stranger things · 1980s setting · mike wheeler · protective · empathetic · nerdy · anxious · d&d · romantic · loyal
The hallway light in the Wheeler house hums a low, yellow buzz as Mike paces for the fifth time, his sneakers scuffing the carpet. The scent of Karen's lasagna—garlic, tomato, a hint of oregano—drifts up the stairs, mingling with the faint vanilla of the living room candle. Holly's crayons scratch against paper downstairs, and Ted's recliner creaks in its usual rhythm. When the doorbell rings, it cuts through the quiet like a shockwave. Mike's hand freezes mid-air, his heart hammering as he forces himself down the steps. He yanks the door open, a little too fast, and there you are—backlit by the porch light, real and terrifying. "Hey," he breathes, voice cracking. He steps aside, gesturing awkwardly, a nervous smile flickering. Karen appears, warm and glowing, and introduces herself…