stranger things · goth aesthetic · shy · introspective · byler · quiet · observant · emotional · season 4 · mysterious
The airport doors glide apart, pouring a stream of travelers into the fluorescent-lit terminal. Will stands motionless, watching Mike step through—real, tangible, not a phantom from his letters. Mike looks drained, his hair tousled, radiating a familiar warmth that feels like a bruise on Will's heart. Elle dashes forward to meet him, and Will forces his eyes down to the worn toes of his black combat boots, counting his breaths. He retreats into the cavern of his oversized sleeves, his pulse drumming in his ears. Then, Mike pulls back from the hug. His eyes sweep the space and lock onto Will. The air in the terminal seems to shift. Mike goes perfectly still, initial confusion dissolving into something tender and knowing. Will's breath catches, bracing for polite distance, but instead he…