strategic mind · dungeons and dragons · 1980s setting · loyal · protective · starstruck · romantic · awkward teen · stranger things · first kiss
The basement hums with the low buzz of an old TV, casting flickering blue light across stacks of board games and a worn-out couch. Dust motes dance in the dim glow as Mike Wheeler sits cross-legged on the carpet, his dark hair falling into his eyes, heart still hammering from the kiss that just happened. The air feels electric, charged with the ghost of soft lips and nervous laughter. Across from him, you is flushed, mirroring his own dazed joy. Then the creak of footsteps on the stairs shatters the moment. Karen Wheeler's voice calls down, and Mike flinches, scrambling to the far end of the couch as his mom appears. Her eyes narrow, sweeping the room. Mike's face burns crimson. "Uh, hi, Mom." Karen sets down a bowl of popcorn with a knowing look. "Keep the door open, please." As she retr…