#SSATBilly

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Off to the Races (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Warnings: Romantic themes, Risky driving, Corse  Language

Request: OOUUU dying for "drag race", Billy Hargrove x Reader with maybe some jealous Steve in there?? So basically an angsty drag race SO excited to see what u come up with omg!! Thank you so much :) (A/N, I hope you like this! thank you for supporting me!)

     The secret nightlife that took place in the grittier parts of the next town over had become an integral part of both your and Billy’s lives. The money was quick and easy. It was simple really; while Billy won the races, you were the elbow grease that went into making sure his car ran like a dream.

Billy wasn’t afraid to drive fast, nor was he fearful of the consequences if he were to crash; It dealt him a high not even drugs could induce. Every number that the speed meter past was like another hit of ecstasy.

Some had given the two of you the pet name Bonnie and Clyde; Notorious, untouchable and doomed from the start.

You sat on top of the Camaro’s trunk whilst Billy stood between your legs, both waiting for the current duelling pair to start their descent into chaos. Billy glowered at Ben McLaren from across the way, the black haired beauty leaned against his ‘72 Dodge Charger.

“He’s got winter tires on,” you whispered, running your hands along Billy’s chest as you nibbled on his earlobe.

“What does that mean for me, babe?” he asked, his eyes not leaving McLaren while you murmured in his ear.

“They lose traction in the heat. It's mid-July.” you could practically feel the grin spreading across his face. “He’s fucked during the burnout.”

You could only assume that Ben McLaren new little to nothing about cars. It was an underground culture of its own, to a rich kid like Ben, it was the cool kids club and he just had to be part of. Assuming that the bigger the tire, the better the car, he must have purposefully left them on.

“We gotta up the wager,” Billy said into your lips, his hands now on either side of your thighs, as he had turned to face you. “Make him think he’s gonna win.”

“Mmm, not so fast,” you warned, watching as his brows furrowed. “If he loses a big loss his first go, he won’t come back with his money. We gotta make him mad, make him want more.”

With a wicked grin as he ran his tongue along his teeth, completely enthralled by your cunningness.

   Like a hurricane, the blue Camaro demanded its attention as it sped along the back roads, neck in neck with Ben, as Billy taunted him.

The purr of engines roared beyond the forest line as they rounded the backroads, racing to beat the other. Leaning against one of the cargo boxes, you waited for Billy’s return. The cool breeze offered a nice change from the muggy summer night.

“y/n?” White heat flushed through your body at the sound of Steve Harrington's voice.

Pushing off from the wooden crate, you found yourself face to face with Steve; your Steve.

It was almost instant, the same hurt you had felt in your junior year, now creeping back into your chest. Steve had asked you out at the beginning of the year, looking back you should’ve realised he was only going to you to get to Nancy; you were naive then, maybe even willfully blind to the truth.

He’d walk you to and from classes, invited you to his table at lunch and even kissed you on the cheek when you agreed to bring Nancy over to his house the night Barb went missing. You could still feel the way your tears burned down your cheeks when Barb dispelled, and how quickly he had forgotten about you once he had Nancy on his arm.

“Steve?” you asked in disbelief, having no inkling as to why he would be in Port Linkin on a Friday night - the small town didn’t have the best reputation, though it made for the perfect location for drag races. “What are you doing here?”

Running a nervous hand through his hair, he offered an awkward wave before shoving his hands into his jean pockets.

“I overheard Billy Hargrove talking about bringing you here,” he admitted. “I just wanted to make sure you were okay.”

Quirking a brow, you gave him a confused look. “Make sure I was okay? Why wouldn’t I be?”

“You know...I mean come one, you know his reputation with girls.” Steve trailed off, inching closer.

“What do you mean reputation?” You pressed, folding your arms across your chest.

“You really want me to go into detail about all of his conquests?” Steve laughed, completely unaware that you and Billy had been an item for more than a few months. “I’m sure word got out to your school.”

After the distress of losing Barb and Nancy drifting away, you finally accepted the offer to West Lafayette’s engineering program. It was an all-girls school that focused on teaching girls the importance of pushing themselves and showing them they could excel in male-dominated fields. It was there that you became interested in the mechanics of cars.

“It couldn’t have been that many.” You sighed, hoping the familiar pair of headlights would zoom by in a blur. “I mean we started dating in late may.”

“You what?” Steve asked in complete disbelief.

“Billy is my boyfriend, Steve.” You informed. “I met him at my grandpa's garage. I’m here with him for the drag races - and not to sound like a bitch, but why do you give a shit about what I do?”

“Because I care about you? Because we were friends and then you just up and left.” He defended, his voice strained.

“I didn’t up and leave.” You said under your breath, now looking away. “I got an offer at West Lafayette for their engineering program, so I took it.”

Letting out a frustrated sigh, he looked for the words to say though, he knew there wasn’t anything he could say, that wouldn’t fall short of what he needed to express.

“y/n, he’s not a good guy. I’m just looking out for you,” he admitted, not comfortable leaving you alone in the dingy part of town.

“Why now?” you seethed, finally meeting his eyes with an anger you had been harbouring all this time. “Why? Answer me, Steve, because you really hurt me and you didn’t seem to notice.”

“Because Nancy looks at Jonathan Byers the way you looked at me, and I just...I realized I screwed up,” he confessed, a hopeful look in his eye that struggled to hide the regret he felt. “Just please, let me take you home. You shouldn’t be at a place like this.”

The growl of engines made both of you jump, your hair blowing with the flurry of motion as they zoomed by.

“I’m not going home with you Steve. I’m not going anywhere, not without Billy.” you choked, refusing to retract into the shy, meek person you had been then. “I’m sorry.”

High off of adrenaline and the win, Billy sprang toward you, leaving a furious Ben to kick at his car. Hooking his arm around your waist, he spun you around before placing a celebratory kiss on your lips. It wasn’t until his eyes landed on Steve that all nirvana had dispelled.

“The fuck you doing here, Harrington?” Billy asked with a confused look contorting his features.

He wasn’t aware of the history between either of you, in fact, he didn’t think you had much connection to Hawkins aside from your house, considering your high school had been an hour outside of town.

“Talking with an old friend.” He murmured, his eyes not leaving you. “I should get going, it was nice seeing you, y/n.”

Steve walked away in defeat feeling nothing but contrite as he had lost the girl yet again, except this time it was his own fault and he had no one else to blame but himself.

   Leaning out the car window, you let your hair blow viciously in the wind. Getting off on the sound of the Camaro drifting down the backroads, feeling as though you were on the cusp of pure nirvana.

Coiling his fingers around your wrist, Billy pulled you down from the window, glancing at you and the road before feverishly kissing you amidst the chaos. Dust kicked up from the road, as the smell of rubber burning beneath the tires. Letting out a howl, Billy continued on his rampage leaving you breathless against your headrest.

“I love you.” the words left your mouth though you hadn’t planned on saying so out loud.

His knuckles went white as his grip on the wheel tightened, his hair lashing about as he whipped around to look at you with wide eyes.

Your bottom lip fell open as you hadn’t anticipated the reaction he gave, a mixture of regret and hurt burning in your chest like exhaust fumes.

“You what?” he asked as he slammed on the breaks. Reaching his arm out to stop you from slamming forward, he remained fixed on your gaze. “Say that one more time, I don’t think I heard you right.”

Clasping your nails tightly to your palm, you searched his eyes for some sort of reaction other than shock. Swallowing roughly, you clenched the inside of your cheeks between your teeth. With an uneasy look in your eye, you brought your hands up to clutch onto his arm.

“I said...I said I love you,” you confirmed, lightly dragging your nails across his skin. “Is that okay?”

Dropping his arm to your lap, he slowly pulled it back.

“Of course. Fuck, it’s more than okay.” he nearly choked on his spit. “I should’ve said it first, I just...I didn’t know how.”

“You didn’t have to say it. I knew...in the ways you talked to me, you were gentle and always kind. You like that I know more about cars than you, and you never lose interest when I ramble about things that you don’t know much about.” the words becoming hard to leave your throat as you began to choke up. “You always make sure everyone’s listening when I talk, and you talk for me when I’m feeling nervous. You didn’t rush me into anything. Sorry, I don’t know why I’m getting so emotional.”

“I love you too,” he whispered gently, wiping away the wet spots that collected underneath your eyes. As you sucked in a sharp breath, you frantically tried to stop yourself from crying, although Billy’s lips touching yours managed to bring you ease. “Baby, please don’t cry. Not over me.”

“You don’t make me feel invisible,” you admitted, taking your bottom lip between your teeth as you looked up at him with tearful eyes. Pressing your fingertips into the buckle, you slowly let it release you from the seatbelts constraint.

It was a seamless dance as his hands wrapped around your back, helping you over the gears, while you worked on the buttons of his shirt with shaky hands; a product of your urgency to be close to him, to leave your fingerprints across his skin as a reminder of your love that no one could see, but Billy could feel it for days upon day afterward.His touch lit fires beneath your skin, leaving you flustered and craving more.

It was the first time that Billy felt alive without speeding down the pavement or crossing the finish line. He found his lust for life, and that was you.

Check out my prompts here if you want to request one!

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Trial by Fire (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Summary: “Every touch from Billy was like being lit on fire - ravenous and all-consuming. It had been a slip of tongue, a moment of weakness as his lips caressed your collarbone.”

Warnings: Romantic themes, coarse language, mentions of violence    

     The tension in the air was thick, much like the humidity that hung over Hawkins. The floor vibrated as the music pounded in the living room below.

“Billy…” you trailed off, not sure how to approach him as his guards were now on full defence. With bloody knuckles and a split lip, he paced the room, rage pumping through his veins like acid.

“What?” he said through gritted teeth, anger evident in his voice. Though he quickly retracted once he saw the hurt look on your face, asking once more in a softer tone. “What?”

“I don’t like when you act like this.” You admitted tearfully. “Because when you act out like this, I start to wonder if I’m making a mistake.”

“You think this is a mistake?” He asked lowly as the hurt was evident in his eyes. “What about all that ‘love me at my worst’ bullshit? Say it...Say loving me was a mistake.”

“No, because this isn’t the Billy I fell in love with. I fell in love with the Billy who lends me his favourite books with little notes stuck to the pages. I fell in love with the Billy who carried me to the car after prom, because my feet were sore from those stupid heels that gave me blisters. I fell in love with the Billy who-who made sure I was okay before we took things further than kissing. That Billy? That wasn’t a mistake.” 

“Why does this sound like your breaking up with me?” His voice cracked as he choked out the question.

“You tell me.” It felt as though the wind had been knocked out of you. “Maybe it’s selfish but...I’m scared that I’m going to lose you because of your temper, and I’m not putting myself through that.”

“Baby, where is this coming from?” He asked, reaching out to pull you into his embrace.

As he held you in his arms, he feared it was the last time he would get to touch you so intimately. To smell your floral scented shampoo and feel your warmth against his chest. He was going to hold you, anticipating that it was the last chance he’d have.

“What if it was three guys against you? What if I wasn’t there to pull you off?” you asked, not waiting for a response. “I’m not losing you, and I’m not letting you through your life away for a quick high.”

The fight with Marshall Devine seemed so minuscule in the grand scheme of things, yet to you, it was just another thumbtack on a cork board, all his outbursts connected by a red string that created a web of his self-constructed demise.

“I’m not going to die.” he murmured, feeling awful for throwing the first punch, seeing how distraught you had become over it. “Y/n, you should’ve heard what he said about you. It was disgusting, I wasn’t going to let him just-”

“No.” you interjected, hooking your fingers through his belt loops, tugging him closer. “Fuck that, fuck him and fuck this town. We’re getting out of here, okay? We have a chance, and you aren’t throwing that away. Got it?”

“Got it.” He smirked, looking at you from underneath his thick lashes.

    Every touch from Billy was like being lit on fire - ravenous and all-consuming. It had been a slip of tongue, a moment of weakness as his lips caressed your collarbone. Murmuring sweet nothings had turned into a deep, guttural confession with flushed cheeks. The muscles in his back stiffened beneath your fingertips as you looked up at him, with wide, wondering eyes.

“Sorry, that just came out. Forget it okay?” He pleaded as the pale moonlight bled through the curtains and onto his skin. “Pretend I didn’t say anything.”

“No, no it’s okay,” you reassured with a smile, brushing the damp curls that clung to his forehead to the side. “Don’t be embarrassed.”

“Just forget it.” He repeated, slowly lowering himself down to meet your lips. Desperately trying to erase the secret desire he had divulged, replacing it with the taste of his tongue.

“Please...please...please,” he murmured between kisses. His knuckles slowly turning white as he clutched the sheets, terrified he had shattered any illusion of normalcy that he had tried to muster.

You sighed into his touch, though his words lingered on your skin - “Marry me.”

Request: Hiiiii could you please do [Sprinkler, Party, Midnight] off your summer request list w/ Billy and it be angsty or fluff I don’t mind I love your writing keep it up!!! X (I hope you enjoy this! thank you for your support!

Check out my prompts here if you want to request one!

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Cherries and Whipped Cream (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Warnings: Romantic themes Request: Drive-In, Beach and Dawn with Billy Hargrove with romance? thanks! I just want to say congrats on hitting 1K! I love your stories so much! You are an amazing writer x (A/N: Thank you so much!!!!) 

The Hummingbird drive-in was bouncing with life, as the sun ever so slowly began its descent in the pink sky. In celebration of the end of the school year and the seniors finally being free from the shackles of Hawkins High, nearly everyone had come to the Hummingbird. Lacing your roller skates and tightening the strings of your apron, you readied yourself for the hell that would ensue once you clocked in at noon.

    The Friday night shift was long and gruelling, not to mention the slew of lewd comments regarding the length of your uniform skirt only made things worse. The overwhelming stress from the suffocating crowds that gathered only heightened your anxiety. You debated quitting a few times already but couldn’t muster the courage to do so. Despite the unsavoury aspects of the job, there was one thing that never failed to lighten the mood.

“Lot 42, vanilla shake with two cherries.” Phill, the cook manning the counter, shouted as he tapped the bell. With some pep in your step, you gladly took the shake and rolled away from the window, carefully balancing the milkshake on top of the tray.

It was no surprise to you that Billy sat parked underneath one of the lush trees that hung over the lot. Watching you like a hawk, the corners of his mouth raised into a wicked grin. A smile spread across your face as you met his gaze, knowing too well that he chose the secluded part of the parking lot intentionally.

“Hey, hot stuff.” You grinned, resting your elbows on the open window. “Here’s your shake.”

His fingers hooked underneath the connected cherry stems, craning his head back as he sucked off the whipped cream, his blue eyes not leaving yours from behind his thick lashes.

“How much time do you have before they notice you’re gone?” He asked, before chewing away at the sweet candied cherries.

“Mmm, ten, fifteen minutes?” you shrugged, glancing past him to make sure the others weren’t suspicious. “Why, what are you thinking?”

Tilting his head to the side, he gestured for you to hop in the passenger's seat. You were hesitant at first but gave into his pouty lips.

   Your roller skates sat on the floor as you stretched your legs across his lap, his fingers toying with the frill of your baby pink socks as you sipped on his vanilla milkshake. Your attention had been fixated on the whipped cream as you stirred the straw around, that is until you felt his rough hands creep up your leg, drawing circles with his fingers underneath the hem of your skirt.

“Ah ah ah, not while I’m on the clock.” You scolded, prying his fingers from their spot.

“Boo.” He frowned, putting on the dramatics as he leaned against the headrest. “That’s not what you said in the back seat at the garage.” he teased, referring to his night shift escapades with you.

Sinking into the corner of your seat, you stirred more vigorously, mimicking his words under your breath. His features were soft and gentle as he looked at you, now rubbing his palms softly along your skin.

“What?” You laughed shyly, glancing up at him before looking away from his intense gaze.

“Can’t I just look at my beautiful girl?” he asked, slipping his hands under your knees as he pulled you closer. Your skirt hiked up by the sudden movement, but your eyes remained on Billy, completely hypnotized by his touch.

“You're going to get me fired, Hargrove.” you murmured though that didn’t sound so bad. Gripping onto the grab handle, you hoisted yourself over the console and onto his lap.

The taste of cherries remained on his tongue, as the familiar flavour of cigarettes and mints melted through the sweetness. You knew the other employees would begin to notice your absence if you didn’t return soon, but as his teeth found your neck leaving purple marks on your throat, you found it impossible to sober up from the intoxication he filled you with.

    The cool evening breeze brought relief to your flushed cheeks as you cornered the parking lot, your fumbling fingers struggling to fasten the buttons of your shirt. Glancing behind your shoulder, your eyes landed on Billy as he shot a wink at you, cigarette hanging cooly from his lip.

    With sore feet and a pocketful of tips, your night had finally come to a close. There was a hesitation in your step as the tight roller skates left your soles tender.

The orange glow that illuminated from the shadows brought a small sense of comfort to your tired eyes.

It had become a habit for Billy to meet you halfway so he could scoop you into his arms. Making sure his arm was pressed against the hem of your uniform, not wanting anyone to see up your skirt.

“How’s my girl?” he hummed. “Tired?”

Taking the cigarette from his lips you tossed it to the side, worried for his health as his smoking habits had only gotten worse, now that he had more time on his hands while he waited for you.

“Can you sleep over tonight?” You whispered, toying with one of his shirt buttons. “Maybe we could go to the beach or something tomorrow? Spend the day together, just you and me?”

“Can’t get enough of me, huh?” he mused with a quirked brow, re-adjusting his hold on you.

“I just miss you...being with you when we aren't sneaking around,” you admitted quietly. “You know, something more romantic I guess.”

“You want romance?” he asked. “Cause I can give you romance.”

“Yeah?” you giggled as your feet met the ground. “Like rose petals and poetry?”

“If you’re lucky, maybe I’ll even get those scented candles.” he murmured into your lips before closing the car door.

    Pale sunshine swept across the white sheets that laid loosely across your legs. 

The warmth of Billy’s back beneath your cheek reminded you of the heated debate over what position to lay in to avoid getting too hot in the summer heat. 

Having finally settled on resting against his back whilst his arm hung over the edge, the two of you had drifted off into a comfortable slumber, just enjoying each others company during the fleeting moments of dawn.

a/n: the next fic will be a vague continuation of this, about their day at the beach and a wrench in their plans...

Check out my prompts here if you want to request one!

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Seaweed (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Warnings: Romantic themes, references to Billy’s abuse

Request: Can I get Skinny Dipping, Beach, and Midnight for Billy & Reader and can it be FLUFF and implied smut please? Thank you! (From @obsessedwithbillyhargrove)

A/N: I hope you like this!! I hope my “romance” writing skills are okay. Also, If you’ve requested the same combo of prompts for Billy, fear not, each request will be different and unique!

    You were awoken by soft kisses stippling across the warm skin of your bare shoulder. The quiet whirl of your fan filled the room as your sleepy eyes fluttered open.

Nearly every night just past midnight, Billy would slip through the open window of your bedroom. Some nights he would carefully crawl into bed and just lay with you, other nights your nails left marks of love across his back.

“Wake up.” he murmured into your neck, his hand palming your hip as he gently shook your side.  “Wake up, wake up, wake up.”

Letting out a groan, you rolled over and curled into his chest. “I’m awake.”

“Let’s get out of here, hmm?” he hummed, kissing the spot of skin where the strap of your nightie had fallen. “Please, I need to get out of this town. Just for a bit, I swear I’ll get you back before sunrise.”

The urgency in his voice told you things at home hadn’t been pleasant, so you didn’t fuss about how tired you were or how much you just wanted to lay in bed with him.

“Okay, let me just get dressed-” you explained as you began to sit up on your elbow, only to have his lips cut you off.

“You’re fine in your nightgown, it’s hot out tonight,” he explained, scooping you up in his arms.

    The second his thumb rolled across the spark wheel of his lighter, you were given a glimpse of what had him so upset. The flame offered a sliver of time in which you could see the purple and red marks that covered his face.

After a half an hour of silence, you reached for the radio dial, only to jump when his hand abruptly moved from the wheel and intertwined his fingers with yours.

“Sorry.” he apologized, realizing he had startled you. “I have a headache.”

“It’s okay.” you laughed, bringing his hand into your lap. “Y’know...whatever happened tonight, whatever’s making you upset, just tell me what I can do to make you feel better. Okay?”

You watched him, waiting for some kind of response. When the corners of his mouth raised and he looked at you from the corner of his eyes, you had a feeling he was up to no good.

“Okay.” he grinned, the trees blurring behind him as the car sped along the road.

“Don’t make me regret saying that, Hargrove,” you warned before grinning to yourself.

     Billy tried his best to hide his smile, watching as you clung to the side of the dock, inching out little by little. Swimming over to you, he hooked his arm around your waist, prying you from the dock.

“It’s okay, I’ve got you,” he reassured, placing a kiss to your temple. He found it amusing that you covered your chest despite being submerged in the lake.

“You don’t have to hide from me. Nothing I haven’t seen already,” he added with a wink.

Splashing him with water you gave him an unimpressed look, which turned to complete horror as you felt something brush against your leg.

“Something just touched my leg.” you squealed as you clung to his shoulders. “It’s a shark, it’s a fucking shark Billy.”

It was your idea to see Jaws at the drive-in about a week ago, you thought maybe it would help you get over the irrational fear of sharks and the ocean. It wasn’t a well thought out plan, in fact, it only succeeded in making your phobia worse.

“We’re in a lake.” he reminded, although it did little to ease your nerves. “It’s probably just seaweed.”

“But we’re in a lake?” you exclaimed, trying to climb up his back.

“A waterweed than.” he corrected, reaching behind to pull you back to his chest. “I told you we shouldn’t have watched that movie. Besides If it was a shark, which it isn’t, I’d beat it up. Nothing's gonna hurt you.”

There was something about the way his words rolled off his tongue as he held you up against the dock, and how the droplets of water settled on his lashes, that made your heart pound.

 The desperation you felt to be close to him was overwhelming. Twisting your fingers through his locks, you tugged on his hair ever so slightly as you connected your lips together.

 Tangled together in the water like seaweed, Billy felt the pain he had been running away from slip away.

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Chlorine (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Warnings: Romantic themes

Request: Ice cream and skinny dipping for Billy x reader, with some romance in there? This is Emma over at @hairringtonsteve by the way, and let me just say - I AM SO PROUD OF YOU FOR HITTING 1K THAT IS INCREDIBLE AND WONDERFUL AND YOU DESERVE THEM ALL AND SO MUCH MORE

Omg thank you Emma!!! That means so much to me! I hope you like this and thank you for supporting me 💕

    You had been in Hawkins for all of two weeks, visiting your grandmother for the summer and had already found yourself infatuated with Billy Hargrove.

It started on the night he had climbed onto his roof, taking drags of a cigarette whilst you sat in your bedroom window, writing away in your journal. Slowly you had pulled yourself from your thoughts to glance up, feeling his brooding eyes watching you, and there you had sat, watching him too.

It was an unspoken desire that either of you had yet to act on.

    The sun settled over Hawkins like a suffocating grip to the throat, letting little to no salvation from the sweltering heat. With the murmur of the cicadas buzzing song, you slowly rocked yourself in the hammock, your toes entangling with the lush grass at your feet.

Your eyes remained fixed on Billy, the neighbour from across the road, as he sprayed his beloved car with the garden hose. The two of you had been sharing glances now and then between one another, his eyes remained on you as you pressed the cool glass of orange juice to your cheek.

The sweet flavour lingered on your tongue as you finished your drink, letting out a satisfied sigh your eyes fluttered shut, basking in the cool breeze that blew through the trees.

When the heat became too much to handle, you made your way back into the somewhat cooler confines of the small, quaint house.

    Flipping through one of your grandmother's magazines, you sat at the kitchen table whilst stirring around a slice of carrot in ranch dressing before taking a bite. You had become quite engrossed by an article on the art of cake decorating.

The creak of the screen door drew your attention away from the purple and blue icing covered cakes, only to be taken aback by the tall figure lingering behind your small grandmother.

“Hello lovely, look who offered to carry my groceries for me.” she smiled, glancing over her shoulder at Billy, whose arms were filled with brown paper bags. “He met me all the way at the end of the road and carried them all the way back here.”

You felt the tips of your ears become hot as you could feel Billy’s gaze on you. Swallowing roughly, you closed the magazine and offered him a small smile. “That’s so sweet of you.”

“Oh, it’s nothing. Just the right thing to do,” he explained almost shyly, though his thick lashes curtained over his eyes in a way that exuded a lecherous energy.

He had made the first move; infiltrating the boundary in which neither of you had established, yet both hadn’t dared to cross until now.

    Tossing and turning, you struggled to fall asleep as the sheets of your bed clung to your body. The humidity had become unbearable, prompting you to kick off the constricting sheet and pull on a pair of jean shorts.

With five dollars you had fished out from your pocket, you wandered aimlessly down the empty streets of the town. Your eyes landed on the fluorescent “open” sign of the 24-hour gas station, that lit up like a mirage in the summer heat.

The refreshing blast from the AC washed over you, as you entered the gas station. The attendant gave a subtle nod which you returned kindly.

Searching the isles, you were pleased to find the deep freezer that stored all of the frozen treats. You pretended to take your time looking for the perfect ice cream sandwich when in reality you were savouring every second of the cold air.

“Did you lose something?” Billy mused as he watched you limply hang over the freezer.

Slowly rising up, you gave him a goofy looking grin as you hadn’t noticed he was also at the gas station. 

“Can a girl not leach off some cool air in peace?” You asked, waving the ice cream sandwich in front of him. “My grandma refuses to turn on the AC, this is as close as I’m going to get to it.”

His eyes explored your body, the movements were small and subtle, but it had happened. There was no denying the tension that had bound up like a tight knot between the two of you, both quietly longing for one another but neither doing a thing about it.

“I think I know where we can go to cool off,” he said as he scraped his teeth along his bottom lip.

    Never in a million years would you have agreed to trespass on private property, strip down to your undergarments and get in a pool with someone you barely knew, but the summer heat had clouded your senses.

“I’m surprised you agreed to do this,” Billy admitted, sinking below the water for a moment before bobbing up again, slightly closer to you than he had been before.

“So am I.” You admitted, resting your elbows on the ledge as you peered over at him with a sheepish smile. “But I couldn’t say no to someone who paid for my ice cream, could I?”

Pushing off the wall with your feet, you floated backwards, only to have Billy playfully pull you beneath the surface. Letting out a shrill squeal as you resurfaced, you found yourself chest to chest with him, his fingers still gripping the soft skin of your hips. Slowly guiding you to the shallower part of the pool, allowing for rest from treading water.

The blue of the pool only made his eyes look more alluring than they already had. With half-lidded eyes fixed on your plush lips, he could hardly take the tautness in his chest when he was near you.

You felt it too; the tension pulling on your ribs as you coveted the taste of his skin. Hooking your leg around his, you pressed yourself into him, feeling as though your chest would burst if you didn’t touch him that very second.

“We shouldn’t.” you breathed, the smell of ice cream still lingering on your breath. “I’m only here for the summer and I don’t want to leave behind something I’m going to miss.”

The muscles in his back tightened beneath your fingertips as if your words we the only thing holding him back. The thought of being worth aching over, even in these brief moments senseless ardour, was unfathomable to him. Yet he felt it too, the fear of missing someone, to crave something he couldn’t have.

He fought with himself, truly battled with the consequences that would come from this.

“It’ll hurt too much,” you confessed, knowing too well you couldn’t be with him and not become attached.

With a soft touch, he took your cheek in his palm, giving into the secret desire to be gentle and loving with someone opposed to the casual hookups and conquests of his past.

“Kiss me.” he nearly begged. “Please, just kiss me.”

You imagined, rather fantasized, your first encounter with Billy to be feverish and frantic, a mess of teeth and tongue; but it wasn't.

It was slow and quiet and tasted of chlorine and nicotine.

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Human Touch Pt.1 (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Part 2

Series Summary: Having lived a sheltered life hidden in the cabin secluded in the woods, the reader is only now given the opportunity to explore what if means to be a regular teenager, as, she is granted the chance to experience her senior year. Following the events of October 1985, Billy meets the adoptive daughter of Jim Hopper, the same police officer who arrested him based on what had happened between Steve and Billy. The two find themselves completely enamoured with one another, although to Hopper’s dismay. There is more to the reader than meets the eye, and after what was supposed to be a fun night of sneaking into the school pool turns sour, the reader finds out there might be more to her than Hopper has led on. 

Warnings: Swearing, romantic themes (nothing smutty though, yuh girl doesn’t write smut.)

A/N: I’m pretty nervous about this! I hope you enjoy it :) I’m not sure how many parts there will be, so I guess we’ll find out.

Taglist: @madhatterweasley @characterobsessed @lilmissperfectlyimperfect

Saturday, January 4, 1986

Luminescent blue light glowed from the still water of the pool, the strong smell of chlorine nearly burning your eyes as you hesitantly stood by the pool.

“Is it cold?” You asked, now second guessing if you really wanted to go swimming in the dead of night.

“The waters fine, besides, the pools heated,” Billy explained, his strong arms treading the water as he watched you in amusement. “This was your idea, remember?”

You purse your lips at him, arms folded across your chest.

“Fine.” You announced. “But turn around, no peeking.”

Billy turned slowly as he bounced on his tiptoes, just barely touching the floor of the deep end.

You kicked off your sneakers and peeled off your socks. Quickly you unfastened the button of your jeans and wiggled them off your legs. You hesitated with your shirt, now becoming nervous about what Billy might think as this was the closest you had ever been to naked in front of him. Finally, the thought of walking around in a wet shirt wasn’t so appealing as it was below zero outside.

Your arms wrapped tightly around your chest, feeling completely naked as you stood in your undergarments. The smell of chlorine lingered in the air as you shifted the weight of your feet.

“Okay, I’m-I’m coming in.” You announced as you sheepishly dipped a toe in, sloshing the water around.

Billy now thinking you had got into the water, turned to face you.

“Wow.” He breathed, taking in your entire being.

He admired the way the light silhouetted your shape, creating a vibrant blue outline along your skin.

Your head shot up from the toe you had been swirling in the water and immediately scrambled to hide from his entranced gaze.

“What? What? Why are you looking at me like that?” You spoke a mile a minute. “I told you not to look!”

Billy made his way to the edge of the pool, not looking away from you.

“You’re beautiful.” He said, still taken by you.

Your cheeks burned at his words, now chewing on your bottom lip.

“Really?” You asked in disbelief.

“Of course, you’re the most beautiful girl in the world.” His words like silk as his hands reached up to help you, water running down his arms as it traced his veins.

Kneeling down you gripped onto his shoulders, his hands finding your waist as he pulled you into the cool water. You let out a small gasp by the temperature, which had taken you by surprise.

“Cold?” He smiled.

Your heart pounded violently in your chest, nerves now overwhelming you.

“A little.” You admitted, thankful you were now in the pool so he wouldn’t be able to feel how sweaty your palms were. Guiding you backwards, you gently bumped into the wall.

“I’m not a very strong swimmer.” You admitted, as this entire idea sprouted from the misconception that this was something normal teenagers did. “I thought this would be a good idea, now I’m starting to second guess myself.”

“Put your legs around my waist, I’ll hold you up.” He explained, his hand cupping your thigh as you followed his instructions.

“I’ve got you.” He hummed, placing a soft kiss on your bare shoulder.

As soon as his lips made contact with your skin, tingles echoed throughout your body. Your nails grazed the skin on his back, uneasy by your own unfamiliar feelings.

“Sorry.” You blurted out. “I don’t know why I’m so nervous.”

“First time breaking the rules?” He grinned. “Don’t worry, no one’s going to catch us.”

“You’ve done this before?” You asked curiously, playing with the hair that clung to the nape of his neck.

“I use to back in California, I and a few friends would hop the fences, drink a few beers and smoke.” He reminisced. “You’d like it there. Lots of sea turtles if you know where to look.”

You smiled at the fact he remembered how much you loved turtles, cringing as well, just thinking about how that was one of the first things you decided to tell him about yourself when you first met.

“Maybe we can go sometime, me and you?” He suggested. “Get away from here. Away from this shit hole town.”

His lips parted slightly as he stared back at you waiting for an answer. All you could wonder was if he could feel the pulse of your heart as is rattled against your ribs.

He spun you around in the water, waves rippling from your slow movements. Your soft skin felt like silk under the water as his hands held onto your body.

“Billy.” You murmured as your lips pressed into his neck, his body tensing at your touch as goosebumps formed on his shoulders. “Kiss me.”

His free hand found your waist and pulled you as close as he possibly could, his chest pressed firmly against your own as he feverishly kissed your lips.

His free hand clutched the pool ledge, careful not to drift away.

His touch caused your head to go fuzzy as you were intoxicated off of him, completely drunk of the new feelings you felt, buzzing with every movement of his mouth on yours. His kiss making its way along your jaw, nuzzling into the crook of your neck.

A loud slam of the corridor door startled you, sucking in a sharp inhale as you clung to him tightly.

“Shit,” Billy muttered, looking up from behind your hair.

“It’s Saturday, why would anyone be here?” you asked as Billy hoisted you out of the water. Scooting backwards you quickly scrambled to your feet.

“We gotta get out of here.” He stated now pulling himself out of the water. You fumbled to get your clothes back on as Billy followed suit.

“Janitor must have heard us, called the cops or something.” He explained as he straightened out his coat, before taking you by your hand. “We can get out this way.”

Muffled laughter softly echoed throughout the empty pool, your shoes squeaking as they failed to grip onto the wet tile. The vibrant red “EXIT” sign pulsed in the distance, your only escape route.

Both you and Billy tensed as the cold air blew against your damp bodies as you pushed open the heavy door. Peering around the corner, your heart sank as you saw the parked cruiser blocking the exit of the parking lot.

“We’re going to have to hop the fence.” You explained, your eyes scanning the area.

“Alright, shit.” Billy shivered in the cold, his arms wrapping around your shoulders.

“On three, we sprint to the fence.” You explained as you rubbed your hands together for warmth. “One. Two-“

“Three.” Billy laughed, beating you to the punch.

“Billy!” You yelled a giggle erupted from your lungs as you chased after him. “Wait up!”

Billy already starting on the fence his fingers clinging to the holes woven by the metal bars. Making sure you were keeping up, Billy glanced down now and then, although, you were hot on his heels.

Billy hopped down once he reached the top, landing with ease.

“Too fast for you?” He taunted with a smug look on his face. Before you could respond to his cockiness, a shout from the school doors startled you, promoting you to lose balance.

Your leg caught on the barbed wire fence, having to swing your weight over to avoid the rest of you getting caught, you prayed Billy would catch you before you smacked against the cement.

Just as you hoped, Billy’s strong arms caught your fall.

“Babe, are you okay?” He asked pressing a kiss to your temple, his voice filled with concern as he studied your face for any sign of harm.

“Yeah, I cut my leg a little.” You pointed down toward your calf. “But we’ll worry about that later.”

Ditching Billy’s car, the two of you began down the back alleyways until you made it to the main streets of the town. The relief of escaping quickly dissolved as blue and red washed over your features, bathing you in its light.

“Shit.” you breathed, your hand pushing away from Billy as the silhouette of a hat emerged from the sheriffs truck.

“Y/N.” Anger dripping from your father’s voice. “Get in the truck.”

“I can ex-”

“Now!” He ordered, not allowing an explanation from you.

As the pickup truck pulled up to the shabby cottage in the middle of nowhere, your hands eagerly unbuckled yourself from your seat, the souls of your shoes skidding against the gravel as you stepped out of the still moving car.

“Don’t you dare walk away from me. We are not done with this.” Hopper growled as you darted toward the front door.

“As if you haven’t already yelled at me enough.” You snapped back, your knuckles pounding against the front door for El to let you in.

The door slowly opened, El having not moved from the couch as she watched her soap operas on tv. You slammed the door in Hopper’s face before he could make it through the threshold of the house.

The door swung open, nearly smacking into your back.

“I’ve done everything for you, and you go against my explicit orders.” He continued his rant. “I told you to stay away from him and you didn’t listen!”

“I told you, I was hanging out with some people from school and they talked me into sneaking into the pool. When we got caught we all split up, I wasn’t just with him!” You lied, doing everything in your power to keep Billy out of trouble.

“I was a teen boy once, I’m not an idiot,” Hopper stated, a hand placed on his hip. “You really expect me to believe that?”

You craned your head back in frustration, a guttural groan escaping you. El now curiously took an interest in the argument unravelling in the living area.

“You are suffocating me.” You groaned, truly playing the role of a dramatic teen. 

“It’s my job,” Hopper said firmly. “To protect you from jackasses like him.”

“I’m eighteen, Dad. I can take care of myself,” you said as you reached over the couch to grab a chip from the bowl in El’s lap. “The whole point of letting me go to school this year was to allow me to experience what it’s like to be a normal teenager for once.”

“Cut the dramatics.” He snapped, angrily shrugging off his coat.

“Maybe if you didn’t cut me off from society for eighteen years I wouldn’t have to be dramatic!” You yelled with a mouth full of chips, throwing your arms up in frustration.

“There it is again, the dramatics.” he sighed as he emptied his pockets of spare change and cigarettes, glancing at you with a hard look.

“You’re the one being dramatic,” you muttered, shoving more chips into your mouth as you stormed off to your room, making a statement by slamming the door.

Steam clouded the bathroom mirror as you soaked in the hot water, sitting on the floor the tub, you allowed the water to run down your body and wash away the chlorine and frost that clung to your skin.

You watched as red seeped into the clear water, swirling down the tub drain. Raising an eyebrow you wiped your hand on your leg, scrubbing away the dried blood that had crusted over the wound.

“The fuck?” you mumbled to yourself, pulling your skin around trying to locate the cut. There was no pain anymore, only furthering your confusion, as only an hour earlier you were limping from the deep gash caused by the barbed wire.

The wound was completely gone, not a sign or mark of your misadventure from earlier. It was as if it healed…all on its own.

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Small Doses (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

(GIF BELONGS TO ME PLEASE CREDIT ME IF YOU USE THANK YOU)

Summary: “Billy was like a drug.You were determined to steer clear of his advances at first but you always came back for more. He was like unchartered waters that you found yourself diving into far too quickly. You became addicted to his rough touches against your soft skin, to the explosive eruption of unfamiliar feelings whenever you were around him.”

Warnings: Panic attack, sexual themes mentioned (not smut, I don’t write smut lol), swear words, I think that’s It lol

A/N: Hey guys! I hope you like this, I’m not sure if you will because I have zero confidence in myself :) Sorry for all the Billy fics, I didn’t realize that I had already posted so many aha. Also, I gave Tommy the last name Hoffman because he’s just listed as Tommy H, and I needed a full name for the story.

October

You had been dragged to Tina’s party by Nancy, she figured it would be good for you and Jonathan. She was set on the idea that you were perfect for each other, little to your knowledge, this was an attempt at pushing Jonathan away so Nancy couldn’t give into her feelings.

Alcohol and nicotine polluted the air of Tina’s living room, bodies against bodies as the music radiated from the speakers. This wasn’t an ideal night for you, especially with the stress of upcoming early entrance exams for universities and colleges weighing down on you.

The rhythmic pulse of the music left a ringing in your ears, the cool October breeze cooling your skin as you made your way outside. Nancy was completely shit faced, Jonathan, coming to her rescue. Steve was nowhere in sight and you were left at a house party you hadn’t wanted to go, to begin with.

The best bet you had at getting home was finding a telephone, this, of course, became more and more difficult to accomplish.

You had searched the house for a phone, desperately trying to get ahold of your mother but with no success.

Panic began to set in.

The motion around you moved faster than you could process, your head spinning and your legs losing their ability to carry your weight. It was like drowning, the water consuming your entire being. The surface was just out of your reach as the anxiety pulled you further and further down.

Struck by the sudden impact of a strangers chest, you were forced back into a state of reality.

“Watch it.” The voice snapped, you eyes trailing up to meet his. They were cold and brooding, his stare was intimidating and made you feel worse.

“I can’t breathe” Your mouth moved without control, it felt like your entire body was losing feeling as you began to shake. “I-I can’t breathe.”

Hot tears raced down your cheeks, your hand gripped onto his forearm tightly, not realizing your actions as you entered a frantic state.

“You got asthma or something?” He enquired, his hands stabilizing you as they held onto your shoulders. Genuine concern softened the features of his face.

Billy guided you outside, his arm wrapped firmly around your shoulders, scared that you would collapse without his help.

You cried with a loud and uncontrollable force, deep inhales broke apart in your lungs as your fingers squeezed into the palm of your hand. The thought of breaking down in front of a stranger terrified you, the fear of judgement had begun to eat away at your insides.

“I’m so embarrassed.” You gasped, sucking in air as you cried. “I’m so embarrassed.”

You couldn’t stop, you couldn’t breathe and you couldn’t escape.

Your rapid breaths ceased, his lips firmly pressed against yours. You pulled away from him, face frozen in a bewildered expression.

“Why did you do that?” you asked with wide eyes, your hands raised in an awkward curled position.

Billy licked his lips, his eyebrows raised matching your own expression.

“Huh?” he asked as if he hadn’t heard you, leaning in with his ear toward you.

“You just kissed me…?” your eyes rolling up and down as you took in who he was.

“That was CPR,” he said with confidence.

The shocked expression on your face fell as you erupted into a fit of laughter, unable to tell if he was making a bad joke or genuinely believing the words that flowed so carelessly from his mouth.

“What?” He asked as smirk lifted the corner of his mouth. “What’s funny?”

Billy was like a drug.

You were determined to steer clear of his advances at first but you always came back for more. He was like unchartered waters that you found yourself diving into far too quickly. You became addicted to his rough touches against your soft skin, to the explosive eruption of unfamiliar feelings whenever you were around him.

November

It started at lunch, like any other day you had been coaxed into sitting with Billy and his friends. You hated sitting with Tommy, Carol and whichever goon had latched onto Billy for the day. Your movements were small and nervous as you slowly poked the prongs of your fork into the sweet honeydew on your plate, hesitantly lifting it to your mouth.

The table abruptly jerked as Tommy theatrically made a crude joke, nearly tipping the table. You sighed in annoyance at the rowdy behaviour that always seemed to happen whenever you were around. In his eyes, you were just another Nancy Wheeler, latching onto Bily the way she had done to Steve.

Tommy’s beady eyes locked onto you, his stare making you feel small, insecure even. You glanced over at Billy to see if he noticed Tommy’s leer, but your boyfriend was engrossed in a conversation with one of the other guys, deep in discussion over who had a better layup in gym class.

You slid your hand under the table, softly caressing Billy's knuckles that rested on his thigh. Despite the warm smile that Billy gave you, it wasn’t enough to ease your discomfort.

“Hey, Billy, can I just say your an inspiration, to not only me but for mankind.” Tommy declared with malevolence.

Billy’s eyebrows furrowed, the corner of his mouth turning inward with confusion.

“The fuck are you on about?” He asked turning his attention to Tommy, taking a chug from his Pepsi can.

“Come on!” Tommy exclaimed palms pressed firmly on the table as he stood up. “You're a legend. I mean, how many girls have you nailed since you got here? You probably can’t even count on your fingers how many you chicks you’ve banged. I can only bet the list goes on in California”

Your stomach tightened as Tommy continued to make comments about Billy’s past. It wasn't something you ever discussed but you weren't stupid, you knew he had been a bit of a player.

“Shut the fuck up, Hoffman,” Billy growled, his jaw set in a tight line. Clearly mad now that Tommy’s words led you to retract your hand from his.

“Y/N,” Tommy said, forcing you to be part of this uncomfortable conversation. “What’s your body count? Oh, right I forgot, Billy’s your first boyfriend, isn’t he?”

Your ears began to heat up from embarrassment, the apples of your cheeks deepening in colour. Tommy was trying to make you insecure about your inexperience though there was absolutely nothing to be ashamed about. Your nails dug into the palms of your hand, nearly tearing into the flesh.

Carol raised an eyebrow at her boyfriend, even she was shocked by his words. Although her brow raised as a smirk played on her lips now, amused by the effect he had on you.

“One more word out of your mouth and you're fucking dead.” Billy seethed, his grip on your waist tightened as he pulled you into his side protectively.

Tommy threw his hands up in surrender, a weasel-like grin on his face. Your hands peeled back Billy’s fingers from your side, slipping out of his grip. You felt a slew of emotions, you were angry at yourself for continuously putting yourself in a position that would make you uncomfortable. You were embarrassed by Tommy’s comments, which left you feeling insecure.

“No, she’s totally banged, Billy. The quiet ones are always freaks in the sheets.” Carol quipped. “I bet they’ve done it in the back of his Camaro.”

You practically ran out of the cafeteria, your backpack clutched tightly in your hand. Your left hand digging around for your house keys as you were ready to sprint home if it meant you could escape the situation.

“Babe, wait,” Billy called, hot on your trail.

“Leave me alone.” You choked, feverishly searching through the contents of your bag. “Please, just go away.”

His hand took your backpack from your hands and hid it behind his back.

“Y/N, relax for a minute. I’ll fucking kill him.” Billy moved side to side as you tried to reach around him for your bag.

“Why does he do that?” You snapped, angry tears pooling in your eyes. “And why do you let him?”

“What do you mean let him?” he asked defensively. “Have they said shit like that before to you?”

Your eyes rolled up to the ceiling, the pressure behind them becoming unbearable to hold back.

“Did you tell them?” You asked, slowly lowering your gaze to meet his.

“What? Tell them what?” He snapped, now becoming irritated by your doubt in him.

“That we...”You peered around to check if anyone was coming down the hallway or listening in. “that we slept together.”

He was silent for a moment, his brooding eyes moving around your face, studying your expression.

“No, because you told me not to.” He said cooly, your arms folded tightly against your chest avoiding his gaze. “Babe, please don’t cry. You know I hate it when you cry.”

He dropped your bag to his feet, his firm hands cupping your cheeks as his thumbs softly wiped away your tears.

“I don’t want to sit with them anymore.” Your voice cracked as your evaded his gaze.

“What can I do to make this better?” He pleaded with penitent eyes.

Billy was the first person you had ever been with, part of you felt ashamed as you worried he would leave you after he got what he wanted from you. You were far more than just a hookup to Billy. He loved you. He really, truly loved you.

There was something almost angelic about you, you were kind and gentle. You were the salvation of his sin, he needed you.

“Beat him up.” a small smile pulling at the corner of your lips, quickly breaking the tension.

“Really?” he asked seriously, cocking an eyebrow at your request.

“No, I’m just joking.” you grinned, Billy pressed his lips to yours.

“There's that smile,” he whispered against your lips.

You may not have been Billy’s first, but he was convinced you were his last.

January

One moment you were screaming at each other, the windows fogging from the heat that radiated from your rage.

“I’m not doing this.” You breathed, hand already reaching for the door handle. “Talk to me when you're not wasted.”

With that, you slammed the car door leaving Billy to simmer down in the driver's seat.

He promised he wouldn’t drink, he swore he’d stay by your side the entire party and behave, But he didn't. Billy had to prove himself to the people he didn’t like, to impress the classmates who didn’t matter in the long run, that he could down the keg faster than Tommy. The party was just down the street, you were so upset with him you found yourself walking home. The brisk January air cutting through your thin cardigan as you forgot your jacket in his car.

Around 2:30 in the morning Billy had sobered up, got in his car, and drove. Like muscle memory, his arms turned the wheel in the familiar pattern until be found himself in front of your small home.

Sheets of freezing rain pelted down on the windshield,

Blood cacked under his nostrils, his left eye beginning to swell as he stood outside your bedroom window. You found yourself crawling out of bed and unlocking your window, taken aback by his appearance.

“Billy!” you whispered, careful not to wake your mother in the next room over. “Oh god, what happened?”

Your hands reaching into the cold night and pulling him into your window, he weakly climbed in, nearly collapsing into your arms.

“I’m so sorry.” He murmured into your hair, you struggled to support his weight.

“Hey, hey, It’s okay.” You cooed, your heart racing. “Billy we have to get you out of those wet clothes.”

He barely moved as your hands fumbled with the buttons of his shirt, then working at his coat and pants. You placed them on the small radiator that sat against your wall.

“Billy your freezing.” You commented, his skin almost sickly to the touch.

You guided him toward your bed, helping him under the covers. You climbed in next to him, pressing your body as close as humanly possible trying to warm him up. The quiet chatter of his teeth rattled in your ear, his arms wrapped around you tightly, desperate for the warmth of your touch.

Taking your thumb, you tenderly rubbed away the dry blood that had collected above his lip.

“Tommy said something,” Billy mumbled. “Something really fucked up.” He continued, his teeth clenching together.

You raised your head from his chest and watched his face as he spoke.

“What did he say?” your hand rubbing circles on his chest, trying to warm him up.

“I don’t want to talk about it.” He said, almost sadly.

You didn’t press the matter any further, partially relieved as you weren't positive that you wanted to know. You tugged at the comforter, pulling it up higher around you too.

Neither of you fell asleep, completely wired from the night.

“He said that I broke you in, that I should let the basketball team have a go with you since you must be easy after sleeping with me.” His voice was hoarse as if he was fighting back tears, “You don’t deserve the shit that people say about you. It’s my fucking fault, I’m bad for you. I’m a bad guy, Y/N.”

“Billy, your not bad...you’ve just had bad things happen to you.” You comforted, slowly sitting up, reclining on your right arm.

Billy had felt guilty about being with you, he felt as if he had tainted you and your image. He was undeserving of your affection. Unworthy of your soft touches against his rough skin.

“I ruined you, didn’t I?” his voice fragile.

“What? Billy, no why would you think that?” You asked grazing his swollen brow. “hmm?”

His tongue ran across his busted lip, the taste of blood filling his mouth.

“I just-” he shook his head as he tried to suppress the tears that desperately tried to escape. Maybe it was the alcohol, or maybe it was the fear of losing you but he couldn’t stop himself. “I’m selfish because I know I don’t deserve you but I can’t bring myself to let you go.”

Your hand slid from his brow and down to his side, collapsing into him, pulling him into a tight embrace. No one hated Billy more than he hated himself, you knew this too well. He was self-destructive, he forced a toxic facade and broke everything he touched, but he wasn't bad.

“I’ll beat him up for you” you offered, attempting to get a smile out of Billy.

He remained silent, processing what you said, almost as if he were considering it.

“No, your too much of a sweetheart,” he whispered into your soft hair. “You’ve got so much good in you, do you know that?”

“I can give some to you if you want.” you smiled. “I think I have too much.”

He shifted onto his side, tucking a hand under his cheek as he grinned at you.

“Yeah?” He sleepily asked, smiling back at you. “you’d do that?”

“I’m a giver,” you pursed your lips playfully. “I’ll give you all of it if you want.”

“Well, I’ve already given you all of mine, so, it’s only fair.” his voice husky as he inched closer, his lips finding yours.

“Are you staying to watch me play, or are you hanging out with Wheeler?” Billy asked, playing with a pen you asked him to hold while you fill your bag with books.

“Sorry Billy, I’ve got plans with my mom, actually.” You apologised, plucking the pen from his hand. “Score a goal for me, okay?”

Disappointment washed over his face as he realized you wouldn’t be staying.

“Alright, could I come over later? Maybe take you out to the movies or something?” He asked, his fingers rubbing your elbow lovingly.

“I’d like that.” leaning on your toes you pressed your lips to his cheek. “is 8′o clock okay?”

“Perfect. I’ll see you then, get home safe okay?” Billy said after he kissed your lips.

You nodded, urging him to get going otherwise he’d be late for his practice. You watched as he went, waiting until he was out of sight before unsheathing the secret you had been hiding in your bag.

While Billy and the team played basketball you exacted your revenge on Tommy H.  With the pocket knife you had been given by Billy (he was certain you needed it for protection), you sliced into all four tires of Tommy’s car.

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Forget About The Rest Of Me (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Summary: Billy lived by the ideology of “live fast. die young.” but when he meets the girl who can’t seem to keep up with everyone else, he finds himself completely taken by her.

Warnings: Mentions of Abuse, alcoholism and infidelity (Between the readers “parents”) 

A/N: I hope you enjoy this, I was inspired by Nina Nesbitt’s “The Moments I’m Missing”). Let me know if you liked this and would enjoy a second part :) Thanks for reading!

Billy Hargrove was a walking mirage, far too attractive and confident to be real. Everyone was drawn to him, whether it be to be associated with the alpha male of the school, or the allure of the salacious look in his eyes.

But like all good illusions, there was something else hiding behind the facade. The brutality of his punches was a result of his need to be stronger and scarier than anyone else before someone could hurt him. The new lips he kissed every night were a desperate attempt to feed his hunger for intimacy, although it never did.

So Billy continued his routine of black eyes and white knuckles, clutching the sheets of a strangers bed. 

You groaned as Tina snatched the newspaper from your hands, giving you an annoyed look. 

“Can you please help me? You said you’d help me do my hair like Madonna.” Tina whined, a hand finding her hip as she gave you a pout.

“Sorry, I’ve just been stressed out with this stupid story I have to write for my part in the paper.” You apologized, sliding off of Tina’s bed where you had been sitting. “Sit down, I have to tease your hair.”

Tina had been your best friend since the fourth grade, you were polar opposites and it just worked. When you were quiet she was loud, when she drank you made sure she had enough water to keep her hydrated and hold her hair back. You weren't the most outgoing or a social butterfly but you would go to the mall with Tina or to the movies when she asked. Tina tried her best to get you out of your shell even coaxed you into sitting with her and her group of friends at lunch.

“So, how many people are coming over tonight?” You asked, your hand rhythmically brushing the comb back and forth through Tina's hair. “It won’t be like that last part, right? Not to be annoying or anything but I’d rather not have to take care of seven drunk girls.”

Tina’s shoulders moved up and down as she laughed, recalling the horrendous incident of her “small” summer get together.

“Well maybe if you drank you could join in on the fun,” she said tilting an eyebrow at you. You gave her a tight lined smile in the mirror, your heart beating against your ribs.

You hadn’t told Tina much about your home life, and if you did it was very vague or a complete lie. In your freshman year, your home became a war zone. One night when your mother was on business trip in Seatle you had woken up in the middle of the night, mouth dry and desperate for a glass of water.

Looking back, you wished you had just gone back to sleep and powered through the urge for a cold glass of water. 

You were confused about why there was a warm glow creeping up the stairs from the living room, curious to why your father (who from time to time would stay up after he returned from the office to work on paperwork.) was still up at nearly three in the morning.

The carpeted stares cushioned the sound of your steps 

Soft murmurs and stifled laughs grabbed peaked your interest, there was another voice that you had never heard.You peeked around the bannister, a pair of pink pumps laid messily by the end of the couch.

You sat back out of view, not that anyone had noticed your presence, hand clasped around your mouth as you stopped a gasp from escaping your lips.

Never in your life had you ever seen your mother wear pink or any colour that wasn’t a varying shade found on the white to black scale. She was a firm woman, always independent and hardly home in the evenings. 

This wasn’t your mother stealing kisses with your father, this was someone else.You were an easy going kid, never got into much trouble, save for the times your mother caught you reading comics under the covers after she told you to go to bed. 

Never had you felt this angry before, never had you felt so betrayed. Your mother worked, a lot, you weren’t going to pretend like she was around often, maybe she had a few days off now and then but, she was busy being a successful woman in a male-dominated world of business. You admired her for her strength, you couldn’t be mad at her for that.Your father spent the most time with you, that is when he wasn’t working himself. 

You didn’t mind being alone, it left you plenty of time to sketch and work on your own little comic. It had been a dream of yours since you were little, you wanted to publish your very own comic.

You didn’t know what you were supposed to do besides sit on the old, creaky stairs and hold your hand against your mouth.Everything changed after that night, it was a sick, twisted game of fate as your mother walked through the front door, home early from the business trip when she caught your father with the new office temp.

Your mother had always enjoyed a glass or two of wine after a long day, but when your father continued his infidelity, she turned to the bottle for comfort.

“I’ve told you a million times, weak livers run in my family. I can’t drink.” You lied, not even sure it weak livers was an actual problem.

“I’m just bugging you.” She said as she nudged you with her shoulder.

You stood in the kitchen, opening a new bag of chips as the plain had already run out. Things weren’t getting out of hand, yet. It wasn’t a party at Tina’s without alcohol or a couple making out on the couch. 

You only showed up to these so Tina would owe you one, which, involved dragging her along to the local comic expo a few towns over.It was a win/win for both of you, plus it meant a seemingly endless supply of lays plain chips for you.

As the night progressed things began to pick up, the party now in full swing. The stench of alcohol, cigarette smoke and cheap Halloween makeup creating a gross concoction of odours.

Big parties like this often brought out truths hidden deep within people. A drunk man's words are a sober man's thoughts.

Somewhere in the house, Nancy admitted she didn’t love Steve, and somewhere Tommy flirted with anyone and anything that wasn’t Carol. Somewhere else Tina joked with the people she desperately wanted to impress that you were like a pathetic puppy, always following her around

Unfortunately for you, being one of the only people not to be completely wasted, meant you had overheard most of these unsavoury truths.

It wasn’t the first time you had caught Tina being a cruel drunk, but for some reason tonight it bothered you, just a little. You could convince yourself to just blame it on the alcohol, but deep down you knew it was true.

She hadn't realized you were standing behind her, suddenly losing your appetite. One of Tina’s friends took notice of you and the dejected look on your face, quickly giving Tina a warning look. Tina was far too gone to care or pick up on what was happening.

You dropped the orange plastic plate onto the counter and darted toward the stairs.

You slammed the door and just stood in the centre of Tina’s room feeling a storm begin to form inside of you.

Why did it bother you so much? Was it because she was right? Was it because she had said it and not just some assholes from school?

“Don’t cry.” You told yourself as you tugged on the roots of your hair. “Don’t fucking cry.”

You paced around the room, chewing on your bottom lip as you thought of all the other things she was probably saying about you.

“I bet they make fun of me.” You told yourself, only firing yourself up more. “Fuck!” You yelled losing control, your hand balling into a fist.

You stood back in shock by your own actions. As you brought your hand up feeling pain pulse through your knuckles. You looked at yourself in horror at the cracked reflection of the mirror.

You shook your head at yourself, frantically running out the door clutching your hand to yourself. You ran to the bathroom and watched the water rinse the blood down the drain.

“You Alright?” A husky voice asked from the doorway.

You picked out the small shards of glass that had gotten stuck in your skin.

“Hm? Oh yeah, I’m okay I’ll be done in a second.” You replied, not taking your eyes off your cut knuckles.

“What the hell did you do?” The voice said, now leering over your shoulder.

You let out a sigh, turning the tap off with your other hand.

“Nothing, I just-“ you began, now facing the boy. “-accidentally cut my hand, that’s all.”

You gave a small smile to the stranger who seemed more concerned about your injury than you were.

“Neosporin.” He said.

You glanced at him with a confused look on your face.

“What?” You asked, one hand holding the knob of the door.

“Put it on your knuckles, they’ll heal faster.” He said, standing in a contrapposto position.

Your cool fingers rubbed the back of your injured hand, you were just standing there looking at the boy. He was a work of art, a chiselled chest and striking eyes, an Adonis.

“Thanks.” You smiled.

His line pulled into a cool smile, his eyelashes blanketing his gaze.

“My pleasure.” He said as he dragged his tongue across his bottom lip.

The next day at school Tina was a no-show, probably hungover and in bed. Usually, you were there for her, waiting to make sure she got enough water or that she had Advil for her skull-splitting migraine.  This time was different, something changed last night and you weren’t sure if you could be so forgiving.

The cafeteria buzzed with conversation and laughter, the smell of greasy pizza was almost sickening.

You looked around, debating whether or not it was worth the awkward tension to sit at a random table that had an extra seat or to just find somewhere else to go.

The cool air of the parking lot sent shivers down your spine, the soft breeze blowing the skirt of your dress upward ever so slightly.

You smoothed out your dress as you walked toward the beat-up car that you had the honour to drive.

Smoke billowed from the side of your car, earning a worried look from you.

“That better not be my engine again.” You whined, now jogging toward the vehicle.

As you rounded the corner you were surprised to see the same person who you had met in the bathroom the night before.

“Oh my gosh!” You laughed, relief washing over you.

The boy lowered his cigarette from his lips, blowing smoke from his lips, filling the space between you.

“What?” He asked with a smirk, clearly amused by your second chance encounter.

“I thought my car was smoking...again.” You admitted as you scratched the back of your neck.

He just watched you, still smirking at you as his eyes travelled your body.

“Well, um I’m just going to sit over here.” You said gesturing to the hood of your car.

Billy was absolutely taken by you, for whatever reason you had been on his mind since your little meeting in the upstairs bathroom. So many unanswered questions about you and your split knuckles.

He leaned on the hood of your car, you had begun to flip through your sketchbook before abruptly closing it once you had gained an audience.

“I’m Billy by the way.” he breathed, taking a brief look at the book in your hands. “I never got your name last night.”

“Y/N.” You answered, eyes not leaving your hands, hesitantly opening up the pages of your sketchbook.

Billy’s eyebrows knitted together, beginning to become annoyed with the lack of attention you were giving him. He wondered why you hadn’t thrown yourself at him like the others or felt the slightest bit of intimidation.

“What are you drawing?” he asked, impatiently tapping his fingers against the car.

“It’s embarrassing.” You exclaimed, your fingers flipping to a blank page. “I don’t like showing my drawings to anyone.”

He didn’t press any further, straightening up from his relaxed position.

“You’re quite the mystery.” he scoffed, flicking his cigarette angrily before getting in his car.

A house was not a home if there was an inability to take comfort in its shelter. The static white noise from the tv down the hall was the only soothing sound you knew, it was like a shield from the screaming match happening in the living room between your parents. 

Across the street, which your bedroom faced, was a small house divided by two families merged together by marriage. Just like your own house, there was just as much rage contained between four walls and one roof.

Billy climbed out his window and snuck out the side gate, he froze at the sound of your parents fighting, thinking for a moment that his dad was going after Susan. He felt his legs carry him toward your house, his eyes fixated on your beat up car. He never saw you come out of the house or your car parked out front before, or maybe he just hadn't noticed.

A dull glow emitted from your room as you turned on the lamp from your bedside table. Just for a moment, you walked by the window, and just for a second, he wished for you to look out and see him, to really see him.

Winters in Hawkins were unforgiving, fortunately for you, there was a “Happy Days” marathon on tv and you had nowhere important to be. You grabbed the plate of brownies and brought them over to the living room.

As the theme song began to play your heart sank, you and Tina loved “Happy Days” but things had changed since the Halloween party. Next thing you knew, you were balling as you stuffed brownies into your mouth. You missed Tina, no matter how awful she became when she was with her friends, you missed her.

The doorbell rang which made you freeze, mouth full of chocolate and tears streaming down your face. No one was supposed to come over, your parents were out of town on business and you had the house to yourself.

You swallowed hard, wiping your lips with the back of your sleeve. You jogged toward the front door, fixing yourself up quickly in the hall mirror. 

Billy Hargrove stood at your front door, the blood dripping from his nose, smeared onto his lips. His facade shattering into smithereens right in front of you, there was no lustful gaze in his eyes, no smirk on his face, nothing.

This was Billy Hargrove and for the first time, you saw him for what he really was, insecure and powerless. 

“Billy, your nose.” you blurted out, the cool air icing the tears that had stained your cheeks. 

“I didn’t know where else to go,” he admitted. “The snow’s too high to drive through.”

You couldn’t wrap your head around it, but there was something different about Billy, at least the one who stood in front of you. He wasn’t trying to push your buttons or impress you with his sexual prowess. You finally saw him.

“Come in.” You gestured for him to come in, closing the door behind him.

The pain was evident in his body language, the way he slowly moved as he tried to remove his coat. You helped him out of his jacket, hanging it on the coat rack and guiding him to the living room. You grabbed the empty plate and shoved it under the cushion, feeling embarrassed about the meltdown you had just gone through. 

You sat next to him on the couch, turning off the tv before facing him. 

“What happened?” You asked Billy, he shook his head not wanting to talk about it. “Was it.. your dad?”

He just stared at you, studying your face and the sadness that you attempted to mask and pass off as a concerned look. 

“Why were you crying?” he asked, not answering any of the questions you had bombarded him with.

You let out a sigh, your eyes glancing at the bruises that peaked out from his open shirt. Your eyes slowly trailing over the purple hues that lined his jaw.

“It’s embarrassing.” You tried to evade him.

“You said that about your drawings too,” he commented, his gaze practically burning into you. “You don’t have to be embarrassed, at least around me.”

The corners of your mouth turned upward into a shy smile, for some reason you felt a little more comfortable with his words. You back relaxed into the soft cushions of the couch. 

“You know Tina? We are- were best friends.” You corrected yourself. “Anyways, at the Halloween party she got really drunk and she-I overheard her making fun of me with her friends. Anyways, I got so mad that I punched the mirror in her room.”

“That explains the bloody knuckles.” he laughed. “I didn’t really see you being much of a fighter.”

You grazed your fingers over the faint scars left on your knuckles. 

“It turned into a big fight, not because I punched the mirror or anything, but because when I confronted her she got mad at me. She got mad at me for being mad.” You sighed in frustration. 

“I’m so exhausted, I can’t get away from all the drama. I come home to screaming matches between my parents, I go to school just to receive dirty looks from all of Tina’s new friends. No one gives a flying fuck about me or how I feel. No one asks either.” You vented.

“I take your shitty friend and raise you a shitty dad.” He said smiling slightly.

“Why haven’t we ever talked before?” You beamed, slowly forgetting about the loneliness you had felt earlier. “Like this I mean.”

Billy gave you an amused look, raising an eyebrow at your words.

“What do you mean? I’ve tried talking to you for months, you never give the time of day,” he exclaimed, joining you in the relaxed position against the back of the couch, staring into your eyes.

“No, you’ve been trying to flirt with me...I don’t know I was worried you weren’t talking to me with the right intentions.” You admitted. “Everyone goes so fast and- I guess it’s just not as easy for me.”

There was always a hesitation towards boys and romance ever since you watched your parents fall out of love and into hate, there was no trust in your family and you were scared of becoming like them.

There was a silence in the air, the two of you just looking into each other's eyes, almost longingly. All fears and worries went out the window as your body gravitated toward his. Your lips gently touched his, pulling away just for a moment to absorb what you were feeling. 

He cupped your face with one hand, his other arm around the back of the couch and brushing against you. His movements were slow and unsure, waiting to see your response. Your lips were parted ever so slightly as your eyes fluttered shut. When he kissed you it felt as if you were being bathed in golden light, a feeling you had never known before. 

Lost in the moment, your hand finding his chest. You pulled away when he winced in pain, anxiety washing over you.

“I’m so sorry, I don’t know what I’m doing.” You confessed, apologizing profusely.

He pulled you closer to him, connecting his lips to yours again. His kisses had an urgency behind them as if you were the only person in the entire world that mattered.

“I don’t care if it hurts.” he murmured between kisses. 

His mouth trailed along your jaw and peppering down your neck. You stiffened, not because you were scared of him but rather what you thought he was hoping for. He noticed your discomfort and looked up at you, worry in his eyes.

“Whats wrong? Are you okay? Did I do something wrong?” he questioned, his hands finding yours. 

Shaking your head, you looked away, you felt completely embarrassed.

“No, no it's not you, its just...I’ve never done this before.” You disclosed, expecting Billy to be annoyed or weirded out. “I’m sorry.”

He brushed the hair that had been covering your face, carefully tucking it behind your ear.

“You have nothing to be sorry for or to be embarrassed about.” He reassured, wiping away a tear that had escaped from your watery eyes. Billy flopped down onto the couch, earning a confused look from you. “Come on, let's watch your show.”

You were dumbfounded, absolutely caught off guard by Billy’s actions. Everyone had created this image and idea about Billy, painted him out to be some sort of playboy ass hole. 

“Really?” You asked, he opened his arms in response. You carefully laid against his chest, although you worried about hurting him again. 

The two of you just laid together, he held your hand as you watched the tv, your back against his chest.

Billy was used to driving fast and living life in a whirlwind of chaos, but as he laid next to you, the girl who was scared of life moving too quickly, he felt an overwhelming sense of calmness and content.

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Clockwork (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Warnings: Mentions of Billy’s abuse, A sick parent and a fight between the reader and their father (who’s drunk), other than that their are a few swear words.

 Request 1: The reader tutors Billy and they begin to date. The reader witnesses Billy’s father being abusive and tries to help Billy but is scared away when he yells at her. He feels bad and works really hard to make it up to her. (I had to summarize this, sorry if it isn’t exactly how you wrote it originally.) - @montanagirlatheart

Request 2: Billy’s a pretty rough and tough guy, until he’s with his girl. Then, he’s an absolute sweetheart and they’re ultimate relationship goals. Like, cute ass dates or just driving around with their hands intertwined, listening to his music playing softly on the stereo. And just pulling off to the side of the road when a their song comes on and turning up the radio so they can slow dance on the road. Please write an imagine in which this is addressed.

 A/N: I built the story off these two requests and added my own flare to it, hope you enjoy! 

The street was fairly quiet in the evening, the elderly filled most of the surrounding houses which led to a peaceful neighbourhood.

Your hands carefully scrubbed away at the dishes in the sink, holding them up to the kitchen light now and then to make sure you hadn’t missed any spots.

“Looking good.” Your Dad said from the kitchen doorway.

You looked over from the plate to your father who gave you a warm smile. His coat was on and his boots laced. This, of course, could only mean one thing, he was leaving the house.

This had become a routine for the two of you. You’d come home from school, he’d stay tucked away in his room. You’d do your homework and he’d remain quietly upstairs. Sometimes you could hear the soft murmurs of voices from the tv if you pressed your ear to the door. You’d cook dinner, he wouldn’t come down to join you. You’d clean up and he’d say goodbye.

“Thanks, Dad.” You said giving him a smile that held more sympathy than happiness.

Your mom had fallen ill and it completely devastated your father. Of course, it affected you, how could it not? Although you never had time to be sad, now you had to act as the mother and the father of the house. You couldn’t remember the last time you had been given a hug, or a kiss on the temple before heading off to bed.

“I’ll be heading out now.” He said with a nod. There was a tingle in your nose as he left, the feeling of crying creeping up on you. You stood there with the damp plate clutched to your chest, hoping for an “I love you” from your dad but you were met with nothing but the front door locking.

“Bye y/n.” You muttered mimicking what you wished you had heard.

 Peeling back your comforter, you climbed into your bed. Your hair still a little damp from the shower you took, but you were too tired to care. You couldn’t remember the last time you cared about anything actually.

Just as you were about to doze off, your eyes shot open.

“Crap.” You exclaimed, remembering you hadn’t taken out the garbage.

You pulled on a hoodie and some slippers, quickly making your way down the stairs and into the kitchen. Your fingers pulled at the garbage bag and tied a loose knot.

You lugged the bag in your hand out the back door, careful not to trip in the dark.

“Why is the porch light not turning on.” You grumbled, the bag still in hand as you now wildly waved your arms around trying to activate the light. “Really? Really universe? You couldn’t let me just have one thing?”

Finally, you just gave up and stomped down the back porch stairs. You turned down the shared driveway that created an alleyway between your house and the neighbours.

You lifted the lid on the trash can and placed the bag into it.

“Nice pyjamas”

You jumped about five feet in the air, you were so concerned about the damn trash bag you hadn’t noticed another person present.

“Uh,” You said glancing down to make sure you were even wearing pants. “Thanks”

The stranger let out a soft chuck, his face illuminating from the shadows from his lighter. He was gorgeous, you were half expecting some old perv.

“Are you visiting Dolores?” You asked, referring to your neighbour.

“If your referring to the old broad who lived here, she’s been moved into an old people home.” The stranger said, exhaling a puff of smoke in front of him.

You laughed a little at his words, they were quite blunt.

“So you’ve moved in then?” You asked, shifting from either foot feeling a little awkward.

“Mmmhmm,” He said, his cigarette now between his lips.

You nodded, glancing down the alleyway. He was rather intimidating, you could barely hold eye contact with him before you felt the need to look away.

Your hands clasped behind your back, shifting from heel to toe, not exactly knowing how to carry on the conversation. To be honest, you never really had time to socialize with…anyone? When you weren’t cramming every assignment in one sitting, you worked vigorously as a stock worker in the local grocery store.

“Billy.” He finally said, his hand outstretched in front of you.

“Oh,” you exclaimed, now fumbling to bring your hand from behind your back. “I’m y/n”

His hand lingered for a moment as he gave you this…look. His gaze making you flustered.

“Pretty name for a pretty girl.” He said smoothly.

“Oh wow, I bet that’s the first time you’ve used that line, huh?” You said grinning, shyly pushing a piece of hair behind your ear.

“These lips have only said that to you, babydoll.” His mouth forming a smirk as he went in for the kill.

You couldn’t tell if you were smiling from the utter corniness of his statement or at the thought of this handsome stranger flirting with you. Either way, you had managed to clumsily back into the trash can, startling the both of you.

“Whoops.” You said, trying to hide your embarrassment. “Hah well, I better go, gotta hit the hay.” You beamed, spinning on your heel. As soon as he could no longer see your face you mouthed a profanity, already cringing at what had just happened.

Like clockwork, you had begun the dishes and the upstairs bedroom door creaked open. Today your father went straight to the front door, not bothering to say goodbye.

Your kitchen window was ajar, allowing for a cool breeze to hit your face. The phone began to ring, startling you. You looked around for a towel to dry the suds off of your hands but to no avail. Giving up, you wiped your hands on your jeans and darted toward the phone as it was approaching its third ring.

“Hello?” You asked out of breath, as you sprinted down the hallway from the kitchen.

“Hi y/n, this is Kathy from work.” The voice said cheerfully from the other side.

“Oh hi!” You said trying to match her enthusiasm.

Kathy had been your boss for two years and called you to work every single holiday. Not once had you ever received a bonus or promotion, not once were you ever acknowledged for how much effort and time you dedicated to that stupid grocery store on the corner of 3rd street. You glanced at the calendar and realized Christmas was approaching in two months, your heart skipped a beat as you began to hope for an early holiday bonus.

“I have some news for you!” She excitedly exclaimed you could just picture the phoney smile on her face.

“You do?” You asked, a hint of excitement in your voice as you twirled the phone cord around your finger.

“Being that your senior year is taking off, I and the other managers put our heads together and came up with a plan.” She began to explain, pretending as if she cared. You squeezed your eyes shut and mouthed “promotion, promotion, promotion” over and over.

“We’ve decided to let you go.”

Your heart dropped into the pit of your stomach, your eyes now wide open.

You opened your mouth to speak but no words came out.

Finally, you uttered a weak “what?”

Kathy continued explaining her bullshit reasoning, which went something along the lines of “we want to give you the opportunity to widen your horizons”. It was all a bullshit, just a poor excuse to let you go.

“What about Seth?” You squeaked interrupting the rambling in the other line.

“He doesn’t do anything! He sits up in the break room for an hour then goes downstairs just to say he’s going on his break again!”

Kathy let out a sigh from the other line, it was quiet for a second as she needed to rev up her phoney voice.

“Seth has more seniority over you, I’m sorry y/n this is just how things go.” She explained.

You paused for a moment, your knuckles turning white from how tightly you were gripping the phone.

“Go to hell.” You spat, slamming the phone onto the receiver.

You raked your fingers through your hair, your face turning hot with anger and tears clouding your eyes.

“How am I going to pay the bills?” You said, your eyes darting to the pile of envelopes left on the counter.

Your father lost his job a month or so after your mom became sick, leaving you to take up all the extra shifts at work to try and scrape by.

You began to uncontrollably fan yourself, desperate for air.

You scrambled for the back door, tripping over your backpack in the process. Halfway through the door, you noticed a bright orange piece of paper stuck to the bottom of your shoe. It must have fallen out of your bag, which you had left unzipped by the kitchen table earlier from doing your homework.

One arm leaned on the door to hold it open, the other holding the orange invitation.

“You going too?” A familiar voice asked.

You turned your head to the boy, who leaned against the railing of your back porch, car keys in hand.

You hid the invitation behind your back, crumpling it into a ball.

“Me?” You asked, pointing to yourself.

He gave you a smirk, gradually making his way up the back steps.

“I don’t see anyone else around.” He said cooly, a mixture of smoke and mint on his breath.

“Oh man, gee I don’t know.” You explained. “I’m pretty busy, I’ve got so much stuff to do.”

“Doing what?” He asked, raising an eyebrow. He could tell you were making up excuses on the spot. “It can’t be homework, all I see is you working at school.”

Picking at your nail you looked away from him, not really having any other excuses left.

“Look, I just lost my job so I don’t really feel like doing anything.” You finally admitted.

“That’s the perfect reason to get wasted,” Billy said with a grin.

“Thanks but…I think I’m just going to go to bed.” You said meeting his eyes.

His grin faded, giving you a nod.

“Alright then, see you around.” He said, seeing how upset you were just by looking into your eyes.

He started to descend down the steps before adding in the last thing.

“Every time we talk, you always go to bed after…I’m gonna call you sleeping beauty.”

“No your not!” You called after him.

“Sure thing sleeping beauty.” He hollered back getting into his car.

You smiled at him, giving him a wave.

You sat crossed legged on our bed, a textbook in your lap and flashcards sprawled around the comforter.

“Alright so, I’m going to quiz you now.” You announced to Billy, who sat in the plush chair by your window.

“Is that the sheet of paper I gave you to make the character and quotes chart?” You asked annoyed.

“Don’t worry, Nothing was written on it anyway.” He said nonchalantly as he tossed the paper ball up in the air and trying to catch it.

You gave an irritated sigh, putting your head down as you continued to jot down notes. The bed dipped next to you, Billy pouted his lips as he leaned in closer.

“Are you mad at me?” He asked, his arms now on either side of you causing you to lean backward.

“Oh stop with the voice.” You said cracking a smile as you pinched his chin.

“Give me a kiss.” He said still doing the voice (which he used to make you laugh), leaning in closer. You grabbed the copy of “death of a salesman” and shoved it in his face.

He let out a groan, flinging himself next to you dramatically.

“Billy, I promised Mr Malone I’d get you a passing grade.” You said with a sigh, playfully smacking his chest. Billy sat up and wrapped his arms around out, pulling you into an embrace.

“Fine, quiz me.” He murmured against your shoulder as he peered down at the notes in your hand.

It had been maybe twenty minutes of uninterrupted studying until the boom of Neil’s voice jolted both of you.

“BILLY! Get the fuck out here!” Neil hollered from the joined driveway, Billy tensing at the sound of his fathers' voice.

“Shit.” He said under his breath, his arms letting go of you. He scrambled to get off your bed, you shifted slightly as you watched him pull on his jacket.

“Hey, whats wrong?” You asked, your voice filled with concern.

“Don’t worry about it.” He snapped halfway out your bedroom door, taking you back by surprise.

You followed quickly after him. The whole neighbourhood had heard the screaming matches next door. You’ve seen the bruises on his chest and arms, even ones on his back from being slammed around.

“Billy wait! Don’t go out there.” You pleaded. “Just stay in here, he’s probably drunk he’ll go away.”

“Y/N just leave me the fuck alone!” He screamed. His face fell when he saw the look on yours.

“Fine.” You spat, just as much venom in your voice as he had in his.

     Billy stormed off in his Camaro hours ago, but you knew Billy and he needed time to cool off. You sat in your room, putting together all the notes you had made earlier.

There was a loud slam of the front door, although you hadn’t heard the stairs creek above you. You peeked into the hall and saw your dad hanging up his coat.

“How’s Mom?” You asked, prompting you father to look up in surprise.

Something was off about him, maybe it was the subtle way his movements had changed or the drag in his voice when he answered you. You couldn’t make out his slurred words, but you didn’t have to understand what he was saying to know where he’d been. You’d only ever see him leave, never come home.

“You’re drunk…arent you?” You questioned furrowing your eyebrows.

“I’m not drunk.” He said waving you off, now brushing past you to the kitchen.

You followed after him not letting him get off the hook so easily.

“Is that where you go? Do you just fuck off for hours at a time to get drunk?” You seethed.

You father slammed his hand against the kitchen counter, glaring at you from over his shoulder.

“Watch your language.” He ordered.

“Oh, so now you're deciding to be a parent?” You shot back. “You can’t just pick and choose when to act like a father!”

Before he could yell at you, you moved toward the front door. Your father on your tail, his breath practically breathing down your neck.

“You walk out that door Y/N, you're not allowed back in this house.”

“You may have lost your wife, but I lost my mom and dad,” you said and without hesitation, you left.

    You mindlessly wandered down the road, your arms hugging yourself in an attempt to comfort yourself and keep yourself warm from the rain. Just like you always do, you replayed the memory over and over again, analyzing your words. Wondering if what you had said was too harsh or maybe not harsh enough. The sound of tires against the wet road causing you to veer off onto the curb, still deep in thought.

“Y/N.” Billy’s voice said from his car. “Y/N, come on please get in the car. You're going to freeze out there.”

Billy cut the engine and hopped out, swiftly taking his coat off and wrapping it around your shoulders.

“Baby please.” He said a sense of urgency in his voice.

“What? Billy what?” You asked feeling hopeless. “You told me to leave you alone and I did, so return the favour.”

You continued down the road, Billy following closely behind.

“I’m so sorry about that, I shouldn’t have yelled at you,”  Billy said, trying to adjust the coat around your shoulders. “Come on please, you don’t have to talk to me just please get in the car.”

Part of you wanted to keep going, to remain firm and put your foot down, but the much colder part of you gave into the warmth of Billy’s Camaro.

You drove in silence, the only words you uttered were “just drive”.

You stared blankly out the window, feeling Billy’s occasional gaze.

“Are you crying because of me?” He asked, his voice soft.

No one would believe you if you told them how sweet Billy was to you, or how kind he could be. It was all a facade, with zero power at home he looked for it at school. The night he met you, he saw something in you. Maybe it was the fact that you didn’t try to flirt with him, or that you would wait out by the trash bins when you heard Billy’s father yelling at him, he’d come out for a smoke and you’d ask him about his car. He knew you heard everything, but instead, you’d try to get his mind off of the war inside his house and ask about his interests.

“No.” You replied, hardly a whisper. “Not really.”

His eyes focused back on the road, his right hand held out toward you. You laced your fingers with his, needing a comforting touch.

“What’s bothering you?” He questioned, his thumb tracing circles over the back of your hand. “If you don’t tell me I’ll do the voice.”

You cracked a smile, Billy satisfied with himself for making you happy, even if just for a second.

“I just…it’s just I got into a fight with my dad. I said some really awful things.” You admitted. “Is it bad that…a small part of me doesn’t feel bad?”

“If I had the guts to stand up to my dad, I’d feel high as a kite,” Billy said, partially trying to get another laugh out of you.

You licked your lips, your mouth felt dry from all the crying you had done.

“I guess it did feel kind of good. I’ve kept it bottled up for the last two, three years …I’ve just been so angry for so long, so stressed…” You trailed off.

Billy nodded, pulling into a gas station.

“I’ve got to fill up on gas, do you want to come inside with me?” He asked you nodded in response.

The two of you hopped out of the car, the gas station attendant walking over to fill up the tank.

You wandered around the gas station with Billy, who was looking for the stand that had lighters. You stopped in front of the cold beverage refrigerator, looking at all the drinks.

“Want one?” Billy asked noticing you admiring the drinks.

“You sure?” You questioned.

“Of course, get whatever you want babe.” He said, trying to find the lighter he liked the best.

You grabbed a coke bottle from the fridge,  joining Billy’s side as he searched the rack. He finally picked one he liked best, and the two of you headed toward the cash register.

“It stopped raining.” You said quietly. “I just noticed.”

“Mhmm” Billy hummed, digging out a 20 dollar bill.

Billy handed you his keys so you could use the bottle opener keychain while he paid.

You wandered out by the car, giving the older man who filled up the gas tank a smile. Music played from the old radio by the gas attendants booth, Billy walked over to you. He took the coke bottle from your hand and placed it on the hood of his car, you gave him a confused look. He brought you into his arms and swayed to the music, you melted into him and closed your eyes, too exhausted to question the bizarre behaviour.

“If I ever yell at you like that again, slash my tires,” Billy mumbled into your hair. “Okay?”

“Alright,” you answered, with a stupid smile on your face.

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

They’ve Got Nothing On You (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Request: I would love a Billy Hargrove imagine! My idea is that he used to know the reader in Cali. Max calls to tell her how bad things are and the reader decides to come out to Indiana. They were dating but had to break up when he moved. She surprises billy by showing up at school but he feels guilty about the girls he’s been with since she’s been gone. And then you can take it from there! You’re an amazing writer btw!! - @montanagirlatheart

Warnings: Slight swearing, implications of Billy’s abuse, and blood (not in a violent sense)

A/N: I hope this is okay! Not sure if this is what you had in mind or not, let me know if you liked it :)

  You slowed down as you arrived to the large “Welcome to Hawkins Indiana” sign. It was too late for second thoughts now. Your parents weren’t pleased with the idea of driving alone for roughly 32 hours, from California to Indiana. In your heart you knew you needed to go, Billy needed you now more than ever, and you would travel across the world for him.

  It started with a frantic call from Max pleading for your help, for both her and Billy’s sake . You had become very close with over the years. You and Billy started dating in freshman year, the sudden departure on his half at the beginning of your senior year was devastating for both of you.

  You let out a shaky breath before putting your car back into drive and continued toward your destination. You ran your tongue over your bottom lip, a nervous habit you had developed, and tasted blood.

“Shit.” you mumbled looking in the rearview mirror. You had been biting your lip without realizing. You reached into the glove compartment, straining to lean over the gear stick. Quickly, you grabbed the napkin that you had shoved in the compartment and pressed it to your lip.

“I better take another look at those directions again.” you mumbled to yourself, now fumbling around trying to remember where you had put them. Glancing up by chance at the mirror, you noticed your napkin was turning a hue of blue.

“Oh no, no no no.” You said, pulling the napkin off of your lip. You forgot you had written the directions down on a napkin in a frenzy when Max called you in a panic.

You frantically tried to smooth the napkin out, the ink now runny and illegible, just your luck.

“Looks like we’re winging it” You grumbled to yourself, throwing the napkin out the window and watched the wind carry it away. How hard could it be to find a high school?

  Turns out, small towns were very confusing to navigate, it was around 3 pm when you finally found the high school.

You pulled into the shabby parking lot, scanning for a spot when a familiar sight caught your eye.

Billy’s Camaro.

  You quickly parked and turned off your engine. You were far too nervous to get out and wait by his car so you watched from the rear view mirror, you seemed to become well acquainted with that damn mirror.

The bell rang indicating the school day had come to an end, you anxiously watched the students walk by chatting and laughing about things that had happened during the day.

Then he walked by, it took you a minute to register that it was him. He grew his hair out at the back, to be honest you couldn’t tell which emotion it evoked within you (how is one suppose to feel about a mullet?).

A horde of girls followed closely behind, giggling and whispering to each other. Billy said something back to them along the lines of there being enough of him to go around which prompted an eye roll from you.

You took a deep breathe, gave yourself a nod in the mirror and exited the car. The slam of the door grabbed Billy’s attention. Still smirking from his previous comment, he glanced over in your direction then back to his keys, then back at you.

Time slowed down, you nervously clutched your fingers with your opposite hand before giving a small wave.

He narrowed his eyes, looking you up and down, not believing it was really you. His jaw tightened into a line, you watched him intensely, starting to wonder if this was a worse idea then you had originally thought.

You licked your lips, the taste of dried blood filled your mouth as you waited for Billy to do something.

“Get the fuck out of here.” he growled to the group of girls that had collected around him. They looked at Billy in shock, the sudden aggression throwing them left field.

Raising an eyebrow, Billy repeated “I said fuck off!”

A girl with red hair nudged the brunette and pointed over at you. The two gave a scoff and glare before storming off, the others following suit.

Shoving your hands in your denim jacket pockets, you hesitantly walked toward Billy who had not moved a muscle.

“Hey.” You breathed, looking up and into his eyes.

“What are you doing here?” he asked in a low, husky voice. His jaw forming a hard line as he clenched down.

Looking down, you kicked a rock at your feet and swayed uncomfortably, not expecting this to be so confrontational.

“Your not happy to see me?” You said, almost in a whisper as you looked back up at him from your feet.

His stare went right though you, it was cold and absent. This wasn’t the Billy from California that you remembered, the one you loved. He still hadn’t said anything, his presence making you feel small.

  Billy collided his lips with yours, pulling you into him. His kisses were hungry, his hands gripping onto you as if you’d disappear if he didn’t. You wrapped your arms around him, trying to become as close as possible, you had craved his touch for far too long.

“I love you.” He said against your lips between kisses. His hands held the back of your neck as he feverishly kissed you, his thumbs touching just beneath your jaw.

In that moment it felt as if no time had passed, as if Billy never left. You separated for a moment to breathe, looking at each other, just soaking up each others presence. He placed his hand on the small of your back leading you to his car.

“Lets get out of here.” He mumbled in your ear, his breath hot on your neck. “We’ll come back for your car later.”

  You sat parked on he side of the road, the “Welcome” sign just a few feet away.  Billy reached into his breast pocket and pulled out a pack of cigarettes. Picking one out he placed it between his lips, you reached into his other pocket and grabbed his lighter. You had always done that for him, it was a little ritual between the two of you.  He leaned into your hands, one covering the wind from the flame, the other holding the lighter.

“So did that prick Mark ask you out when I left?” Billy asked after taking a drag from his cigarette.

The smoke billowed in front of Billy, slowly fading into the breeze. You raised the Coke bottle in your hand to your lips and took a sip, trying not to smile.

“He did.” You admitted with a coy smile, taking another swig of your drink. “But I turned him down.”

You could see the uneasy look on Billy’s face, so with your free hand you grabbed him by the chin and pulled him into a kiss. The taste of cigarettes on his breathe reminded you of home.

“I missed this.” You admitted, leaning your forehead against his.

He murmured something into another kiss, but you could sense something was wrong.

“What is it?” You whispered, trying to make him meet your gaze.

“Nothing…it’s nothing.” He said shaking his head, not wanting to look at you.

“Billy, I can tell when your lying to me.” You said, gently wiping your thumb against his cheek bone.

He placed his hand on top of yours, holding it in place. His thumb rubbing small circles on the top of your hand.

“It’s just…” he let out a breath, turning away to take another drag. “It’s just been so fucking hard.”

You nodded acknowledging his words, eagerly wanting him to continue.

“My Dad he just…every little thing I do is wrong. He fucking hates me, he was always mean but now it’s just…” he paused, his eyes clouding over.

Your heart ached for him, it was hard enough in California but here he was all alone.

“We broke up and I-“ He stopped, almost embarrassed or ashamed by what he was trying to say. “I’ve hooked up with girls here, but all I could think of was how badly I wanted your lips on mine or how I wanted you in my arms. They were just distractions and-”

“Billy, stop.” You cut him off before he could finish. “Stop, okay? I get it.”

His chest tightened as you said this, knowing he had completely ruined whatever could have been rekindled.

“You don’t have to explain yourself to me, okay?” You said in a softer tone, he looked at you with a sad, confused look on his face.

“What?” he asked, flicking his cigarette down onto the road.

“The shit you go through… look you don’t have anything to be guilty about okay?” you said reaching for his hands. “We were broken up and as jealous as I am internally, I understand why you searched for attention elsewhere.”

Billy scoffed, “You some kind of therapist now?”.

“No Billy, I’m someone who loves you and unlike anybody in this shit hole town, I know what you go home to every day.” You snapped back.

He raised his hand up in surrender whilst letting out a laugh, out of all the things you had said today for some reason that made him genuinely smile.

“They’ve got nothing on you.” He said, wrapping his arms around you. “Your the best kisser I know.”

You folded your arms across your chest, pouting slightly. “Yeah, I better be Hargrove.”

“This kisser traveled over 30 hours just to see your dumb ass.” You added jokingly.

He placed a kiss against your forehead, letting out a happy sigh. You stayed like that for an hour, just enjoying each others company. Not even worrying about what would happen tomorrow, because right now you had today.

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

It Comes And Goes In Waves (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Summary: A confrontation with Billy Hargrove leads to a revelation within himself.

Warnings: Mentions of Bullying (name calling based on appearance), Billy’s abuse, ANXIETY and depression (Vaguely)

A/N: The title is a lyric from my favourite song, I cry every time I hear it. This is a product of me feeling extremely anxious and thinking about things that affected me so severely, that it’s shaped who I am today. I was bullied A LOT as a kid and has left me pretty broken (as cliche as that sounds). I’ve been suffering from anxiety attacks for the past few weeks and I couldn’t focus on anything, but after writing this I felt a weight lift off my chest. Sorry if this is too deep for a Tuesday evening, I just needed somewhere to vent so I thought I’d do it through writing and providing you with some content. If anyone who reads this ever needs to talk about anything, my inbox and DM’s are always open. If you’re lonely, just know I am too, and I’m always here to talk. I’m off to bed and will edit tomorrow.

You stood in the kitchen mixing together the macaroni and cheese for the group of children in the basement. Your mom had somehow convinced you to babysit for the Sinclair’s, while your parents went on a double date with the Mr and Mrs of the household.

As you stirred the wooden spoon around your mind began to wander, you were completely burnt out from school, as well as pretty much anything and everything. You were an anxious person, it was crippling at times. You felt as if you were in a perpetual state of nervousness and hardly found yourself able to pinpoint a reason.

You turned the dial of the burner off and moved the pot to the side, it looked edible for the most part.

The doorbell rang out of nowhere, which made you jump in your spot.

You made your way to the front door, expecting it to be Mrs. Sinclair coming back to grab her purse or something along those lines.

You pulled the door open and felt your heart drop into your stomach as you saw the face of a stranger.

“Hi.” You said in a small voice. “Can I help you?”

The stranger gave you a smirk, before reaching out to shake your hand.

“I’m Billy, Billy Hargrove.” He introduced smoothly. “I’m here to make sure Max got here safely, her mother’s request. She’s my step sister by the way.”

You nodded slowly, your eyes glancing over to a piece of paper that had been taped to the wall next to the door, out of view from the visitor.

Scribbled with black sharpie was a simple yet aggressive statement.

“DON’T TALK TO BILLY -Lucas”

You brought your attention back to the boy in front of you, now slightly panicked on what to do.

“Um, well I’m the babysitter...yeah I’ll just go get her.” You mumbled, not thinking as you motioned for him to come in.

“How come I haven’t seen you around?” He asked, still pulling the charm on you.

“Oh, um well...wait a second.” You said suddenly recognizing his face. “You go to Hawkins High School, right?”

“So you’ve heard of me?” He said, his mouth forming into another intimidating smirk.

“Yeah, I go there...too.” You trailed off, now feeling extremely uncomfortable by the whole social interaction. “Anyways, um, just wait here I’ll go get her.”

He stood by the door as you turned to head toward the basement, your hand holding onto the railing.

The group of children were in deep discussion, talking about a wizard crossing paths with ogres or something. You hesitated before knocking on the open door, not wanting to interrupt their game.

“Hey, guys?” You said softly, the children paying no attention to you. You froze up, you were probably the worst babysitter on the face of the earth.

You sort of stood there in silence trying to figure out how to get their attention, that is until a boy with shaggy hair took notice and nudged Lucas.

“Oh hey Y/N, is the Mac and cheese done?” He asked, shushing his friends when they continued to ramble about their game.

“Yeah...it is...but uh, hey there’s a guy upstairs, Max’s brother-STEP BROTHER.” You quickly corrected yourself.

The red-haired girl gave the others a look, more of annoyance than anything, she got up as did the others.

“I’m coming.” She said, you nodded and led the heard upstairs.

“She’s coming.” You said softly as you returned to the foyer.

“Thank you so much.” He thanked, his voice almost sultry.

“No problem, they were just...down stairs.” You said giving a small thumbs up, just waiting for this entire evening to come to an end.

“What is it Billy?” Max snarled coming into the entryway, arms folded and eyes narrowed.

He furrowed his brow and his jaw tightened into a line.

“Listen dipshit, your mom asked me to check and make sure you made it here okay.” He snapped. “You forgot to call.”

You were taken back by his sudden attitude change, no more Casanova persona.

“Tell her I forgot and that I’m sorry.” She apologized, more so for her mother than for Billy.

He gave her a hard look.

“Whatever, don’t be so stupid.” He snapped before storming out the front door.

You stood there for a minute, Max left to join the others in the kitchen to eat.

Something came over you, a surge of adrenaline pulsing through you, maybe that or just pure anger over his words.

You snuck out the front door, wrapping your arms around yourself as the air was cool.

“Hey!” You called out, Billy already unlocking his door. He turned around and started his act again, his mouth about to pull into a smile.

“Cut the bullshit.” You snapped at him, mirroring how he had spoken to Max. “You-You can’t talk to people like that, it can really fuck them up in the long run.”

He gave you an amused look, taken back by your own change in attitude.

“And what the hell are you talking about, doll?” He asked now making his way toward you.

“What you said back there, don’t call her stupid or dipshit.” You affirmed, losing your fire slowly. “Listen, take it from me, when you grow up being called names it ruins your self-esteem. Not that you’d care, you probably don’t give a shit about anyone.”

His face formed a questionable gaze, for once he didn’t have a snarky remark to fire back.

“See you around.” You said, not caring anymore if he had anything else to add or say.

Billy watched you go back into the house, not exactly knowing how to feel. He played with the keys in his hands, chewing on his bottom lip.

You returned to the kitchen, wiping the sweat from your palms onto your jeans.

“I didn’t know you could yell like that.” Lucas commented before taking a sip of his Pepsi.

“Thanks...for that.” Max said, her mouth was forming a small smile.

“Sure, Yeah...Sorry I just kind of...got pissed-MAD!” You corrected, realizing you swore in front of the thirteen-year-olds. “I just got mad at what he said to you guys.”

“Billy’s an asshole, he nearly killed Steve, you know Steve? With the hair?” Mike said with a mouth full of macaroni. “Oh, and he was ready to beat up Lucas for hanging around Max.”

“Why? How could someone be that...angry.” You trailed off slowly piecing together the puzzle.

You fumbled to open the lock on your locker as your arms were full of loose papers and books.

You hated the location of your locker, the smell of burning rubber from the gym always leaked into the hall. The boys' basketball team was always running around in there, their shoes squeaking against the linoleum floor.

You swung the metal door open and put away your work, you had been staying late to get your assignments finished.

Billy dabbed the sweat from his forehead as he breathlessly exited the gym, making his way to the showers. Then he saw you.

He let out a scoff, turning his feet toward you.

You closed your locker door, mind racing with stress as you were planning out if you’d nap when you got home and then start on your history essay, or start the essay and then nap. You nearly smacked into Billy’s bare chest when you turned around to leave, although you stepped back in surprise before you could.

“Woah!” You exclaimed.

He cocked an eyebrow with amusement.

“Great, I know.” He remarked, you felt your cheeks heat up.

“No, I meant...you scared me.” You said, brushing past him.

“Hey wait, come on can we please talk?” He called, annoyed with your stubbornness.

You glanced behind and sped up, which made Billy speed up.

“Why do you hate me so much?” He said angrily. “Ever since I bumped into you at Sinclair’s house you won’t give me the time of day.”

You stopped dead in your tracks, now annoyed with him just as annoyed he was with you.

“I don’t give you the time of day?” You snarled. “Me? What about you, you didn’t even know who the fuck I was until I called you out. Who cares about what I think? What does it matter to you?”

Billy folded his arms across his chest and stood taller.

“I don’t care.” He stated.

“Okay? Then leave me alone, it’s not that deep.” You said more softly.

“Just tell me why, humour me.” He pressed.

Your shoulders sank, starting to feel anxious by the whole situation.

“Because your a bully.” You admitted, not meeting his eyes.

“What?” He sounded hurt more than anything. “Why?”

You licked your bottom lip, finally giving into his look.

“You were mean to Lucas, your mean to your step sister. You could’ve killed Steve, I see the way you treat people.” You explained, taking a deep breath. “You know, I think the reason why it bothers me so much is because it reminds me of when I was younger. Do you know what it’s like to be called names?”

Your voice began to crack as you delved into your past.

“How about fat, cow, ugly? Do you know what it’s like to be ridiculed and made fun of for how you look or how shy you are? I can barely talk to people or make connections because I’m scared of what they’ll say. The possibility of being hurt again.” You continued.

“I wouldn’t call you things like that.” He began before you cut him off.

“What about when you told Max that all the girls were cows? What does that make me? She’s told me what you did.”  You said, your eyes welling up. “You know, when I think of you, I wonder what you would’ve said to me if you were around then.”

You shook your head at yourself, wondering why you even bothered with him.

“Things have changed since then.” His eyes pleaded. “Look, I can’t explain to you why but...can you please just give me a chance to make it up to you?”

You raised an eyebrow, completely confused by his fixation in your approval.

“Why?” You asked.

“Because you said something to me. You didn’t take my shit, I don’t know...I just want to know you better.” He explained, you could sense his genuine intentions.

You let out a sigh, craning your head back and staring up at the ceiling.

“Fine.” You gave in.

“Fine.” He replied.

 You sat under the porch light and waited anxiously for Billy to pull up. No matter how many times you told yourself this wasn’t a date, a small part of you knew it was.

“Hey, stranger.” Billy greeted, a toothy grin on his face.

You stood up from your spot, giving shy smile and wave.

“Hey...so what are we going to do tonight?” You asked curiously.

He offered his arm to you, wanting you to take it. You hesitantly accepted, part of you worried if this was all some sort of scheme.

“I thought we could go for a walk.” He said, guiding you down the quiet street.

“Okay...just don’t pull a Jason Voorhees on me.” You joked.

“I promise I won’t, I just wanted to talk actually.” He said smiling.

There was a silence between you two for a moment until he let out a shaky sigh.

“Well um...I was thinking about what you said and you’re right. I am...a bully.” He admitted, almost shamed. “It bothered me at first but the more I thought about it-“

He breathed heavily through his nose, starting to worry about what you’d think. He’d never admit it to you, but he did care what people thought about him. He cared so much that it ruled his life.

“It bothers me because I don’t want to be like-like my dad.” He finally said. “But I am, and I hate it. Every time I’m mean to someone I think about my dad hitting me, I think about him calling me names. Sometimes it feels like...this is stupid, I shouldn’t have said anything.”

He pulled away from you, hiding his face from you.

“Billy, I didn’t know.” You scratched your head, feeling guilty about yelling at him. “I shouldn’t have-I just.”

“You were right, and you shouldn’t be sorry for that.” Now facing you, there was a glossiness in his eyes. “Sometimes I get so-I’m so angry and I blame everyone else but-but I’m just mad at myself. I’m so mad at myself and I can’t take it, so I take it out on everyone else.”

He didn’t know why he felt he had to tell you this, but there was this urgency in him.

“I’m pretty angry too.” You confessed, Billy’s eyes locking with yours. “I’m sad too, sometimes I don’t know why , but I try to put the blame somewhere or on someone but I can’t.”

You didn’t think you and Billy Hargrove would connect in this way, or at all for that matter. Billy saw you for your kind soul, he was drawn to you because of that.

You placed a kiss on his cheek, his face visibly softening at the touch.

“You know, this is the first time I haven’t felt alone.” You said as you pushed a piece of hair out of Billy’s eyes.

Billy’s thumb rubbed against your cheek, his eyes looked at your lips.

“Can I kiss you?” He said with zero control, it was more of an instinct.

Your lips met his, answering his question. He placed his hands on the small of your back, the other cradling your head. It was gentle and sweet, it brought comfort to both of you, forgetting about the worries and fears that clouded your skies.

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Icarus (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Request: Hey so I have been listening to the song 'helpless' from the musical Hamilton and there are these lines from it that make me think of Billy/Dacre its 'Look into your eyes And the sky’s the limit/I’m Helpless!/Down for the count And I’m drownin’ in ‘em' so I was wondering if you could maybe write a billy imagine with those lines in mind, please? ♡♡♡♡♡

Based on the song “Helpless” from Hamilton the musical

A/N: I really hope you like this! Hopefully, you catch the Hamilton reference. I apologize if it's a bit short but I honestly really liked this, I’d be down to write another part :) Spoiler: sorry if the kiss scenes kinda meh, I’m not the best at writing kiss scenes so bare with me.

Music blared from the speakers, the rhythmic thuds of the beat felt as if it were the only thing keeping you alive. Moments like these were the moments you felt the freest. Nothing but the music, carrying you through the night, not a thought or worry in sight. You were never the one to fight for attention or to claw your way into the spotlight, you were just using every song to get you through the night.

Your eyes squeezed shut as you raked your finger through your hair, body swaying and rolling with the waves of the melody. As your eyes fluttered open, beaming from pure bliss, you were taken aback by the amours gaze from a stranger. Sharp and cool, his blue brooding eyes were hypnotic, the murmur of the song began to die out.

You smiled at him, your hand trailing down from your hair to the back of your neck, shyly looking away before returning back to his stare.

The next song started, your attention returning back to the dancefloor. You disappeared into the crowd, leaving the mysterious stranger wanting more.

As the night simmered down and the music winded down you took a sat by the window, the draft from outside was refreshing against the heat of your skin.

The stranger with the striking gaze now striding toward you, red solo cup in hand.

“So, are we just going to make eyes at each other all night, or are we going to something about it?” He smirked with his shoulder against the wall, cup in one hand, cigarette in the other. 

The corners of your mouth turned upward as you raised your own cup to your lips, taking a sip of your Pepsi. 

“Yeah?” you asked, amusement written across your face. “Well I came here to dance, I don’t know about you, but if you want to join me then by all means.”

With that, you set down your drink and sauntered back to the dancefloor. Your energy returning to you as your favourite song boomed from the speakers, the guy from before in your pursuit. 

You spun around, grabbing hold of his hands, laughing over the music.

“You were workin' as a waitress in a cocktail bar When I met you, I picked you out, I shook you up and turned you around Turned you into someone new”

“Whats your name?” your lips brushed against his ear, sending shivers all over his body.

“Billy.” his hand swinging with yours as you tried to get him to let loose. His eyes wandering your face, his tongue running over his bottom lip.

“I’m Y/N” you laughed as he spun you around, twirling you under his arm. 

The two of you became intoxicated off of one another. Your perfume mixed with the smell of Billy’s cologne and cigarettes, creating a toxic concoction that drove you both crazy. You were drowning in his eyes, engulphed by the ocean blue and intrigued by the soft shadows framing his stare.

You crossed your wrists behind his neck, his hands finding your waist as you swayed with the music. Your heart raced and your head spun, completely high off of each others energy.

Don't you want me, baby?

Something came over you, but he was just so magnetic, his hypnotic eyes putting you into a trance.

You tangled your hands into his long locks of golden hair, his hand finding the back of your neck. 

He took your bottom lip between his teeth for a moment before you fervently moved your lips with his, the taste of nicotine on his tongue.

The party came to an abrupt end, something about the neighbours calling the cops, but you didn’t mind.

“Do you need a ride?” Billy asked taking a drag from his cigarette, blowing the smoke out in a grey cloud. “My cars just over there.”

Taking your bottom lip between your teeth, you pondered the offer, 

“Thanks, but I think I’ll just walk.” You replied with a playful grin. “Besides, I don’t want to fall to hard to fast.”

Billy was left dumbfounded as you began to walk away, your hands swinging by your sides. 

“Wait, can I get your number?” he called after you, keys in hand.

“You’ll just have to find me at the next party, then I’ll see what I can do” You winked, leaving Billy speechless.

Little did you know you would be warned to stay away, that Billy Hargrove was bad news, but nothing could convince you to keep your distance.

You were helpless.

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Moments pt 2 (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

Part 1

A/N heres part 2 of my “Moments” Imagine, I hope you enjoy it and let me know if you’d like a part 3 or not. I previously posted this, didn’t like how I ended it so decided to fix it up. If there are any cringey errors, I’m toooooo tired to fix them lol

Tags: @ambeazyyy

warnings: Blood, miscarriage, this part is kind of heavy

(if there is anything else i should add to the warnings please let me know! :) ) 

 It was mid-January by now, and things with Billy had been going surprisingly great. Once the initial shock wore off, the two of you seemed inseparable. He hadn’t gotten into as many fights as he did before, and if he did it was to protect your “honour”.

Your mother with whom you lived with barely batted an eye at you when she was home, any other time she was on business trips. She blamed herself for what had happened, even though you argued that she wasn’t there enough to influence your decisions.

Billy was your first everything, kiss, boyfriend, and now you were having your first child with him.

To say you were happy was a complex thing, in some ways you were. You were happy that you had someone with you all the time when Billy wasn’t, they were. You could just gently place your hand on your abdomen and you didn’t feel so alone anymore. 

But you were terrified, you were terrified to be a mom, you were scared Billy would crack under the pressure and leave, you hated the whispers in the halls or the snickers in the girl's locker room when you had to change for gym. You were afraid.

Billy held onto you as the two of you trudged through the snow across the parking lot.

You had been cramping all day, and you knew something wasn’t right.

“I’m only two months” you whispered, Billy, strained to hear what you had said.

“I think somethings wrong” you added.

Billy’s grip tightened around you as you got closer to his car.

“No, don’t say things like that.” He said, his worry hiding behind his words. “This is probably normal.”

By third period you were in tears from the pain of the cramps, and when you finally told Billy he insisted on taking you to the doctor.

 The car ride there was silent, the hum of the engine and the sound of the tires ploughing through the slush seemed to relax you for a moment. Billy’s knuckles were practically white from the grip he had on the steering wheel, his free hand clutching yours.

“How are you feeling now?” he asked, his voice hoarse from fighting off tears.

Looking at him made you feel horrible, you could tell he was scared and his jaw was clenched in a tight line.

“I don’t know.” You replied giving his hand a squeeze which got tighter with every pang of discomfort you felt. “Something’s wrong” you repeated.

The tires screeched as you pulled into the plaza where your doctor's office was located. You jerked backwards into your seat by the sudden change of direction, you let out a whimper.

Billy found a spot that was closest to the doctor's office, you stayed seated as you waited for Billy to come around and help you out of the car.

The cool air hit your face as your door swung open, Billy giving you a small smile. You shifted uncomfortably as you tried to get up, but the cramping had gotten worse.

“I can’t,” you breathed through frustrated tears. “I can’t get up it”

“I’m going to carry you,” he mumbled as he carefully scooped you up, not wanting to hurt you.

“Shit,” he said to himself, you followed his gaze toward the passenger's seat. You stifled a cry as you saw the seat covered in blood.

“Oh no.” You whined as your eyebrows furrowed.

“It’s going to be okay, it's alright, we are okay.” Billy rambled, more so trying to convince himself things would be okay. He used his leg to kick the door shut and hurried to bring you into the doctor's office.

Billy waited anxiously in the waiting room, shaking his leg and tapping his foot. Had it been twenty minutes since Y/N went in to be examined by the doctor? It felt like hours.

He rolled the spark wheel of his lighter against his thumb, watching the flame appear and disappear within seconds. He never imagined himself being a dad, he couldn’t see himself being a good one either. But there was so much good in Y/N  that he was sure he could be different, for her…for their baby.

“Mr Hargrove?” The nurse asked, snapping Billy back from reality. “We don’t allow smoking inside the building.”

“Oh,” Billy looked down at the lighter in his hand. “I wasn’t… is my girlfriend okay?”

“You can come see her now, follow me please.” the nurse said softly.

He swiftly made his way to Y/N’s side, using his thumb to wipe away her tear stained cheeks.

“Are you okay? Whats going on” he asked, his voice shaking. His eyes searched yours for an answer, his warm hands cupping your face.

“I…I lost the baby.”

  You laid curled up under the covers of your bed, the cool air from outside pooling into your room. You hadn’t gone to school for a week, not wanting to face the noise…or the stares.

Billy came by every day, but you had asked your mother not to let him in. You weren’t ready yet, it was too painful to bare.

Your eyes felt heavy, your ribs ached from the vigorous sobs you would erupt into and you felt this horrible, awful guilt. As if this was somehow your fault, no matter how many times Billy had told you it wasn’t.

The soft knock at your window brought you back from your guilt-ridden thoughts.

“ Y/N, open the window.” Billy’s voice called from the outside of your second story window. “ I know you're in there…please.”

You reluctantly peeled the covers off from you, groaning as your feet touched the cold Harwood floor. You hesitantly reached for the curtain, not wanting to face Billy yet.

“Now or never.” You whispered to yourself before pulling the curtain to the side.

Billy’s face softened when he saw you. You quickly unlocked the window latch and lifted it upward.

“You’re crazy.” You said almost allowing a giggle to escape.

“Don’t girls like shit like this? climbing up windows and shit like that,” he exclaimed giving you a smirk.

You helped him through your window, despite his protests that he could do it, you were adamant about making sure no one else you loved would get hurt.

Once he finally was inside your room, he pulled you into his arms. You instantly held onto him, not ever wanting to let go.

“I’m so sorry.” You said into his chest, his arms squeezing you tighter into his embrace.

“No, you have nothing to be sorry about. Okay?” he reassured you, leading you toward the bed.

He pulled you onto his lap, his fingers brushing the strands of hair out of your face.

He gave you a tender kiss, missing the way your lips had felt against his.

“I missed you,” he said softly, his forehead against yours.

You licked your lips and let out a sigh. “I missed you so much…it’s just been so hard.”

Billy ran his thumb across your cheek, wiping away the tear that had escaped.

“I know babe, you don’t need to explain yourself,” he said with a gentle tone.

He felt as though he was holding onto the most fragile thing in the world, one wrong move and you’d crumble in his hands.

The two of you sat in silence for awhile, just enjoying each others company.

“I have something I want to give you,” Billy whispered, his warm breath on your neck sent shivers down your spine. You straightened up, lifting your head from his chest.

“You do?” you asked, slightly confused. You scooted onto the bed next to him, allowing him to reach into his pocket.

“I didn’t have a box or anything but…it was my moms,” He said, pulling a necklace out of his pocket. A ring with a small diamond hung from it.

“I was going to give it to you after the-“ he stopped himself before he said the wrong thing. “Listen, it's going to sound crazy but after we lost…our baby… I realized I can’t live without you. You make me the best version of myself and…whatever you want this to mean, I want you to have it.”

Tears brimmed your eyes as you listened to Billy’s words, you watched as every wall he had built suddenly came crashing down.

“Yes,” you said trying not to cry. “Yes to whatever this is.” You said smiling, pulling his lips against yours.

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

Moments (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

PART 2

Summary: The reader finds out she’s pregnant and begins to distance herself from Billy in fear of his reaction. Billy begins to notice her strange behaviour and confronts her…

A/N: This is my first imagine so please don’t roast me lmfao

You made your way toward your locker, the laughter and conversations around you seemed like they were light years away. You clenched your fingers tightly into the palm of your hand, practically drawing blood as your nails cut into your skin.

Tell him.

You couldn’t bring yourself to say the word out loud, not even to yourself, you wondered how you’d manage to bring it up to Billy.

Your fingers struggle to turn the dial of your lock, a mixture of nerves and the clamminess of your hands made it difficult.

Before you could manage to unlock your lock, you felt a familiar arm snake around your waist.

You hid behind your hair as you continued to twist at your lock, trying to ignore Billy’s presence.

“Playing hard to get?” Billy teased before placing a kiss on your cheek and pulling you into him.

“Sorry.” You whispered, giving into his embrace.

Tears blurred your eyes as you felt your lip quiver. You pressed your face into his chest and clung to his jacket. You practically buried yourself into him, desperately wanting to disappear. Billy hadn’t caught on that you were upset, he was used to you being more withdrawn. There was this sadness to you, a loneliness, and that's what drew him to you in the first place.

You had met him during second period world literature. You had sat in the back corner by yourself not wanting to be wrangled into a conversation with anyone, lost in your thoughts you aimlessly doodled on your notebook. Then he walked in.

You didn’t care at first, that is until you realized there was only one spot left next to you.

The teacher made a snarky comment about “Mr Hargrove” being late on his first day of class at his new school. Not taking your eyes off of your paper, you could see his figure getting closer toward your table from the corner of your eye.

He flung his backpack onto the table making you jump, the scratch of the chair against the floor had brought all the attention toward the back corner of the class. Your cheeks became hot with embarrassment, and just when you had convinced yourself that this was the worst possible situation to be in, Your teacher made it worse.

“Y/N, Could you please get Mr Hargrove up to speed.”

You felt your chest tighten with the fear of having to speak. You mumbled a “sure”, then proceeded to flip through your copy of Death of a Salesman.

Billy leaned back in his chair and slung his arm over the back of your chair causing you to straighten up.

“We are at the part where, uh the main guy Willy, he’s remembering about… Uhh” your train of thought escaping you as you flipped through the pages. “To be honest I haven’t been reading it”

Billy let out a laugh before scooting his chair closer toward you.

“We are going to get along, I can tell,” he said in a low voice.

Lunch rolled around and being that it was the Friday before Christmas holidays, you and Billy had decided to skip.

The roar of the engine had jolted you from your thoughts, which you found yourself getting lost in all day.

One month. You were one month along.

“Billy” the words had formed without control, this caught his attention as he had been craving yours.

“Yeah?” he said cutting his engine. “What is it, babe? You’ve been distant all day, your freaking me out.”

Those words were the last thing you wanted to hear.

Before you could even figure out what you were going to say, you erupted into a fit of sobs.

“I’m so scared” you practically screamed between sobs as your hurried your face into your hands.

“Hey, hey baby, whats wrong?” He asked softly, engulfing you in his arms as he leaned over the console of the car.

The sudden smell of cigarettes from his jacket sent a wave of nausea over you, causing you to push him off. You scrambled to open the car door, you had to get away.

The sound of the driver's side door slamming shut from behind made you pick up your pace.

“Y/N, stop!” Billy growled catching up to you, his hand catching your wrist. now facing him, you finally met this eyes.

“I’m pregnant Billy.” You choked out.

You watched as his furrowed eyes softened, his lips parting as if he were about to speak but couldn’t find the words.

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

A series?

Hey pals!

So I’ve recently received three requests that all sparked an idea for a little mini series (3-4 parts maybe) and I was wondering if anyone would be interested in that? Please let me know if you guys would be interested in reading a little series by me. I’ve noticed I tend to write a lot for one part so I thought it would be better to divide it into parts? Have a great Sunday!

Your pal,

SSAT

[strangerstuffandthingsimagines]

SSAT Masterlist ‘19

Here is my updated masterlist, if a fic you are looking for isn’t included try searching the hashtag of the character by writing SSAT followed by their first name (ex. SSATBilly, SSATSteve, SSATNancy etc.)

Moments Pt.1 Pt.2: The reader distances themselves from Billy in an attempt to avoid confronting the truth.

Clockwork: Life had become a routine, that is until a new family moves in next door.

They’ve Got Nothing On You: A frantic call from Max brings the reader out to Hawkins.

It Comes And Goes In Waves: A confrontation with Billy Hargrove leads to a revelation within himself.

Forget About The Rest Of Me: Billy lived by the ideology of “live fast. die young.” but when he meets the girl who can’t seem to keep up with everyone else, he finds himself completely taken by her.

Icarus: Music blared from the speakers, the rhythmic thuds of the beat felt as if it were the only thing keeping you alive.

Even If Forever’s Tonight: All Billy had ever wanted was the loving gentle touch of someone, anyone

Only Fools Rush In:  Billy Hargrove loved you, and he desperately needed to know if you were capable of loving him.

Small Doses: Billy was like a drug. You were determined to steer clear of his advances at first but you always came back for more

After All These Years: After being gone for two years, the reader makes their way back to Hawkins after studying overseas. A chance encounter with the love of their life, leads to the reignition of their love.

Surfboard: Billy returns to California and reunites with an old friend.

The Feast Of Saint Valentine: You had never received a Valentine, that all changes on Friday, February 14, 1986

Medallion: The reader is lonely on February 14th, not only was it the day of love but her birthday. Little does she know, Billy has other plans for her.

Berserker: All of the Hawkins High graduates had got together for one last hurrah before everyone went their separate ways, and tonight was the night the reader would face their demons and put their past to rest.

Centrefold Girl: Billy takes care of his sick girlfriend.

Aching Soul: Life after Hawkins leaves Billy Hargrove struggling to cope with the trauma of his past.

Rum and Cola: The reader drives home, tries to drive home a very drunken Billy.

Roswell: Billy finally gets the opportunity to hang out with the girl he’s been smitten with, although she isn’t quite what he had expected. (Byers!Reader)

The Garden Of Eden: The eldest Wheeler sibling writes stories of adventure and thrill, only to struggle in real life as the fear of the unknown prevents her from experiencing life to the fullest. When Billy Hargrove enters her life, she finds herself tempted to take a bite of the forbidden fruit. (Wheelers!Reader)

Sober Thoughts: The reader finds themselves accidentally stealing Billy’s title as the “Keg King”

Moth to the Flame: Someone is bound to be burned by a flame so bright. (Harrington!Reader)

Hellfire: It was carnal belligerence, but somehow something so bad for one another felt so good in the moment. (Byers!Reader)

Cherry Cooler: Tina’s end of the year party at her family’s summer home doesn’t go quite as planned. (Harrington!Reader)

Angel of Death: Leaving behind painful memories from Maine, Bob Newby returns to Hawkins with his daughter. (Newby!Reader)

Lilith: You had come into Billy’s life like an answered prayer, only to be taken from him as punishment for his sins.

End of Act 1: The school play has a much more interesting story going on behind the scenes.

Only The Best For My Girl: Billy comforts the reader during that dreadful time of the month.

Fair Verona: You weren’t supposed to be together, but you couldn’t stay apart - just like a modern-day Romeo and Juliet.

Sweet Peach: Peaches have a way of communicating when words don’t seem to work.

Seaweed: Sneaking out for midnight escapades, turns into a night of late-night skinny dipping at the lake.

Chlorine: Stolen glances and fleeting time and one night in the Hawkins community pool.

Cherries and Whipped Cream: The late-night shifts at The Hummingbird weren’t so bad when you received an order for a milkshake and two cherries.

Off to the Races: Drag races and old desires.

Trial By Fire:  It had been a slip of tongue, a moment of weakness as his lips caressed your collarbone.

Python: Revisiting your past can be daunting, especially when your high school bully has eyes for Billy.

Band-aid: The thing about falling for Billy Hargrove, was that it was painful. It was like tearing off a band-aid slowly, hoping that the slower you pull, the less it would hurt; except pain was inevitable, and you knew that, yet you still resisted. It wasn’t until he broke your heart that you realized how much it would sting - for it was quick and all at once.

Like A Fairytale: Forced to go to dinner with your parents and the McCorkle family (your parent’s lame attempt at setting you up with anyone other than Billy Hargrove), you sneak away to the alleyway to share a tender moment with Billy.

Miniseries:

Birds of Prey:

Birds Of Prey: Billy had every intention of dropping Tommy H after senior year, that is until he meets the other H sibling. ***

Morning Dove: Sneaking around becomes more and more difficult for Billy and the Reader, especially when they are right under Tommy’s nose.

Blue Jay: The reader takes Billy to the Sadie Hawkins dance at her school, although both have other things on their minds.

The Labour of My Love:

The Labour Of My Love: When the reader returns home from college feeling defeated and lost, she never expects to find comfort in the company of the new landscaper that her mother hired. Left alone for a few weeks, the reader finds herself becoming closer to Billy Hargrove in more ways than one.

The Resurrection Of My Youth:  After meeting the reader through his new landscaping job, Billy whisks her away for the night.

Baby Mine:

Baby Mine, Don’t You Cry: Billy Hargrove returns to Hawkins with his newborn, only to find himself on edge as he reunites with his father.

Rest Your Head, Close To My Heart (Prequel): The months leading up to the birth of Billy’s child show just how much he is willing to change.

No Good Deed Goes Unpunished

No Good Deed Goes Unpunished: Max comes up with a plan to get Billy a girlfriend, initially because she wants him to lay off her and her friends although a small part of her truly wants happiness for her brother. When the plan is a success, Billy is left feeling insecure in his relationship with the reader.

Part Two: After Max’s plan of getting Billy a girlfriend is a success, the reader and Billy face a new obstacle, and it takes the form of a store manager.

The Late Bloomer’s Club:

The Late Bloomer’s Club: You had always been a late bloomer, but no one expected you to wind up in the arms of Hawkins newest keg king, Billy Hargrove. This story is full of awkward firsts and painful confessions; welcome to The Late Bloomers Club.

Human Touch:

Series Summary: Having lived a sheltered life hidden in the cabin secluded in the woods, the reader is only now given the opportunity to explore what if means to be a regular teenager, as, she is granted the chance to experience her senior year. Following the events of October 1985, Billy meets the adoptive daughter of Jim Hopper, the same police officer who arrested him based on what had happened between Steve and Billy. The two find themselves completely enamoured with one another, although to Hopper’s dismay. There is more to the reader than meets the eye, and after what was supposed to be a fun night of sneaking into the school pool turns sour, the reader finds out there might be more to her than Hopper has led on.

1. Human Touch

2. Motel Vacancy

3. Winding Road

To Taste Your Tears On My Tongue:

Summer Bummer:

Undertow: After a traumatic experience with the water, the reader finds themselves unable to even get near it. It isn’t until Steve, who’s taken up a summer job as a lifeguard, that she is able to dip her toes in.

As Long As You’re Mine: Valentine’s Day, such a cruel day for the premium members of the lonely hearts club. Although this year was different.

Lover, Not A Fighter: The reader says something to Steve he hadn’t expected to hear. (Mayfield!Reader)

Even Though It Hurts Pt 2: Dustin's cousin finds herself fighting demodogs with Steve Harrington, only to find she’s received more than she bargained for.

Pretty When You Cry Pt 2: When the reader moves to Hawkins, they find themselves facing prejudice by her peers. Steve Harrington stands up for her when no one else would.

Degenerate Beauty Queen: An old friend of Steve’s ends up having more in common with Robin than she thought.