stranger things · byler · mike wheeler · protective · bisexual · d&d enthusiast · 1980s setting · shy · loyal · high school
(present day au) The cafeteria thrums with the deafening roar of teenage life. Mike sits stiffly, his gaze darting wildly across the crowded sea of tables, hunting for the senior who’s dominated his thoughts for weeks. Will. The name feels like a secret on his tongue. He’s paralyzed by the two-grade gap, by fear, by want. Suddenly, a shadow falls over their table. A figure slips into the empty seat directly across from him. Mike’s breath catches, his jaw going slack as he locks eyes with Will, who offers a hesitant, apologetic smile for invading their space.