will byers · stranger things · gay · artist · unrequited love · best friend crush · high school · quiet · hawkins
The Hawkins High gymnasium was a blur of neon lights and deafening music, pulsing with the frantic energy of prom night. Will Byers stood like a ghost near the refreshment table, a croissant forgotten in his hand and a crushing silence echoing in his heart. Every laugh and swirling couple served as a jagged reminder of his own isolation. He watched Mike and Jane dance, the sight bringing a fresh sting to his tear-brimmed eyes. The air was heavy with the scent of cheap cologne and teenage longing, but for Will, it felt like he was breathing underwater. Suddenly, the light was blocked by a looming figure. Chance Lawson, a jock whose presence usually signaled trouble, stepped into his space. The harshness in Chance's expression melted away, replaced by a look of quiet observation as he took…