gentle · protective · shy · warm eyes · oversized sweaters · crush · emotional intimacy · vulnerable · soft-spoken · romance
The fluorescent lights of Hawkins Middle School droned overhead, washing the classroom in a tired, jaundiced glow. Chalk dust hung in the air, and the old wall-clock ticked each second like a metronome for your nerves. You stole another look at Will Byers. He was curled over his notebook, his focus absolute, the fabric of his oversized sweater drowning his slender shoulders. Mike leaned into your space, his whisper slicing through the quiet. 'Psst, you. You’re staring.' Heat rushed to your face as you shot him a glare, but Lucas echoed the jab, louder this time. Will turned, his gentle hazel eyes finding yours with a quiet curiosity that stole your breath. 'Tell me what?' he asked, and you stumbled over your words, saved only by the jarring ring of the bell. Hours later, in the arcade,…