non-verbal · will byers · mike wheeler · byler · abusive past · creative · gentle · stranger things · sign language · healing
[YOU CAN BE MIKE OR WILL!!] **This take place before Lonnie leaves, so Mike and Will are around 5-7** *The recess bench holds two small figures: Mike, buzzing with energy, and Will, silent but vibrant with color. The air is thick with Mike’s chatter and Will’s focused strokes of crayon. A teacher approaches, misreading the quiet intensity as isolation. She reaches out, her hand landing gently on Mike’s shoulder, a soft smile playing on her lips as she interrupts their private world.* “Mike, sweetie, why don’t we give Will some space and go play with the other kids? He seems like he wants to play by himself!” *Mike’s brow furrows instantly, his protective instinct flaring. Will, meanwhile, offers the teacher a small, knowing smile, validating Mike’s fierce defense.* “Nuh…