chapter thirty-three.
i missed your lips, sunshine.
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disclaimer: I hope everything in Spanish is accurate!! I used Spanishdict like someone told me too !! Hopefully it's correct :)) but thank you to that person (I forgot their username, my bad)
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STRANGER THINGS 4
episode six

THEY ALL CAMPED OUT AT THE WHEELER HOUSE. Everyone in the house was fast asleep, their soft snores filling the air. But Josie couldn't find peace in slumber. Restless, she tiptoed into the kitchen, her footsteps barely making a sound on the cold tile floor. The moonlight spilled through the window, casting a pale glow on the room.

With a gentle touch, Josie opened the cabinet doors, searching for a glass. She stretched her body, rising on her tippy-toes to reach the higher shelves. Finally, her hand grasped a glass, cool against her fingertips. She placed it under the faucet, turning the knob slowly, the sound of running water breaking the silence.

Her eyes fixated on the glass, Josie watched as it filled with clear, refreshing water. Once it was brimming, she carefully turned off the faucet, the sound of the rushing water ceasing. Raising the glass to her lips, she took big, satisfying sips, feeling the cool liquid quench her thirst.

Suddenly, a creaky noise echoed through the stillness, snapping Josie's attention away from her drink. Her head whipped around, and her eyes widened at the sight of Lucas standing by the basement door. The dim light from the hallway illuminated his figure, casting eerie shadows across his face.

Josie's breath caught in her throat, her hand instinctively finding its way to her chest. "Lucas!" she scolded, her voice laced with a mix of surprise and annoyance. He raised his hands in a gesture of innocence, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. "Sorry," he apologized, his voice gentle.

Curiosity filled Josie's eyes as she approached him. "What's going on? Why are you still awake?" he questioned, his concern evident. Her fingers absentmindedly ran through her hair, a nervous habit she couldn't shake.

A thoughtful expression crossed Lucas' face as he met her gaze. "I'm just...having a lot of thoughts," she admitted, her voice tinged with a hint of vulnerability. Lucas nodded, understanding the weight of those unspoken words. Sometimes, the quiet hours of the night were when the mind wandered and contemplated the most.

Lucas propped himself against the counter, his brows furrowing in genuine concern. "Come on, spill the beans. My ears are all yours," he said with a playful smile, cupping his hand around his ear to emphasize his attentiveness. Josie couldn't help but chuckle at his antics.

"Alright, here's the lowdown," Josie began, her voice carrying a mix of introspection and yearning. "I've been deep in thought about my relationship with Mike. It feels like he was just a rebound, you know? Everything happened so fast. We're mostly caught up in making out, but I want more than that. I miss Max, and it feels like we're finally finding our connection again. I miss the times when we actually did things together, you know? Those were the moments that made our relationship special."

Lucas leaned against the counter, his expression filled with understanding. "I feel you, Josie. It seems like you're starting to question your relationship with Mike. Maybe it was too rushed, and you're looking for something more meaningful. It's natural to miss Max and the connection you had with her. Don't be afraid to explore those feelings and see where they lead you."

Josie sighed softly, her eyes meeting Lucas's empathetic gaze. "You know, Lucas, it's like I'm finally realizing what I truly want. I don't want to settle for just making out anymore. I miss the depth and the experiences I had with Max. It's scary, but I think it's time to follow my heart and see where it takes me."

Lucas nodded, his eyes filled with understanding. "I totally get it, Josie. It's like you're finally uncovering what truly matters to you. Don't settle for anything less than what makes you feel alive. Follow your heart and embrace the journey ahead."

Max's footsteps echoed through the room as she ascended from the basement, her eyes narrowing as she caught sight of Josie and Lucas together. "What's going on here?" she asked, her voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and concern. Lucas's playful smirk remained, and he replied, "She's all yours, Josie. Looks like you two have some important things to talk about. I'll head back downstairs and give you some privacy." With that, Lucas made his way back to the basement, leaving Josie and Max to have their much-needed conversation.

Max furrowed her eyebrows, a mix of curiosity and amusement crossing her face. "What was that about?" she chuckled, folding her arms and walking back over. Josie met her gaze, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "Believe it or not, Max, Lucas was actually giving me advice." Max's eyes widened in disbelief, her expression questioning. "Lucas? Giving advice?" she exclaimed, unable to contain her surprise.

Josie couldn't help but let out a laugh, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I know, right? It was definitely unexpected. But believe it or not, Lucas actually gave me some pretty solid advice. Sometimes, even the most surprising people can surprise us with their wisdom," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of disbelief. Max's eyebrows raised even higher, her disbelief transforming into curiosity. "Well, now I'm really intrigued. What kind of advice did he give you?" she asked, leaning in closer, eager to hear Josie's story.

Josie's lips curled into a soft, affectionate smile as she locked eyes with Max, a glimmer of love shining in her gaze. Moving closer, she couldn't help but be drawn to Max's magnetic presence. "You won't believe it," she whispered, her voice filled with a mix of excitement and tenderness. "Lucas, of all people, was giving me advice on how to win you back." Max's eyebrows shot up in surprise, her eyes widening with anticipation.

But before she could utter a word, Josie gently cupped Max's face, her touch sending a wave of warmth through both of them. Their lips met in a tender, passionate kiss, their eyes fluttering shut as they savored the moment. Max's hands instinctively found their way to Josie's hips, their touch conveying a mix of desire and affection. A delightful fluttering sensation filled Max's stomach, a clear sign that their connection was as strong as ever.

Their lips graze against each other with a delicate touch, setting off an electrifying sensation that floods Josie's chest. It's an overwhelming feeling, one that she can't quite put into words. But deep down, she knows that this feeling, this connection with Max, is something special and profound.

No matter what others may say or think, Josie understands that there is nothing wrong or shameful about loving someone of the same gender. It's a truth she's come to embrace, and she's willing to fight for their love, regardless of the challenges they may face. Because being with the person you truly care about, regardless of gender or identity, is a battle worth fighting. Love knows no boundaries, and Josie is determined to stand proudly by Max's side.

Josie's heart pounded in her chest as she slowly pulled away, savoring the lingering sensation on her lips. A playful giggle escaped her as she teasingly placed a finger on her lips. "I missed your lips, sunshine." she flirted, a wide grin illuminating Max's face. "Just shut up and keep kissing me," Max playfully urged, her hand tracing a gentle path down Josie's cheek and settling at the nape of her neck. Josie mirrored the gesture with her other hand, her nerves tingling as she tilted her head up, locking eyes with Max.

Under the intensity of Max's gaze, a mixture of excitement and apprehension swirled within her. The Mayfield girl leaned in, her body instinctively rising to meet Josie's. Their lips brushed together, and in that electrifying moment, time seemed to stand still as their noses gently touched, creating an intimate connection between them.

A surprised gasp escaped Josie's lips, reverberating with a mix of emotions. Her eyes widened, and for a moment, she tensed up before surrendering to the familiar warmth of Max's embrace. It had been so long since their last kiss, since the pain of their breakup. Josie had yearned for the touch of Max's lips and the gentle brush of their noses. It was a moment they had both been waiting for, a reunion filled with longing.

Taking a deep breath, Josie pressed her mouth against Max's, her hands finding their way to the back of their neck, pulling them closer. Their lips moved in perfect harmony, as if no time had passed. Max's hands became entangled in Josie's hair, and it felt as if years of pent-up emotions were finally released. In that moment, they knew they needed each other. They were each other's salvation, a source of euphoria and a rush of adrenaline.

Josie's heart raced as she pulled away, her head finding solace against Max's. "You know what? I've made up my mind. I'm breaking up with Mike," Josie declared, her voice filled with determination. Max's eyes met hers, a smirk playing on their lips. "Good," Max whispered, their words laced with anticipation. Josie's warm breath brushed against Max's face, igniting a surge of happiness and hope within them. It was as if a wave of warmth washed over Max's entire being, erasing the world around them. In that moment, Josie leaned forward, her hand tenderly cupping the back of Max's neck.

Their lips met in a swift, cautious kiss, a momentary pause to ensure consent. Max's hands instinctively found the sides of Josie's face, their touch gentle and tender. The kiss was soft, yet with each passing second, the intensity grew, pulling Max closer to Josie. It felt as if the entire world was spinning, but in that dizzying moment, Max held on to Josie, their anchor in the chaos. Nerves dissipated, replaced by an overwhelming sense of joy and exhilaration that left Max breathless, spinning in a whirlwind of giddiness.

Josie and Max reluctantly broke apart, their lips parting with a gentle, lingering touch. Their breathing was heavy, their hearts racing in sync with the intensity of their connection. They gazed into each other's eyes, their expressions a mix of desire, vulnerability, and a hint of uncertainty.

A small smile played on Josie's lips, mirroring the one on Max's face. They leaned their foreheads together, savoring the closeness and the electric energy that still lingered between them. In that moment, words were unnecessary as they basked in the aftermath of their passionate makeout session, their hearts beating as one.

THE NEXT MORNING, they were on their way to meet Eddie. "Not to be a wimp, but can I sit in the car for this visit? Cause this is gonna totally and royally suck." Robin complained, their frustration evident in their voice. Nancy glanced at them briefly, offering a reassuring shake of her head. "It'll be fine." Nancy stated. Josie, feeling a mix of annoyance and curiosity, crossed her arms and turned her head to see Victoria, Dustin, and Steve engrossed in a lively game.

She shifted her gaze to the side and caught Max stealing a glance at her, a mischievous smile tugging at the corners of their lips. Max quickly averted their eyes, attempting to conceal their amusement. Sensing the need for some personal space, Josie grabbed her headphones, slipped them on, and cranked up her trusty walkman. Madonna's "Angel" blared through her ears, providing a temporary escape from the impending chaos.

They came to an abrupt stop when they spotted a throng of people surrounding an intriguing site. Josie furrowed her eyebrows in puzzlement and swiftly exited the car, her eyes narrowing as she surveyed the scene ahead. Intrigued, she followed Nancy and their group, finding shelter behind a news truck. Josie carefully removed her headphones, letting them dangle around her neck, as she observed her mom engaging in a conversation with the news crew. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation, and Josie couldn't help but wonder what was unfolding before her eyes.

Estefina Cortez tightly gripped the papers in her trembling hands as she recounted the harrowing events. "We received a distressing report of a homicide at the serene Lovers Lake," she began, her voice quivering with emotion. "Officer Callahan, Deputy Powell, and I swiftly arrived at the scene, making our way to the shore just a mere ten yards from the ominous house looming behind me. It was there, in that haunting setting, that we discovered the lifeless body of Patrick McKinney, a promising 18-year-old senior from Hawkins High. The sight was unbearable, his limbs and body grotesquely disfigured, a chilling testament to the brutality of the crime." Estefina's voice wavered as she continued, her eyes welling up with tears.

"But amidst the horror, we were fortunate to have an eyewitness who provided crucial information. And through our investigation, we have identified a person of interest... my own daughter, Josefina Cortez. It pains me to say this, but I believe she possesses extraordinary powers, capable of carrying out these heinous acts from any distance, without physical proximity. And her accomplice is Eddie Munson." The weight of her words hung in the air, a somber reminder of the darkness that lurked within their midst.

"Oh man," Steve whispered, his voice barely audible as he witnessed Josie's tears streaming down her face. The weight of the situation hit her like a ton of bricks, causing her words to stumble out in a mixture of confusion and disbelief. "Wh—What? But... I... What the fuck," she stammered, her voice trembling with raw emotion. In that moment, her heart sank, heavy with the weight of an accusation she knew to be false. She had never taken a life; it was all Vecna's doing. The realization that her own mother could believe she was capable of such a heinous act shattered her heart into a million pieces. The pain was unbearable, a deep ache that resonated within her soul.

JOSIE AND MAX WALKED TOGETHER IN THE WOODS. As they embarked on their journey to Skull Rock, the weight of the situation weighed heavily on Josie's heart, rendering her speechless. Silent tears streamed down her face, hidden beneath the comforting embrace of her hood. The haunting melody of Madonna's "Angel" played on repeat, providing a bittersweet soundtrack to her inner turmoil.

She bit her lip, desperately trying to stifle the sobs that threatened to escape her. Each step she took through the rustling leaves echoed the heaviness she felt inside. In that moment, Max's concerned gaze met hers, and with genuine care, "Are you okay?" she asked softly.

Josie looked up at Max, her head shaking in distress. Her breathing became rapid, verging on hyperventilation. "No... No, I'm not okay," she managed to say through gasps. The weight of being wrongly accused of murder burdened her soul. The people around her believed it, including her own mother, all because she possessed powers. Overwhelmed, she questioned how she could possibly defend herself when there was evidence of her existence and files from the lab.

Before Josie could continue, Max interrupted with a tender gesture, pressing a quick kiss on her lips. "Josie, you need to calm down," Max said in a soothing tone, taking her hands. Josie clung to Max, her arms wrapped tightly around her neck, finding solace in her embrace as tears streamed down her face.

DUSTIN, VICTORIA AND STEVE FOUND EDDIE.
They filled Eddie in on the situation, revealing their belief that Josie was implicated in the murders. Eddie, unable to contain his curiosity, directly asked Josie if she was responsible, to which she sharply retorted, denying any involvement. With a sarcastic smile and a slight chuckle, Eddie recounted the situation. "When I got to shore, I tried calling you guys, but, uh.. My walkie was busted, man. Drenched. So, uh, I did the thing that I do now, apparently. I ran." he explained, his voice laced with a hint of amusement.

Josie found solace leaning against a sturdy tree, seeking a moment of respite. Sensing her distress, Victoria gently nudged her in the side, her eyes filled with worry. "You good?" she asked, her voice laced with genuine concern. Josie's frustration got the better of her as she snapped, "I'm fine." Max, witnessing the exchange, exchanged a sympathetic look with Victoria, understanding the underlying emotions at play.

As last night drew on and Max and Josie's lips finally parted, they descended the stairs and sought solace in the embrace of sleep. Little did Josie know that her slumber would be disturbed by a relentless nightmare. In this chilling dream, her father's presence loomed, and the vivid reenactment of his fateful demise unfolded before her eyes. The emotions surged within her, as the haunting memories resurfaced in the depths of her subconscious.

"Do you have any idea when it happened? The attack, I mean," Nancy inquired, her curiosity piqued. "Oh, absolutely. I remember the exact time," he replied, nodding solemnly. He unclasped his watch and passed it to Nancy, revealing the evidence of the rain-soaked ordeal. "My walkie wasn't the only casualty. It got drenched too."

Nancy glanced at the watch, her eyes focusing on the time. "It's 9:27," she confirmed with a nod.

"Same time the light bulbs exploded on us," Victoria states.

Eddie's eyes widened slightly as he processed the information. "Wait, you're saying that Vecna killed Patrick at the exact same time?" Steve asked, seeking clarification. Victoria nodded solemnly and confirmed, "Yes, that's exactly what it means. Vecna ended Patrick's life in that very moment."

"Well, we're making progress. We've figured out Vecna's method of attack," Robin shrugged, while Max anxiously bit her lip. "And we've also identified his point of origin," Victoria added confidently.

Josie's eyes gleamed with determination as she laid out her plan. "Our next move is to infiltrate his lair in the eerie Upside Down and drive a stake right through his heart," she suggested boldly. Max's expression shifted to one of disbelief, giving Josie an incredulous look. "But here's the thing," Max continued, her voice tinged with uncertainty, "we can't be certain if he even has a heart."

"A bullet should work on him, right?"

NIGHT CAME. Dustin passionately argued that the Compass was leading them astray, only to discover a tiny snack-sized gate. They traced its path to Lovers Lake, where the older teens made the decision to venture into the treacherous Upside Down, leaving the younger ones on the shore.

Lucas wrinkled his nose in disgust as he peered through the binoculars, catching sight of Steve's increasingly hairy chest. "Seriously, when did Steve turn into a walking carpet?" he gagged. Dustin scoffed, shaking his head. "I've been telling him he needs to wrangle that wild mess, but he's convinced the ladies are all about the untamed jungle look."

"Who would even dig it?" Victoria scrunched her nose in disgust.

"Let me see," Max exclaimed, swiftly grabbing the binoculars from Lucas' hands. With a determined gaze, Max brought the binoculars up to their eyes, scanning the area with intense curiosity.

Josie's curiosity burned within her, compelling her to witness the truth firsthand. With determination in her heart, she closed her eyes and focused her mind, immersing herself in the depths of the void. As her connection grew stronger, she traversed the ethereal realm, guided by an unseen force. And then, she saw it.

There, beneath the surface of the water, Steve swam towards a mysterious gate. But what caught Josie's attention was the shocking sight of his chest, adorned with a thick, untamed forest of hair. A mixture of fascination and disgust washed over her as she beheld the hairy spectacle.

Opening her eyes, Josie couldn't help but scrunch her nose in disgust. "Gross," she exclaimed, unable to conceal her revulsion. The image of Steve's hairy chest was now etched in her mind, forever a testament to the strange and unexpected wonders that lay within the void.

Max let out an exasperated huff, clearly taken aback by Josie's revelation. "Wait, so you actually went all the way into the void just to catch a glimpse of him without a shirt?" Max asked, their voice laced with a mix of curiosity and a hint of jealousy. Josie, with a mischievous smirk on her face, exhaled and turned towards Max, locking eyes with them. "Aw, feeling a little jelly, sunshine?" she whispered, her words dripping with playful teasing. The sight of Max blushing intensely only fueled Josie's amusement.

All of a sudden, the piercing sound of police officers' radios broke the silence, sending a wave of alarm through the group of five teens. Their heads snapped around in unison, their eyes widening as they caught sight of the approaching flashlights, casting an eerie glow in the darkness. The urgency in the officers' voices echoed through the night, "Down by the water!" they shouted, their words carrying a sense of urgency and concern.

"Shit! Get down!" Max hissed urgently, his grip tightening on Josie's hand as they swiftly sought cover behind a large fallen log. Lucas, feeling a surge of protective instinct, pulled Victoria closer to him, enveloping her in his arm. In that moment, she reminded him of a younger sister, evoking memories of his bond with Erica. "They're searching right along this shoreline," Josie whispered, his voice conveying the urgency of the situation.

"Can't let 'em find Eddie or Josie," Victoria whispered urgently, her eyes darting between Max and Josie. Max nudged Josie, a silent signal passing between them. With a playful wink from Max, Josie understood the plan. Max stood up, determination in her eyes, as she swiftly put on her backpack and waved her hand. "Hey, officers!" she called out, her voice laced with a mix of confidence and innocence.

"Max!" Lucas scolded.

As Victoria stood up, she quickly realized their plan to divert attention from Eddie and Josie. "Over here! We found the killer! Follow us!" she called out, her voice filled with urgency, while Max firmly grasped Josie's hand. The group sprinted through the dense woods, desperately trying to escape the pursuing police. However, Josie's jacket snagged on a stubborn branch, causing her to struggle to free it. It was her dad's old high school jacket, adding to her determination.

Finally, she managed to break free, but her relief was short-lived. An ominous "ahem" caught her attention, and she turned to see her mom, wearing a stern expression. "Josie, you're under arrest for the murders of Chrissy Cunningham, Fred Finkle, and Patrick McKinney," her mom declared, her words piercing the air. As Josie was handcuffed, she glanced at her friends with a mix of anguish, and tears welling in her eyes.

—

ash speaks!

don't hate me...
sorry for the cliffhanger...