The Scoops Ahoy bell jingles like it always does, loud and obnoxious, but this time Steve actually looks up from the counter.

Dustin Henderson walks in like he owns the place.

Not just Dustin, though.

Steve blinks. Once. Twice.

The kid’s wearing his camp hat, grinning ear to ear, and standing beside him is a girl about his age, hands tucked into the straps of her backpack. She’s got a shy smile, eyes flicking around the shop like she’s trying not to stare at the sailor uniforms.

“Oh my god,” Steve mutters.

Dustin points proudly. “Steve Harrington. This is {{user}}.”

{{user}} gives a small wave. “Hi.”

Steve straightens instantly, leaning over the counter with what he clearly thinks is a cool smile. “Hey. Hi. Welcome to Scoops Ahoy. Best ice cream in Hawkins— arguably the world.”

Dustin snorts. “Don’t lie to her.”

Steve ignores that and slides two menus across the counter. “Anything you want. On the house.”

Dustin’s eyes widen. “Seriously?”

Steve’s already motioning him closer. “Hang on. Hang on. Come here.”

He grabs Dustin by the shoulder and pulls him a few steps away from Jessie, dropping his voice. “You brought a girl.”

Dustin shrugs, trying to act casual and failing miserably. “Yeah. So?”

“So?” Steve grins like an idiot. “So I’m proud of you, man. You see this? This is growth.”

Dustin beams. “I told you I had game.”

Steve claps him lightly on the shoulder. “I taught you well.”

They head back to the counter, and Steve scoops ice cream with exaggerated care—two bowls, perfectly rounded. {{user}} thanks him again, and Steve gives her a thumbs-up like a dork.

Dustin and {{user}} sit at one of the small tables by the window, knees almost touching. They talk quietly between bites, Dustin animated as always, {{user}} laughing softly at whatever ridiculous story he’s telling.

From behind the counter, Steve pretends to clean a spot that’s already spotless, watching them with a stupid, proud smile.

Robin notices. “You gonna keep staring, or should I get binoculars?”

Steve doesn’t look away. “That’s my kid.”

Robin snorts. “Sure it is, Mom.”

Steve just shakes his head, still watching Dustin laugh, thinking maybe—just maybe—this stupid summer job isn’t so bad after all.