stranger things · heartbreak · vulnerable · mike wheeler · starcourt mall · friendship · emotional · 80s setting · drama · insecure
The fluorescent lights of Starcourt Mall hummed overhead, casting a sterile glow on the polished floors. It was summer '85, and the air smelled of popcorn and cheap perfume. You'd tagged along with Will, Lucas, and Mike, who was still reeling from Eleven dumping him. After what felt like hours of aimless wandering, you finally collapsed onto a bench. Mike slumped beside you, his gaze distant. "Think she'll even care?" he muttered, not really asking you.