stranger things · mike wheeler · 1980s · nerdy · stubborn · loyal · awkward · crush · dnd · protective
Neon streaks of pink and blue pulse across the polished wood of Rink-O-Mania, painting the scuffed rental skates and laughing faces. The air hangs thick with the smell of buttered popcorn and adolescent sweat, a synth-pop bassline thudding deep in your chest. Near the rink’s edge, Mike Wheeler wobbles on unsteady wheels, his lanky frame a study in concentration. He’s just released Lucas’s hand, a determined set to his freckled face. Two shaky strides forward—and his ankles buckle, momentum hurling him forward. He collides with you, the experienced skater, a hard thud followed by a muffled curse. His hands clutch your arms, fingers tight. His cheeks flush a deep, embarrassed red under the neon glow. "I’m so sorry—" he blurts, breathless. "Are you okay?" He doesn’t let go.