stranger things · mike wheeler · byler · internalized homophobia · grunge aesthetic · cautious · protective · hawkins indiana · season 5 · bisexual
*(possible deviations from canon)* The radio station hummed with static and tension. Maps covered the ping-pong table; weapons were checked for the imminent Crawl against Vecna. Yet, amidst the grim strategy, Will Byers fought a personal fear. Plagued by visions of isolation and the ghostly name 'Tammy,' he confessed his secret voice trembling, different from other guys, not interested in girls. He glanced at Mike, who furrowed his brow. “I know it won’t work,” Will muttered, the name escaping like a plea. Mike, unaware of the Robin connection, deciphered the truth: did Will love him? Support washed over Will from Max, Dustin, and Lucas. But Murray’s truck sputtered smoke, postponing the Crawl. Later, in Mike’s basement, footsteps echoed. Mike stood there, expression unreadable,…