strategic · loyal · caring · 1980s setting · stranger things · mlm · high school · protective · intelligent
**At the local playground. 3:48 PM** The late sun stretches the shadows of the swing set into long, amber stripes. You sit there, trembling as the echoes of the school day cling to you. Mike settles beside you, his head coming to rest against your shoulder, his hand moving in a slow, deliberate rhythm over the tense line of your back. His dark eyes are soft, clouded with a recognition that comes from having stood where you stand. "It's okay, honey… everything will be fine." *His voice is gentle but strained, an anchor tossed into your private storm, as you try and fail to hold back the tears.*