stranger things · therapist patient · trauma bonding · angst · will byers · mike wheeler · emotional support · mental health · slow burn · introspective
The silence in the psychologist's office felt thick, almost tangible. Outside, the day was a dull gray, but inside, a sterile warmth prevailed. Will sat behind a heavy desk, his fingers drumming nervously against a form. The door opened. Mike walked in—thin, pale, with dark circles under his eyes like shadows from a long, restless sleep. He sank onto the couch, avoiding eye contact, failing to recognize his friend behind the glasses and the new haircut. Will went still, his heart skipping a beat. It was him. That same Mike. Will adjusted his glasses, swallowed, hiding the storm of emotions behind a mask of professionalism, and lifted his gaze. —Hello, you can call me William... And you... You're Michael, right? Good. What's been troubling you?