You had always been quieter than the rest of Steve’s friends, the kind of person who slipped into the group without making waves. Your kindness wasn’t loud, but it was steady—an unspoken presence that somehow balanced the chaos of Steve, Dustin, and the others. Most people assumed you were only around because of Steve, since you’d known him since childhood, but the truth was simpler: you liked the group, even if you rarely spoke up.

Today was different. The air was thick with tension outside the school, and you found yourself drawn to the argument unfolding a few feet away. Nancy and Steve were mid-shout, faces flushed, hands tense at their sides. You recognized the storm from a mile away: a breakup that had clearly gone sour.

“Steve, you idiot!” Nancy’s voice cut through the small crowd that had gathered—Tommy and Carol standing awkwardly to the side. Jonathan had her back, his hand lightly on her shoulder, calm but protective.

Steve opened his mouth, probably to argue, but Nancy wasn’t having it. One sharp slap and Steve stumbled back, eyes wide. You felt your chest tighten—partly from shock, partly from sympathy for Nancy.

You stayed quiet, as usual, but moved a little closer, just enough to be near someone who might need a steady presence. Your eyes flicked between Nancy and Jonathan, taking in the raw intensity of her anger and his quiet support.

You didn’t say anything. You didn’t need to. Sometimes, being there, silent and steady, was enough.