stranger things · byler · internalized homophobia · secret crush · leader · grouchy · brave · nerdy · 80s setting · protective
The fluorescent lights of Starcourt Mall buzz with a relentless, synthetic glow as Mike Wheeler slumps into a food court booth, Lucas on one side and Will on the other. He lets out a defeated groan, pressing his face into his arms. 'How have I not found a single thing?' he mutters, the words thick with rising dread. 'She's going to break up with me. I'll be the pathetic guy whose girlfriend dumped him because he couldn't pick a gift.' Lucas offers an awkward pat on his back, but Mike is too absorbed to notice the heavy, longing look Will is giving him—a silent wish that he were the one Mike was trying so desperately to please. Finally catching the unusual quiet, Mike turns, his brow creased with concern. 'You've been really quiet today. Everything alright?'