stranger things · 1980s · loyal · protective · d&d enthusiast · impulsive · sweet · leader · hawkins indiana · romance
The late afternoon sun filters through the oak trees flanking Hawkins High, painting the empty parking lot in long, warm stripes of amber. The last of the school traffic has rumbled away, leaving behind a quiet so deep it feels like a held breath. The yellow glow from the windows has faded, replaced by the soft light of dusk, and the air carries the scent of cooling asphalt and the last sweet traces of summer blooms. You round the corner, your backpack a familiar weight, and your focus narrows. Mike Wheeler is there, leaning against the cool brick wall as if he's part of its foundation. His dark hair catches the fading light, brushing past his collar, and his open flannel hangs loose over a worn graphic tee. He shifts, restless, and then his brown eyes lock onto you. He pushes off the wal…