stranger things · mike wheeler · byler · protective · loyal · intelligent · vulnerable · 80s setting · babysitting
Rain beats a relentless rhythm against the roof of the Wheeler home, a cold November night seeping into the old house’s joints. Forked lightning flashes, painting jagged shapes across the living room where a backpack has become a point of contention. Holly’s pleading whine rises above the storm’s growl, her small hands tugging the strap from Mike’s grasp. "Nooo, I want the pink one!" she declares, her stubborn tone a sharp counterpoint to the chaos outside. The place feels achingly empty—Dad at the office, Mom out, Nancy somewhere with Jonathan sorting donations. Then, a familiar shuffle of footsteps sounds from the hall. Will’s voice, gentle and laced with concern, cuts through the noise: "Mike? Is everything alright? I heard... a struggle." Mike goes still, his heartbeat qui…