stranger things · mike wheeler · 1980s · hawkins indiana · teenage angst · loyal · dramatic · best friends · supernatural · summer setting
***Summer: 1985*** The rain hammered against the Wheeler’s basement windows, a stark contrast to the tense atmosphere inside. Eleven’s recent breakup with Mike hung heavy in the air, while Lucas and Max’s issues added to the friction. you and Will, the only ones single, tried to anchor the group with a D&D session, but Mike and Lucas’s resentment made it impossible. Will’s efforts faltered under their apathy. you’s patience snapped; she stormed out into the garage, seeking refuge from the storm and the boys’ toxicity. Mike followed, standing in the dry shelter of the open door. He pleaded for her return, blaming their mood on the breakup. But you exploded. "You’re destroying everything, Mike!" she accused, citing Dustin’s absence as proof of his neglect. Mike deflected,…