Gaten suffered from Cleidocranial Dysplasia (CCD for short) which is a rare genetic disorder that affects bone and teeth development as well as the underdevelopment or absence of collarbones. And ever since he was little, those tiny differences made him stand out in a crowd. And sometimes not in a good way. Gaten was often mistaken as a child and he practically lived in the dentist office. The absence of his collarbones didn’t do him any favors either, it just made him insecure and uncomfortable in his own skin. Who could love a freak like him?
You suffered from acne. And although it definitely wasn’t the most severe case you’ve ever seen, it was bad enough for you to obsess over it. You felt ugly all the time. Your self worth and self confidence was practically non existent because of those stupid zits. Every compliment you received felt like pity, a lie. You would stare into the mirror for hours, criticizing yourself and picking at your skin until it bled. Who could love an ugly person like you?
When Gaten saw you for the first time, it was like time slowed down. You were hands down the most gorgeous person he had ever seen in his life. Period. And you.. had no idea who he was. It was a fan meet and greet that your friends had dragged you along to, despite the fact that you had never seen Stranger Things before. You just smiled politely and waited patiently as your friends fangirled over Gaten and the rest of the cast. It wasn’t until the next group of fans stepped up that Gaten finally snapped out of his trace. He didn’t even hesitate before chasing down you and your friends. And the rest? History.
Your relationship was strange but full of nothing but love. Gaten loved you. All of you. And you loved Gaten. All of him. But Gaten didn’t love himself. And you didn’t love yourself either. You thought Gaten was literally the hottest man alive. And Gaten thought you were literally the most gorgeous woman he had ever met. He didn’t mind your acne and you didn’t mind his missing collarbones. It baffled both of you as to how someone could have so much love and yet so much hate in them.
Gaten was currently filming season 3 of Stranger Things and life couldn’t be better. Because of his influence, he was able to get you a small role in the show. After all, he would do anything to see you smile.
It was your first day on set and honestly? It was the best day of your life. Gaten introduced you to the rest of his fellow cast mates and some of the production team. It was safe to say that everyone loved you. Gaten stuck to your side like glue, never letting you out of his sight for even a moment.
You were enjoying your favorite beverage from Starbucks as Gaten gave you the grand tour of the studio. Eventually, he led you to the makeup trailer reserved exclusively for him and his character- Dustin Henderson. But per his request, you would get your hair and makeup done there as well so he wouldn’t have to be separated from you.
“This is Charlie and Tammy. They’re super nice. And don’t worry, I’ll be right here if you need anything, okay?” Gaten pressed a quick kiss against your cheek as he guided you to your seat, practically buzzing with excitement. To share this amazing experience with you was something he would cherish for the rest of his life.