. She sighed, “He was a jerk.” 

“When I told him I didn’t want to sleep with him, he got upset and kicked me out of his car. Well,” She paused. “I called him a schmuck first, and then he kicked me out of the car.”

Jackie plopped down on the bleachers. Steve did the same, next to her. She laughed, “You know, I was actually having a good time until he tried to stick his hand up my skirt.”

Steve felt his ears begin to burn. “He did what?”

“Yeah, I should’ve punched him then too,” she said with a chuckle.

 “Why didn’t you?”

She shrugged. “I don’t know. I guess I was afraid of what he may do. But, I didn’t care today. I’m tired of people thinking they can do whatever they want to me.”

Steve glanced down at her hand that she was rubbing with the other.

“How’s your hand?”

Jackie spread her fingers apart and studied her knuckles. “Not the worst I’ve had. But it doesn’t feel good. Brody’s definitely going to be pissed come Saturday.”

Steve laughed. “Or proud. I know I would be. That punch was insane. You’re like the girl Rocky.”

Jackie threw her head back and laughed. “Thanks! I work hard like Rocky.”

“What made you decide to start kick boxing?”

“When I left Hawkins, the person who took care of me made me learn. He didn’t want me to be afraid of the world around me. He wanted me to know that I was more than capable of taking care of myself and being on my own.” 

Steve smiled. “You’re admirable.”

Jackie shot him a glare as her cheeks blushed. “shut up.”

Steve chuckled.

“I think I heard a crunch when I hit him,” Jackie bragged.

“Oh, don’t worry,” Steve replied. “You definitely fractured it at the very least.”

Jackie smirked, proud of her little stunt. They both let out a laugh. This felt familiar. 

“Do you want to hang out today? I’m pretty sure Dustin said he was going to study at The Sinclair’s. We could grab a coffee?” Steve suggested.

Jackie’s expression turned serious. “I can’t, I actually have to study, myself, before my shift at the diner.”

Steve frowned, disappointed by her reply. “Oh, well, I could help you?” he offered.

She chuckled as she got up from the bleachers, “Something tells me you would be more of a distraction than anything else.”

Steve shrugged. “I’m known to be quite handy when it comes to making up flashcards.”

She smiled. “Maybe next time,” she promised. “Tell Dustin to call me sometime.”

“Will do,” he replied, sticking his hand in the pocket of his jacket.

Jane let out a squeal when Mike splashed water at her. “It’s cold!”

Mike giggled. “Sorry.”

Jane smiled, giving him a little splash back. She couldn’t be more happy than to spend time with her favorite person. Jim peaked over his sunglasses at the two as he baited his hook. It was nice to see her genuine happy and being a thirteen year old girl. 

“Are you hungry?” Mike asked. Jane nodded. 

“Me too,” Mike replied. “Hey Hopper?”

“Yup?” Jim answered with a cigarette between his lips.

“Where did you pack the sandwiches?”

“They’re in the cooler in the cargo bed.”

Mike swung his head to Jane. “PBandJ or ham and cheese?”

“PBandJ,” She answered. 

Mike kissed her cheek, “I’ll be right back,” he told her as he sprinted to the truck.

“I saw that,” Hopper told Mike as he passed. “Bring me back a ham and cheese.”

“Got it!” Mike answered, nervousy behind his tone. Hopper chuckled.

Jane stared into the lake at her reflection. She laced her fingers into the roots of her hair and pulled them through so that it went in all directions. She smiled as her arms dropped to her side. Jane continued to watch her reflection as she swung her arms around, when she notice a blue butterfly fluttering by. She looked up to find nothing next to her. She diverted her stare back to the water where the butterfly was still fluttering what seemed to be inches from her face. Jane focused on it. Kali? She wondered. Then, in a very clear distinct voice she heard her speak. Jane! Jane’s eyes widened. How was this possible? She went to look up, and was greeted by Mike’s gaze, who seemed just as startled as she was. “Are you okay?” he asked her. She nodded in response. He hands her a sandwich tucked into a plastic bag. She smiles. “Thank you.”

Mike hopped out of the truck and to the front door of his house. before he entered, he turned to give Hopper a wave goodbye. When he got in, he heard Nancy and Jonathan at the dining table. “Hey!” his sister called to him.

“Hey guys.”

“So?” Jonathan asked with a smile.

Mike shrugged. “So what?”

Nancy laughed. “How was your date?”

Mike rolled his eyes. “It wasn’t a date. Hopper was there.”

“Ooo a chaperone,” Nancy teased. “So I guess you didn’t get to kiss her.”

Mike let out an exasperated sigh as he turned around and headed for the stairs to the basement. 

Jonathan laughed. “Oh, come on Mike!”

“Yeah! I’m just kidding!” They heard a slam and broke into laughter. 

“I don’t understand what we did wrong,” Nancy said.

Jonathan shook his head, trying not to spit out the sip of soda he had just taken.

“Will?” Mike said over the talkie. “Are you there? over.”

“Yeah, I’m here,” Will replied. “Over.”

“Did you do any of the math homework?”

“No,” Will answered. “I didn’t get it.”

“When are we ever going to need to know this anyway?” Mike asked. 

“Did you try asking Nancy?”

Mike shook his head and collapsed it into his hand. “I am not going back up there to be tortured by my sister and your brother.”

Will sighed over the walkie talkie. “Sorta weird how they’re dating now, right?”

“Super weird. I think I liked it better when she was dating Steve. She didn’t hang around the house as often.”

“Well,” Will began. “Look on the bright side. When they get married, we’ll be sorta like brothers.”

Mike laughed. “Will, you’re already my brother.”

“Huh,” Will let out, and Mike could swear he could hear him smiling. “Yeah, I guess we are.”

“Anyway,” Mike said with a yawn. “I’m beat. Just figured I’d say hi.”

“I’ll see you at school,” Will replied. The boys said their goodbyes. Mike was about to turn off the walkie, when something muffled caught his ear. He turned the volume up and listened carefully. It sounded like talking. Like two young girls talking.

Sorry I suck at posting. Life is just annoying and trying to get it organized has been aggravating. But, I did work hard on this chapter, so I hope that it lives up to its potential with all of you guys <3 stay tuned.

@10blurredsmoke10 @prettylittlealiengirl @dII0101 @lewistommolommodingdong @cluelesseleven @middlebodyinjury @liamsmithbobo @oddlittlereader @dizyumi @saint-penguin-empire@whysthenameelizapopular @25thcenturygirl @lilias-buckingham@12thatsanumber @julkaglenc @peakyfuckingblinders1919 @lmao-im-hecc-gay @suavelolita

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

I am so tired of people telling me I'm disrespectful or rude or need to get my priorities straightened out. Tell me why I'm all of those things. Because I told you "no" to something? Because I know you can do it yourself and you're just trying to push your weight around? Okay, yeah maybe you're all right, I don't have my priorities straightened out. Because instead of working towards my career, I'm putting up with your bullshit. Instead of going to school like I originally planned, I listen to you assholes telling me I can't do it. So I'm leaving! Bye 😊🖕

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Lose a little guard, let it down 🦋

WILD LOVE video. Watch here

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Happy mothers day to Joyce Byers and Steve Harrington 💕

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Stranger Places (A stranger things tale) Chapter 12- Kiss With A Fist

Description: Everything changes when Dustin finds his mother’s lifeless body, but he is quickly reminded that he still has family when his older sister comes home. Though she is not the company he wants, can he learn to live with her? Can she readjust to life in Hawkins?

Hopper pulled his truck into the drive way. He was exhausted and couldn’t wait to lie down. His heart felt heavy after spending time with Jackie. He could see a piece of his daughter in her and it made him think back to those days spent in the hospital with the two girls. He shook his head clear and opened the front door. The T.V was still on but Jane was passed out on the couch. He sighs, putting his bag down on the dining table and walking over to turn the television off. Jim bent down and scooped Jane up into his arms, carrying her to her bed. He tucks the sheets around her small frame and turns off the light. He goes back into the kitchen to grab the box of chocolates that her valentine had given to him to bring home. He opens the heart shaped box to steal one, but finds a card placed on top of them. He opens it and begins to read it. 

“Dear Elle,

Happy Valentines Day! I know you probably never had one, but I hope that you will consider letting me be yours this year. This box of chocolates is filled with sweet and bitter awesomeness, just like you :). I hope you enjoy them. I miss you so much and am looking forward to the next time we can see each other. 

love,

Mike”

Jim sighed at the letter. “This kid,” he said taking one of the chocolates from their wrappings and popping it in his mouth. He closed the box and went back into Jane’s room to leave it on her bedside table. She’ll like waking up to a present from Mike.

Steve ran a hand through his hair and he walked down the hallway. He was relieved everybody was over the festivities. He waved and smiled at a few people before he got to his locker. He entered the combination and opened it to grab his trig textbook. 

“So, how was the big date?” he heard Peter ask Billy a few lockers down. 

“You know, a date. She may be quiet during school, but the girl can talk,” Billy stated. 

“I bet that’s not all her mouth does,” Tommy egged as Billy laughed and Peter punched his shoulder. Steve rolled his eyes.

“So, tell us. Did you get in?”

Billy looked at the group of guys around him that all worshiped him. He had to give them what they wanted. “I did more than just get in.”

Tommy laughed and pointed at Peter. “I told you!”

Billy shrugged. “Who knew Little Orphan Annie was such a naughty girl once you get a few drinks in her.”

Steve slammed his locker shut and mumbled under his breath. The action did not go unnoticed however.

“Do we have a problem, Harrington?”

Steve looked down at his feet and shook his head. “No,” he replied, raising his eye level to match Billy’s. “Not yet.” Steve closed his locker and walked away. He didn’t want to believe what Billy was saying was true. He knew it probably wasn’t, but for some reason he found himself angry with Jackie. How could she even spend time with that pig? He needed to cool off before class. Steve headed for the nearest bathroom. He went to the nearest sink and turned the faucet on, splashing cold water on his face. Steve looks up into the mirror at himself. Man, he thought. Has the King really fallen from grace?

Jane was sitting in front of the T.V, savoring the chocolates Mike had gotten her, when the phone rang. Hopper always instructed to never pick it up, afraid someone who wasn’t supposed to know she was there would find out. She let it continue to ring until it stopped. She went back to enjoying her special when the phone rang again. This she found odd. Normally, no one was trying to reach Hopper at home; if they needed him, they knew to try the station first. So the fact that it rang twice in one day, one after the other, was abnormal. She tried to ignore it, but found herself counting the rings. It stopped.

“Eight,” she told herself. She waited to see what would happen. Would it ring again? But to her surprise, it was the radio that startled her next.

“Jane?” A girls voice cut over the crackles of static. “Jane, answer me!”

The phone began ringing again. This time, she scurried to answer it before it  stopped. “Hello?”

“Jane! Thank God you answered,” the familiar voice said.

“Kali?” She asked.

“Yes,” she answered. “It’s Kali, and we need to talk.”

“Why? What’s wrong?” She asked, but Kali had already hung up. Jane then noticed the static still coming from the radio. She narrowed her eyes at it, and it switched off. She focused at the television screen, and the picture went from the sitcom she was enjoying to fuzz. 

Jane ran to her room and grabbed a scarf she had hanging on her bed frame. She tied it around her head plopping on the couch, and tuning into the white noise. Jane opened her eyes into complete darkness. She looked around at her surroundings, or lack there of.

“Kali!” she called out. 

“I’m over here!�� she heard, and followed the voice of her sister. Jane saw a silhouette of a female, and picked up her pace. She was met by the arms of her sister, as they embraced each other. 

“I’m so glad you answered,” she sighed. “I need your help.”

“What happened?”

“After you left,” Kali began. “I felt a change. And for awhile it was as if a heavy gloom was lifted from the earth.”

Jane smiled. “I closed the gate.”

“Yes, I knew you did when it happened. I could feel it in my core. But something changed that.”

Jane’s expression became serious. “What do you mean?”

Kali looked around them, as if to make sure that they were truly alone. “Something didn’t want the gate to be closed. Something very dark is extremely unhappy the one portal between our world and its is now gone, and it’s looking for a new entrance.”

“The mindflayer.”

“Mindflayer?” Kali asked.

“The dark creature from the upside down,” Jane explained.

“Then yes, the mindflayer,” Kali agreed.

“How do we stop it?” Jane asked.

“We need help. We need to find the others.”

“How?”

“I don’t know, but I have to go now, Jane. Be safe!” she told her.

Jane found herself sitting back on the couch in Hopper’s cabin. She took the makeshift blind fold off and was greeted by the buzzing screen. Jane wiped the blood from her nose. They had to find the others but how? Also, what was she going to tell Hopper, if she was going to tell Hopper.

It was Friday, and what Jim told Jackie on Valentine’s day was beginning to swim around in her head. Why would he say something like that? Jackie thought he loved the town of Hawkins. Why would he be so quick to throw the people of the town under a bus? To make her feel better? Jackie scoffed at herself, taking the key out of the ignition and heading towards the school’s double doors. Almost immediately she notices the stares she is getting. She sighed; she really thought she may be making some progress in blending in, but now these eyes looked at her with judgement as she made her way down the hallway. She notices Steve at his locker and she hurries to his side to avoid having to venture down the halls any further by herself.

“Hey,” she tells him. 

He looks over at her and averts his attention back to the task at hand, but not before rolling his eyes. “Hey,” he replies.

“How are you? Is Dustin behaving himself?” she asks, with a smile.

“Yeah, he is,” He says. Steve lets out a sigh, “at least one of you is.”

Jackie narrows her eyes at him. “Excuse me?”

Steve closes his locker and begins to walk away. Jackie follows close behind. “What was that supposed to mean?” 

“Nothing, forget it,” he tells her. 

“What’s wrong with you?” she asks him.

He scoffs at her. “What’s wrong with me?” he mutters. “Nothing is wrong with me. Why would something be wrong?”

“Steve,” she says, giving up on trying to keep up with him.

“I’ll see you later,” he tells her as he walks away, but something told Jackie he was lying.

The day seemed to drag on as the bell finally rang to signal lunch time. She hurried over to the usual table her, Jonathan, Nancy and occasionally Steve sat at. 

“Jackie,” Nancy began. “Settle this for us, please. Who’s more iconic; The Beatles or The Rolling Stones.”

“The Beatles,” she answered, somewhat pre-occupied. 

“Told you,” Nancy teased Jonathan.

“Jackie, you were supposed to have my back on this one.”

“It’s statistics Jonathan,” Jackie told him. “The Beatles were just more aesthetically pleasing to both men and women.”

Nancy smiled, happy she had won the debate. Jonathan raised a brow at both girls. “Okay, Miss Rock n’ Roll expert. Queen or David Bow-”

“Why is everyone staring at me?” she asked, glancing around the cafeteria. “Like Jesus, it’s been two weeks now. Get over it.”

Nancy and Jonathan shot her a weary look. Jackie looks back confused. “What?”

“That’s not why they’re staring, Jackie,” Nancy began, but Jonathan pinched her, indicating her not to say anything else.

“What? She has the right to know.”

Jackie rolled her eyes with irritation. “What is it?”

“It’s not important. It’s stupid,” Jonathan reassured her.

“Jonathan,” she said sternly. “You’re supposed to be my friend.”

Jonathan looked at Nancy for answers, but she simply told him, “Tell her.”

He huffed. “Someone has been writing in the boys restrooms your name and phone number.”

Jackie’s jaw dropped. “What?”

“Well, we know who it is,” Nancy corrected. “Hargrove has been going around school saying you slept with him.”

Jackie’s eyes widened and stomach dropped. No way, she thought to herself. 

“We know you would never,” Nancy told her. “But some of the students here will believe anything as long as its not their name being dragged through the mud.”

She shook her head. She couldn’t believe this was happening. She got up, regardless of her friends trying to keep her calm, and headed towards the nearest exit. She needed to see something before she acted on her feelings. Jackie ducked into the first boys restroom, not concerned whether or not it was being occupied by anyone at the moment. She opened up the first stall and sure enough, there it was. In black sharpie read, “For a good time, Call Jackie Henderson,” along with her phone number. She could feel her cheeks and ears get hot. Jackie marched out of the bathroom and back to the cafeteria. She scanned the room for Billy. She finally found him surrounded by his group of goons off to the left near the windows. Jackie stormed up to him and without warning, her first greeted his nose. There was a small crunching sound when her knuckles made contact with his face. The cafeteria went silent.

“Christ!” Billy let out, cupping his nose. “What the FUCK, Jacqueline!”

“You know,” Jackie began. “Your first mistake was thinking you could even mess with someone you followed to a kick boxing class.”

Billy laughed at her. 

“Yeah?” Jackie asked, raising a brow. “You know what’s really funny? YOUR SISTER warned me about you, and I still gave you a chance. Silly me, right?”

“Bitch,” Billy spat at her.

Jackie shrugged. “Yeah I’m a bitch, and a freak, and whatever else you and the rest of the town say about me. But at least I’m not a liar. At least I can be trusted, Billy.”

Jackie turned to face the rest of the cafeteria, that looked both shocked and impressed; especially Steve, Nancy and Jonathan, who all had giant smiles on their faces. “Whatever this asshole has been spoon feeding you the past couple days is a bunch of bullshit. There is no way in hell I would ever sleep with a misogynistic scumbag like Billy Hargrove.”

“No one believes you.” Jackie turned around to face Carol who was smirking. 

“You have something gross on your shirt,” Jackie told her.

“What?” Carol asked looking down to check her shirt. In one swift move, Jackie dumped Carol’s plate of spaghetti onto her. Carol shrieked and the cafeteria broke out in whoops and laughter. “You believed me,” she told her and walked away.

As she made her way through the cafeteria, receiving a few high fives along the way, for the first time since she came back, Jackie didn’t feel under attack anymore. “You go Jackie!” one girl cried out to her. “Orphan Annie’s got spunk!” one boy cried out, as she rolled her eyes at the nickname. Baby steps, she told herself.

“You’re gonna regret this, Henderson!” Billy yelled at her. In response, she held her middle finger high in the air and exited the cafeteria.

I’m baaaaaaaack! Guys, I have some fun news. I went to shaky knees in atlanta this past weekend and not only did i see Post Animal live twice, BUT CHARLIE HEATON WAS THERE! Granted I was shoveling noodles into my face and had just gotten sriracha on my dress when we crossed paths, but he was laughing and having a grand ol’ time in the rain. I wanted to say something to him and introduce myself but was embarrassed by my appearance. The whole experience of the festival though was so lovely. I had such a blast and am now ready to start writing more chapters for stranger places. Hope you liked the justice that was given (rather than made) to Jackie. As always, let me know what you think :)

@10blurredsmoke10 @prettylittlealiengirl @dII0101 @lewistommolommodingdong @cluelesseleven @middlebodyinjury @liamsmithbobo @oddlittlereader @dizyumi @saint-penguin-empire@whysthenameelizapopular @25thcenturygirl @lilias-buckingham@12thatsanumber @julkaglenc @peakyfuckingblinders1919 @lmao-im-hecc-gay @suavelolita 

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Stranger Places (A stranger things tale) Chapter 11- Candy Milkshakes

Description: Everything changes when Dustin finds his mother’s lifeless body, but he is quickly reminded that he still has family when his older sister comes home. Though she is not the company he wants, can he learn to live with her? Can she readjust to life in Hawkins?

“Never love a wild thing Mr. Bell,” Holly says. “That was Doc’s mistake. He was always lugging home wild things.”

Joyce smiles as she pops another chocolate in her mouth. Breakfast at Tiffany’s was airing on T.V and she never missed it. It was a calm night, the boys were in early and she could relax knowing everyone was home safe.

There’s a knock at the door. She looks up to see Jim waving from the window. She smiles and gets up to let him in. When Joyce open the door though, she is greeted by a bouquet of sunflowers.

She laughs. “You still remember after all this time.”

Jim smiles. “Well you told me enough times, it would be strange if I forgot.”

Joyce playfully hits his chest, accepting the flowers from Hopper. She gives him a hug. “They’re beautiful thank you,” she tells him. “Want to come in? I have chocolate,” she tempted him.

He chuckles. “It’s tempting, but Jane’s waiting for me back home. Wheeler kid got her a box of chocolates I need to give to her too.”

Joyce smiles. “Ooh, okay. Well don’t let me keep you then.”

“Have a good night, Joyce.”

She goes up on her tip toes and gives him a peck on the cheek. “Thanks again for the flowers, Hopper. Drive home safe.”

He tips his hat at her as he walks back to his Chevy.

Joyce closes the door behind her once Jim hops into his car. She sniffs the flowers in her hand and smiles into them, walking to the kitchen to get them a vase.

“Hey kid,” Jim said into the radio. “I’m on my way home. Those carrots better be gone before dessert.”

He smiles when Joyce slipped into his thoughts. This was crazy; he felt like he was seventeen again. He lets out a little chuckle at himself.

A couple miles up the road, Hopper notices a figure on the side of the road. He checks the clock on the radio that tells him its close to midnight. Who was walking around this late at night. The closer he gets to the figure, he realizes its a woman walking. He puts his lights on and drives up to the female.

Jim rolls down the window. “Excuse me m’am? Do you need a ride somewhere?”

The woman looks up to reveal it was Jacqueline. Her eyes were glazed over and puffy and she was shivering. Hoppers brows push to together with concern. “Jackie what are you doing out this late?”

She laughed. “Decided to go feruh little stroll,” she said, her voice laced with sarcasm.

“Hold on,” Hopper tells her, pulling his car over to the side. Before he hops out of the car, he talks into the radio one last time. “Hey kiddo, I know I said I’d be home soon, but something just came up. Eat your veggies, then I have a surprise for you when I do get home.”

Hopper jumps out of his car to find Jackie still walking. He hurries up next to her. “Jackie, stop.” He tells her she doesn’t listen to him. “Jackie, common. It’s Hopper. Just stop for a minute,” he says grabbing her shoulder. 

“I told you,” she began, tripping a little when she twirled around to face him. “I decided t’ go feruh walk. I don’ wanna talk about it!”

That’s when he smelled the alcohol on her breath. “Are you drunk?” he asked her in a serious tone. “Have you been drinking tonight?”

She scoffs at him. “Water you going to do? Tell my mom?” She threatened him, but her face fell. She wished he could tell on her. 

Jim’s face softened as well as he watches a few tears start to stream down her cheeks. He knew Jackie, she was bubbly and smart and kind and didn’t do stupid things like get drunk and start walking around by herself in the middle of the night. This wasn’t the Jackie he remembered; something was wrong.

“Kid, what happened?” he asked her in a gentle voice. She wiped a few tears. “I came back to Hawkins,” she tells him. “Was a mistake.”

“What about Dustin? He needs you.”

She shakes her head. “Dustin d-d-doesn’t like me anymore. Town hates me too. T-t-t-they treat me like a f-f-f-freak show.” She let out an unsteady breath.

Hopper frowned, taking off his jacket and pulling it around her shoulders. “Come on, Jackie. Lets get some ice cream, sober you up a little.”

The bell on the door of the arcade rang, as Dustin and Kimmy walked out and Keith locked the doors behind them. Dustin couldn’t believe the time he was having. He was never out this late, let alone with a girl.

“I told you I’d kick your ass!” Kimmy cheered. “That game is a piece of cake once you get the hang of it.”

Dustin chuckled. “Yeah, piece of cake,” he agreed, even though he knew very well how many hours he’s wasted trying to defeat the last level.

Kimmy let out an airy sigh as she turned around to face Dustin. “So, what’s next?”

“Sorry?”

“What are we doing now?” Kimmy asked.

Dustin eyes darted around. He hadn’t planned anything else. It was also getting extremely late for a school night. “How about I walk you home?”

Kimmy pouted. “No that’s okay. My mom is coming to get me soon anyway,” she told him declining the offer.

Dustin shrugged. “We can go for a little walk around the block then?”

She smiled. “That sounds nice. We can talk!”

Dustin gave her a wide smile. “Yeah!”

She put her hand out for his. This was new. Dustin took her hand, unsure of himself. They turned the corner towards Hawkin’s oldest building that was a 24/7 pharmacy that served milkshakes and sunday’s no matter how late. Dustin’s smile faded when he saw a familiar face staring out the window. Her eyes were puffy and her skin was pale. She looked so sad and hopeless. Dustin waves at Jackie when her gaze meets his. She half heartedly waves back at him before quickly diverting her stare somewhere new. 

“Do you know her?” Kimmy asks, still holding onto Dustin’s hand.

“Yeah,” he replies. “That’s my sister.”

Kimmy looks at her as well, and frowns. “She looks sorta sad.”

Dustin’s heart sank into his stomach.

“Hey Eddy, two of those candy bar shakes please,” Hopper tells the man behind the counter as he leans against the other side. He turns to check on Jackie, who seems to have fallen into some sort of trance. He sighs, as he walks over to take the seat across from hers. 

“You’ve had one of Eddy’s shakes before right? I used to bring one for you and Sarah when you would babysit,” He tells her, but she continues to stare out the window, without a word. “You’re in for a treat. Eddy’s got these candy bar shakes now that are to die for.”

Jackie doesn’t move when the shake is placed in front of her. Jim decides to try a different subject. “So I heard you’re working at Cindy’s? How do you like it there so far?”

She directs her attention down to the table and shrugs. Hopper takes his hat off and scratches his scalp. “Listen, Jackie. You gotta give me something to work with,” he says in a low voice. “What’s been going on? What happened tonight that got you upset?” 

Jackie’s demeanor changed to nervous, too embarrassed of her actions and decision making that evening. 

“Did you go out with someone tonight?” Jim began to pry. Jackie nodded.

“Did they hurt you?” Tears began to form as Jackie furiously shook her head from side to side.

Hopper heaves a sigh, “But they hurt you.” He nods his head at her. “I get it.”

Jackie sniffles as she wipes her face with the sleeve of her sweater. She felt like all she did lately was cry and it was becoming exhausting.

Jim looks down at his shake. He swirls the spoon in it a few times. “Sweets make everything a little more tolerable. They remind you that even though life might not be easy at the moment, you can always eat your feelings,” and with that, Hopper takes a heaping spoonful and pops it in his mouth.

Jackie looks up at him and snorts. She giggles and Hopper smiles. “There she is. Where have you been Jack attack?”

She shakes her head and lets out another laugh. Hopper sighs. “These people don’t deserve you Jackie. Just remember that. You’re remarkable.”

Her smile faded, as if she didn’t agree with what he was telling her. She picked up her spoon and stirred the milkshake, preparing to eat her feelings.

Hope you all enjoyed this little interaction between Jackie and Hopper. There will be more of them in the future. Next week, I will be going to a festival so please don’t hate me if I forget to post. But there will be plenty of chapters coming this summer so stay tuned!

@10blurredsmoke10 @prettylittlealiengirl @dII0101 @lewistommolommodingdong @cluelesseleven @middlebodyinjury @liamsmithbobo @oddlittlereader @dizyumi @saint-penguin-empire@whysthenameelizapopular @25thcenturygirl @lilias-buckingham@12thatsanumber @julkaglenc @peakyfuckingblinders1919 @lmao-im-hecc-gay @suavelolita

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Hey guys sorry I've been sorta mia. A LOT has changed as of last week and just trying to adjust to it all. I should be back to normal posting in a week or so. Still have some chapters that are ready to shared so I will be posting those in the mean time. Until then, don't forget to write 💖

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Stranger Places (A stranger things tale) Chapter 10- Valentine’s Day part 2

Description: Everything changes when Dustin finds his mother’s lifeless body, but he is quickly reminded that he still has family when his older sister comes home. Though she is not the company he wants, can he learn to live with her? Can she readjust to life in Hawkins?

WARNING!

This chapter contains content that may be triggering to those who are sensitive to sexual abuse. Please continue with discretion.

Dustin walked out to the living room for the fourth time. “What about this one?”

Steve turned his head to him. He shrugs. “Good, I guess.”

“You guess?”

Steve let out a frustrated sigh. “Yes, like the other ones you tried on. Why are you putting so much emphasis into what you’re wearing?”

“Because what if she thinks it’s a date?”

“It is a date,” Steve told him. “She asked you out.”

“Shit!” Dustin let out.

“Stop freaking out. You need to be more relaxed,” Steve said, getting up from the couch. He went upstairs into the guest room.

“What are you doing?” Dustin asked.

“I’m making your life easier,” he answered, going through the drawers that held Dustin’s clothes. “Do you have a cardigan?”

“What’s that?”

Steve sighed, “Jesus christ. Okay, hold on.”

Steve disappeared into his own room, only to come back a few moments later with a button down sweater and a bottle of cologne. “here,” he said gathering the other clothes he had laid out on the bed, handing it to Dustin “Put this on and wear it tonight.” He Headed for the door but peaked his head in one last time. “One spray is enough. Don’t drown yourself in that shit.” And with that Steve went back down stairs to wait for Dustin.

Ten minutes passed and Dustin came down stairs, dressed in the outfit Steve picked out. The blue cardigan fit well with the plain black long sleeve underneath it and the medium washed jeans. Dustin also threw on his favorite hat as well as his worn in converse’s. Steve smiled. “Not too shabby, Henderson.”

Dustin smiled. “Thanks. Now, what about my hair?”

“Oh, we don’t have that type of time,” Steve said quickly.

Dustin frowned. “But is it bad?”

“Come on, Dustin. Let’s go,” Steve answered.

“Wait, Steve! does it look bad?”

A couples miles away, Jackie was back at the Henderson’s house, getting ready for her own date. She was finishing twisting up the last couple of curls, when she heard the doorbell rang. She stuck a bobby pin in her mouth, attempting to finish her hair without a mirror as she went to answer the door. She opened the door with her free hand and was greeted by Billy. He was wearing his famous leather jacket and an old pair of acid washed jeans. Billy had an arm behind his back.

“What’s that?” she asked between the bobby pin and her teeth. Billy revealed the boquet of flowers he had promised her. “I am a man of my word.”

She laughed. “Come in for a second,” she said fixing the rest of her hair. Billy wiped his boots off on the doormat. He looked around the house, noticing it was extremely clean and tidy. Then his eyes averted to Jackie. She was wearing a a black denim skirt with tights and a fuzzy sweater. He cocked his head to stare at her backside. “You look sexy,” he bluntly told her.

“Oh god,” she said with slight exaggeration. “Should I change?”

He laughed at the fact he had made her self conscious. “No, I’m just saying you look good.”

She let out a nervous giggle as she placed the flowers into a vase full of water. She turned around to find Billy standing just a few inches away. “Ready?” he asked. She smiled. “Let me just grab a jacket,” she said dodging underneath the arm Billy had placed to lean on the cabinet. He rolled his eyes, wondering if this was how the night was going to go.

Steve parked outside the arcade. “Okay,” he began. “So just go in and see if she’s there. If not, just come back outside and we’ll stop by the video store and grab some alien for the night.”

Dustin let out a breath. “I’m nervous.”

“Why?” Steve asked.

“Because,” He began, trying to think of an excuse. “Because what if she’s really good at Dragon’s Lair? Do you know how long I’ve worked for that High Score spot? Months, Steve. And what if she beats it in one shot? That’s so embarrassing.”

Steve narrowed his eyes at the boy. Was he serious right now? “Dustin, get out of the car.”

He sighed while unbuckling his seatbelt. “Fine.”

Dustin walked through the doors of the arcade that were slightly less crowded than usual. He had never gone this late on a school night. He looked around and headed over to wear Dragon’s Lair was. No one was in that corner of the arcade. He checked the Score board. “DSTN” was still at number one. He let out a sigh of relief.

“Boo!” Dustin jumped. He turned around to find kimmy with a bowlers hat on, dressed in all denim except for her bright green shirt that peaked through her jean jacket. She smiled at him. “You came!” 

“Yeah,” he said with a nervous laugh, scratching the back of his neck. Dustin peaked his head over to look through the window. Steve was pulling out of the parking lot. No turning back now, he thought.

“Ready to lose?” she asked with a smile.

He laughed. “I don’t think you realize just how hard Dragon’s Lair can be,” Dustin explained. “It’s much more complex than anything else here.”

Kimmy shrugged and her short black bob bounced with her shoulders. “I guess you’ll have to teach me.”

Dustin smiled. “Okay,” He replied, putting in the first quarter of the night.

Before heading home, Steve stopped at a diner to grab some take out. He couldn’t wait till his parents got home so he could have an actual home cooked meal. He went up to the counter and smiled at the girl working. She went to the back to see if his order was finished. 

Steve’s eyes glanced around the small diner as he waited for the girl to return back with his food. He was set back when he found Nancy sitting in a booth with Jonathan. She seemed so happy and was giggling as she bit down on her straw. Her hair was curled and she was wearing Steve’s favorite dress. He felt his heart pick up in pace. 

He spinned away fast, afraid he was starring for too long. He grabbed his takeout from the girl with a quick thank you and dashed for the door. Steve stole one more look before putting the keys into the ignition of his car, only to find Jonathan and Nancy leaning over the table sharing a kiss. He regretted seeing that, as he quickly turned his car on and sped out of the parking lot of the diner.

Billy pulled into a parking spot at a Chinese restaurant that Jackie picked out. She figured it was fast enough and cheap enough to where the date would be short and easy on her pocket. 

“What’s good?” Billy asked.

Jackie scanned the menu, familiarizing herself with it again. Her finger pointed at the item. “The Kung Pao beef is good.”

Billy looked up from the his menu with a smiled. “You sold me,” he said flagging down the waiter to order, whom promptly hurried over. “We’ll take two Kung Pao beef with fried rice.”

The waiter began to write it down. “I’m sorry, he meant one Kung Pao Beef. I’ll have the curry noodles.” The waiter smiled as Billy stared at Jackie. Usually girls went along with whatever he ordered for them. When the waiter left the table, Billy let out a little laugh.

Jackie smiled. “What?”

He shook his head. “Are you always so difficult?”

She furrowed her eyebrows. “I’m not difficult.”

“Maybe just a little,” Billy teased.

She let out a laugh. “What? Because I changed my order from what you got me?”

“It was also pulling teeth to get you on this date,” Billy added.

Jackie rolls her eyes at him. “I just know myself. I know what I want. I don’t need someone making decisions for me,” she told him.

He lets out a sigh. “So curry noodles?”

She giggles. “Yes. Curry noodles.”

Kimmy and Dustin cheer each other on as they get to another boss level of Dragon’s Lair. This is when Dustin realizes that they are out of quarters and goes to the counter to get more.  He goes up to the counter where Keith is pretending to do his job to get change for four more dollars. A light tap on his should puts a grin on his face. Dustin turns around, but to his surprise is met face to face with Max.

“Hey dork,” she says with a smile.

“Hey,” Dustin says thrown off. “What are you doing here? Is Lucas with you?”

“Nah,” she answered back. “Lucas had to stay home with his sister while his dad took his mom out for dinner. I wanted to play some Donkey Kong. What are you doing here so late?”

“I uh-” He began.

“Why do you smell like that?” She cut him off. “Is that cologne?”

He let out a chuckle. “Well,”

“Wait” she told him. A smile stretched across her face. “Are you on a date at the arcade? What’s her name?”

“Haha!” he laughed. “No!”

She shrugged. “Good then you can help me beat Donkey Kong,” she stated, pulling him by the sleeve towards the game.

“Wait!” he protested. She looked back at him with a smirk, turning around and crossing her arms. 

“Her name is Kimmy.”

“I know,” she told him. “Lucas told me.”

“Then why did you ask all those questions.”

She shrugged. “Cause I knew it would embarrass you.” Max was right. Dustin’s cheeks were turning to a shade of coral.

“Speaking of dates,” she continued. “Tell me your sister didn’t go on that date with my brother.”

His jaw dropped. “What?” he tried not to yell, but he found himself shouting.

Max sighed. “Apparently, Billy’s been trying to ask her out and she finally caved. I told her what a tool he is, but I don’t know if she actually listened to me.”

Dustin laughed. “How should I know if she went? Sounds like a match made in heaven if you ask me.”

Max looked at him, narrowing her eyes. “Why are you so mean to her?”

“Why do you hate Billy?”

“Because he’s a jerk.”

“Well same with Jackie,” he told her, shooting her a look as if to say that was an obvious statement.

“No Dustin,” she corrected him. “Jackie’s cool. She’s nice and funny and makes awesome food. Billy is a pig. He’s mean and self serving. Not to mention, he tried to hurt us all.” Max shook her head at him. “All I know, is that if I was in your position, Billy wouldn’t come back for me. And if Jackie was my sister, I would be a lot nicer to her,” and with that, she pushed by him leaving him with only a head full of guilt. How’d she do that? He thought. How did she make him feel awful for the way he’s been acting towards Jacqueline. Without warning, he feels someone squeeze either side of his torso, making him jump.

He turns around to find Kimmy giggling. “Did you get lost?”

He smiles, “I was just heading back.” He holds up a plastic bag full of coins. “Ready to play?”

Jackie laughs sitting on the hood of Billy’s car, watching Billy do acrobatics on the grass in front of her. Dinner ended up not being too bad, especially after the little heart to heart they had. Jackie learned that they both came from broken homes, both didn’t get along with their fathers, and both disliked living in Hawkins. It felt like she had someone to relate to, who sort of understood what she was going through even if it was under different circumstances. Billy wasn’t that bad either; at least what he was showing her of himself. He even offered to pay for her dinner, though she declined the gesture. 

After dinner, they went to the same lake that Jonathan and her usually go to. She swore to Billy that it was “breathtaking” when the starlight mirrored on the water. They shared a bottle of vodka to keep themselves warm as they enjoyed each other’s company under the night sky.

Jackie lets out a yawn, checking her watch. It reads 10:56 pm. Much later than what she was used to on a week night. 

“Getting pass your bedtime?” He teased.

She laughed, letting out another yawn. “Sort of. I’m usually in for the night by now.”

Billy stretches his arms above his head, cracking his neck as he cocks it from side to side. “Guess we better get you home then.”

She nods, hopping off the hood of the car and heading towards the passenger side. He opens the door for her like a gentleman and Jackie slides in the seat as graceful as she can. This is when she starts to notice the fog over her vision and the slight sensation of spinning. Moments later, Billy gets in on the driver side and turns the heat on. He looks over at her, admiring the way the moonlight kissed the surface of her skin. She notices his stare.

Jackie chuckles nervously, “What?”

“Nothing,” he says with a smile. “You’re just pretty to look at.”

Jackie fiddles with her fingers not knowing what to say, when without warning, she feels the shift of Billy’s body as he moves closer to her. Before she has time to react or say anything, his lips crash into hers. His mouth tastes of alcohol and cigarettes and his cologne stings her nostrils, making her feel nauseous. She wedges her hands in between both their chests. 

“Billy,” she manages to let out, but he is relentless and as soon as she pushes him off, he is back on her. The weight of his body is too heavy for her to push off, especially now that she felt intoxicated. She tries again though, with a little more force in her voice. 

“Billy stop,” she commands. 

Billy laughs. “Come on, Annie. Lets have some fun,” he tells her, adventuring his hand up her skirt and kissing her again. Jackie felt her cheeks grew hot as she became enraged by the situation. 

“Stop!” she shouted at him, shoving him to the driver’s side with all her might. Both teens look at each other with shock and anger.

“What did you call me?” she threatened him.

Billy had enough. “What’s wrong with you?” he accused her.

“What’s wrong with you?” she demanded back.

“I’m trying to have a good time! But it’s hard when you’re being such a little prissy bitch!”

His words ring through her ears. This is what Max meant by having an alternative motive. 

“I thought we were having a good time,” she says, mostly to herself.

He laughed. “You didn’t actually think we were just going spend the whole night playing therapy and talking? Don’t be so naive, Jackie.”

Her jaw clenched. “It’s Jacqueline, you schmuck,” she hissed at him.

Billy flared his nostrils as he looked at her with disgust, shaking his head, then looking away. “Get out,” he tells her.

Her eyes widen. “What?”

“I said get the fuck out of my car. Walk home,” he said not giving her a second glance. Jackie’s mouth fell open. She couldn’t believe this was happening. Jackie gave him one last glance. His jaw was tight and his eyes looking straight at what was ahead. She tried to swallow down the lump forming in her throat as she unlocked the passenger door and hopped out of Billy’s camaro. 

“Fuck you, Hargrove,” she said before slamming the door shut. Jackie quickly stepped out of the way of the car as Billy began to pull out into the night. 

Jackie felt a tear hit her cheek and then another. She let out a shaky breath as the february air stung the back of her throat. She couldn’t believe the situation she was thrown into; drunk, scared, cold, and stranded. She could go to Jonathan’s but she didn’t want to have to explain what she was doing out there. Jackie let out a sob. She didn’t understand why she couldn’t be left alone. Why was she a target for everyone around her? She wiped the tears from her face and crossed her arms as she began the walk back home.

Yeah, Billy’s a dick. let me know what you think. I am also going to start tagging people who have liked any previous stranger places chapters so if you do not want to be tagged please dm me :)

@10blurredsmoke10 @prettylittlealiengirl  @dII0101 @lewistommolommodingdong @cluelesseleven @middlebodyinjury @liamsmithbobo @oddlittlereader @dizyumi @saint-penguin-empire @whysthenameelizapopular @25thcenturygirl @lilias-buckingham @12thatsanumber @julkaglenc @peakyfuckingblinders1919 @lmao-im-hecc-gay @suavelolita 

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Just a friendly reminder

Do NOT message girls/women shit you wouldn't say to your mother. It's not okay to say in public, it's NOT okay to say over the internet. It's not cute; its disrespectful and I don't take it as a compliment.

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

A- Age: 23

B- birthplace: Edison, New Jersey

C- current time: 12:44 am

D- drink you last had: either water or a fresh juice from work

E- easiest person to talk to: no one?

F- favourite song: currently, man on the moon by zella day

G- grossest memory: i was four and drank a coffee creamer at a restuarant that went bad

H- horror (yes/no): YAAAAASSSS

I- in love: too busy

J- jealous of people: sometimes

*why isn’t there a k*

L- love at first sight or should I walk by again: tacky

M- middle name: don’t worry about it

N- number of siblings: two brothers

O- one wish: That I will succeed in my art 

P- person you called last: my friend

Q- question you are always asked: “what would happen if you brushed your curly hair?”

R- reason to smile: big mouth is on netflix

S- song you sang last: bahamas cover of whole wide world (i think)

T- time you woke up: today, 9:20 am

U- underwear colour: black

V- vacation destination: Thailand 

W- worst habit: leaving half empty water bottles everywhere or dropping shit constantly

X- x-rays: recent one was of my spine.

Y- your favourite food: homemade vegan mac and cheese with broccoli

Z- zodiac sign: capriquarius (I fall on the cusp.)

I got tagged to do this. am I supposed to tag someone else? how about you just do it if you want to :)

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Stranger Places (A stranger things tale) Chapter nine: Valentine’s Day Part 1

Description: Everything changes when Dustin finds his mother’s lifeless body, but he is quickly reminded that he still has family when his older sister comes home. Though she is not the company he wants, can he learn to live with her? Can she readjust to life in Hawkins?

The rest of the weekend flew by. Dustin and the group ended up spending most of their time at the henderson, which to his surprise, wasn’t as awful as he thought it would be. Jackie kept her distance with the party, and kept the questions about his personal life to a minimum. Every so often, she’d offer to make him something to eat and he’d be reminded what a talented cook his sister was; she knew how to experiment with flavors. In short, Dustin wasn’t completely comfortable with his sister but he was starting to work his way there. 

Monday, everybody talked about who they were giving valentines to and who they would recieve one from. There was so much goo goo babble going around about love that by the time Tuesday greeted the earth with it’s sunrise, all of hawkins was covered in pink and red hearts with a rose in every hand. Dustin walked pass the pre-pubescent couples and straight to his locker. He entered his combination like any other day. 32, 14, 26. *click!* Dustin opens up his locker to find a card fall to his feet. He bends over to pick up the envelope covered in flower and heart stickers. Dustin rolls his eyes, thinking someone is playing a practical joke on him and shoves the card in his back pack, grabbing his books from his locker and headed towards class.

“You guys are hilarious,” Dustin tells the crew, as he waves the card in front of their faces.

“Ooooh!” Lucas teased. “Dustin got a valentine!”

“Yeah, you guys don’t count,” he mumbled.

“What are you talking about?” Will asked. “We didn’t do that.”

A confused look made itself present on Dustin’s face. “Who gave me the card then?”

The party shrugged. “Open it up and see.”

Lucas handed the card back to Dustin, who ripped the envelope open to reveal a card with a cartoon banana winking. “I find you very a-peeling,” Dustin read. “Why would a banana be winking if his skin was being peeled?”

“Dustin,” Mike said. “Open the card.”

Dustin sighed as he opened it to read it. “Roses are red. Violets are blue. Bet I’m better at Dragon’s Lair than you.”

“I know who it is!” Mike said with the sudden realization, grabbing the card from Dustin. “It’s Kimmy! It’s gotta be.”

“Who’s Kimmy?” Lucas asked.

“This girl that was talking to Dustin at the arcade.”

“Can we really say she was talking to me?” He furrowed his eyebrows. “More like making weird remarks and walking away. Besides, how can we be sure it’s her and not just some jerk?”

Will leaned over to look at the card as well. “You could go meet her at the arcade. She wants to dual you today at 7:30.”

Dustin grabbed the card back from the boys and read it over again. The handwriting was too neat and bubbly to be a boy or a boy trying to write like a girl. What if it was Kimmy? The whole scenario gave Dustin a bellyache. Or was it the pack of graham crackers he had for breakfast?

The class was silent, with the only audible sound being of the hands on the clock ticking and pencils scribbling down answers. Jacqueline was halfway through the next chapter in the class’s physics book while the other students took a test on the previous chapter. Jacqueline genuinely enjoyed learning about science, she felt it brought some logic to her crazy world. She found it fascinating how everything in the world followed a certain waves in different frequencies and how these waves made up-

“How is she already finished?” Jackie’s ears perked up when she heard a classmate whisper.

“Leave it to orphan Annie to be an over-achiever.” The tip of Jacqueline’s pencil broke from her pressing too hard into her notebook. She hated that nickname. Lucky for her, Mr. Sidman cleared his throat to signal the class to finish their tests in peace. The bell rang 15 minutes after, and as Jacqueline walked pass the teacher’s desk, he handed her test back with a big red 100 on the front. 

“No way,” Nancy said, snatching the test from Jackie’s grip. “I study all the time and never get higher than a 96 on his tests. How’d you get a 100 on your first one?”

Jackie shrugged. “I just really like physics.”

Nancy laughed. “I guess that helps. See you at lunch?” She asked, giving Jackie a soft squeeze on her arm.

“Yeah,” she answered with a smile. “See you then.”

The girls went their seperate ways, Jackie headed towards her locker. She opened it up to quickly switch out her physics text book for her calculus. When she closed the door, she was greeted with a hand holding up a box of valentine’s day heart candies. She laughed.

“How thoughtful, You bought me chalk flavored candy. What happened to flowers?”

Billy handed her the box of candy as he flashed a smile and ran a hand through his hair. “The florists was fresh out of daisies, so I figured something sweet would suffice.”

“Well, its the thought that counts I suppose,” she said as she stuffed the small box into the side pocket of her bag. 

“So what time should I pick you up?” The question gave Jackie chills. She had been dreading this date since she agreed to it, even more so since she had spoken to Max about it. 

“How’s seven?” he asked when she didn’t reply. “I can come over and meet pops.”

“I actually don’t live with my dad. It’s just me,” She said softly, hoping that it was loud enough just for him to hear.

“Oh,” Billy said surprised. “Okay. Well, is seven still okay?”

“Yeah, sure,” She said absent mindedly. Billy raised a brow at her. Was she always this ditsy? Is this what they meant when they said she was weird? 

“Is something wrong?” He asked.

She turned to face him. “Why do you want to go on this date with me?”

Billy laughed nervously.

“Just you don’t know me and if you did, I don’t think you’d be asking me out. So what is it that is making you want to go out with me.”

Billy felt his jaw tense up. What could he do? “I think you’re really cute. And I thought maybe we could have a good time together.” He wasn’t lying, he just wasn’t telling the full truth, like the fact he may get hundred dollars if she sleeps with him.

She tousled her hair to this side and looked down at her feet. Billy sighed. “Listen, I get it if you don’t want to go out. I just really thought we would have fun. But if you’re not about it, I won’t make you go.”

Jackie brought her eyes to level with his. His expression was soft and sincere. How could this be the face of a monster?

“No, I want to go,” She told him. “I just. It’s been weird adjusting back to Hawkins life. Everybody stares at me like I’m the loch ness monster, so I just automatically assumed you were doing it for kicks. I’m sorry.”

His heart raced but he smiled at her without flinching. “It’s all good darling. So, I’ll pick you up at seven?”

She smiled back at him. “Sharp,” She added, as she walked to her next class.

“Roses are red, Violets are blue. Bet I’m better at Dragon’s lair than you. Meet me at the arcade so that I can parade when I kick your butt and show you who’s the best at what. 7:30; be there or be square.” Steve closed the card and handed it back to Dustin. “So are you going?”

“I don’t know, that’s why I’m asking you.”

Steve sighed. “I mean, worse case scenario, it’s a prank and you just go home and hang out with me.”

“Sounds depressing,” Dustin mumbled. Steve thumped Dustin’s head for the remark.

“Or you go and she’s there and have a really good time with a girl that likes you,” Steve finished.

Dustin sighed. “Can you drop me off there?”

“I don’t know. I may not be able to fit you into my depressing night of staying at home,” Steve replied.

“I’m sorry,” Dustin aplogized. “I didn’t mean it like that.”

“Yeah you did,” he told him. “But whatever. Yeah I’ll take you.”

Mike sat patiently as he waited for Hopper to return to the police department. He looked around at the office. There was only one other person there as she typed vigorously away at her computer. The door opened and Hopper walked through.

The lady looked up from her screen. “Jim, this young man has been waiting to speak to you.”

Hopper looked over to his side to find Mike sitting there with a card and a box of chocolate on his lap. He chuckled. “Those aren’t for me, are they?” he asked.

Mike was taken back by the question. 

“I’m kidding. Come on, Wheeler. To my office.”

Mike got up from his seat and followed behind Hopper. Mike closed the door behind them.

“So what should I tell Jane when I give these to her.”

Mike shrugged. “I dont know. I wanted to get her something, but does she understand what valentine’s day is?”

Hopper sighed. “After watching T.V specials all day, I’m sure she will.”

“Then just tell her, Mike says Happy Valentine’s day. And I miss her.”

Hopper nodded, as he placed the chocolates and card in his bag.

“Can she come out this weekend?” Mike asked. Jim looked up at the boy, his expression pleading and hopeful.

“I can’t let her.”

Mike scrunched up his face. “But you let her out last saturday.”

“That’s because I trust Jacqueline to be a responsible adult.”

“But you don’t trust me?”

“I don’t trust the world around you two,” Hopper corrected. Mike sighed as his eyes hung low in defeat. Hopper felt for both of them. He knew that Mike connected with El better than anyone else and that El was dying to have human contact other than him. “How about you come over? We can go to the lake by the cabin and spend the day there.”

Mike’s face lit up. “Really?”

Jim nodded as he reached for his pack of cigarettes. “How’s sunday?”

Mike was ecstatic to hear this. “Yes! that’s perfect! Thanks Hopper!”

“Uh huh,” Hopper said lighting the end of his cigarette.

“I’ll see you sunday!” Mike said as he opened the door, skipping out of his office.

“Close the doo- ugh,” Hopper said sitting from his desk. He leaned over it to see who else was in the office. “Hey Murray! Can you close my door for me?”

“Exercise is good for you, Jim,” She hollared back at him.

oh shit! what’s gonna happen next?! I mean I guess its pretty obvious. Anyway, let me know what you think. I’m delirious and haven’t had a day off in two months woooooot! but i get one next tuesday so its okay. Why am i telling you this?

@10blurredsmoke10

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Taking a break

Hey guys, a lot has been happening in my life as of lately. I am finishing up my AA degree this month, I'm getting ready to travel around and move out of my parents' and just life in general is kinda hectic. And right now, I'm not where I want to be as far as keeping up with the writing for stranger places. Though I've written enough drafts to hopefully keep you guys satisfied until I can start up again, I just wanted to let you know that if I'm late with a post or don't post for awhile, I'm just busy being a busy bee. I hope you all will understand. This is definitely not the end. Just taking a breather 👍😊

[donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight]

Stranger Places (a stranger things tale) Chapter eight: Wonder Woman

Description: Everything changes when Dustin finds his mother’s lifeless body, but he is quickly reminded that he still has family when his older sister comes home. Though she is not the company he wants, can he learn to live with her? Can she readjust to life in Hawkins?

Jane inhaled the warm scent of batter and fresh cut strawberries. She sat on the counter, watching Jackie pour the waffle batter in the iron and come out hot and fluffy. She never knew you could make eggos at home.

“How old are you?” Jackie asked.

“Thirteen,” Jane replied.

“Do you go to school with the boys?”

“Uh, no,” she answered honestly.

“Where do you go?” Jackie asked, trying to keep the conversation going.

“I dont.”

Jackie looked over at her, a bit confused. “So how do you know the boys?”

“Hopper,” she lied.

Jackie knew that name well. She used to babysit Hopper’s daughter, Sarah, before they both got sick. Afterwards, she would occasionally come to the hospital with Sarah to distract her during her chemo sessions. It broke her heart when she passed away, and still found herself wondering why Sarah and not her.

“How do you know Hopper?” She asked

“I live with him.”

Jackie was a bit thrown back by this answer, but didn’t let it show.

“Well, this will be a treat. I know Jim cooks as well as a monkey can read,” She teased. It made Jane laugh. She was actually so excited to have something home cooked. Hopper mostly did T.V dinners and takeout. Plus, he never went as far as making homemade waffles. Jane watched as she decked it out with chopped strawberries, syrup and whipped cream. Her mouth watered as Jackie placed the plate infront of her.

“Dig in,” She told her. Jane did as she was told, taking a giant bite of the warm fluffy goodness. Jackie smiled, happy she enjoyed her cooking. She watched as Jane shoveled in one bite after the other. Something caught her eye. It was numbers etched into Jane’s wrist. “011″ it read. 

“What’s that?” Jackie reached to point at the tattoo, but Jane quickly pulled her sleeve down to cover it. She looked up at the girl, who now seemed anxious.

“It’s okay, I promise,” She told her, asking for her hand. Jane was weary, but gave Jackie her wrist. Jackie rolled up the sleeve to reveal the ink. She ran her finger over it to see if it was real. It was.

“You were there too,” she said with a frown.

Jane frowned. “What?”

Jackie looked up at Jane. “Eleven.”

Jane’s eyes widened. “Wait,” she gasped.

“Do you remember me?”

There was a rustling coming there way faster than they could react.

“Oh good,” Mike said with a smile. “You guys met.”

“Man, something smells good,” Will said. “Are those?”

Jackie laughed. “Yeah, Go have one.”

“Yes!” Will exclaimed. “Oh man, I missed these,” he said to himself as he forked one onto a clean plate.

“Are you guys gonna come play?” Mike asked.

The girls nodded and followed Mike back into the garage, as Will tagged close behind with a plate overflowing with warm deliciousness.

After a few hours of being dungeon master, Jackie handed the torch back over to Mike to finish the day’s campaign. It was getting late, so she excused herself to go study. Max and Jane followed behind her, bored with the boys screaming and fighting of what spell and move to make.

The three girls gathered on the floor of Jackie’s room. Max flipped through one of the comics Jackie had in her room. “I didn’t pick you for a comic fan,” she told her.

Jackie laughed. “You mean, you didn’t pick me for a nerd.”

Max shrugged. But it was true. Looking at Jackie, she didn’t seem like the type of girl who would enjoy comics or dnd. In fact, she looked like the type of girl who would talk about her hair care routine and how her and Brad Pitt would have the prettiest babies with perfect golden curly locks. And maybe in another life, she was that girl. But Jackie enjoyed science, The Cure, and comic books. She was of a rare breed of girls. Max digged it.

“I just love wonder woman,” Jackie explained to Max, who handed the issue to Jane, who flippped through it more thoroughly, studying each panel.

“She was born and trained to be a warrior, almost like a weapon. But uses her powers to promote peace and bring justice,” she told the girls. “Plus she looks bad ass in that outfit.”

“Can I be wonder woman?” Jane asked.

Jackie nodded. “You can be whatever you want.”

Jane smiled to herself. She felt a connection to this character. They had the same upbringing. She wanted to be wonder woman.

“So Max,” Jackie started as she finished transferring a sentence from her textbook into her notes. “You and Lucas?”

Max rolled her eyes, “Please don’t.”

Jackie laughed. “But I have to. It’s kind of part of the job description.”

Max laid back onto the carpet with a loud, frustrated sigh. “I don’t know. I guess I like him. Can’t we talk about Jane and Mike?”

“I like Mike,” Jane replied with a smile.

“Well aren’t you an open book,” Max said with sarcasm. “Fine, lets talk about you and Byer’s brother.”

Jackie frowned at the table being turned on her. She closed her book, feeling silly for thinking she’d be able to get some studying done. “Theres nothing to talk about. He’s with Nancy and she makes him happy. We’re good friends, and I want him to be happy.”

Max frowned at her answer. “That’s lame, Jackie.”

Jackie shrugged. “It’s whatever. I’m going out on a date with this Billy kid anyway, so maybe its for the-”

“Billy?” Max asked, laced with disgust. “Billy who?”

Jackie rubbed her tear duct with her knuckle. “I don’t know. Tall-ish. Blonde, a bit too cocky for his own good.”

“No, you can’t go on a date with him. He’s crazy.”

Jackie scrunched up her face. “That’s quite the accusation.”

Max shook her head. “He’s my brother. I know him pretty well.”

“Brother?”

“Step brother,” Max elaborated. “But that’s beside the point. The point is that you’re too good for him. My brother only does stuff if he’s getting something out of it or if he thinks it’ll boost his social status. He’s a total,” Max paused stuck on the word that wouldn’t get on her train of thought.

“Mouthbreather,” Jane answered with out looking up from the comic book.

Max nodded in agreement. “Perfect. Mouthbreather.”

Jackie chuckled at the young girls. “He sounds like quite the charmer.”

“He’s a monster,” Max said in a serious tone that put Jackie slightly on edge. How could she say something like that about family. And if she could say that about her brother, what was Dustin thinking and saying about her? It was a selfish thought, but it left her paranoid and even more uneasy about her “date” with “Billy the Monster.”

Nancy and Jonathan sat across from eachother in a booth at their favorite italian joint, sharing garlic knots and fresh mozzarella sticks. They talk about their days and the troubles that it brought them, but mostly about the good events that followed. Jonathan cracks a few jokes, and Nancy giggles right on que. She shakes off the breadcrumb dust from her fingers and sips her soda.

“Ready to get down to business?” she asks with a devilish grin.

Jonathan chuckles, “I thought this was a date?”

Nancy pulls out a binder from her bag and begins to flip through it, exposing the multicolor tabs and perfectly written out notes with newspaper articles doused in red ink taped next to them. It’s a very well thought out and strategic plan on how to brutally destroy the lives and reputations of all those involved in the experiments at Hawkin’s Lab. Though it was brilliant and so well arranged, it scared the hell out of Jonathan.

“Nancy what is all this?”

Nancy laughed. “You’re kidding right?” She closes the binder and holds it up between her two hands. “This, Jonathan Byers, is the ticket to our success. This is how we bring down ‘the man’.” 

“The man?”

Nancy nodded. “And once Georgetown sees this, there is no way I’m getting turned down for the political science gov major.”

“Nancy this is crazy,” Jonathan said. “There were honest people working there just doing their job.”

Nancy narrowed her eyes at him. “Honest people? Jonathan, these are the people who experimented on children, who left Will to get trapped by the mindflayer, and who killed Barb!”

Jonathan motioned for her to lower her voice. Reluctantly, she did what she was asked. “These aren’t good people.”

“No, but Will and the children are safe, and Barb’s parents’ minds are finally at ease. Plus, I really thought we were just getting italian. That’s not cool to spring that on me out of nowhere.”

“I’m sorry, I just,” She sighed, as she grabbed her temples. “I just really want justice where there should be justice. I don’t think it’s fair these people just get live free of consequences for their actions.”

Jonathan leaned over the table and planted his lips on hers. “It’s not. But we need to accept the justice we’ve been given. And we also need to finish these mozzarella sticks before they get cold and soggy.”

Nancy laughed, licking her lips. She knew in her mind that he was right, but in her heart, she needed justice. Or was it vengence?

Here is the other chapter for the week. I hope you enjoyed Jane and Jackie finally meeting. They will definitely have more moments together in the future. Next week, there will be only one chapter posted on fridays again, unless I hear otherwise from you guys. Like, comment, and tell me what you think :)