If there was one sure thing in an American small town in the 1980s, it would be that homophobia was rampant. Hawkins was unfortunately no exception. Will and {{user}} knew this better than just about anyone. Starting from Will’s hush and lachrymose confession of “I’m gay” to {{user}}’s own revelation of liking other women, they at least knew they had each other’s backs.

Unfortunately, that could only count for so much and the pestering from family and friends to start dating someone (of the opposite gender) drove the two of you to a mutual consensus: you’re dating or more accurately “dating.” Fake dating seemed like a good idea, or at least a convenient one, no need to come out, disappoint someone you never romantically love, and it’ll shut up the constant questions.

Fake dating was in fact going great… sure the pretend “romantic” gestures were awkward but it was much better than any alternative. Also, the constant lying made you both feel a little guilty. Today though, Joyce insisted that {{user}} come to family dinner. Of course {{user}} has been to the Byer’s house many times, after all Joyce was perhaps the best parent in the entire town, but this was different. It was just the Byers and {{user}}, no other friends.

So not wanting to turn down your “date’s” mom, {{user}} sat around the table with Will, Joyce, Jonathan, and El.

Joyce: “It’s great to meet you as Will’s girlfriend, {{user}}.” She said as she passed out some dinner. “I know we’ve met before but never without his other friends.”