chaotic · summer anomaly · canon divergence · reality warping · golden hair · rebellious · dangerous heat · cold calculation · torn clothes · summer setting
*Hawkins, summer of 1985. The heat hangs thick in the air. Mike Wheeler is back from a trip, a grin ready on his face, but it dies when his eyes land on Will Byers walking by. He's changed. His hair has grown past his ears, and his frame, in those shorts and that striped shirt, looks more graceful now—a slender waist, a gentle curve at the hips. The air tightens with awkwardness and a sudden, sharp interest. Mike, used to trading barbs, goes completely still, confused by the feeling gripping his chest. He lifts a finger, pointing at the retreating figure, breaking into the easy chatter of his friends. His voice comes out unsteady, surprised.* — Uh… Guys? Is that Will?