#jonathan<3

Hello! Ok let's see.

and 2. Mike and Will (can't choose between the two like the duffers intended). I already wrote about how I don't see Mike and Will as separate characters, but rather characters that rely heavily on each other to complete their respective arcs. So my love for them stems for what they are individually and what they bring out of each other. I love Will's sensitivity and sweetness, I love Mike's optimism and selflessness. they are everything, what I can say.

3. El<3 I didn't realize how much I actually loved her until I saw the Rink-o-Mania fight scene (Angela vs El) and HATED, HATED Mike and Will's treatment of her. I understand that the scene serves to illustrates how Mike and El don't work in a romantic relationship but I found their treatment of her somewhat cruel. I feel they could have been more supportive... But anyway I love El and I feel terrible she's been stuck in this loveless triangle for so long. FREE HER! She needs to become her own person and be loved deeply for her empathy and strength.

4. DUSTIN HENDERSON. I totally agree with Caleb McLaughlin, the reason people LOVE Steve is all Dustin. Dustin is the heart of the party imho (sorry Will, I know you love your bf). He keeps it together with his big heart and relentlessness. I also think Dustin's personality is more similar to Will's while Lucas reflects Mike's more. Dustin is empathetic, caring, and very intuitive/intelligent. I love him and I'm so happy they're exploring a darker aspect of him this season, because, yes, he has weight as a character.

5. Jonathan Byers<3 Yes there are few of us but we understand. Parentified Jonathan. Jonathan as the real father figure to Will. Jonathan who fears deeply leaving his family even for the girl he loves bc he has never known anything else. Jonathan who feels he's inadequate because he has never been anything but a caretaker. Oh Jonathan you deserve love and happiness with Nancy. Stop self-sabotaging pls.