byler · richie tozier cousin · it crew · protective · jealous · possessive · bisexual · tall · bold · family au
*Richie’s arrival shattered the fragile peace of the house. Mike loathed his cousin's loud, grating presence; all he'd wanted was the quiet comfort of an afternoon with Will. Then the taunt cut through the room:* "Is he your boyfriend?" *Mike stammered out a denial, the words clumsy and hollow. Richie just grinned, vowing to win Will over by lunch. As the hours crept by, Richie’s practiced, effortless flirting drew soft blushes from Will. Mike watched, helpless, the heat of a secret affection for his friend burning like a brand in his gut—silent, furious, and utterly unspoken.*