Summary: With Dr. Alexei as a hostage, Jim, Joyce and you try to get back to Hawkins. When the car breaks down, you'll have to find other resources. Jim annoying himself over how familair Alexei and you are getting. [part 2 & part 3 & part 4]
“Magnets. Do you know magnets.” Joyce clicking the two rocks in her hand against each other. “Magnet…” her desperation growing in the tone of her voice. “Magnit.” The Russian guy answered as you watched from afar. Seeing the expression on his face that he tried to hide. Trying to remain polite to Joyce as she tried communicating with him in such a childish way.
“So magnit on my fridge… icebox…” Joyce went on, acting it out. Upon following their conversation, you snorted soft, trying to supress your laugh by keeping your knuckles against your lips. Shoulders shuddering a bit with silliness, your eyes locked with the Russian guy.
Giving you a dead-ass stare for what he had to endure. There was no need for an explanation to understand, he was close to asking to sedate him. His expression made you chuckle up even more. The Russian pushing his glasses further up his nose with a brief chuckle.
Joyce lost focus for a second, looking back at you before continuing her rampage over magnets that lost it’s magnitude. “Machina?” he responded to her words, drawn back to her. “Yes, yes Machina!” Joyce exclaimed. Adding some engine sounds with it. “Machina.” The Russian repeated with some understanding.
Pointing at the car, Jim was trying to fix. “Vroom, vroom.” The Russian spoke, turning his hand like switching on the engine. Joyce confused, shook her head. “No, no not car.” Swaying her hands across. The entire conversation made you chuckle. “Joyce! Please you give me a headache!” Jim said loudly.
“Both of you.” He approached you as you held out an old shirt to him. He accepted it with a nod, wiping his face clean. He rolled with his eyes and a loud sigh when Joyce approached. “Hey I am making progress.”
“Progress? You call that progress, Y/n?” Jim looked over his shoulder to you. You pulled up your shoulders. “What have you learned then? That Smirnoff.” Jim began. “Alexei.” Joyce corrected him. “Smirnoff.” Jim persisted on, refusing to call him by his name.
Rolling your eyes at them, you approached Alexei. Their bickering continuing. Pulling your shoulders up with a cheeky glance at him. Alexei responded with an expression of his own that you were right. “Why don’t you do something useful as try to start the car.” Jim threw the keys at Joyce, which she almost dropped.
Making your cousin sigh the loudest, laying the old shirt on his face. Wanting to disappear. Joyce started the car as Jim came leaning over the engine. Alexei stared with focus at the car. “It’s not working.” Joyce called out. “Well try again.” Jim outed. Joyce tried to start the car again.
Faintly you could hear something that didn’t seem right. Feeling tapping on your shoulder, made you turn around. Alexei pointing quickly at the car. “Hey!” he called out. “Stop! Stop! Stop!” waving his cuffed hands best as possible. “Cous… Jim!” you joined to get his attention. Jim looked back at you with confusion.
“Stop!” Alexei spoke clearly. When Jim wouldn’t listen he started to shout in Russian at him. “Smirnoff, shut it. Come on didn't you hear me I said shut up!” coming over annoyed. Your eyes widened seeing the black smoke come from the engine. “Jim!” you called out, a second later a small explosion.
That for sure getting his attention. Joyce cursing as she jumped out, right before the engine exploded. Leaving the car useless. “Stop.” Alexei spoke unable to resist rubbing it in his face. “He did warn you.” You added, backing up Alexei.
Jim wiped his hand frustratingly down his face with a loud exhale. Jim freed Alexei from the tree, keeping him handcuffed for the walk. A walk for civilisation. Jim wanted to keep a close eyes on him, pulling him along by his cuffs. Joyce walking by his side. You joined Alexei’s side. With your cousin and Joyce getting in a discussion again, you wanted better company.
Alexei pointed at you, then at himself. “Alexei.” He spoke. Understanding what he meant, you gestured at yourself. “Y/n.” Pronouncing it slowly for him to catch it. It took Alexei a few attempts to say it. “Y/n.” saying with a soft chuckle, pushing his glasses back. You hummed loudly, repeating your name as well. “Hey!” Jim suddenly yanked at Alexei’s cuffs.
Making him stumble over his feet, further away from you. “No getting cosy.” Jim called out. “He just asked my name.” you responded a bit bothered by your cousin’s protective jealousy. “I don’t care, I don’t like Smirnoff.” He answered, moving his hands to his hip. “Alexei!” you made clear that he had a name. “Smirnoff!” Jim repeated with a hard stare. “Uhm… Hop.” Joyce began. “Not now Joyce.” He snapped back at her.
“He’s running.” Joyce pointed at Alexei running off. Jim immediately turned his head. “Sh*t.” he cursed out, going in pursuit. “Smirnoff stop!” he shouted. Joyce and you began running after them. Smiling a bit at how cunning Alexei was. Jim huffing and puffing to catch up.
Grabbing him firm by his shoulders when Alexei had stopped at the edge of the woods. “Vroom vroom.” Alexei spoke, pointing at the cars by the gas station. Having looked over his shoulder, smiling back at you as he proudly pointed it out. You couldn’t resist a smile back. Sighing with a shake of his head,
Jim grabbed Alexei by the shoulder, shoving him forwards. The four of you entered the gas station. Going immediately to the coolers for drinks. Dehydrated, you nearly drank an entire can empty. Alexei tapped you on the shoulder.
“вхатс тъат?” pointing at the slushy maker. “That’s a slurpee.” You explained to him. Alexei spoke some more, still pointing at it. You hummed loudly, going with him to the slushy machine. Alexei pulled the lever down, letting it fall on his fingers.
Scooping it up and putting it quickly in his mouth. Making you laugh at how silly he was being. He hummed happily at the flavour in his mouth. “You want one?” you suggested, pointing at the machine. Alexei nodded. You filled a cup with a slurpee.
“до ёу вант то тастэ?” He spoke as you tried to understand what he meant. He moved the cup closer to you, lifting the straw a bit up. Furrowing your brows at what he meant till it got you. Laughing softly. “No, I’m fine. It’s yours.” Declining a taste.
Alexei pulled his shoulders up, slurping from the straw. Jim whistled loud at you, calling you over. You joined him at the counter. “Don’t get so close to him.” He mumbled to you. “Aw are you jealous Hop?” you fluttered your eyelashes at him to tease him more. Jim grumbled annoyed. “No.”
Poking him in the cheek, you found it funny how Jim sometimes acted like a big brother to you. Having grown up together with just a few years apart. He was the closest family you had. Cousins. Following them outside, Jim walked straight up to a Cadillac. Shoving Alexei in the backseat.
“Hey! Hey! What’s going on?” the owner called out confused. Jim continued to casually claim the car. ‘That man in there,” referring to Alexei already in the car. “I know he doesn’t look like it, but he is one of the most dangerous men in the world.” Jim casually opening his snack. Glancing back at Alexei.
Alexei slowly moving his lips over the straw to slurp from his slurpee with a cheeky glance. It took you immense willpower not to laugh at that. “He’s uh… murdered many children.” Lying straight to the owner of the car. Jim motioned with his head for you to get in the car. You jumped in the backseat with Alexei.
“Hey.” Alexei said softly. “Hey.” You responded finding his Russian accent cute. “I’m confiscating this car.” Jim finished urging Joyce over. Joyce got in the front seat. “So… so how do I get my car back?” the owner asked. “Call the station.” Jim responded, starting the engine. Enjoying the sound of it. “
What station? Hey what station?” the owner grabbing onto the side with some desperation. “The station.” Jim repeated driving off. Nearly riding over the owner’s feet. The car chased off. “So where are we going?” Joyce questioned. “To someone I know.” Jim responded. “Y/n” Alexei said tapping you on your knee.
Humming loud, you turned your head to him. Pulling his shoulders up, he spoke in Russian as you tried your best to understand from his body language what he wanted. He tried to act it out with gestures. “Oh… I don’t know where we are going, Alexei.” You responded hoping it was what he wanted to know. “All I know is we need to stop machina.”
Can someone please write an Alexei lives Fic that isn’t ship centered,,, I just want that adorable man to meet the kids and make friends and join the “we saved the world and no one knows but us” squad.
I want him to live his american dream and he’s the one death that I literally can’t get over in this series (Hopper doesn’t count bc I think he’s alive)
Summary: Arriving at Murray's place, a back and forth unleashes about a cherry slurpee. Jim losing his temper when Alexei shows interest in you. [part 1 & part 3 & part 4]
The car drove up a driveway. The entrance was nearly hidden as Jim drove up from the side. Alexei gave you a nervous glance. Jim parked the car as you all got out. Jim insisted upon holding Alexei by his cuffs. Not wanting him to run off a second time.
“What is this place?” Joyce questioned, looking wary around. “A journalist,” he mumbled out. Pressing the buzzer that appeared as a doorbell. “Identify yourself!” A voice came through one of the speakers. Jim sighed loud, turning his head to from where the voice came.
“Come on, you know who I am.” he let out. “Identify yourselves!” The same voice insisted upon. Jim groaned loud, pinching his nose-bridge. “Jim Hopper.” he said. “Joyce Byers, Y/n Hopper.” He added quick. “Smirnoff.” Jim squeezed Alexei’s cheeks together, showing him to the camera.
“Alexei.” Both Joyce and you corrected him. Then there was silence. Silence for a while, making you question if they were ever going to open the door. Jim was already sighing loudly at how long it was taking.
Before he could fathom another sigh, the door swung open. A rifle being pointed at Alexei’s face. Immediately his hands went up. Joyce gasped shockingly. “Name.” he stated with clear intentions.
“Убери это с моего лица, ты лысая американская свинья!” Alexei outed with some disgust. Murray curled up a smile. “я могу быть лысым, но ты в наручниках, советская сволочь.” His gaze shifted to Jim. “Hi Jim.” He exclaimed with a smile. Joyce and you shared a glance before following him inside.
Murray gestured to take a comfortable seat. Pulling Jim aside by his shoulder before he could sit down. “Care to explain why there’s a Russian guy in my house?” He asked, wanting clear answers.
“It’s a long story.” Jim responded. “Try me Jim.” Murray concluded. Jim started to talk. Murray listening in closely. After a while he glanced back at Alexei, watching cartoons from his sofa. Laughing loud at how out of character it seemed for him.
“We’re going to be here for a while.” Jim mumbled to himself with a sigh. You sat down on the sofa beside Alexei’s when the food arrived. Jim kept tapping you against your shoulder to move. Forcing his way through. Sighing loud, you got up and came to sit on a chair close to Joyce. Jim smiled sarcastically back at you for the win. Rolling with your eyes, you decided to drop it.
“Мы знаем, что это не торговый центр.” Murray spoke just as Alexei took a sip from his slurpee. Spitting it out immediately, disgust all over his face. “На вкус как дерьмовая клубника.” Alexei spoke with disappointment.
“What did he say?” Jim immediately wanted to know. “He says, it’s strawberry.” Murray casually answered with a smile. “I’m sorry?” Jim’s response. “His…slurpee.” Murray pointing at the slushy on the table. “He says it’s strawberry slurpee.” He added whilst Alexei was wiping his mouth clean from the distasteful taste.
“So what?” Jim spoke between clenched teeth. Murray gave him a brief look of confusion. “Hop, he did ask for a cherry one.” Joyce pitched in. “Well they didn’t have cherry.” Jim made aware that it wasn’t his fault. “They didn’t have it, and it doesn’t matter.” making it clear to Joyce. “Because it all tastes the same. It’s sugar on ice. You tell him that.” still rampaging about the slurpee. “Tell him what?” Murray asked to clear up.
“You tell him it all tastes the goddamn same.” sensing he was getting worked up, you softly called out his name. “Jim please.” You spoke. “это все то же самое.” Murray translated to Alexei. Saying it was all the same.
“скажи этому глупому человеку, что это совсем не то же самое, и я хотел бы ту вишню, которую я просил.” Alexei answered. Making you tell from the tone in his voice he was not pleased. “He respectfully disagrees.” Murray went back to an English tongue. “It’s not the same at all, and he would like cherry.”
Alexei chuckling in between watching the cartoon of Woody Woodpecker. “Oh yeah, you tell him…he can forget it.” Jim persisted, feeling the annoyance boil inside of him. Murray turned back to Alexei. “он говорит, забудь, вишни нет.” Murray translated once more. Alexei’s head turned to Jim with a glare. Shrugging his shoulders afterwards. “нет вишни, нет сделки.” speaking plainly.
Murray glasped his hands together, coming to lean in forwards. Ready to speak till Alexei spoke some more. “или я поговорю с ней.” Murray stared confused back at him. “yeye?” he answered, pointing at Joyce.
Alexei brought his finger up, pointing past Joyce to you. “Me?” you were confused as to why he was pointing at you. “What is he saying?” Jim interrupted,balding his fist on his knee. “He says he wants cherry or speak with her.” Murray filled in the blanks. Jim nodded, seating himself forwards.
Brushing his fingers up his mustache as you could sense what was coming next. “Jim…” you spoke trying to settle him down. Jim looked at Alexei with a chuckle and small gesture. Inhaling sharply, followed by a loud hum. He jumped up with a yell, launching himself at Alexei.
“Oh sh*t!” Murray outed. Alexei called it out, startled by Hopper. Jim grabbed Alexei by the shirt, throwing him up on the table. “Hop no!” Joyce called out. “Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait.” Murray kept repeating in a state of panic.
“Jim!” you screamed out. “I’m not going to hurt him!” He answered, tossing Alexei back into the sofa. The sofa fell back from the impact. “Jim, he just wanted to talk to me.” You called out over the panic. “Big mistake.” Jim answered, holding him firm by the back of his neck.
Shoving him forwards. “I’m just giving him an opportunity.” Pushing him against the wall. “to get his own damn…” shouting in his face. “Jim!” you called out, hurrying after them. Jim had opened the door, tossing Alexei out. “cherry slurpee!”
Alexei whimpered, dropping onto the ground. Having lost his glasses in the process. He quickly picked them up, putting them back on. Jim took the car keys from his pocket, tossing it at Alexei. “Jim! you idiot!” You accused wanting to run up to Alexei, but Jim held you back. Swiftly wrapped an arm around your waist, keeping you back. “I don’t think so Y/n.” he made it clear to you. “It wasn’t like he was asking for a date, you moron!” struggling against his grip. Jim easily guided you back inside with some force.
Closing the door behind you. Joyce and Murray, shouting at him for his stupid decision. “Jim!” You wanted to force a way out as he kept blocking the doorway. “I get him his cherry slurpee then what? He wants a helicopter to charter him to his own private island. I have dealt with assholes like that my entire life!” Jim outed in a rage of fury. Continue to explain his logic that it’s a bluff and Alexei would come back any second. “I give him 30 seconds, where he comes knocking down this door. Right back into our arms…with a new sense of humility.”
You sighed loud with a roll of your eyes at him. Upon hearing the engine start, you turned your head. “Jim…I uhm…believe he has started the car.” Murray spoke. “Hopper…” Joyce added in a sweet tone. Jim shook his head for he wouldn’t listen to it. “He’s testing us.” was the only answer he gave.
“Jim, honestly.” you said with a sigh. “I believe he is now driving away.” Murray sighed out. Jim kept shaking his head, not wanting to move from his position. “Jim! Jim move!” Joyce jumped at him, trying to shove him aside. “Joyce, no!” he kept repeating.
You joined in, shoving him aside. With a path clear, the three of you spurted outside. Watching him drive off. Till the car suddenly stopped. Slowly Alexei drove the car in reverse. Jim glanced your way with a smug face, he couldn’t wipe off.
Making you sigh annoyed at how much he was enjoying this. Alexei returned with a low head, speaking in Russian whilst passing Jim the keys. Jim gleamed from ear to ear. “I’m sorry, what did he say?” Turning his head at Murray. “He says he likes strawberry just as much as cherry.” Murray translated.
Jim tossed the keys up and caught them again with a smile. Turning on your heel, you went back inside. “Sorry.” you said to Alexei, wanting to owe him an apology, knowing Jim was never going to give it for his rough handling.
Alexei was very compliant afterwards. Sharing everything he knew about the machine and starcourt underground. Jim and Murray needed a strong drink after all of that. Letting the new information settle in. Alexei had continued watching the cartoon, chuckling at the tv.
You looked over your shoulder to the kitchen where Jim and Murray were. Rubbing your hand nervously against your neck. Feeling a tap on your knee, made you hum soft, turning your attention back. Alexei spoke in Russian, pointing at the tv. “Yeah, he’s funny.” you answered with a faint smile. Alexei came sitting on the edge of his seat, closer to you. Speaking more in Russian to you. His expression giving you hints of what he was referring to.
“Yes, I am slightly worried.” you answered. “But I do hope you understand we have to stop the machine.” you continued, lowering your gaze. Alexei answered with words you didn’t understand, placing his hand on yours. The sound of his voice soothing. Joyce cleared her throat softly, getting up.
Feeling a bit awkward amongst it, she joined Jim and Murray. Jim’s gaze fell on you and Alexei getting close. “Hey!” Jim called out. Joyce immediately came in front of him, pressing her elbows against his chest. “Let them be Hop, it’s innocent.” she declared. Jim’s nostrils flared. “He’s…he’s flirting with her. I don’t like it.” he answered bitsy.
“You don’t have to like it, but Y/n is a grown woman. You can’t control everything, Hop.” Joyce gently laid out to him. Moving her hands down. Jim inhaled sharp through his teeth, puffing his chest up.
“Hop, let it go.” She made it clear before he could explore once more. “I don’t like it!” Jim repeated in frustration. Crossing his arms. If Joyce wouldn’t let him interfere, he would stare till it made Alexei uncomfortable.
Summary: The battle of starcourt mall is upon you. Leading to Alexei and you to bicker about where one should be. When the descision is made for you, groups get split up to stand their final ground. [part 1 & part 2 & part 3]
Slimy and squeaking it squirmed over the floor. Leaving a trail of puddling flesh and gore. Squeaking more as it squirmed more. Squirmed till a shadow was casted over it. Squashed underneath a booth. Their faces went up, met up with the oddest small group. “Hey kid.” Hopper said, smiling relieved at El. Alexei moved his hand up, speaking, presumably with a greeting noticeable from his smile.
“Mom!” Will called out, running over to Joyce. Joyce embraced Will tightly, kissing him on top of his head. Opening her hand, she made room for Jonathan to join them as well. He whispered out ‘mom’ ever so quietly before joining. Nancy shot a subtle hand out to Murray with a soft smile. Murray nodded back at her.
You walked up to El, wanting to hug her as well. “Auntie.” El called out, hugging you tight. Her gaze falling on Alexei by your side. Like a lost puppy he clung onto you. El’s brows furrowed as she took a step back. Alexei held his hand out, speaking excitingly. “Wow! Russian guy!” Dustin called out as it started to freak a few of them out.
Steve jumped in between El and Alexei. Holding his fists up. “Why is he here?” Steve panicked. “Yeah, like I thought we were clear on that the Russians are the bad guys.” Robin pitched in, looking frantically back at Alexei. Alexei took you by your elbow, hiding himself a bit behind you. “Guys, guys. Alexei is okay.” You reassured them. “He’s with us.” Looking back at Murray you hoped he would back you up.
“Y/n is right, He’s helping us take down the machine.” Murray explained. “What makes you so sure he isn’t luring us in a trap?” Dustin questioned. Jim grabbed Alexei by his arm, pulling him away from you. Squashing his cheeks together, he showed Alexei’s face to them. “Smirnoff is harmless. Look at him.” Jim spoke, giving his cheeks a good shake. “Alexei!” You, Joyce and Murray corrected him.
Alexei smiled at them, still holding that silly Woody Woodpecker stuffy like a prize. They all gawked a bit at him. “We’re pulling the plug on the machine.” You spoke to draw the attention away from Alexei. Gesturing at Murray. He nodded, taking his leave. Only to return moments later, waving several papers in the air. Hopper sighed deep, pinching his nose at Murray’s appearance. Certainly in those shorts.
He slapped the papers down on the table. “So this is called the hub.” He explained. Looking over his shoulder to Alexei for confirmation. Alexei answered a bit with a nod. “So the vault is right here.” Murray continued. Standing by Hopper, you glanced up to Alexei.
He caught your little stare, smiling back at you. It made you cast your eyes sheepishly down. Jim cleared his throat loud, turning his posture with crossed arms more to you. Looking away, you pretended nothing had occurred. Jim then shifted his gaze to Alexei, glaring hard at him. Alexei swallowed nervously, quickly looking down to the plans.
Tasks divided, all of you geared up. You pulled Alexei to the side. “Okay listen to me, I need you to stay here.” You told him. Alexei responded with pulled up shoulders, clearly going against your words. “You stay here, Alexei.” Gesturing along your words that he needed to be here.
Alexei shook his head, protesting with clear no’s. He gestured at you then to the ground. “What? No! I’m not staying here.” You called out. Alexei kept discussing the matter with you in ways you couldn’t understand. “No, I’m not debating this. It’s not safe down there for you. If they find out you went against their back, they’ll kill you on the spot.”
Alexei cutting through your words with a debate of his own. Murray popped up between with a wide cheeky smile on his lips. His presence made the both of you stop. “I don’t mean to interrupt your lover's quarrel,but it seems a lot is going on.” Murray spoke, gesturing his hands in a circle between the two of you.
“Stay out of it Murray!” You let out annoyed. Murray hummed loud, stroking his beard. Alexei began again, directing himself to Murray. Gesturing at you and using many signals. Murray hummed again, turning to you with a smile. “Alexei over here doesn’t want you in the vault cause he doesn’t want anything to happen to you.” Murray translated in his own words. “Cute.” He added with a teasing sneer.
You blinked baffled at Murray. “I’ll be fine.” You sighed out. “It’s he who should worry. If the Russians find out he snitched them out. They’ll hurt him. I…I won’t have him down there.” You expressed to Murray. Murray translated to Alexei as he began to speak again before Murray’s speech was complete. “No! Alexei I’m not having you risk your life. Not again.” You shouted over his words.
“I’m going and you are staying here!” Was your final decision. Brushing past them towards Jim. Jim moved a hand up to you. “Yeah, you’re staying here Cous.” He let out. “What?” You called out in disbelief. “You can’t be serious? Jim!” He completely ignored you, whistling loud. “Smirnoff with me!” Calling him over. You let out a shocked breath that you were benched.
“I’m not risking your life down there.” Jim added. Alexei walked up to you. Speaking as he held the stuffed Woody at you. Defeated, you accepted it. “Yeah, I’ll watch over it.” You spoke with your gaze casted down. Alexei moved past you as you grabbed his wrist to keep him close a little longer. “Please…take care…Don’t go dying on me Smirnoff.”
Alexei curled up a smile. “я не буду.” He responded, tilting his head to leave a tender kiss against your cheek. Alexei said your name, repeating the meaning of your words in Russian. Brushing a thumb down your cheek before taking his leave. He joined Jim, Joyce and Murray. You felt a presence near you, sliding a hand around your arm.
Breathing surprised, you looked down at El pressing her cheek against your arm. “They’ll be alright.” Reassuring her and a little bit yourself. Turning around, you walked with her back to the others. Grabbing anything of use and hurrying outside. Outside, you were greeted with loud roaring. Eyes widening the bellowing monstrosity in your sight. The size of it was terrifying. It roared again. “In the car!” Steve ordered. You grabbed Will by his arm, running towards the car.
Shoving him inside. Looking panicky behind you, you knew El, Max and Mike hadn’t gotten fully out yet. Seeing them come out, you knew they hadn’t the time to reach the car. You shut the door shut after Will. “Y/n!” Will called out against the glass. You rushed over to El, Max and Mike. Taking El over from Max. Calling them to hurry back inside. Looking briefly over your shoulder to see the Mindflayer get closer.
You shoved them behind a counter. Holding on tight to El. Squeezing your eyes tight at the sense of the Mindflayer entering. Mike dared to look around the corner, seeing one of the tentacles slither around in search for El. You tapped Mike on his shoulder to get back. Max held on tight to you, body shaking with fear. Opening your eyes once more, you knew they relied on you. Hearing a tentacle crash against something made you suppress a squeal.
The elevator went down. The doors opened as Joyce gave Jim a nervous glance. Alexei stepped out first. He shot his hands up when soldiers approached. Holding their guns up. Alexei started to speak, gesturing at himself. Jim glanced to the side at Murray. Hoping Alexei wouldn’t betray them now. Murray shook his head slightly to let Jim know he wasn’t.
The soldiers started to shout, pointing their weapons more at them. Alexei trying to interrupt them with an explanation. “Okay.” Jim mumbled out, feeling like it was going south-ways. He stormed at one of the guards, wrestling the weapon out of their hands.
Murray gasped loud, but grabbed the other man’s gun. Alexei held a fist up, punching one in the face that came at Joyce. Jim threw some punches, forcing the gun out of his hands. Getting up, he shot at the guy. Then at the others. Murray shot his hands up, as the body before him dropped.
“Take their clothes.” Jim ordered. They changed clothing, getting into Russian attire. Murray grabbed Alexei by his shoulder. “поздравляю, теперь ты солдат.” Laughing loud that the scientist had a change of wardrobe. Alexei brushed his hands off with his shoulder. The four of them got on one of the riding carts. Alexei exhaled deep, brushing his palms over his knees. Feeling a bit more anxious now for his presence here.
Putting your fingers in your ears, you waited for the sound. There it came, loud and overwhelming. Drawing the slithering extension away. Nudging Mike, ushering him up. Helping El up to her feet, you ran with her across. Max right behind you. Hurrying to one of the back doors. Panting loud as you followed Mike.
Mike opened a door, rushing everyone inside. He was about to close the door when it slammed hard in his face. The three of you screamed loud at the sight of Billy. He shoved Max aside with brute force. You moved El behind you, shielding her. With little effort he knocked you off balance. Your back hitting the wall, dropping down with a loud cough.
He grabbed El’s leg, dragging her out of the room. Blinking hazily, you tried to get up. The room felt like it was swirling around you. Soft stinging on your forehead. Reaching for it, you lowered your hand to find a drop of blood on your finger. Hand trembling, you tried to suppress your own fears.
Dragging yourself over the floor towards Max. Shaking her gently awake. Then Mike. Feeling some sturdiness in your legs once more, you grabbed them, running back out. “Billy!” Max screamed out. You saw El lay down on the ground. Instinct kicking in, you ran up to him. Wanting to punch him in the face.
Billy wrapped his hand around your fist before it could hit his face. Grunting loud as he tightened his grip on it. Pushing you back as he got up. His hand found a way around your throat, squeezing tight. You started to grasp for air, feet kicking in the air as he had picked you up. El screaming loud. You tried to punch his grip off you.
“Billy stop!” Max screamed at him. Your cheeks trembled, feeling yourself get closer to the slumber. “Billy please.” El begged with tears. Billy slightly turned his head to El when she began to speak to him. Talk about his memory she had witnessed. Billy released his grasp on you. You dropped down with a loud gasp. Mike rushed up to you, allowing you to lean against him, whilst you caught your breath.
Jim held his hand out. Alexei looked surprised at it. With confidence he shook it. “See you on the other side.” Murray spoke, getting down into the shafts. Alexei going down behind him. Jim and Joyce closed the lid behind them. Murray pulled out the walkie. “I’m here.” He spoke into the walkie. “Code names, please.” He heard Dustin’s voice, making him sigh annoyed.
“Bald eagle and Russian Woody for base.” Murray said with some annoyance in his voice. “You are heard, bald eagle.” Came as a response. Murray groaned, irritated. Following the instructions Erica and Dustin were giving him. Following the maze to reach their destination. Taking them several minutes to reach it. Dropping down as he reached for the panel. Alexei came at his side, shoving his glasses better up his nose.
Pointing over his shoulder at the right switch. “Here goes nothing.” Murray said before pulling the switch. Jim turned his head when a door opened. “We’re in.” He called out over the walkie. He stuck his flashlight in his mouth, taking out the pieces of paper. Joyce plucked the flashlight from his mouth, lighting on the papers for him. “Okay.” He breathed out, gaze switching between the paper and the panel. Pressing in the code. Taking a step back, he expected something to happen, when nothing did.
He pressed it again as nothing happened again. “It’s wrong.” Jim shouted in the walkie. Murray and Alexei overheard. Murray wanted to answer as his walkie started to act funny. Letting out static. “Jim…Jim…”Murray tried but his voice got lost in the static. Alexei spoke to him, hinting at the static.
Looking frantically around for it was making a lot of noise. “I know, I know.” Murray answered in English, slapping the walkie a few times against his hand. Bickering with Alexei a bit that it was malfunctioning at the time like this. After a while it seemed to work once more. Curiously they both moved their ears closer to the speakers. Brows furrowed in confusion when they heard singing.
Starcourt mall lit up. Fireworks crackling and exploding against the mindflayer. Trying to weaken it. From above the attacks came. Firework after firework hitting the mindflayer. Billy stumbling back with each hit. Linked to the mindflayer.
Throwing the mindflayer off. Making it stumble unstable. The attacks dimmed out as the supply of fireworks were out. You saw their heads pop up from above, looking frantically down. The mindflayer focused back on El. Groaning loud, you crawled over to her.
Moving over her to protect her. Closing your eyes as your back was at the mindflayer. Readying yourself for the jab. You gasped loud, eyes opening when you heard the loud shouts. Lifting your head up, you saw Billy hold one of the extensions. Your eyes widened when another one came from the side, taking a stab at him.
“Billy!” Max screamed out. More and more jabs he received. Mouth dripping with blood as he got picked up. Max’s scream filled the halls of the mall when he got the final stab right in his chest. Mind foggy as what came next passed like a blur. Firemen had to pull you away from El.
Leading you outside. You sat at the back of an ambulance. A shock blanket over you. Slowly you lifted your head up to Will. He gave you the stuffed Woody that you had forgotten along the way. A little worn down now. You curled up a teary smile, accepting it from him. Hugging it tightly as it reminded you of Alexei. Hoping all would be alright.
The first time you heard your name, you didn’t fully register it. Needing to take a few attempts to reach your ears. Slowly lifting your head up, you looked curious around. Your name being shouted out once more. It was only when some firemen and policemen moved past that you could see him.
Looking desperately around for you. “Y/n!” Alexei called out, lowering his hands from around his mouth as his gaze found you. Throwing the blanket off you, you ran up to him. Surprised to see him in a uniform. You met up with him as his arms wrapped around you. Hugging you tightly. He spoke soft words to you, moving you to arms-length.
You presented him with the slightly worn down Woody. Mustering up a smile. “I’ve still got it.” You spoke with teary eyes. Alexei moved the stuffed Woody aside, coming to cup your cheeks. Leaning down to kiss you. Kissing you a few times as he liked doing it. Quick pecks to be sure you were truly still here.
Pushing him playfully away, you chuckled a bit. Looking around, you hoped to see Jim as well. Finding Joyce by one of the ambulances near Will. “Where’s…where’s Jim?” You asked, clutching onto Alexei’s uniform. Alexei said your name softly, taking your hands off his vest. Slowly shaking his head. Realizing what it meant, you sputtered out a sob. Sinking through your knees as Alexei knelt down as well. Holding you whilst you cried. Cried for the loss of your cousin.
A few weeks later, you said goodbye to the Byers and El. You had begged her to stay with you, but you knew a change of scenery might do her good. Alexei by your side, holding your hand. After Starcourt mall he wasn’t sure what would become of him or where he would go. You made clear to him that he was to stay. Stay with you.
Something he happily accepted. Alexei let go of your hand, wrapping his arms around you. Pulling you more against his chest. Kissing the top of your head. “Bye.” He called out. Slowly learning some English from you as he taught you some Russian to maintain the balance between the languages. Waving goodbye to them. It was time to turn the page to a new chapter.
Summary: Riding back to Hawkins, Jim get's more annoyed with Alexei. In search of the kids first, Murray and you give Alexei an introduction to the American lifestyle. [part 1 & part 2 & part 4]
Wheels rolled over the highway. The sun setting below. Jim turned the radio a bit quieter, after having looked in the front mirror. Seeing how in the backseat, you were dozing off. Squashed between Murray and Alexei. Jim sighed soft, resting his elbow on the frame. Driving with one hand. Staring at the empty road in front of him. Headlights casting a light on the ground. Jim glanced back at the mirror, seeing your head was bopping.
Knocking itself back at the loss of steadiness. He seated himself better, grabbing the steering with both his hands. Tightening his grip around it. “Y/n!” He called out. You snapped out of it, awaking briefly. Not fully understanding the situation before you dozed off again. “Hop let her sleep.” Joyce said, slapping at his arm. Jim gritted his teeth. “Her head was falling towards Smirnoff.” He spoke barely moving his mouth so the backseat wouldn’t hear it.
Joyce sighed with a roll of her eyes. Joyce turned her head. Watching how Alexei was looking outside. Murray in deep thoughts, staring out at his side. Then her eyes remained on you, seeing how you were fighting off the sleepiness. Jim brushed his finger over his lips with a deep humming. “Jim, you seriously have to tone it down.” She told him quietly.
“You talked about boundaries.” Jim responded. “Yeah, with El.” Joyce made clear. Jim blew out hard, moving his hand to his hair. Seating himself more upright, he tapped his hand behind him. “Hey Murray.” He said, trying to nudge his leg. “What?” Murray responded with a stare. “Why don’t you go over the plans with Smirnoff again.” Jim suggested.
“Again?” Murray responded. “Yeah.” Jim called out, not wanting to hear any protests. Murray sighed loud, reaching his arm over you to tap Alexei against his knee. Speaking to him in Russian. Alexei turned his head with furrowed brows. Responding back in Russian. Murray pulled his shoulders up with a sigh. Hinting in his Russian at Jim.
Alexei sighed as well, pulling out the plans. Accidentally he nudged you. You had lost your battle with sleep. Body shifting to the side, head falling down till you found sturdy ground. Alexei swallowed nervously when your head was resting on his shoulder. Joyce pressed her lips together, turning her face back to the front. “What?” Jim asked her. “What?” Repeating at her silence. Turning his head quickly, he saw the scenery.
“Hey! Hey! Hey Y/n!” Calling out, tapping his hand backwards on your knee. “Wake up cousin!” His voice became louder. “Hopper!” Joyce called out with frustration. “Jim!” Murray knocked in at the same time.
“заткнись, глупый американец.” Alexei responded wanting Hopper to shut up and leave you alone. You rolled more over, sliding an arm over Alexei’s chest. “That’s it!” Jim called out, stepping on the gas. Joyce squealed loud, holding onto the dashboard.
Murray and Alexei falling back in their seats with scared faces. “Wake her up Murray or I swear to God!” Jim shouted, stepping more on the gas. Joyce called it out in a panic, holding on for dear life.
“You’re insane!” Murray shouted back, grabbing onto the back of Joyce’s seat. “Oh I’ll show you crazy!” Jim pressed his foot more on the gas. The car speeding up. “We’ll be in Hawkins in no time.” Calling out over the roaring engine.
“Alright I’ll wake her up!” Murray responded. Jim slowed down just a bit, but not fully yet as he wanted you to wake up first. “Y/n…Y/n…” Murray spoke, shaking your arm. Alexei spoke to Murray with disappointment.
Murray moved his hand down, responding to him he knew. Hazily you woke up. Murray taking you by the arm to pull away from Alexei. “Are we in Hawkins yet?” You questioned, still half asleep. Jim slowed the car down to an appropriate speed limit.
“Not yet Y/n.” Murray responded with a smile. Casting a glare at Jim afterwards. You yawned. “Wake me up when we get there then.” Wanting to lay your head back down on Alexei. Jim inhaled sharply through his nose, ready to step on the gas once more.
“Rest here.” Murray suggested, preventing you from sleeping on Alexei’s shoulder. Allowing you to rest against him. Alexei cursed at Jim for being so lame. “Don’t care Smirnoff.” He responded. “You are a child Jim.” Murray said with a big smile. Jim smiled back at him as mockingly as he could.
Murray gently woke you up when they drove past the Welcome to Hawkins sign. You yawned a few times more, feeling rested. Furrowing your brows at the strange silence in the car. Wondering if you had missed anything. Alexei was staring outside, moping grumpily. “We’re making just a brief stop.” Jim told you.
You hummed loud. Recognizing the festivities once Jim drove up to it. “I just want to know if the kids are alright.” Joyce spoke, looking back at you. Jim turned to you. “Stay here!” He ordered you. Sighing loud, you let yourself fall back in your seat, crossing your arms. Jim and Joyce got out of the car.
After they had left, you crawled to the front. Getting out as you needed a good stretch. Alexei and Murray getting out as well. Murray spread out the plans one last time on the trunk. Speaking in Russian to each other. You leaned against the side of the car, watching the people having fun.
Alexei’s gaze went briefly to you. Speaking to Murray. Murray placed a hand on his shoulder. Replying with a smile. You didn’t understand much from it, but the word for American became familiar to you. Alexei chuckled happily, going over to you. “Y/n, come.” He said taking you by your hand. Pulling you towards the festivities.
“What are we doing…Alexei!” You called back. Murray joining with a pat on Alexei’s shoulder. “Murray?” You turned to him for answers. Murray walked backwards, facing you for a moment. “We’re giving him the American introductions.” He laughed out.
Finally understanding, you caught up with Alexei, coming to his side. Tightening your hand in his. Alexei gleamed at the bright lights and activities. Tapping you on your entangled hand, pointing them out then. Murray laughed, speaking to Alexei in Russian.
Alexei puffed softly, responding. Murray shrugged his shoulders. “You kids have fun, I’m getting a corndog.” Sending the two of you off. “Что ты хочешь делать?” Alexei asked. You moved a shoulder up. “You can choose, it’s your American introduction” You replied.
Alexei looked around, locking eyes with one of the booths. Pulling you along to it. You paid the man. He gave Alexei some darts. You showed what he had to do without actually throwing. Alexei nodding. “Я выиграю для тебя.” He spoke with fondness in his words.
It made you look shyly back at him. Alexei threw dart after dart. Cheering each time he popped a balloon. “You’re really good at this.” You exclaimed in happiness. It didn’t take him long for a crowd to gather around him. All curious to see him play. Popping balloon after balloon with little effort.
“Это для тебя.” He whispered underneath his breath, looking briefly at you. You smiled back at him. Alexei took the dart, throwing it at the balloon. It popped, making him cheer loud.
The crowd around him cheered as well. Alexei smiled happily when he received the Woody Woodpecker stuffed animal. He showed it to you with an exciting scream. Chuckling at his joy. Alexei took your hand, clasping his fingers slowly with yours.
He moved the Woody at you, mimicking a kiss sound when the beak of the stuffed Woody Woodpecker touched your face. Laughing, you pushed the animal playfully out of your face.
“How about we show Murray our prize?” You suggested. Alexei responded, shoving his glasses further up his nose. Both of you started looking around for Murray. Alexei spotted him first. “Murray!” He called out, letting go of your hand to wave at him. Murray turned his head, waiting in line for a corndog.
“Игра не подстроена!” Alexei responded, referring to the game that wasn’t rigged as Murray told him. Murray laughed loudly. Alexei was walking up to Murray as you paused. Noticing a familiar face in the crowd. Eyes widening as he casually pulled out a gun.
Quickly looking around, you snatched a cup from a child. Throwing it at the man before he could move his gun up. The cup filled with soda hit him in the face. Making him pause briefly, touching his forehead. It bought you a few seconds to run to Alexei.
“Alexei, go to the car! Vroom vroom now!” You shouted at him, pointing away. Alexei understood the panic in your voice, taking a run for it. Murray noticed the gun in the man’s hand, kicking at it. The weapon fell out of his hands. “Y/n run!” Murray called out.
You wanted to run but the man had grabbed you from behind. Wrapped his arm against your throat, pulling hard. Chocking, you tapped his arm to release you. “You stupid girl.” He spoke in your ear. The world around you was fading away, unsure how much longer you could keep it up. Till his grip suddenly loosened on you.
Making you drop to the ground. Murray panting exhaustingly, throwing the chair he had used to slam against his back away. He hurried over to you, pressing a hand on your back. “Y/n, wake up!” He called out. You gasped loud for air, shooting awake. Murray helped you up. Taking your hand, he started running.
“Jim! Jim! Jim!” He started to shout around. Sighing relieved when he saw Jim and Joyce step out of one of the attractions. Murray ran up to him with you. “Big…Russian guy…gun!” He breathed out, catching his breath. “Go to the car.” Jim ordered, looking behind you.
Murray took Joyce along as Jim went for the Russian guy. You let go of Murray’s hand when the car was in sight. “Alexei! Alexei!” You shouted in a panic when there was no sight of him. “Alexei!” panic rising as you thought the Russian guy had reached him.
“Y/n!” Your name came in response, Alexei popping his head up from the backseat. It made you sigh with relief. Alexei jumped out of the car, running up to you. Wrapping his arms around you, hugging you tightly. “Vroom, vroom.” Alexei spoke as you nodded with teary eyes. “Yes.” You answered that he did good by understanding you. Alexei and you hugged again, relieved he was unharmed.
Anxiously you waited for Jim’s return. Knee shaking. Alexei placed a caring hand down on it to calm your nerves down. You gasped upon seeing him appear. Running up to him for a hug. Jim hugged you tightly back. Urging you back in the car once more. Riding off to head for Starcourt mall.
