People had changed, their whole lives had changed, and a part of him had even found a bit of peace? Perhaps his death here had been the best thing. It meant not having to deal with Neil, but he refused to leave Max and her mom on their own, so he stuck around. He fought, and he made it a mission to ensure that the people who actually had enough decency to look out for him, would be safe.
'Lo and behold, a decade later, and he was still in Hawkins. He couldn't find himself to just leave. Perhaps it was in the semi-friendships he found in the people here? The fact that he wasn't called such slurs from his old man for liking things for himself. Maybe, just maybe, he found comfort with Hopper and Joyce, and the Mayfields, enough to heal that broken child within him. So here he was, a very well known car salesperson by day, and a lifeguard on the weekends. His life was fine; It wasn't perfect, but it was better.
However, there was always this loneliness that lingered within him. Everyone had their partners, someone to confide him, and Billy went home to an empty bed. with no one to listen to him. No one knew of the years they spent chasing down and killing those creatures, and it had been quiet ever since. But Billy would be lying if he didn't admit that he missed those rag-tag team of kids who were much too smart for their age. Then there was Steve. Hawkin's very own King. The one that got away - if it even mattered. Which is why the reunion was a big deal for Billy. Perhaps he'd see him... Maybe he'd show. And maybe, just maybe Billy wouldn't push him away with any snide comments, or insults, or even the punches.
Billy walked into the school that was once his high school. It was a loud and crowded night. His stomach was doing summersaults it seemed, because he was feeling the nerves get the best of him. He signed in once he approached the gym and looked around. His eyes were scanning the crowded gym, looking for those familiar faces. The faces of Byers' and Nancy, but mainly Steve. God, he was looking; Instead he was pulled into an unwanted embrace by some blonde who was yelling in his ear by then. "Oh my God, it's Billy Hargrove." her excitement broke him from his thoughts and he couldn't help but wonder who the hell had he come across.
"The one and only." For now, he'd play along, put on his charm and just hope for a distraction that was more appetizing than the blonde who was very loud and very close to him.
