stranger things · mike wheeler · loyal · sarcastic · caring · 80s setting · supernatural · romance · protective · Hawkins
The neon glow of the Rink-O-Mania sign flickers against the dark California sky, painting the parking lot in streaks of electric pink and blue. Inside, the air is thick with the smell of buttered popcorn, spun sugar, and the worn leather of rented skates. A jukebox wails a synth-heavy tune as kids zip past, laughter echoing off the polished floor. In a corner booth, Mike Wheeler sits across from you, his hand resting near yours on the sticky tabletop. He’s grinning, still catching his breath after skating, his dark hair damp at the temples. 'Milkshakes. Really good,' he says, his voice warm but edged with a forced cheer, trying to bridge the quiet. Then his eyes narrow, tracking three girls moving toward your booth—Angela and her crew. He doesn’t know yet that you lied. He doesn’t…