Okay, I thought this would be kind of a fun story to try out. Jim having to watch his daughter be in love. And in retrospect, Hopper had to have known that the second Mike and El were reunited that there wasn't going to be any way that they would be kept apart. So, why not give his perspective on watching their relationship grow, and him having to raise a teenage daughter with a boyfriend.
Also, I really enjoy writing Mileven moments, so I think I will switch back and forth between Jim's perspective on a scene, and then move to Mike and Eleven's perspective as well between chapter's. So, kind of like Chapter 1: Hopper's Perspective and Chapter 1.2: Mike and Eleven's Perspective.
This will also be an aging story as well, watching El and Mike's love blossom over the years. Which, I think will also be easier for me to get chapter's out because they can be seen as separate on shots as well.
So here we go!
*See bottom for notes!
Disclaimer: I do not own Stranger Things.
Hopper's Perspective:
Hopper honestly didn't realize, or fully realize that the moment his new daughter had reunited with the boy she had been pining after for months would be the trigger for his 'protective father mode', no, he didn't know that at all.
He had only been a father to a little girl once. He never got the experience to see his little girl grow into a beautiful young lady. And with adopting El, he thought he might just get that chance again.
However, he never thought in his wildest dreams that he'd also be watching this young girl grow faster than ever before his eyes and experience the world in a way he wasn't prepared for.
Hopper wasn't prepared for her first tantrum that lead to their home almost being destroyed. He needed to remember that this was a telekinetic hormonal teenager, not the typical teenage girl that probably just slammed doors. Instead Hopper got ten times that.
He also wasn't prepared for the young boy to start punching him after discovering his long lost love was still alive, and it was all his fault. Hopper didn't realize that the boys words would actually hit him harder than he liked to admit.
But, what he really wasn't prepared for was watching his little girl fall in love so quickly.
Hopper knew even before the adoption papers were signed, hell, he knew the second he took her in, protected her, that the Wheeler kid was going to be apart of both of their lives. He just didn't know how intently.
Hopper remembers the night that El closed the gate, the night he truly felt like a father again. The way she looked at him after she the gate was finally re-sealed, he could feel their connection tenfold, and he accepted that position with open arms.
He also remembers the way she walked into the Byer's home, he and everyone else ready to fight whatever what was coming their way. Only, for them all to get the shock of their life to see a young girl walk through the door.
And he will never forget the moment those two reunited, he had never seen either so happy or relieved to be together once again. And, he felt his heart break too, knowing deep down, that this wasn't something that was going to change.
Hopper honestly didn't want to accept it, what he saw between them, but he also knew that he would be able to control it to some extent...for awhile at least.
It was the moment he first felt his fatherly instincts kick in, and the beast growling in his stomach. He was liting up one last cigarette before they were all heading off in different directions. He was waiting for El to get into the truck.
He picked his head up slightly, and turned towards the Byers home, and there he saw his punked out daughter standing close to the Wheeler boy. Too close….his fatherly instincts gnawed at his insides.
He watched the two, when suddenly, he was pretty sure he felt his heart stop, as he watched the girl lean in, stepping up on her tiptoes to get just a little closer to the Wheeler kid. Her head tilted upwards, and his bending down.
"El, time to go!" the words were out of his mouth before he could stop them, not that he wanted to, his new fatherly instincts wavered inside of him.
Hopper continued to watch the girl and boy together, as she whipped her head around to acknowledge his words. But, not before turning back to the boy and throwing her arms around him in a tight embrace. He's pretty sure his insides caught on fire at this interaction.
Even after the gate was closed, nothing would have prepared him for everything else that came with raising a teenage daughter, who was already deeply in love.
Hopper brought her back to the Byers, where even in and out of consciousness, all she could do was whisper his name, "Mike". And in his heart he knew he had to bring her back, show everyone that she was in fact, okay.
The moment his old police car pulled into the Byers driveway, there was movement coming out of the door. He couldn't see the figure, but he didn't need anyone to tell him exactly who this person was.
Her side door was thrown open before he had even placed the car in park as he shouted a "Hey!" to the figure. But, of course Hopper's words fell on deaf ears, as his daughter cried out a small, "Mike!", while the figure beside her called out her name, "El!"
She stumbled unceremoniously out of his cruiser and into the arms of the boy she had yearned to see. The boy she begged him to see. And now, they were wrapped up in each others arms, silently crying, letting out their year of frustration and sadness in one fell swoop.
Hopper watched in silence as his daughter seeked out the comfort of the other 'man' in her life.
"You're okay" the boy finally pulled away enough, sniffling, to let El have some air. She lets out a breathy laugh, "I promised", is all she says, before they are back in each other's embrace.
Exhaustion hits him like a wave, and he knows she is wiped as well, so he decides to break up the love fest. Hopper opens his door, closing it behind him, as he approaches the teens.
"Alright, come on you two, let's get cleaned up" his gruff voice just barely breaks them apart enough for them to turn to face him.
His daughter nods, her arms still wrapped around Wheeler's neck. And the boy fixes him with a steady stare that says, "We aren't done here" as Hopper fixes him with his own stare that says, "No, no we aren't".
Mike gently moves El, and before she can ask what he is doing, he bends down and swoops her into his arms. She lets out a small squeal as he does so, as she throws her arms around his neck for support.
One look at the kid and Hopper can tell he's just as exhausted as the rest of them. But, it seems with determination, he holds her steady, moving towards the house.
One foot inside the door and they are bombarded like a moth drawn to a flame, a million questions wash over them. Hopper's frustration level finally hits, "Okay, okay, she's fine, the gates closed, give her some space!" his booming voice echoes through the small house. And everyone finally backs off.
He watches as the Wheeler kid moves gingerly over to the couch, where he delicately lays his girl. And once she is settled, he is at her side. Their eyes searching the others, making sure they are actually real, that they are both okay.
Hopper clears his throat, and now all eyes are on him, "The rest of you need to call your parents and let them know you're on your way home an-" but he's immediately cut off by a slew of unhappy voices.
"We can't go home now!", "They just got back!", "No one will care!", get thrown at him like a ton of bricks, and he settles himself slightly, taking in a breath before speaking.
"Kids" he starts, making sure he has all of their attentions. "It's late. Everyone's dirty, and tired. We all need rest, so that's what we're doing" he says trying to keep his composure.
The kids all fix him with steady eyes, but they all sigh in a silent agreement. "You can see her tomorrow" he finishes with, and this grabs their attention, bringing small smiles to their faces.
"Say your goodbyes, I'll take you all home" he says, and the kids move to say their goodbyes to El.
The redhead is last and she merely gives El a small nod, which she barely returns, and they move to wait on the porch. He notices Wheeler isn't moving.
Hopper lets out a long sigh, "Come on kid, time to-", "NO!", he is immediately cut off by the Wheeler's tired voice, the kids eyes glossy with unshed tears, but fierce with determination.
Hopper eyes the kid warily, but then looks at his daughter on the couch, her eyes are fighting the tiredness that seeps through her. Her small hand is wrapped tightly with the boys.
Her dark eyes move and catch his, and he can't help but soften slightly. He lets out a long sigh, as he runs a hand over his face. "Okay, fine kid, you can stay-" and at this the boy relaxes and lets out his own held breath as the girl softens as well.
"But, you both need to get cleaned up first, and you're sleeping on the floor", Jim says with a gruff firmness.
The boy nods at him, accepting his words. "Nancy's still here, she can help El", the boy whispers to him.
Hopper silently nods, and turns to leave. He opens the door, but just before he shuts it, he casts a last glance through the small crack, watching their small interaction. The boy reaches forward and runs his long fingers through his daughters oddly slicked back hair. He watches as she melts into his embrace. His heart beat picks up, but he doesn't say anything as he closes the door.
Hopper drops off the rest of the kids, and when Dustin's curly hair disappears behind his front door, he finally lets out a long, exhausted breath.
He slumps forward in his seat, crossing his arms over his steering wheel, and resting his pounding, tired head against them. He dozes off momentarily, but jerks awake, realizing he has to get back to his girl.
His eyes catch the green glowing 1:35, that displays on his dashboard. Thinking at least it's not too late, to himself, but also wishing to be tucked away in his own bed.
Hopper revs his old engine to life and takes off for one more stop for the night.
He climbs the steps with heavy feet, and he slowly opens the door. As it creaks open, his eyes immediately fall on the couch, seeing that it is empty, he feels the panic begin to rise.
"She's in the shower, Nancy's helping her", a soft voice comes from around the corner. Hopper moves his eyes towards the kitchen, where a very tired and worn Joyce stands, an old robe cast loosely around her shoulders as she sips at a steaming coffee mug in her hand.
Hopper's shoulders relax at her words as he approaches the woman, as he moves his head in every other direction. The woman laughs at him, "He's just gotten out of the shower, he's getting dressed in Will's room" she explains to the new paranoid father.
He lets out a small cough, "Don't know what you mean" he tries to play off his search for Wheeler as if he was checking out the house, making sure everything is okay.
Joyce reaches out and places a gentle hand on Hopper's shoulder. His eyes meet hers, "He's a good kid, Hop, he won't hurt her".
He sighs, "Doesn't mean I can't be protective" he argues back, and she rolls her eyes. She moves away from him. "Coffee?" she quips at him, and he nods his head in thanks.
"She can sleep in Will's room, he's sleeping in my bed" she addresses Hopper as she pours him out a warm cup of coffee. She turns and hands it to him, he accepts it, and gives it a small sip.
"Hm, then Wheeler will be on the couch" he says with a set voice, and Joyce chuckles again. He throws her a questioning look. "Oh, Hop, you kept those two from each other for a year, give them a break, what do you think is going to happen?" she questions.
Hopper's eyes go wide, "You know what I think will happen", he strains. And Joyce only shakes her head. "Hop, they're fourteen! And they just missed each other! You really think Mike's going to put the moves on El the first night she's back!?" she half laugh, half stresses to the poor man.
Hopper grumbles, "It's just, she's my girl, don't need some boy groping at her".
Joyce actually lets out a long laugh at this, "Mike, groping Eleven!? Hop, seriously?"
He fixes her with a steely glare, "Don't push it Joyce" he growls. And before either of them can speak again, the door to Will's room opens, and Mike steps out in fresh sleepwear, his hair curling this way and that still damp from the shower.
Hopper catches his eyes and gives him a leveled look. This startles the boy slightly as he gingerly walks out into the kitchen, "Hey" he gives a small wave to the two adults.
Joyce gives him a warm smile as she stands, "How you feelin' Mike?" she rubs at his shoulders, her hands following his movements as he shrugs.
"Just been a long day is all" he murmurs, and Joyce pulls him into a small side hug, "Well, we'll be off to bed soon, you'll all feel better after a good night's sleep" she tries.
Mike nods slowly, but they are all brought out of their moment, once they hear the bathroom door click open. Their eyes follow the sound and movement, as two figures step out.
Hopper's gaze holds onto his little girls as she steps out of the bathroom, steam and Nancy following behind her, she has on fresh clothing and a large sweatshirt that swims past her waist, as she holds her dark clothing to her chest.
Her eyes catch his, and she smiles, this in turn warms his heart, and he returns it in stride. However, their small moment is quickly broken, when she moves her head to the left, ever so slightly, and she sees Mike standing there, staring at her.
The kid approaches her slowly, mouth slightly open, his lip turned into a half smile. She follows his gaze, and Jim watches as her cheeks start to darken. He watches as her eyes shift back and forth, desperately trying to read Mike's facial expression.
"Wow, El.." the kid starts, and Hopper can sense El's immediate insecurity start to fill her, he begins to stand.
But, Mike reaches out a slow hand as he reaches behind El's head, playing with a small curl, the kids smile grows bigger, "I never expected you to have curly hair its-", but he doesn't get to finish as El's mouth turns upright and she finishes for him, "Pretty?" she finishes for him.
Mike's eyes meet hers, and they are beaming at one another, "The prettiest" he finishes, and she ducks her head in shyness, as both of their faces light up red.
Hopper silently grumbles to himself at their interaction, as they continue to stand in silence, just enjoying their moment together.
Nancy breaks the silence, as she places a gentle hand on El's shoulder. "She should be good, I helped her get that gunky makeup off her face, and the gel out of her hair" she gives the younger girl a small smile. El nods, "Yes, it was making my eyes itch" she states, rubbing her eyes and everyone around her lets out a light laugh.
Hopper moves towards the group of teens and his eyes meet El's, "Okay kid, it's time for you to get some rest, you'll take Will's room" he states gesturing to the door Mike had currently left open.
El merely nods at his statement, however, she doesn't move. Hopper gives her a curious look, "What's the matter kid?" he sighs.
El shrugs her shoulders, "Don't want to be alone" she whispers. Hopper scratches his beard, "I can sleep on the floor-" he starts, but is cut off by a shake of her head and she quickly whispers one word, "Mike".
Plain and simple, that's what she wants. And he feels his stomach tighten slightly at her statement. He quickly turns to the boy in question, who stands, fidgeting slightly at El's words, desperately trying to not meet his eyes.
He really doesn't want to deal with this right now, he's exhausted, his head is pounding, and he doesn't want to get into a talk with his girl about why boys and girls don't typically sleep in the same room together.
However, he assesses both the teens. He can see the bags and dark circles that lay beneath their heavy eyes. And he thinks back to Joyce's words, "You kept them apart for a year, they just missed each other".
And he finally lets out a long grumbling breath. "Alright. Fine. Wheeler can sleep in the room with you-" and at this both young teens turn to smile at one another, "But" he quips, and both teens attentions are back on him, "Wheeler is on the floor, and the door stays open" he says levely.
Wheeler gives him a tight stare, but El sighs softly and nods her head and whispers, "Compromise". And he can't help but allow a small smile to pull itself onto his face, feeling slightly proud of his girl.
He walks over to her, she bends her neck back to look him in the eyes, hers wide and searching as he places a hand on her head, ruffling her still wet curls, "Good word, kid" he mutters, and she beams at him.
The teens get settled in Will's room, El tucked up under Will's comforter, and Mike wrapped up in the sleeping bag that still laid there from his previous night sleeping over.
Hopper looks down at his girl, her eyes are fighting sleep, so he bends over and keeps it quick, "I'm so proud of you, kid" he slowly moves his hand and passes it through her hair. Her eyes close at the contact, "Thank you, Hop", is all she says, as she keeps her eyes shut.
He smiles lightly and stands to leave, he can see Wheeler peeking up at him slightly, he points a finger at him, "No funny business, Wheeler" he whispers to to him, giving him a tight stare. The kid doesn't say anything, but nods his head along with a slight eye roll, as he turns in his sleeping bag, back facing him.
Hopper sighs at the sight as he turns to move the door slightly closed, but also ajar, so he knows nothing will happen between them. He lets out another long breath, and makes his way over towards the couch, where Joyce has left a pillow and blanket, he greedily lays down, and he's pretty sure he's out before his head hits the pillow.
He is startled awake by a nightmare as he shoots up from his resting position on the couch. He can feel the cold sweat sticking to him as he tries to calm his breathing and rapid heart beat.
He moves forward slightly rubbing both of his hands through his face, attempting to remind himself that it was just a dream, and El is okay.
Another breath escapes him, as he moves to stand. He can see out the window only a couple hours have passed, as the moon still glows as the only light. Hopper can't help himself by standing and moving towards Will's room, just to check and make sure she's okay.
He's prepared to see Wheeler and El sleeping in the same room. What he's not prepared for is the fact that Mike has moved so that he is on the bed with El. He can just barely make out that El is curled up under the sheets, while Mike remains on top. He can feel the monster inside him become agitated.
In his protective father's mind, he has every right to go in and seperate the two from each other. However, the rational part of his brain takes another look at the scene. They are both curled up on their sides facing one another. Mike's arm is draped loosely around her midsection, while El's hand's are curled up into his shirt. Their breathing is soft, and even.
They're just sleeping, his rational mind reminds him. He moves to rest half of his body against the doorframe, watching the two teens sleep peacefully.
He is quickly reminded that this is probably one of the quietest she has been since taking her in. For, he can't count the amount of times she had awoken him from a dead sleep screaming, crying or having a 'night episode'.
But, seeing her sleeping so serenely stops him from making any rash movements or decisions. He knew, that taking her in meant that Wheeler was probably going to be apart of that deal as well. He just wasn't prepared for this at all. Knowing his little girl was in love, and now that she had been reunited with that love, she wasn't going to let him go.
Okay, soooo, what did you guys think? I really like the Hopper and El, father/daughter relationship and I can't wait to see how it changes in season 3, especially since Mike and El will be dating!
And as I said in the beginning, the next chapter will be Mike and El's take on this current scene, and I will flip between them and Hopper with each scene I choose to write on. Because I can't help but write some good Mileven fluff as well!
Also, I'm still writing Stranger Tides, so please don't worry! Just had this floating around and needed to get it out there, and see what people's opinions are on this! And with this story it gives me more leeway where each chapter is almost like a one shot, so I can take my time on it.
And as always PLEASE REVIEW! I'd love to hear what you all think! Do you like the flipping between viewpoints idea? Do you like Hopper's POV on El and Mike's relationship? Looking for some constructive criticism, and even some ideas as to scenes you'd all like to see!
Thank you so much!
Okay, I thought this would be kind of a fun story to try out. Jim having to watch his daughter be in love. And in retrospect, Hopper had to have known that the second Mike and El were reunited that there wasn't going to be any way that they would be kept apart. So, why not give his perspective on watching their relationship grow, and him having to raise a teenage daughter with a boyfriend.
Also, I really enjoy writing Mileven moments, so I think I will switch back and forth between Jim's perspective on a scene, and then move to Mike and Eleven's perspective as well between chapter's. So, kind of like Chapter 1: Hopper's Perspective and Chapter 1.2: Mike and Eleven's Perspective.
This will also be an aging story as well, watching El and Mike's love blossom over the years. Which, I think will also be easier for me to get chapter's out because they can be seen as separate on shots as well.
So here we go!
*See bottom for notes!
Disclaimer: I do not own Stranger Things.
Hopper's Perspective:
Hopper honestly didn't realize, or fully realize that the moment his new daughter had reunited with the boy she had been pining after for months would be the trigger for his 'protective father mode', no, he didn't know that at all.
He had only been a father to a little girl once. He never got the experience to see his little girl grow into a beautiful young lady. And with adopting El, he thought he might just get that chance again.
However, he never thought in his wildest dreams that he'd also be watching this young girl grow faster than ever before his eyes and experience the world in a way he wasn't prepared for.
Hopper wasn't prepared for her first tantrum that lead to their home almost being destroyed. He needed to remember that this was a telekinetic hormonal teenager, not the typical teenage girl that probably just slammed doors. Instead Hopper got ten times that.
He also wasn't prepared for the young boy to start punching him after discovering his long lost love was still alive, and it was all his fault. Hopper didn't realize that the boys words would actually hit him harder than he liked to admit.
But, what he really wasn't prepared for was watching his little girl fall in love so quickly.
Hopper knew even before the adoption papers were signed, hell, he knew the second he took her in, protected her, that the Wheeler kid was going to be apart of both of their lives. He just didn't know how intently.
Hopper remembers the night that El closed the gate, the night he truly felt like a father again. The way she looked at him after she the gate was finally re-sealed, he could feel their connection tenfold, and he accepted that position with open arms.
He also remembers the way she walked into the Byer's home, he and everyone else ready to fight whatever what was coming their way. Only, for them all to get the shock of their life to see a young girl walk through the door.
And he will never forget the moment those two reunited, he had never seen either so happy or relieved to be together once again. And, he felt his heart break too, knowing deep down, that this wasn't something that was going to change.
Hopper honestly didn't want to accept it, what he saw between them, but he also knew that he would be able to control it to some extent...for awhile at least.
It was the moment he first felt his fatherly instincts kick in, and the beast growling in his stomach. He was liting up one last cigarette before they were all heading off in different directions. He was waiting for El to get into the truck.
He picked his head up slightly, and turned towards the Byers home, and there he saw his punked out daughter standing close to the Wheeler boy. Too close….his fatherly instincts gnawed at his insides.
He watched the two, when suddenly, he was pretty sure he felt his heart stop, as he watched the girl lean in, stepping up on her tiptoes to get just a little closer to the Wheeler kid. Her head tilted upwards, and his bending down.
"El, time to go!" the words were out of his mouth before he could stop them, not that he wanted to, his new fatherly instincts wavered inside of him.
Hopper continued to watch the girl and boy together, as she whipped her head around to acknowledge his words. But, not before turning back to the boy and throwing her arms around him in a tight embrace. He's pretty sure his insides caught on fire at this interaction.
Even after the gate was closed, nothing would have prepared him for everything else that came with raising a teenage daughter, who was already deeply in love.
Hopper brought her back to the Byers, where even in and out of consciousness, all she could do was whisper his name, "Mike". And in his heart he knew he had to bring her back, show everyone that she was in fact, okay.
The moment his old police car pulled into the Byers driveway, there was movement coming out of the door. He couldn't see the figure, but he didn't need anyone to tell him exactly who this person was.
Her side door was thrown open before he had even placed the car in park as he shouted a "Hey!" to the figure. But, of course Hopper's words fell on deaf ears, as his daughter cried out a small, "Mike!", while the figure beside her called out her name, "El!"
She stumbled unceremoniously out of his cruiser and into the arms of the boy she had yearned to see. The boy she begged him to see. And now, they were wrapped up in each others arms, silently crying, letting out their year of frustration and sadness in one fell swoop.
Hopper watched in silence as his daughter seeked out the comfort of the other 'man' in her life.
"You're okay" the boy finally pulled away enough, sniffling, to let El have some air. She lets out a breathy laugh, "I promised", is all she says, before they are back in each other's embrace.
Exhaustion hits him like a wave, and he knows she is wiped as well, so he decides to break up the love fest. Hopper opens his door, closing it behind him, as he approaches the teens.
"Alright, come on you two, let's get cleaned up" his gruff voice just barely breaks them apart enough for them to turn to face him.
His daughter nods, her arms still wrapped around Wheeler's neck. And the boy fixes him with a steady stare that says, "We aren't done here" as Hopper fixes him with his own stare that says, "No, no we aren't".
Mike gently moves El, and before she can ask what he is doing, he bends down and swoops her into his arms. She lets out a small squeal as he does so, as she throws her arms around his neck for support.
One look at the kid and Hopper can tell he's just as exhausted as the rest of them. But, it seems with determination, he holds her steady, moving towards the house.
One foot inside the door and they are bombarded like a moth drawn to a flame, a million questions wash over them. Hopper's frustration level finally hits, "Okay, okay, she's fine, the gates closed, give her some space!" his booming voice echoes through the small house. And everyone finally backs off.
He watches as the Wheeler kid moves gingerly over to the couch, where he delicately lays his girl. And once she is settled, he is at her side. Their eyes searching the others, making sure they are actually real, that they are both okay.
Hopper clears his throat, and now all eyes are on him, "The rest of you need to call your parents and let them know you're on your way home an-" but he's immediately cut off by a slew of unhappy voices.
"We can't go home now!", "They just got back!", "No one will care!", get thrown at him like a ton of bricks, and he settles himself slightly, taking in a breath before speaking.
"Kids" he starts, making sure he has all of their attentions. "It's late. Everyone's dirty, and tired. We all need rest, so that's what we're doing" he says trying to keep his composure.
The kids all fix him with steady eyes, but they all sigh in a silent agreement. "You can see her tomorrow" he finishes with, and this grabs their attention, bringing small smiles to their faces.
"Say your goodbyes, I'll take you all home" he says, and the kids move to say their goodbyes to El.
The redhead is last and she merely gives El a small nod, which she barely returns, and they move to wait on the porch. He notices Wheeler isn't moving.
Hopper lets out a long sigh, "Come on kid, time to-", "NO!", he is immediately cut off by the Wheeler's tired voice, the kids eyes glossy with unshed tears, but fierce with determination.
Hopper eyes the kid warily, but then looks at his daughter on the couch, her eyes are fighting the tiredness that seeps through her. Her small hand is wrapped tightly with the boys.
Her dark eyes move and catch his, and he can't help but soften slightly. He lets out a long sigh, as he runs a hand over his face. "Okay, fine kid, you can stay-" and at this the boy relaxes and lets out his own held breath as the girl softens as well.
"But, you both need to get cleaned up first, and you're sleeping on the floor", Jim says with a gruff firmness.
The boy nods at him, accepting his words. "Nancy's still here, she can help El", the boy whispers to him.
Hopper silently nods, and turns to leave. He opens the door, but just before he shuts it, he casts a last glance through the small crack, watching their small interaction. The boy reaches forward and runs his long fingers through his daughters oddly slicked back hair. He watches as she melts into his embrace. His heart beat picks up, but he doesn't say anything as he closes the door.
Hopper drops off the rest of the kids, and when Dustin's curly hair disappears behind his front door, he finally lets out a long, exhausted breath.
He slumps forward in his seat, crossing his arms over his steering wheel, and resting his pounding, tired head against them. He dozes off momentarily, but jerks awake, realizing he has to get back to his girl.
His eyes catch the green glowing 1:35, that displays on his dashboard. Thinking at least it's not too late, to himself, but also wishing to be tucked away in his own bed.
Hopper revs his old engine to life and takes off for one more stop for the night.
He climbs the steps with heavy feet, and he slowly opens the door. As it creaks open, his eyes immediately fall on the couch, seeing that it is empty, he feels the panic begin to rise.
"She's in the shower, Nancy's helping her", a soft voice comes from around the corner. Hopper moves his eyes towards the kitchen, where a very tired and worn Joyce stands, an old robe cast loosely around her shoulders as she sips at a steaming coffee mug in her hand.
Hopper's shoulders relax at her words as he approaches the woman, as he moves his head in every other direction. The woman laughs at him, "He's just gotten out of the shower, he's getting dressed in Will's room" she explains to the new paranoid father.
He lets out a small cough, "Don't know what you mean" he tries to play off his search for Wheeler as if he was checking out the house, making sure everything is okay.
Joyce reaches out and places a gentle hand on Hopper's shoulder. His eyes meet hers, "He's a good kid, Hop, he won't hurt her".
He sighs, "Doesn't mean I can't be protective" he argues back, and she rolls her eyes. She moves away from him. "Coffee?" she quips at him, and he nods his head in thanks.
"She can sleep in Will's room, he's sleeping in my bed" she addresses Hopper as she pours him out a warm cup of coffee. She turns and hands it to him, he accepts it, and gives it a small sip.
"Hm, then Wheeler will be on the couch" he says with a set voice, and Joyce chuckles again. He throws her a questioning look. "Oh, Hop, you kept those two from each other for a year, give them a break, what do you think is going to happen?" she questions.
Hopper's eyes go wide, "You know what I think will happen", he strains. And Joyce only shakes her head. "Hop, they're fourteen! And they just missed each other! You really think Mike's going to put the moves on El the first night she's back!?" she half laugh, half stresses to the poor man.
Hopper grumbles, "It's just, she's my girl, don't need some boy groping at her".
Joyce actually lets out a long laugh at this, "Mike, groping Eleven!? Hop, seriously?"
He fixes her with a steely glare, "Don't push it Joyce" he growls. And before either of them can speak again, the door to Will's room opens, and Mike steps out in fresh sleepwear, his hair curling this way and that still damp from the shower.
Hopper catches his eyes and gives him a leveled look. This startles the boy slightly as he gingerly walks out into the kitchen, "Hey" he gives a small wave to the two adults.
Joyce gives him a warm smile as she stands, "How you feelin' Mike?" she rubs at his shoulders, her hands following his movements as he shrugs.
"Just been a long day is all" he murmurs, and Joyce pulls him into a small side hug, "Well, we'll be off to bed soon, you'll all feel better after a good night's sleep" she tries.
Mike nods slowly, but they are all brought out of their moment, once they hear the bathroom door click open. Their eyes follow the sound and movement, as two figures step out.
Hopper's gaze holds onto his little girls as she steps out of the bathroom, steam and Nancy following behind her, she has on fresh clothing and a large sweatshirt that swims past her waist, as she holds her dark clothing to her chest.
Her eyes catch his, and she smiles, this in turn warms his heart, and he returns it in stride. However, their small moment is quickly broken, when she moves her head to the left, ever so slightly, and she sees Mike standing there, staring at her.
The kid approaches her slowly, mouth slightly open, his lip turned into a half smile. She follows his gaze, and Jim watches as her cheeks start to darken. He watches as her eyes shift back and forth, desperately trying to read Mike's facial expression.
"Wow, El.." the kid starts, and Hopper can sense El's immediate insecurity start to fill her, he begins to stand.
But, Mike reaches out a slow hand as he reaches behind El's head, playing with a small curl, the kids smile grows bigger, "I never expected you to have curly hair its-", but he doesn't get to finish as El's mouth turns upright and she finishes for him, "Pretty?" she finishes for him.
Mike's eyes meet hers, and they are beaming at one another, "The prettiest" he finishes, and she ducks her head in shyness, as both of their faces light up red.
Hopper silently grumbles to himself at their interaction, as they continue to stand in silence, just enjoying their moment together.
Nancy breaks the silence, as she places a gentle hand on El's shoulder. "She should be good, I helped her get that gunky makeup off her face, and the gel out of her hair" she gives the younger girl a small smile. El nods, "Yes, it was making my eyes itch" she states, rubbing her eyes and everyone around her lets out a light laugh.
Hopper moves towards the group of teens and his eyes meet El's, "Okay kid, it's time for you to get some rest, you'll take Will's room" he states gesturing to the door Mike had currently left open.
El merely nods at his statement, however, she doesn't move. Hopper gives her a curious look, "What's the matter kid?" he sighs.
El shrugs her shoulders, "Don't want to be alone" she whispers. Hopper scratches his beard, "I can sleep on the floor-" he starts, but is cut off by a shake of her head and she quickly whispers one word, "Mike".
Plain and simple, that's what she wants. And he feels his stomach tighten slightly at her statement. He quickly turns to the boy in question, who stands, fidgeting slightly at El's words, desperately trying to not meet his eyes.
He really doesn't want to deal with this right now, he's exhausted, his head is pounding, and he doesn't want to get into a talk with his girl about why boys and girls don't typically sleep in the same room together.
However, he assesses both the teens. He can see the bags and dark circles that lay beneath their heavy eyes. And he thinks back to Joyce's words, "You kept them apart for a year, they just missed each other".
And he finally lets out a long grumbling breath. "Alright. Fine. Wheeler can sleep in the room with you-" and at this both young teens turn to smile at one another, "But" he quips, and both teens attentions are back on him, "Wheeler is on the floor, and the door stays open" he says levely.
Wheeler gives him a tight stare, but El sighs softly and nods her head and whispers, "Compromise". And he can't help but allow a small smile to pull itself onto his face, feeling slightly proud of his girl.
He walks over to her, she bends her neck back to look him in the eyes, hers wide and searching as he places a hand on her head, ruffling her still wet curls, "Good word, kid" he mutters, and she beams at him.
The teens get settled in Will's room, El tucked up under Will's comforter, and Mike wrapped up in the sleeping bag that still laid there from his previous night sleeping over.
Hopper looks down at his girl, her eyes are fighting sleep, so he bends over and keeps it quick, "I'm so proud of you, kid" he slowly moves his hand and passes it through her hair. Her eyes close at the contact, "Thank you, Hop", is all she says, as she keeps her eyes shut.
He smiles lightly and stands to leave, he can see Wheeler peeking up at him slightly, he points a finger at him, "No funny business, Wheeler" he whispers to to him, giving him a tight stare. The kid doesn't say anything, but nods his head along with a slight eye roll, as he turns in his sleeping bag, back facing him.
Hopper sighs at the sight as he turns to move the door slightly closed, but also ajar, so he knows nothing will happen between them. He lets out another long breath, and makes his way over towards the couch, where Joyce has left a pillow and blanket, he greedily lays down, and he's pretty sure he's out before his head hits the pillow.
He is startled awake by a nightmare as he shoots up from his resting position on the couch. He can feel the cold sweat sticking to him as he tries to calm his breathing and rapid heart beat.
He moves forward slightly rubbing both of his hands through his face, attempting to remind himself that it was just a dream, and El is okay.
Another breath escapes him, as he moves to stand. He can see out the window only a couple hours have passed, as the moon still glows as the only light. Hopper can't help himself by standing and moving towards Will's room, just to check and make sure she's okay.
He's prepared to see Wheeler and El sleeping in the same room. What he's not prepared for is the fact that Mike has moved so that he is on the bed with El. He can just barely make out that El is curled up under the sheets, while Mike remains on top. He can feel the monster inside him become agitated.
In his protective father's mind, he has every right to go in and seperate the two from each other. However, the rational part of his brain takes another look at the scene. They are both curled up on their sides facing one another. Mike's arm is draped loosely around her midsection, while El's hand's are curled up into his shirt. Their breathing is soft, and even.
They're just sleeping, his rational mind reminds him. He moves to rest half of his body against the doorframe, watching the two teens sleep peacefully.
He is quickly reminded that this is probably one of the quietest she has been since taking her in. For, he can't count the amount of times she had awoken him from a dead sleep screaming, crying or having a 'night episode'.
But, seeing her sleeping so serenely stops him from making any rash movements or decisions. He knew, that taking her in meant that Wheeler was probably going to be apart of that deal as well. He just wasn't prepared for this at all. Knowing his little girl was in love, and now that she had been reunited with that love, she wasn't going to let him go.
Okay, soooo, what did you guys think? I really like the Hopper and El, father/daughter relationship and I can't wait to see how it changes in season 3, especially since Mike and El will be dating!
And as I said in the beginning, the next chapter will be Mike and El's take on this current scene, and I will flip between them and Hopper with each scene I choose to write on. Because I can't help but write some good Mileven fluff as well!
Also, I'm still writing Stranger Tides, so please don't worry! Just had this floating around and needed to get it out there, and see what people's opinions are on this! And with this story it gives me more leeway where each chapter is almost like a one shot, so I can take my time on it.
And as always PLEASE REVIEW! I'd love to hear what you all think! Do you like the flipping between viewpoints idea? Do you like Hopper's POV on El and Mike's relationship? Looking for some constructive criticism, and even some ideas as to scenes you'd all like to see!
Thank you so much!