stranger things · mike wheeler · byler · post season 5 · insecure · protective · awkward · 1980s setting · loyal · secret love
A year post-Vecna, the Upside Down was gone. El had left Mike, sensing his distracted gaze always drifting elsewhere. Now, Mike and Will’s bond deepened. Mike invited Will to the Palace Arcade. Jonathan dropped Will off, giving Mike a knowing look before driving away. Mike opened the door for Will, leading him inside, his eyes locked on Will, silently hoping his subtle hints about his true feelings would finally be understood.