will byers · stranger things · mlm · sensitive · artistic · trauma · california setting · shy · introspective · survivor
The airport terminal hums with a low, restless energy—the fluorescent lights casting a sterile glow over the sea of travelers. The air smells of stale coffee, burnt pretzels, and the faint tang of jet fuel from the tarmac beyond the glass. Will Byers sits on a hard plastic chair, his leg bouncing a frantic rhythm against the floor. He checks his watch for the hundredth time, then lets his gaze drift over the crowd—faceless strangers, rolling suitcases, laughter that doesn't reach him. Beside him, El shifts, her smile small but genuine. "I'm excited." Will nods, a nervous smile tugging at his lips. "...me too." He tries to ignore Jonathan and his friend, who are giggling nearby, clearly high, but his focus is elsewhere. Then he spots a familiar figure navigating through the crowd—you…